The City of Bellingham is currently involved in a legal process concerning an unauthorized encampment on a private property located at the corner of E. Stuart Road and Deemer Road. Due to the ongoing legal proceedings, we can share only limited details at this time.
We understand the importance of public health and safety, and we are committed to upholding City regulations. The City has taken all reasonable steps to address the situation before resorting to legal action.
What We Can Share:
- The City filed a legal complaint on February 23, 2024, regarding ongoing violations associated with the encampment.
- The property owner answered the complaint on March 25, 2024, and is representing themselves.
- At the request of the property owner’s contractor, the City conducted an on-site inspection on May 7, 2024, to assess the level of cleanup required and to provide security. The property owner’s contractor provided an independent quote to the property owner.
- The inspection revealed far worse conditions than previously anticipated.
- The total cost to secure the site, address environmental concerns, and prevent future encampments is estimated to be $4-$6 million dollars.
- On May 23, 2024, 52nd & Brooklyn, LLC, the company that owns Tullwood Apartments, joined the lawsuit as an intervenor. This means that 52nd & Brooklyn, LLC, has become a party to the lawsuit because it has a direct interest in the outcome. The company will be able to participate in the legal proceedings and present its arguments, which could potentially affect the final decision.
- On September 25, 2024, the court declared the encampment a public nuisance and ordered the property owner to immediately clean up the site. The City was granted permission to enter the property and take necessary action if the property owner fails to comply. The property owner is responsible for all cleanup costs, including any expenses incurred by the City.
Next Steps
Following the September 25 court ruling, the City of Bellingham is committed to developing a comprehensive plan to address the challenges associated with the encampment at E. Stuart and Deemer Roads. This plan will focus on:
- Encampment abatement: Ensuring the safe and efficient removal of the encampment, addressing environmental concerns, and preventing future encampments.
- Community well-being: Prioritizing the needs of individuals currently residing in the encampment and providing support services as necessary.
This is a complex situation that requires thoughtful and comprehensive solutions. We are working closely with adjacent property owners, community partners and community health and human service providers to develop effective strategies. Our goal is to create long-term solutions that balance public safety, private property rights, and the well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders and behavioral health challenges.
The City and Whatcom County invest millions of dollars each year to serve those in critical need of housing and other support services. This remains a top priority, and we will continue to explore opportunities to enhance our services and address the challenges faced by our community members, including those living in the unsafe conditions that exist at large encampments.
As we continue to refine our plans, we will provide updates on our progress. We appreciate your understanding and support during this process.
For more information about the responsibilities of private property owners related to encampments, please visit Unauthorized Encampments on Private Property.
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