Coming soon to Cordata Park: We’re nearly done with the Phase 2 construction at Cordata Park! In addition to its other amenities, this northside community park will soon feature a park pavilion with public restrooms, a covered outdoor stage, a small picnic shelter, pickleball courts, a basketball court, even more parking for cars and bikes, trail links to the north and south, and so much more. The park pavilion has a full kitchen and a large outdoor patio, along with tables and chairs for 72 guests so you can host your event with ease! Join us for a ribbon cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 12 at the park’s southern entrance. See all the Cordata Park features at cob.org/project/cordata-community-park.
New city minimum wage takes effect May 1: As of May 1, 2024, employers with workers within the city limits must pay the new city minimum wage of $17.28. Bellingham voters approved an initiative to establish the city minimum wage in the November 2023 election. Future increases of the city minimum wage are tied to increases in the Washington State minimum wage. Get more details at cob.org/city-minimum-wage.
Nooksack Basin adjudication: If you’ve heard about the Nooksack Basin Adjudication and are wondering how it affects you as a City of Bellingham water customer, you’re in the right place to learn more. The adjudication is a legal process to officially determine all legal water rights in the Nooksack River basin. The process is led by the Washington State Department of Ecology, and the City is participating in the adjudication on behalf of our water customers. It is expected to take 10 – 20 years for a final resolution. Customers do not need to take any action and will not need to provide any individual information during the process. We expect no significant changes in our ability to serve current and future water customers. For more information, visit cob.org/adjudication
Don’t flush that! Those so-called “flushable” wipes are wreaking havoc on our sewer system. While toilet paper is made to break down in water, most other products are not. Our maintenance crews are responding to clogged sewer lift stations approximately once a week. Please keep our pipes flowing and prevent sewer backups in your home by only putting toilet paper down the toilet.
Curious about solar panels? We’ve heard you, Bellingham: you want to go carbon neutral! The City has set ambitious targets to reduce our carbon emissions, and so have many of you. But reducing emissions by installing solar on your home can seem like a daunting process: from perceived costs, to technical details, to figuring out which installers to choose. We’re working with local partners and Solarize Whatcom, a non-profit group purchasing program, to answer these questions and de-mystify the process of going solar. Sign up for a free home assessment with a Solarize Whatcom installer and you’ll also be able to access discounted prices, vetted local installers and quality, made-in-Washington equipment. Get more resources and info about solar energy in Bellingham at cob.org/solar-and-renewable-energy.
Spring construction impacts: As spring blooms and the sun shines brighter, exciting projects are underway around town! On Monday, April 8, there will be some detours around the State and Wharf Street roundabout as crews spruce up the area with fresh concrete and new plantings. Additionally, we’re making progress on the Roeder Avenue lift station to improve our sewage transport system. Please note that water service will be disrupted from Sunday, April 7 at 11 p.m. to Monday, April 8 at 5 a.m. for customers along Roeder Ave and Bellwether Way. But don’t worry, our city crews are working diligently to keep this disruption as short as possible. Your patience and cooperation are greatly appreciated!
Would you like to stay updated on more Public Works news? Don’t forget to check out our monthly newsletter and sign up for future issues on our website. Thank you for being a part of our community!
