Learn about fair housing laws and rental regulations
April is Fair Housing Month. In recognition, we’re making it easy to learn more about housing laws and protections, and the history and ongoing impacts of redlining, restrictive covenants, and other practices that shape our housing system. We have two upcoming events:
- April 22 @ 5:30 p.m. – From Redlining to Resilience, a film screening and community discussion at Mount Baker Theatre: Join us for a screening of “Decade of Fire,” a documentary exploring the role of systemic neglect and discriminatory practices in shaping housing conditions. Following the screening, stay for a panel discussion on the history and ongoing impacts in our own region. While this event is free, registration is required.
- April 28 @ 3:30 p.m. – Join us at City Hall to learn about new rental laws: Having a hard time keeping up with all of the changes to rental regulations? We’re here to help! Join us for a free event in Bellingham City Council Chambers to learn about new rental regulations and to get your questions answered. City staff will be joined by local support organizations for landlords and tenants to tell you what you need to know about new rental laws and answer your questions. Learn more about this free event.
Trail changes at Maritime Heritage Park
We’re permanently closing a couple of stretches of the lower trail at Maritime Heritage Park that are experiencing erosion and pose safety concerns. The work will take place April 13-17. Park Operations staff will use woody debris to cover the gravel trail and will remove bridges, benches, stairs, and native plant signs. You will still be able to use the upper Whatcom Estuary trail to walk through the park (see the map below). Please do not enter the closed areas for your safety.
Earth Day events coming soon
Get ready for Earth Day on April 22! We are hosting several events during that week to celebrate:
- Earth-themed Children’s Storytimes with the Bellingham Public Library
- Volunteer work party to improve water quality and habitat at Squalicum Creek
- A recycling drop-off event for your hard-to-recycle items. Bring your sensitive documents for shredding, electronic waste, batteries, and used athletic sneakers.
- A tour of our Padden Creek fish passage project
- And more!
Check out a full list of events with details on our events calendar.
Thanks for having us, Vamos!
Last weekend, City team members from Bellingham Public Library, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, and the Mayor’s Office hosted tables at Vamos Outdoor Project’s annual Fiesta de Conexión Comunitaria. We enjoyed meeting many community members, handing out free Spanish language books, and sharing about City resources, events, and programs.
