Join us to talk Parks & Recreation
Stop by one of two upcoming open house meetings to share your parks and recreation goals, discuss project priorities through 2032, and learn how to be involved as we update our strategic parks and recreation plan over the next year!
- February 13, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Cordata Park Pavilion. Staff presentation at 6:00 p.m.
- February 18, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Fairhaven Park Pavilion. Staff presentation at 6:00 p.m.
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (PROS Plan) serves as a guiding document for the preservation and expansion of the park, recreation, and open space system as the community grows. Visit our website to learn more about the PROS Plan update.
Public safety services are here to help everyone
In light of new federal directives, we want to assure you that nothing has changed about our pledge to welcome, respect, protect and serve all members of our community. Here is important information about our public safety services:
What-Comm 911: When calling 911 in Whatcom County — a service operated by Bellingham Police — you are not asked about your nationality or immigration status. Our focus is on your safety, your location and the nature of your emergency, so that we can help you. If there is a language barrier, then you may be asked if you speak a different language in order to connect with the City’s contracted professional interpretation service. We only share that information with our language services provider so we can access the correct interpreter. Contact What-Comm 911 if you have questions.
Bellingham Police: Bellingham Police personnel don’t take any actions based on immigration status alone. Immigration and civil federal law enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government – not Bellingham Police. By state law, we do not ask or collect information about immigration or citizenship status, or place of birth, unless there is a connection between this information and a criminal investigation. We work with The Language Line interpretation service when needed to communicate with you. All officers have an interpretation app on their work cell phones. In addition, many officers are fluent in multiple languages. Reach out to Bellingham Police if you have questions.
Bellingham Fire/EMS: Bellingham Fire/EMS staff are focused on protecting lives and property and reducing hazards. You will not be asked about your nationality or immigration status when receiving these emergency services. When needed, we may ask what language you speak so that we can connect with a professional interpreter service to get you the help you need. Please contact Bellingham Fire/EMS if you have questions.
We are here for you when you need help. We are committed to making sure Bellingham is a place where the safety, rights and dignity of all are maintained and protected.
Feedback opportunity: Bellingham growth plan material is rolling out
We have moved into a new phase of the Bellingham Plan, our project to update Bellingham’s growth plan (a.k.a. the Comprehensive Plan). After much community input, we’ve developed a plan based on what we heard, plus changes required by state laws. Now, we’re beginning to release draft sections of the plan for your review and for Planning Commission and Bellingham City Council discussion. This is your chance to provide feedback before the plan is finalized and brought forward for adoption. Provide your feedback on draft chapters as they roll out ahead of corresponding Planning Commission meetings.
Remote public comment returns
The Bellingham City Council has reinstated remote public comment via Zoom for public hearings and public comment periods. On the day of the meeting, you must sign up by 7 p.m. to share your public comment remotely. Though public comment periods are the last items on Council meeting agendas, we recommend you log in when the meeting begins at 7 p.m. so you don’t miss your chance to speak. The Bellingham City Council provides Spanish interpretation at all regular evening meetings for both in-person and online attendees, and if you want to give your comment in Spanish, it will be interpreted into English. Remote viewers can log on to cob.org/cczoom and click on the “Language” icon at the bottom of the screen to listen in Spanish. For more information, please visit our Public Hearings and Public Comment Periods webpage.
Winter weather update
We’ve seen quite a mix of snowy conditions across Bellingham this past week, with some areas getting significantly more snow than others. Our crews have been working hard to keep up, and most streets are in good condition now. While the forecast looks drier for the next few days, we’re keeping a close eye on things and are ready to respond if conditions change. We know there are still some areas of snow and ice lingering around town, especially in shady spots, so please continue to be careful out there, whether you’re driving, biking, or walking. With the continued cold, we also want to remind everyone to take a moment to protect their pipes – a little insulation now can save you a big headache (and a costly repair bill!) later. We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as we navigate these winter conditions together. Visit our winter weather page to learn more about our general winter weather response and tips to prevent frozen pipes.
Fraser Street walkway closure
Heads up: A section of the Fraser Street pedestrian walkway between Valencia and Puget Streets is currently closed due to damage sustained in an incident Thursday afternoon, Feb. 6. Thankfully, no one was injured. We understand the walkway is an important route and are working to restore access as quickly as possible. Staff are exploring temporary detours while developing a plan for permanent repairs. Due to the ongoing cold and potential for icy conditions, please be extra careful when traveling in the area, whether driving, walking, or biking. Updates on the repair timeline and any temporary pedestrian access options will be shared as they become available.
