Bellingham Police Department offers rolling tribute
Keep an eye out around town for Bellingham Police Department’s latest and most colorful patrol car. Wrapped in pink and purple in honor of breast cancer and domestic violence awareness month, this year’s car also features the logo of Lummi Victims of Crime and the words ‘Kwenkwem-otel’ in Xwlemi Chosen (Lummi language), which translates to “stronger together.” Check out BPD’s Facebook for photos from their unveiling last week — if you zoom in, you might even spot a familiar Bellingham celebrity in the design.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact DVAS at 877-715-1563 or Lummi Victims of Crime at 360-312-2015.
Increasing utility rates and expanded support
Securing our water future starts now, and utility bills will increase in January to help us get there. In order to continue delivering safe, reliable water services, we need to make major upgrades to our aging systems.
We know affordability is a real concern right now. Applications are open for our expanded Customer Assistance program that offers discounts to households who need financial help to pay their bill.
To learn more, join us at the Farmer’s Market this Saturday, Oct. 18, or visit our website. More information about the utility rate increases and an application to apply for support can be found at cob.org/utility-rates.
Measures to increase housing options will soon be heard by Council
Oct. 20 will kick off the first of several Bellingham City Council public hearings for housing-related rule changes. The changes are intended to increase housing supply and the diversity of housing options available in Bellingham — especially increasing options for mid-price options and size ranges currently lacking here. The proposed updates fulfill actions called for in Mayor Kim Lund’s 2024 executive order on housingand would bring us into compliance with several newer state laws.
- ADU code updates – public hearing: Oct. 20
It’s only been a couple of years since we adjusted our rules to support development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), but additional adjustments are needed to bring us into full compliance with new state laws.
- Parking reform interim ordinance extension – public hearing: Nov. 3
Extending the existing interim ordinance for six months, during which staff will develop permanent regulations.
- Co-living housing ordinance adoption – public hearing: tentatively scheduled for Nov. 17
Co-living housing (rooming and boarding) offers sleeping units that are independently rented and with shared kitchen facilities. This ordinance will allow co-living in multi-family zones and will bring us into compliance with state law.
- Middle housing interim ordinance updates – public hearing: tentatively scheduled for Nov. 17
The City adopted an interim ordinance in May to allow more types of housing — like duplexes and townhomes — in more neighborhoods. Extending this ordinance for six months with modifications would bring us into full compliance with state laws.
- Design review interim ordinance updates – public hearing: tentatively scheduled for Nov. 17
This ordinance would streamline housing development by updating the design review process and adopting zoning rules with easier, more objective design standards and guidelines.
Sign up to speak at a public hearing on our website.
Help keep drains clear to protect our waterways
Leaves, trash, and other debris in storm drains don’t just cause flooding — they can also wash straight into local streams and rivers. With more wet days in the forecast, we are reminding everyone to clean or report clogged drains nearby, especially on rainy days when flooding is more likely.
If it’s safe to do so, use a broom, rake, or gloved hands to remove leaves and debris from storm drains on quiet streets near your home. You can place what you collect in your yard waste or garbage bin. You can also report clogged drains, flooding, fallen trees, and other issues to us using SeeClickFix.
Every small action adds up to a big difference for our community and environment. Learn more about why clean drains matter.
City and County agencies partnered to get wildfire ready
Last week, staff from the City of Bellingham, Whatcom County, South Whatcom Fire District, and other partner agencies gathered for a wildfire response tabletop exercise. The training focused on how we coordinate across jurisdictions during an urban wildfire — because emergencies don’t stop at the city limits. From resource coordination to clear communication, this proactive training helps ensure we’re ready to protect our communities if a wildfire strikes.
Help shape the new Bakerview park
Want to weigh in on Bellingham’s newest neighborhood park? Join us at an upcoming open house focused on a planned park in the King Mountain neighborhood on E. Bakerview Road.
In July, we held an initial open house to get your feedback on recreational amenities and invited the public to fill out a vision survey. We are now ready to get your feedback on our draft park concepts, trail design, and recreation options.
Learn more about the project and see results from the survey at our Engage Bellingham page.
Thursday, Oct. 23 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Bellingham Covenant Church, 1530 E. Bakerview Rd.
