New mural downtown: Whatcom Museum began installing a mural this week on the Old Fire Station No. 1 building at 201 Prospect Street (next to Old City Hall). The mural is the first of seven projects selected by the City to add aesthetic appeal and create more enjoyable experiences for people downtown. When completed this fall, the mural will serve as a wayfinding tool, inviting downtown visitors to explore Maritime Heritage Park and the waterfront. The building is home to the Whatcom Museum Photo Archives, and the mural will feature historical photographs from the renowned collection, including people, animals, acrobats, and vaudeville performers. You can watch the installation process here or visit our website for more information about downtown activation and beautification project proposals.
New communications and community relations director: We are pleased to announce that Melissa Morin is the City’s new communications and community relations director. Melissa has been serving as assistant director for the past year. She joined the City last summer, has been a key contributor to our expanding communications efforts, and has earned trust and respect throughout our organization and in our community. Prior to joining the City, Melissa had a successful career at the Whatcom County Health Department, where, among many achievements, she led the County’s joint information center during the COVID emergency. She also brings valuable experience managing campaigns for state and local government clients at a respected communications and marketing firm. Melissa fills the position formerly held by Janice Keller, who is now serving as deputy administrator. Please join us in congratulating Melissa!
Lake Whatcom Work Plan comment period ends soon: There’s still time to share your thoughts on how we protect our drinking water source. We will accept comments through Aug. 25 on the draft of our five-year Lake Whatcom Management Program Work Plan. A coordinated effort between Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham, and the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District, the plan’s purpose is to protect Lake Whatcom and its watershed. Visit the Engage Bellingham page to download a copy of the draft plan and provide input.
Second Children’s Craft Fair tonight: Join in the fun and support local kids at the Children’s Craft Fair at Bellis Fair Mall 5-7 p.m., Friday, Aug. 16. Hosted by Bellingham Public Library, the fair features 50 booths with kids selling their handmade creations in the mall’s interior hallway. All items are $5 or less, and all sales are cash only. Bring small bills. Everyone is welcome.
Affordable housing development earns national award: We want to congratulate Bellingham Housing Authority and RMC Architects for recently earning an award recognizing “Project Design for Affordable Housing” for Samish Commons, located at 321 N. Samish Way. The City provided nearly $8.5 million to support Samish Commons. The award, from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment, recognizes achievement and innovation in housing and community development. Samish Commons, an important affordable housing and childcare investment for the City, provides housing for seniors and families, and it will have a childcare center. It serves people with a variety of income levels, from those who have been unhoused, to those earning up to 60 percent of the area median income. Visit our website to learn more about City-supported housing projects.
Learn about BPD opportunities: If you are looking to make a positive impact in our community, then stop by our booth at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden to learn about joining the Bellingham Police Department (BPD). Many of our police officers come from throughout Whatcom County, making events like these great opportunities to connect with people. The fair ends Saturday, Aug. 17. Visit our website to learn about joining BPD.
Locking mailboxes may soon be required for rentals: On Aug. 12, Bellingham City Council took the first step toward approving new regulations that would require landlords to provide locking mailboxes for rental units. A final vote will take place Aug. 26. The requirement – which is designed to help reduce mail theft, support safe and secure housing, and reduce litter – will take effect January 1, 2025. At that point, City inspectors conducting regular rental safety inspections will check that rental properties include locking mailboxes. Before a property can be rented, the City requires these inspections as part of the Rental Registration and Safety Inspection Program. After these pre-rental inspections, properties are inspected every three years.
Join the Rockin’ the Railroad Block Party! There will be bicycle demos, activities, education, local artists, unique vendors, and live music 1-7 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 18, at Champion Street and Railroad Avenue. A collaboration between the City, Downtown Bellingham Partnership, Washington Transportation Authority, Allied Arts of Whatcom County, and others, the block party will be a celebration of community, sustainable transportation, local arts and culture, nonprofits, and businesses in the heart of downtown Bellingham. Visit the Allied Arts of Whatcom County website for more information.
City Hall becomes Kitty Hall: Meet kittens available for adoption 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday, Aug. 23, at Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie Street. Take home a furry friend or two, chat with animal control officers, and learn about animal welfare issues at the free event, presented by Whatcom Humane Society and the City. This paw-sitively, purr-fectly fun event is intended to highlight the challenge of pet overpopulation and help find homes for feline friends in need. Earlier this month, the Humane Society had more than 200 cats and kittens in shelter care and foster homes. Learn more on the Whatcom Humane Society website.
