Spring Book Sale
The Friends of the Bellingham Public Library are excited to present their Spring Book Sale May 21 – 24 in the Central Library Lecture Room. The Friends have a lot of new inventory thanks to a recent collaboration with Ridwell that provided a huge amount of donated books to add to the sale. Most books are priced at $2 or less. The proceeds from this sale will help the Friends fund the Library’s Summer Reading programs for children, teens, and adults. Stock up for your summer reading!
Celebrate Public Works at Meet-a-Truck
We hope to see you at our annual Meet-a-Truck event 1-3p.m., Thursday, May 22 in front of City Hall on Lottie Street. In honor of National Public Works Week and our Public Works professionals who work to improve the daily lives of everyone in our community, come check out the big trucks and equipment that keep your streets, storm drains, sewer, and water lines running smoothly. Activities include crafts with the Bellingham Children’s Library, a scavenger hunt, and more! All ages are welcome at this free event.
Honor law enforcement during National Police Week
This week we joined the nation in observing National Police Week, a time to both remember fallen officers and honor the dedication of those currently serving in law enforcement. This annual observance, held during the week of May 15, provides an opportunity for our community to reflect on the bravery and commitment of all law enforcement professionals who work tirelessly to ensure our safety. It is a time for communities across the United States to honor and remember those law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the family members, friends, and fellow officers they left behind. We extend our sincere gratitude to members of the Bellingham Police Department for their service and dedication to our city.
Addressing essential utility investments
Ensuring the reliability of our drinking water and wastewater services for the future requires significant infrastructure investments, the need for which was outlined in a presentation to Bellingham City Council on April 14. Understanding that these necessary costs can create affordability challenges for our community, we are committed to navigating these decisions together, with a special focus on supporting those most impacted. To further understand the financial realities and how we aim to support those with the greatest need, we invite you to follow the discussion on May 19, when staff members will give a presentation to the Council’s Finance and Budget Committee.
Public hearing: Proposed Multi-Family Tax Exemption program changes
You’re invited to a public hearing on proposed updates to our Multi-Family Tax Exemption (MFTE) program during the Bellingham City Council meeting on Monday, May 19. This program incentivizes housing development and affordable housing production. The goal of the proposed changes is to further advance affordable housing production, a priority outlined in Mayor Kim Lund’s Housing Executive Order. Attend the hearing online or in person to learn how these adjustments could shape the future of housing in our community and sign up to provide public comment.
Mark your calendars for community events over Memorial Day weekend
Next weekend in Bellingham offers different ways for everyone to connect with the community. On Saturday, May 24, there are two significant community events: the Gathering of the Eagles, where canoes arrive in Bellingham’s Waypoint Park at approximately 10 a.m. as part of their week-long journey to celebrate intergenerational indigenous cultural heritage; and our traditional Memorial Day Parade, a cherished tradition of remembrance and community connection in Bellingham. Sunday, May 25 brings the return of the legendary Ski to Sea race, bringing teams together for an epic relay from the mountains to Bellingham Bay. Please be aware that this lively weekend will bring increased activity and some traffic impacts. We encourage everyone to plan ahead, allow for extra travel time, and follow any posted signage or directions from event staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for all. We look forward to celebrating together!
