Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Washington's agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to recent ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants, whose labor is essential for food production. Farmers and advocates warn that these actions foster fear and uncertainty, threatening both crop yields and the livelihoods of those who work in the industry.
Bellingham City Council member Michael Lilliquist has become the target of a fake YouTube account that has been posting offensive comments using his name and likeness. The impersonation was brought to his attention by Fox 13, which reported that the account was linked to discussions on highway congestion and K-pop. Lilliquist has reported the account to YouTube and is concerned about potential reputational harm.
Residents of north Whatcom County experienced tremors from a magnitude 4.8 earthquake that struck near Sechelt, B.C. at 1:30 p.m. on February 21, 2025. The quake, initially reported by the U.S. Geological Survey, was felt locally, but no damage has been reported.
The Washington State Patrol has issued a Missing Person Alert for 62-year-old Besalynn James, a Lummi Nation elder last seen near her home on Balch Road on January 21. The search for James involves collaboration between local law enforcement and the FBI. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is urged to call 911.
A Bellingham city councilmember, Michael Lilliquist, was targeted by a fake YouTube account that posted inflammatory comments using his name and photo. The account, which was active for five months, has since been terminated by YouTube for violating its impersonation policy, but Lilliquist emphasizes the need for accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Bellingham Police Department is actively searching for a suspect involved in a burglary at a business on E. Maple Street. The incident occurred early on February 21, 2025, when the suspect broke the front door glass and stole cash, prompting a K9 perimeter search by law enforcement. Community members are encouraged to provide any information related to the crime to assist the investigation.
Bellingham's City Council is set to discuss middle housing development and proposed changes to the tree protection ordinance during its upcoming meeting. Additionally, the community is invited to provide input on a new homelessness plan and water conservation efforts, highlighting the city's commitment to addressing pressing local issues.
The Deming Library has secured an $82,470 grant from Washington's Clean Energy Fund for a solar panel installation, aimed at reducing energy costs and enhancing community programming. Local solar provider Ecotech Solar will begin the installation on March 4, with expected annual savings of $5,000 to be reinvested in programs for the Nooksack Tribe. A community event discussing energy topics will take place at the library on March 28.
A 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Squamish, B.C., on February 21, 2025, shaking Bellingham and parts of British Columbia. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompted a response from local reporters who felt the tremors, but no tsunami warning was issued. The event highlights the seismic activity in the region and its potential impact on local communities.
Justin Guillory has been appointed as the new president of Whatcom Community College, starting May 1, 2025, after serving for 12 years at Northwest Indian College. His appointment follows the retirement of Kathi Hiyane-Brown, who led the institution for 18 years. Guillory's leadership experience and commitment to student success position him to enhance opportunities and community partnerships at WCC.