Community + trucks = A hit! Thanks to everyone who attended our annual Public Works Meet-a-Truck event this week! Over 500 people came out for a fun-filled afternoon getting up close to the big trucks and equipment that keep our city running smoothly. It was a blast seeing the excitement on everyone’s faces, and a big thanks to our dedicated Public Works staff and the amazing Bellingham Public Library team for providing awesome activities and adding to the fun!
Improvements coming to Bloedel Donovan: Starting in June, park goers will see some construction at Bloedel Donovan Park. We’re installing new, high-efficiency electrical systems and replacing old mechanical systems. This includes electrifying the Community Building and removing its natural gas systems. This will help our city reach its climate goals of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. We are also replacing the roof and improving how rainwater drains from the park to protect Lake Whatcom. Why now? There’s a special window (June 1 to September 30) when construction can be done around Lake Whatcom to help protect our drinking water. During dry months, there’s less chance of rain washing dirt and pollution into the lake. To help relieve congestion, consider choosing alternative transportation like taking the bus, biking, walking or carpooling.
Speaking of Lake Whatcom, new rules help protect water quality: On May 20, 2024, Bellingham City Council unanimously approved new stormwater requirements for multi-family properties in parts of the Silver Beach Neighborhood. The new rules, which will take effect approximately June 18, will require multi-family development and redevelopment in that area to be at least as protective as rules for single-family properties in the watershed. During that same meeting, City Council also voted to revisit a proposed density rezone for these areas at the Council’s June 3 meeting. The City Council also requested staff present additional actions the City could take to improve stormwater management on private properties in the Bellingham portion of the Lake Whatcom watershed. Learn more about these changes on the project webpage.
Busy weekend of events: It’ll be a busy holiday weekend around Bellingham! We hope to see you at the Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, May 25 from noon – 3 p.m. We’re also pleased to welcome the Gathering of the Eagles canoe journey for Coast Salish Day at Whatcom Creek on Saturday, May 25, with events at Waypoint Park (10 a.m. – Noon) and Maritime Heritage Park (Noon – 6 p.m.). The holiday weekend continues on Sunday, May 26, with the iconic annual Ski to Sea relay race and Fairhaven Festival. Look for members of the City’s team providing street closures and traffic control, law enforcement, parks support and more at all these events. And keep an eye out for our City booth at Marine Park at the Ski to Sea finish line. (And we suggest you bus, bike or walk to Fairhaven on Sunday!)
Water plan survey: You’re using your city’s water system whenever you turn on your faucet to fill a water glass, take a bath, or water your lawn. The City manages our water system, which includes a water source (Lake Whatcom), treatment and pumping facilities, and pipes that bring water to homes and businesses. Our water system not only ensures you have clean water at home, but it also brings water to businesses and facilities like fire hydrants. We’re updating our Water System Plan and need your help. Take our survey to tell us what is most important to you to help guide our investments in our local water.
Representation matters: Mayor Kim Lund had the opportunity to address students as a special guest at a school-wide assembly at Roosevelt Elementary School earlier this week. Mayor Kim was a student at Roosevelt and her time with students was the culmination of their Month of Action. She stayed after to answer questions from a group of girls who were extra curious about what it’s like to lead the City.
