Bellingham City Council issues verdict on Viewcrest Road development (Aug 21, set to be released at 0830), Bellingham to hold public hearing on proposition to expand construction of low-income housing, Early learning center for farmworker families opens in Lynden, High levels of toxic algae detected in Toad Lake, Gas prices on the rise…again, Humane Society of Skagit County seeking donations after thieves steal critical parts of van, Comments open for federal government’s proposed rescinding of Roadless Rule (USE MONDAY), Fall weather predicted, AGs secure agreement to restore competition between Zillow and Redfin, Whatcom County Open House (run no later than 9/28) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August, 24. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham City Council issues verdict on Viewcrest Road development (Aug 21, set to be released at 0830) Another challenge to a south Bellingham subdivision has been turned back. The Bellingham City Council has upheld the hearing examiner’s approval of the Woods at Viewcrest project above Mud Bay, rejecting an appeal from the group, Protect Mud Bay Cliffs. The volunteer group has opposed the development for years over environmental and neighborhood concerns. The hearing examiner approved the preliminary plat and critical‑areas permits in June and denied an earlier appeal seeking an environmental impact statement. The group appealed again, arguing the application had unresolved issues and missing technical studies. The council ruled the appellants hadn’t shown the examiner erred and issued its decision last week. The ruling can still be appealed to Whatcom County Superior Court. STORY: Bellingham to hold public hearing on proposition to expand construction of low-income housing The Bellingham City Council is moving forward with an ordinance designed to make it easier to build low-income housing. The proposal would allow qualifying projects to bypass several zoning limits, including maximum building height, density, floor-area ratio and parking requirements. To qualify, projects would have to provide 100 percent low-income housing and be operated by an approved housing provider. Developers would also have to sign a covenant keeping the property dedicated to low-income housing for at least 50 years. The Planning Commission recommended the ordinance unanimously, by a vote of 5-to-0. STORY: Early learning center for farmworker families opens in Lynden Lynden’s migrant Head Start program now has a permanent home. Cascadia Daily News reports the modular building next to Isom Elementary is the first long‑term site for Inspire Development Centers, which runs Migrant & Seasonal Head Start for farmworker families. The location lets the program operate from April through November instead of just a few summer weeks in borrowed spaces. It can serve up to 70 children with long days, transportation, meals and developmental screenings. Staff say the stable site fills a major gap after construction delays left families without care. They say the program is ready to serve farmworker families for the long term. STORY: High levels of toxic algae detected in Toad Lake Recent testing at Toad Lake has detected microcystins—a toxin produced by blue-green algae—at levels that may be harmful to people and pets. Health officials say the toxin levels exceed recreational guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Washington State Department of Health. The toxins were found in floating algae mats that can look like dark green, brown, or slimy, carpet-like material. These mats can form on the lake bottom and later break free, floating to the surface or washing up along the shoreline. The surrounding water may remain clear, making the mats difficult to spot. People and pet owners are urged to avoid touching, eating, or swallowing algae, and to stay away from areas where algae blooms or mats are visible. Pet owners should keep animals away from water with visible algae or algae clumps along the shore. If a pet comes into contact with algae, rinse its fur immediately with clean water and prevent the animal from licking the algae off. Microcystin primarily affects the liver and can cause symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, sore throat, and blistering around the mouth. For your safety, keep yourself and your pets away from visible algae at Toad Lake. STORY: Gas prices on the rise…again Gas prices are still climbing in Washington — and Bellingham drivers are feeling it. Washington’s average for regular sits at $5.26 today, up 7 cents from last week and 86 cents from a year ago. Bellingham’s average is $5.09, rising 5 cents over the week and up 79 cents compared to last year. GasBuddy says global refinery outages and shipping disruptions are tightening fuel supplies, pushing U.S. prices higher and making a $4 national average on Labor Day likely for the first time ever. With inventories running low and crude costs staying high, Washington — already one of the most expensive states for gas — is expected to keep seeing elevated prices heading into the holiday weekend. STORY: Humane Society of Skagit County seeking donations after thieves steal critical parts of van An unknown thief stole the catalytic converter from the Humane Society of Skagit Valley’s van. It was going to be used for a delivery to the Yakima shelter. They are asking for help from the community to get the van back on the road. Even after a generous donation from a community member, they’ll need about one thousand three hundred dollars to fix it. Cash donations are accepted through their website, but the shelter will also accept cat and dog food donations. STORY: Comments open for federal government’s proposed rescinding of Roadless Rule (USE MONDAY) Comments are open for a proposed rescinding of a federal rule about National Forest lands. The U.S. The Department of Agriculture is proposing to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule, which limits road construction and timber harvesting on National Forest lands. The USDA says this will reduce regulatory burden, and allow state officials to make their own decisions about land based on different priorities. They point to increased timber access, decreased wildfire risk and recreation profit loss as motivations for the …
August 21, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham man hospitalized following motorcycle crash, Parking minimums eliminated, Fruit popsicles recalled, Man arrested in Skagit County accused of murder, More work on Little Squalicum Park, Galbraith Mtn. closed for two days, Glacier Creek Road reopens, F&C: Aug 21, Bellingham City Council issues verdict on Viewcrest Road development (Aug 21, set to be released at 0830), Ferndale council votes against multifamily tax exemption expansion, Comments open for federal government’s proposed rescinding of Roadless Rule Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 21st. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. Smoke from Fraser River valley wildfires is flowing into our region this afternoon. Those with respiratory issues are advised to stay indoors with windows closed and air filters on full blast. STORY: Bellingham man hospitalized following motorcycle crash A 33-year-old Bellingham man is hospitalized after crashing his motorcycle into some mailboxes. Police say the crash happened Wednesday night around 7:27pm on Ridgemont Way in Bellingham’s Happy Valley neighborhood. Witnesses told officers the man was riding above the posted speed limit when he lost control and struck the mailboxes, hitting his head. Firefighters evaluated the man at the scene before paramedics took him to St. Joe’s. His condition is not known. STORY: Parking minimums eliminated The Bellingham City Council has approved the elimination of minimum parking requirements on new development. The council approved the changes Aug. 10th and the new rules take effect next Tuesday where developers will no longer be required to provide a set number of parking stalls under the city’s land-use code. Instead, builders can decide how much parking is appropriate for the project. The city says the change is intended to support housing development by allowing land previously required for parking to be used for housing or other purposes. The rules still include requirements for accessible parking when parking is provided, as well as bicycle parking requirements and electric-vehicle charging infrastructure. Beginning in 2027, Washington cities generally will not be able to require parking for residential units smaller than 1,200 square feet or commercial spaces smaller than 3,000 square feet. STORY: Fruit popsicles recalled Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream is voluntarily recalling select Outshine Fruit Bars over possible glass contamination. The recall affects five flavors of their six-count, 2.5 ounce fruit bars: Strawberry, Watermelon, Grape, Tangerine, and Black Cherry, along with the 24-count Variety Pack. The effected products were distributed to retailers nationwide. Customers should check the batch code next to the best by date and compare to the list on the FDA website under safety recalls. The company says the recall follows reports of glass found in the product. Although, no illnesses or injuries have yet been reported. Customers who have effected products should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. No other Outshine products are included in the recall. STORY: Man arrested in Skagit County accused of murder A man wanted in an Oregon murder case has been arrested in Skagit County. Deputies in Lane County, Oregon were called on August 19th to check on 44-year-old Yuvonne Allison after an out-of-state caller reported concern. Allison was found dead and investigators say she’d been stabbed multiple times. Detectives quickly identified 47-year-old Tyler Earl Essex as a suspect and obtained a murder warrant. Skagit County officers worked with Lane County detectives to effect the arrest. Essex is now being held in the Skagit County Jail without bail. STORY: More work on Little Squalicum ParkRestoration work is underway again at Little Squalicum Creek near the off-leash area. Crews will reposition boulders and large timber in the creek to stabilize streambanks and reduce erosion. The work is part of ongoing restoration efforts following completion of the Estuary project in 2024. In-water construction is taking place during an approved work period, with measures in place to protect fish and other aquatic life. The work is expected to continue through early September, followed by native plantings this fall. STORY: Galbraith Mtn. closed for two daysPublic access to Galbraith Mountain will be closed Aug. 24th and 25th while herbicide is applied to access roads, according to Galbraith Tree Farm. Officials are asking the public to respect the temporary closure for safety reasons. Galbraith Tree Farm is private property managed by Janicki Logging Co. for timber production. Public access is provided through a recreational use easement purchased by the City of Bellingham in 2018. STORY: Glacier Creek Road reopens Good news for hikers: the road to the Heliotrope Ridge trailhead is open again. The Forest Service says repairs to Glacier Creek Road – also known as Forest Road 39 — are complete after last winter’s flooding washed out several sections. The closure had forced hikers and climbers to add miles and elevation to reach Heliotrope Ridge, a popular day hike and launch point for north-side Mount Baker ascents. One spur is still closed. Grouse Butte Road — aka Forest Road 36 — which splits off Glacier Creek Road at mile 7.75. STORY: Cricket tournament debuts in Monroe this weekendGood news for cricket fans, the Seattle Orcas have launched a new women’s tournament this week. The inaugural Seattle Orcas Women’s T20 Exhibition runs Aug. 20 to 23rd at Fairfield County Park in Monroe. The tournament features three teams: the Bellevue Blazers, Redmond Raptors, and the Washington Waves. Teams will play a double round-robin schedule, with the top two advancing to the championship final. Organizers say the tournament is intended to provide emerging players with an opportunity to compete alongside experienced international athletes while helping raise the profile of women’s cricket in the Pacific Northwest. More information is available on the Seattle Orcas Women’s T20 Exhibition website. F&C: Aug 21 If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, here are a few ideas… It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. Bellis Fair Mall is hosting a children’s craft fair tonight from 5 to 7pm. Kids thirteen and under will be …
August 20, 2026 News Transcript
Man arrested for false report of stabbing in Blaine, Bellingham City Council unanimously approves higher standards and new audit process for rental inspectors, WWU expands guaranteed admission program to all WA high school students above certain GPA threshold, Emissions control upgrades bound for Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant, Three new murals bound for Bellingham buildings after conclusion of art festival, Settlement with AG’s office leads to Google distributing a $13 million payout among Washington’s Android users, Sightings of devastating invasive beetle species confirmed in southern WA, Wildfires cost state more than $200 M last month, WA Job Growth Slow (prepare yourself- this requires analysis!), Bellingham City Council issues verdict on Viewcrest Road development (Aug 21, set to be released at 0830), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, August, 20. Good afternoon, I’m ______. UPDATE: Man arrested for false report of stabbing in BlaineBlaine police say a reported stabbing earlier this week never happened. Officers arrested a 26‑year‑old man yesterday on suspicion of false reporting. Police say he claimed he was stabbed Monday in Montfort Park, but investigators found no crime scene or blood evidence where he said his vehicle had been parked. Security cameras didn’t show him or his vehicle in the area, K9 units found no scent of a suspect, and officers said his injuries didn’t match the alleged assault. The Bellingham Police Department and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation. STORY: Bellingham City Council unanimously approves higher standards and new audit process for rental inspectors Bellingham’s rental inspectors will now face higher standards and regular audits. The City Council has approved updates to the Rental Registration and Safety Inspection Program, adding new certification requirements for private inspectors and creating a formal audit process for both city and third‑party inspectors. Private inspectors will now reapply every two years, complete required training, perform a ride‑along with the city’s building official, and show proof of certification from an approved home‑inspector organization. Audits will check whether inspectors are missing deficiencies, submitting accurate paperwork, maintaining current credentials, and keeping a balanced record of passed and failed inspections. The changes follow a report showing private inspectors almost never failed rental units, compared to a 15‑percent failure rate for city inspectors. Corrective actions range from additional training to suspension from the city’s list of approved inspectors. A falsified inspection report would result in immediate suspension. STORY: WWU expands guaranteed admission program to all WA high school students above certain GPA threshold Western Washington University will expand its guaranteed admission program to all Washington high school students The program was only offered to students who have a grade point average of at least 2.75 in five counties last year. This is in addition to the state guaranteed program for students who have a GPA of 3 or higher. Western has seen a decline in student enrollment since Covid. The college set a goal of enrolling at least 3200 first year students this year, but whether they will achieve that will not be known until October when the data is released. STORY: Emissions control upgrades bound for Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant The Bellingham City Council has approved upgrades for the wastewater treatment plant in Fairhaven. The council moved forward with the upgrades project in a meeting this week. They voted unanimously to authorize a contract with Walsh Construction Company to build new incinerators at the Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. Incinerating solid waste produces a lot of pollutive exhaust gases. The Northwest Clean Air Agency cited the plant for missing permits and violating emissions regulations in 2024. The City of Bellingham did not admit to any wrongdoing, but they did sign an agreement to install more air pollution controls, like carbon monoxide monitors. The new incinerators will help prolong the life of the current system while the city explores other, more sustainable solutions. Construction is expected to begin in late 2027 and will take about 3 years. STORY: Three new murals bound for Bellingham buildings after conclusion of art festival Artists from across the country turned out last weekend for the Noisy Waters Mural Festival at Trackside Beergarden. Nearly nine‑thousand votes were cast over the three‑day event, where the top murals earned cash contracts to paint Bellingham’s next public walls. Grand Prize went to Denver artist Catie Michel, whose mural quickly became a community favorite. Her prize wall will be installed at 109 North Samish Way. First Place went to Jessa Gilbert, based in Squamish, BC. Her outdoor‑inspired work will continue at 345 Ohio Street. Second Place went to Denver artist Oak Bloak, also known as Max Coleman, whose portrait‑driven mural sparked conversations about hope and resilience. His prize wall will be installed at 1117 Ellis Street. Third Place went to Jason Harvin of Gibsonton, Florida, known as Wayward Walls, who received a one‑thousand‑dollar cash prize. The prize murals are scheduled for installation in spring and summer of 2027. STORY: Settlement with AG’s office leads to Google distributing a $13 million payout among Washington’s Android users Some Android users in Washington may benefit from a pay out as part of a multistate settlement in a lawsuit against Google. The case accused Google of monopolizing apps distributed on Android phones and devices. Customers were also charged an extra 30% if they purchased apps through the Google Play Store. State attorney general, Nick Brown, said a federal court approved a total of 700 million settlement for all the states involved. $13 million of that will go to Washington to benefit 2.4 million Android users The payout will be delivered via PayPal or Venmo. STORY: Sightings of devastating invasive beetle species confirmed in southern WA An invasive beetle has been confirmed in Washington state. The emerald ash borer was found in Vancouver, and has previously been detected in Oregon and in Vancouver, British Columbia. It has already destroyed more …
August 18, 2026 News Transcript
Two men arrested in connection with Bellingham drive-by shooting, Birch Bay man pleads not guilty to charges connected to shooting that left 2 injured, Friday Harbor to receive Island County’s first official air quality monitor, Bus fares increase Sept 1, Ferry crew successfully rescues passengers from rowboat in distress off Orcas Island, Power outage in Birchwood-Alderwood area cuts electricity to nearly 3,000 customers, WDFW reminds public to be wary of bears following encounter north of Lake Whatcom, Investigation launched into potential violation of transparency laws by Let’s Go Washington, Investigation launched into potential violation of transparency laws by Let’s Go Washington, WA Job Growth Slow (prepare yourself- this requires analysis!), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, August , 18. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Two men arrested in connection with Bellingham drive-by shooting Two men were arrested after shots were fired at a busy downtown Bellingham intersection early Saturday morning. Police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire at Railroad Avenue and East Holly Street shortly before 3 a.m. Officers found shell casings and followed a white SUV believed to be involved in the incident, stopping it near State Street and East Chestnut. Police identified the driver as 28-year-old Channon Hill of Bellingham, and the passenger as 30-year-old Lateef Abdu of San Diego. Witnesses said the shooter was wearing a cowboy hat, which officers found inside the SUV along with an empty handgun holster. Abdu was arrested on suspicion of drive-by shooting. Hill was arrested on suspicion of complicity in the shooting for allegedly driving away from the scene. Both men were booked into the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Birch Bay man pleads not guilty to charges connected to shooting that left 2 injured A Birch Bay man has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges in connection to a shooting that left two people wounded, including a 2-year-old toddler. According to court records, 62-year-old Anthony Palomba pleaded not guilty to two counts of attempted murder, felony harassment, and second-degree assault at his arraignment last Tuesday. The incident occurred in a Birch Bay home the night before; none of the injuries sustained by the victims were life-threatening. Palomba told hospital staff that he had been intoxicated; a search of his vehicle by investigators yielded a pistol, while at least one bullet fired into the home was also found. Palomba is currently being held at the Whatcom County Jail without bail. His jury trial is tentatively scheduled to begin on October 5th. STORY: Friday Harbor to receive Island County’s first official air quality monitor San Juan County now has its first regulatory‑grade air monitor station. The Northwest Clean Air Agency installed the new station in Friday Harbor that meets strict federal accuracy standards. The monitor tracks fine particulate pollution — the main health threat from wildfire smoke. Officials say it will give residents reliable, locally collected air‑quality data for the first time and help show the county meets federal clean‑air standards. The agency plans to expand its sensor network across the islands, adding about 15 new locations through next year. Readings from the Friday Harbor monitor are available on NWCAA’s Air Quality Center website. STORY: Bus fares increase Sept 1 Bus fares in Whatcom County are going up on September 1st. WTA says rising costs and slower sales‑tax growth are prompting its first fare increase since 2008. Adult fares will rise to $2, with a $6 daily and $60 monthly cap. Reduced‑fare riders will pay $1, and youth will still ride free. Paratransit fares will increase to $3, with a $6 daily cap and a $30 monthly cap. WTA is introducing fare capping for fixed‑route riders. Using the same Umo card, Umo app, or bank card lets each trip count toward the caps — and once you hit them, the rest of your rides are free. Cash will not count toward fare caps. WTA says the changes will help avoid future service cuts. STORY: Ferry crew successfully rescues passengers from rowboat in distress off Orcas Island A Washington State Ferries crew is being credited with a quick response that helped rescue rowboaters in distress near Orcas Island. The crew of the Tilikum received a Coast Guard call around 9:45 Friday morning. They were informed that a small rowboat was taking on water and could not maneuver. The ferry changed course, and crew members launched a rescue boat to reach the people aboard. They safely brought the rowboaters to shore and no one required medical attention. WSF says its crews regularly train for water rescues across the Salish Sea. STORY: Power outage in Birchwood-Alderwood area cuts electricity to nearly 3,000 customers A power outage yesterday in the Birchwood-Alderwood area affected nearly 3,000 customers. Puget Sound Energy reported an outage in the area at about 8:45pm. First responders were dispatched to Eldridge Avenue after reports of an electrical emergency. The power had been expected to be restored by midnight. An identical power outage occurred on the same block in June. On that occasion, the cause of the outage was identified as a bird or animal. STORY: WDFW reminds public to be wary of bears following encounter north of Lake Whatcom Washington wildlife officials are increasing patrols after a reported encounter between a black bear and a hiker north of Lake Whatcom. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says the incident happened Saturday morning on a forested trail in Whatcom County. The person involved was an adult woman hiking with her dog on a leash. WDFW officers searched the area with trained dogs but were unable to locate the bear. Officers will continue monitoring the area. Meanwhile, Wildlife officials would like to remind hikers to keep pets leashed, make noise while on the trail and stay aware of their surroundings. If you encounter a bear, do not run. Stand tall, wave your arms and speak in …
August 17, 2026 News Transcript
Vulnerable adult out of Maple Falls still missing after several weeks, Endangered missing persons alert issued for 7-month old taken from Vancouver, Prosecutor sidesteps outside investigation, Birch Bay Waterslides Pending Sale, Historic Plover foot ferry back in action, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Natl Forest temporarily bans recreational target shooting as danger of fire continues to mount, Recreational crabbing to open in Marine Area 7 North (San Juan Islands) beginning Aug. 15 [just focus on area 7], Kalshi ordered to cease most operations in WA after judge finds likely violations of gambling and consumer protection laws, WA Job Growth Slow (prepare yourself- this requires analysis!), Friday Harbor to receive Island County’s first official air quality monitor, Bus fares increase Sept 1, F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August, 17. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Vulnerable adult out of Maple Falls still missing after several weeks The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help locating a vulnerable adult. Deputies say 55‑year‑old James D. Harris was last seen July 25 in the Maple Falls–Kendall area. Search and Rescue teams have spent several days looking for him. Harris is 6’4″, 198 pounds, and was wearing a black motorcycle jacket, blue jeans, and a camo beanie. Anyone with information is urged to call 911. STORY: Endangered missing persons alert issued for 7-month old taken from Vancouver Washington State Patrol has issued an endangered missing person alert for a 7-month-old child. WSP says 37-year-old Raul Martinez took Marcello Martinez from the Vancouver area between 5 and 6 a.m. Sunday. Investigators say there is a credible threat to the child’s health and safety. Marcello weighs 16 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a blue onesie with neon green lettering. Martinez is 5-foot-6 and weighs 180 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing tight sweatpants, a white shirt, and a blue-and-green jacket. The two are believed to be traveling in a late-90s Jeep Grand Cherokee with unknown license plates. Anyone who sees Marcello or Raul, or the vehicle, is asked to call 911. STORY: Prosecutor sidesteps outside investigation The Whatcom County Prosecutor is facing scrutiny over how he handled an internal ethics complaint. Cascadia Daily News reports Prosecutor Eric Richey rejected a county HR recommendation for an outside investigation after senior deputy Dona Bracke (Dawn-uh BRAK-ee) accused Richey and Chief Criminal Deputy Erik Sigmar of ethical violations and election interference. HR documents show Richey shut down the idea, calling an investigation too disruptive. Bracke says she asked him to send an all‑staff email addressing conduct she felt undermined her authority, but he never sent it. A legal assistant submitted a statement alleging “unethical behavior” in the office and claiming Sigmar used his position to undermine Bracke’s authority. Richey told CDN he won’t comment on personnel matters but stands by the office’s ethics. STORY: Birch Bay Waterslides Pending Sale A Skagit County man seriously injured at Birch Bay Waterslides in 2023 has agreed to a $4 million settlement. Larry Baker, then 43, spent nearly two weeks in intensive care at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle after his legs went through a panel on the Hairpin slide in August 2023. He suffered deep cuts to both legs. Baker filed a negligence lawsuit in Whatcom County Superior Court in May 2024, naming Birch Bay Jun Yu Waterslides, Safe Slide Restoration and Kingworks Consulting Engineers. According to Baker’s attorney, all three contributed to the settlement. The defendants could not be reached for comment. The settlement comes as the future of the 41-year-old water park remains uncertain. In May, the park announced it would not reopen for the summer but did not explain why. The property was listed for sale shortly afterward for $6 million. The 14-and-a-half-acre property includes the water park on about one-third of the land, with the remaining two-thirds vacant. Real estate agent Patrick Starr of John L. Scott Bellingham said the sale has been pending for about a month. He said prospective buyers from Whatcom County are conducting a feasibility study and have a few more months to complete it. STORY: Historic Plover foot ferry back in action The historic Plover Passenger Ferry is back on the water in Blaine for the final four weekends of the summer season. The 32-foot ferry carries up to 17 passengers on scenic excursions from Blaine Harbor around Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Bay, with views of Mt. Baker, White Rock, and local wildlife. The Plover was built in 1944 and is Washington’s second-oldest passenger ferry. It originally transported workers to Alaska Packers Salmon Cannery on Semiahoo Spit. This season could be especially important for the Plover. Organizers say its future is uncertain, and funding for another season may not be available. The ferry operates Friday through Sunday, with departures beginning at noon. Tickets are nine dollars for adults and four dollars for children ages three to 12. STORY: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Natl Forest temporarily bans recreational target shooting as danger of fire continues to mount The Mt. Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest has temporarily banned all target shooting due to extreme fire danger. The order took effect August 13 and applies across all forest lands, roads, and trails. Shooting is only allowed for people actively hunting under state regulations. The move comes after officials confirmed target shooting sparked the Prairie Mountain Fire near Darrington — a blaze already costing about $3.2 million to fight. The Forest remains under a full campfire ban, and fireworks are prohibited. Only pressurized gas or liquid‑fuel stoves with shut‑off valves are allowed. Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings, designated campgrounds, or cleared areas. STORY: Recreational crabbing to open in Marine Area 7 North (San Juan Islands) beginning Aug. 15 [just focus on area 7] (note- this is dated for broadcast AFTER 8/15) Good news for crabbers — the northern San Juan …
August 14, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham Public Schools joins national lawsuit, Bellingham cancels purchase of Roosevelt building for day shelter, August 19 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry, Lynden health director to join Whatcom Community College Board of Trustees, Whatcom County 2026 Overdose Awareness Day, Whatcom County 2026 Overdose Awareness Day, Mount Vernon temporarily bans data centers, Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), Washington sues to protect personal information of millions of drivers, Amazon agrees to $2.25 Million Settlement (bump for time if needed), FREE & CHEAP, Recreational crabbing to open in Marine Area 7 North (San Juan Islands) beginning Aug. 15 [just focus on area 7, WA Job Growth Slow (prepare yourself- this requires analysis!), F&C Aug 21 Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 14th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bellingham Public Schools joins national lawsuit Bellingham Public Schools has joined a lawsuit accusing several social media sites of promoting addictive behavior among teens. The case, filed in federal court in 2022, argues that these platforms are designed to maximize screen time which can lead to emotional and physical harm in adolescents. According to the Bellingham Herald, the district filed its own complaint on August 4th, naming the parent companies of Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. District spokesperson Dana Smith said the law firm pursuing the complaint recently asked new plaintiffs to join, and the district opted in. Bellingham is the only district in Whatcom County currently joined in the complaint. STORY: Bellingham cancels purchase of Roosevelt building for day shelter Bellingham’s plan for a new homeless day center has hit a major setback. City officials say the operator chosen to run the center backed out of contract negotiations on July 15th, leaving the project without anyone to manage it. With the 90-day window on the purchase agreement about to expire — and no time to find a replacement — the City is terminating its deal to purchase the building at 2020 Pacific Street. The City says it’s still committed to opening a year-round day center to provide safe indoor space and basic-needs support for people who are homeless. Officials say they will keep pursuing every option to get the project off the ground. STORY: August 19 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry The Whatcom Chief will be offline for several hours next Wednesday for terminal maintenance. Public Works says the ferry will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. to 3 pm on August 19 while crews inspect facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. The last morning run from Gooseberry Point is at 9:50am, and the last run from Lummi Island is at 10:00am. The county carries out these inspections about every two months. The schedule is weather-dependent, and any changes will be posted on the ferry’s webpage. STORY: Lynden health director to join Whatcom Community College Board of Trustees Whatcom Community College is welcoming a new trustee. Governor Bob Ferguson has appointed Lynden health-care leader Tonja Myers to the college’s Board of Trustees. Myers brings more than 30 years of experience in elder care, workforce development, and organizational leadership. She leads Christian Health Care Center in Lynden, where she’s focused on strengthening the region’s health-care workforce. Myers has also spent more than 15 years on the Northwest Workforce Council Board, including time as chair. As a trustee, she’ll help guide strategy, oversee policy, and support programs that meet regional workforce needs. STORY: Whatcom County 2026 Overdose Awareness Day Whatcom County is marking International Overdose Awareness Day with three events this month. Organizers say the series is meant to honor people lost to overdose and connect the community with prevention and recovery resources. The first event is the Voices of Recovery panel and open mic tomorrow from 5:30 to 7 pm at First Baptist Church and Recovery Café. On Friday, August 28th, the annual Overdose Awareness Resource Fair runs from noon to 4pm on the Bellingham City Hall lawn, with Naloxone training and information on Good Samaritan laws. The series ends on Monday, August 31st, with a community memorial at Maritime Heritage Park from 6:30 to 8 pm, including a candle display and memorial wall. Community members can add a loved one by emailing recoverycafebellingham@gmail.com. STORY: Mount Vernon temporarily bans data centers Mount Vernon has adopted a six-month moratorium on new data centers; even though no data centers have yet been proposed there. There was one dissenting vote when the City Council approved the measure on Wednesday. The moratorium lets the city pause future permit applications while planners draft more specific code language. Officials say concerns include electricity and water demand, the city’s ability to support large facilities, stormwater and sewer planning, and the fact that Mount Vernon sits in the Skagit River 100-year floodplain. The council must hold a public hearing within 60 days, and the moratorium can be extended in additional six-month increments. STORY: Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed)A proposed natural gas power plant for supplying electricity to a Central Washington data center has been canceled. Texas-based VoltaGrid had proposed installing 14 gas generators in Quincy to serve the nearby Vantage data center campus, but withdrew its air quality permit application after environmental groups submitted more than 500 public comments opposing the project. Grant County Public Utility District officials confirmed the project will not move forward, saying the on-site power generation is no longer needed. The proposal had drawn criticism over its emissions and its connection to the growing energy demands of tech billionaires. STORY: Washington sues to protect personal information of millions of drivers Washington is suing the federal government to block what it calls an illegal attempt to seize sensitive driver data. Attorney General Nick Brown joined a coalition of state attorneys general in filing two lawsuits on Thursday. The suits challenge the Trump administration’s demand that states turn over personal records for …
August 13, 2026 News Transcript
Downtown Bellingham fire leaves one resident dead, Whatcom County to enter into partnership with AidKit benefits platform to provide childcare subsidies, Member of Lummi Nation sentenced to five years in prison for assault of former partner, Whatcom County Council approves new jail framework, approves new director of planning and management, I-5 lane closures bound for Bellingham this weekend, Estimates from state Dept. of Revenue project income tax to bring in even more money than expected, Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, August, 13. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Downtown Bellingham fire leaves one resident dead A deadly house fire in downtown Bellingham left one man dead. The Bellingham Fire Department says the blaze broke out Wednesday at a home on North Forest Street with four residential units. Three people escaped, but firefighters learned an 80‑year‑old man was still in the basement. Crews went in through heavy smoke, found him unconscious and not breathing, and pulled him outside. Paramedics tried to revive him, but he did not survive. Firefighters contained the flames to the basement unit, and the cause remains under investigation. Fire officials say the incident is a tragic reminder of the importance of working smoke alarms. Early warning can give residents critical time to escape and allows firefighters to respond quickly. STORY: Whatcom County to enter into partnership with AidKit benefits platform to provide childcare subsidies Whatcom County is partnering with AidKit to provide a platform for childcare subsidy access as well as help administer the subsidies. AidKit is a software company that provides digital public service platforms to government and nonprofit agencies. Whatcom County’s 7-million dollar contract with AidKit will run through 2028, covered by the Healthy Children’s Fund. The county says the Whatcom Kids First program will help nearly 15-hundred children in its first year. Families who earn up to 75 percent of the state median income can qualify. For a family of 4,that means an annual income of 105-thousand dollars or less would qualify. The program will provide $300 per month per child, paid directly to licensed childcare facilities. AidKit will also help families apply for another state childcare program called Working Connections Child Care. Application details will be released later this year, and payments will be distributed in February 2027. STORY: Member of Lummi Nation sentenced to five years in prison for assault of former partner A 49-year-old Lummi Nation man will spend five years in federal prison for strangling and assaulting his former domestic partner on the Lummi Nation Indian Reservation. Marc Cagey Oreiro (mark kay-ge or-ray-o) pleaded guilty to the 2025 attack. Prosecutors say he pushed the victim onto a bed, strangled her with his hands and forearm, punched and kneed her, and repeatedly threatened to kill her. She later told investigators he had attempted to sexually assault her after the attack. Police found the victim hiding in a closet after a housemate called 911. She was taken to a hospital with bruising to her face, ears and neck. Oreiro physically fought with officers when they arrested him. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Lauren King called non-fatal strangulation one of the most dangerous forms of domestic assault. She also told the victim she was brave and praised her for reporting the violence. Prosecutors say Oreiro has a decades-long history of domestic violence, including a conviction involving the same victim. The five-year sentence is above federal sentencing guidelines and will be followed by three years of supervision. STORY: Whatcom County Council approves new jail framework, approves new director of planning and management Whatcom County is moving ahead with plans for a new jail after the County Council approved the project’s framework Tuesday night. The council voted five-to-two to approve the programming and direct the county executive’s office to move forward with design and construction. The proposed jail would be about 150,000 square feet, with between 450 and 460 beds. About a quarter of those beds would be designated for behavioral health care. The current jail is roughly 90,000 square feet and has capacity for up to 427 beds. Council members also asked the county to prioritize a Rapid Resource Center, a second courtroom and family visitation space without reducing jail housing capacity. The county may also seek state funding for the Rapid Resource Center. Council members Mark Stremler and Jessica Rienstra voted against the plan. Stremler raised concerns about behavioral health services, while Rienstra questioned whether the project puts too much emphasis on jail capacity. The approved programming is a framework, not a final design, and changes can still be made before construction begins. Construction is currently scheduled to start in 2027, although no specific date has been announced. Programming for a separate behavioral care center is expected to be released around October. STORY: I-5 lane closures bound for Bellingham this weekend Drivers may experience delays on I-5 this weekend. The left lane of northbound I-5 between Samish Way and Iowa Street will be closed for maintenance to replace the concrete panels, from 6 to 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, August 15th and 16th. The Iowa Street northbound on-ramp will also be closed this Saturday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wash-DOT advises drivers to slow down, stay focused and watch for crews in the work zone. The work requires dry weather, so maintenance could be rescheduled if it rains. STORY: Estimates from state Dept. of Revenue project income tax to bring in even more money than expected The Department of Revenue estimates the new high-earner income tax could bring in more money than expected. When the income tax bill was signed, expected revenue was 2.7 billion dollars for the next budget. DOR predictions now say it could bring in 3.1 billion dollars. The bill proposes a 9-point-9 percent tax on individual and household income …
August 12, 2026 News Transcript
Recount announced for 42nd District Senate race as Democratic candidates maintain single-digit difference in vote tallies, Birch Bay man arrested on two counts of attempted murder, Bellingham City Council approves list of staff suggestions aimed at improving rental protections, Amtrak Story, Pallet of soda cans slips off of truck on I-5, resulting in brief closure as workers remove fizzical obstacles, DOJ files complaint against WA pet food manufacturer following allegations of pathogenic bacteria in product, Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), DOJ files complaint against WA pet food manufacturer following allegations of pathogenic bacteria in product, Child welfare deaths in WA continue to decline after last year’s spike, A ghost ship with a crew of cats (Tacoma), Warehouse fire suspends Amtrak Cascades service between Seattle and Portland (Robert Clark will write this), Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, August,12 Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Recount announced for 42nd District Senate race as Democratic candidates maintain single-digit difference in vote tallies A recount has been announced for the 42nd District state senator race. Democrats Michael Alvarez Shepard and Eamon (AY-min) Collins are behind Republican Erika Creydt after the primary, with just 9 votes separating them. In Washington, a recount is mandatory if the difference is less than 2-thousand votes and less than one-half of a percent of the total. Shepard and Collins say they will both be knocking on doors for Democrats regardless of who wins the recount. Shepard says it’s a great example of how every vote counts. Whatcom County’s next scheduled count will be on August 17th. This session reviews challenged ballots, due to issues with signatures, ID or power of attorney. Voters are asked to come to the courthouse to amend their ballots by end of day on the 17th. The canvassing board will decide the date of the recount after the election is certified on August 18th. STORY: Birch Bay man arrested on two counts of attempted murder A man is accused of attempted murder after a shooting in Birch Bay. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says the violence started with an argument inside a home Monday night. Investigators say the suspect pointed a gun at an adult, who grabbed a two‑year‑old child and ran as shots were fired. Both were hit. Deputies arrived within minutes and found the adult and toddler at a nearby home with non‑life‑threatening gunshot wounds. The Sheriff’s Office says the suspect tried to drive off but was quickly arrested. He’s now booked on two counts of attempted murder and other charges. The victims were taken to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. STORY: Bellingham City Council approves list of staff suggestions aimed at improving rental protections Bellingham is moving forward with plans to strengthen protections for renters. The City Council voted unanimously Monday night to approve staff recommendations aimed at improving rental housing and safety inspections. The proposed changes include adding an audit process for rental inspectors, updating the appeals process and allowing the city to hire code compliance officers when needed. The update would also close a loophole involving rent increases. City staff say landlords can currently give tenants 30 days to accept a rent increase after providing a 120-day notice, potentially bypassing the full 100-day period provided by state law. Councilmember Lisa Anderson says the change would give renters more time to consider their options, including looking at the housing market and finding another place to live before accepting an increase. The council plans to hold another work session before taking a final vote. Amtrak Story Amtrak’s service suspension between Seattle and Portland has been extended through Friday, Aug. 14. A potential building collapse caused by a warehouse fire near Portland Oregon’s Amtrak station forced the closure of the rail line Amtrak uses to reach Seattle. Amtrak said it is providing buses in place of the suspended train service, but adds that some departures have been canceled due to limited bus availability. Customers who have had their alternative bus route canceled can rebook their ticket to a different day at no additional cost or cancel their ticket for a full refund, the company said. Passengers should check with the Amtrak website about their specific trains status for the latest information. STORY: Pallet of soda cans slips off of truck on I-5, resulting in brief closure as workers remove fizzical obstacles It was a messy morning on I‑5 in Bellingham yesterday. WSDOT says a load of soda cans spilled across northbound I‑5 near Iowa Street at 6:40 a.m. Traffic backed up as crews shut down the right lane for about 45 minutes. A street sweeper was brought in to finish the job, and traffic was flowing smoothly again just before 7:30. STORY: Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating) Families getting ready for the new school year have a one‑stop event coming up in Ferndale. Ferndale High School will host a back‑to‑school resource night on Tuesday, August 18th, from 4 to 7 p.m. The event offers free school supplies, an immunization clinic, twenty‑dollar sports physicals, community resource booths and more. Families can also connect with support services to prepare for the year ahead. No registration is required, and all district families are welcome. STORY: DOJ files complaint against WA pet food manufacturer following allegations of pathogenic bacteria in product The Justice Department is trying to shut down a Washington pet‑food company accused of selling contaminated products. Prosecutors say Arrow Reliance, which operates as Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, has repeatedly shipped raw pet food tainted with Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. The complaint says FDA inspectors found contamination in the food and inside the company’s Tukwila facility for years, despite warnings. The government also links the products to illnesses in people and pets — including a 4‑year‑old child who developed a serious E. coli‑related condition. The …
August 11, 2026 News Transcript
Governor issues emergency proclamation suspending several state laws in bid to aid those impacted by wildfires, Phoenix man sentenced to over a decade in prison for role in attempting to smuggle drugs into western WA, Blaine School District denies any misconduct in case of sexual assault of deaf student, Bellingham among multiple western WA cities to receive additional federal funding for law enforcement, Complete burn ban set to go into effect for Skagit County tomorrow, Sexagenarian Bellingham swim coach achieves multiple podium finishes and a PNW record at national championship, : Warehouse fire suspends Amtrak Cascades service between Seattle and Portland Robert Clark will write this, KICKER: A ghost ship with a crew of cats (Tacoma), Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, August, 11. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Governor issues emergency proclamation suspending several state laws in bid to aid those impacted by wildfires Governor Bob Ferguson signed an emergency proclamation to help communities impacted by wildfires. The governor’s order suspends state laws to help people recover from recent wildfires. The act covers Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, Douglas and Yakima counties, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and the Spokane Tribe of Indians. Disaster assistance cash programs and unemployment benefit coverage will be expanded. Residents will be able to replace documents lost in the fires for free, such as birth certificates and drivers’ licenses. The order eases regulations for healthcare facilities and extends deadlines for local businesses. Landlords cannot evict tenants or claim abandoned property for the next two weeks. A federal emergency declaration was granted by the Trump administration. The governor’s office is now seeking a major disaster declaration, which would unlock FEMA funds to help individuals recover from the fires. STORY: Phoenix man sentenced to over a decade in prison for role in attempting to smuggle drugs into western WA A Phoenix man has been sentenced to 12-and-a-half years in federal prison for brokering large shipments of meth and fentanyl headed to western Washington. 42-year-old Ryan Matthew Gennette, a former Auburn resident, was sentenced today for his role in this drug smuggling operation. He was originally arrested in Phoenix in late 2024, and pleaded guilty in May of this year. Federal prosecutors say Gennette was involved in multiple drug shipments. One of these shipments contained seven kilograms of fentanyl pills, nearly two kilograms of fentanyl powder, and more than 10 kilograms of methamphetamine. Investigators later seized additional shipments, including about 6-and-a-half kilograms of counterfeit M-30 pills made to look like oxycodone. Prosecutors also say Gennette helped arrange firearms shipments to drug sources connected to cartels in Mexico. At sentencing in the U.S. District Court in Tacoma, Judge Benjamin Settle said Gennette was willing to participate in the large-scale distribution of dangerous drugs for money. The investigation involved the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the DEA, along with several federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. UPDATE: Blaine School District denies any misconduct in case of sexual assault of deaf student The Blaine School District is denying allegations that a student was sexually assaulted in one of their school buses. The allegations are part of a lawsuit filed in Whatcom County Superior Court by the student’s parents. They accuse the Blaine and Bellingham school districts of negligence, disability and gender discrimination, as well as violations of Washington’s Equal Educational Opportunity Law. The parents say their daughter was assaulted on a Blaine school bus during the 2020-2021 school year, and that the district failed to investigate. In a court response filed Friday, the Blaine School District said it did not have enough information to respond to some of the allegations; therefore, the district also denied claims regarding any misconduct or allegations that it failed to investigate. The lawsuit also alleges the student was assaulted again on a bus operated by Bellingham Public Schools. Bellingham has acknowledged that another student moved to sit next to the girl, that the girl screamed, and that the bus driver intervened. The district denies that the student touched her inappropriately. Blaine says it should not be held responsible for an incident involving a bus operated by another district. Both school districts have asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit. STORY: Bellingham among multiple western WA cities to receive additional federal funding for law enforcement Washington state and local governments are receiving more than eight million dollars in federal grants for law enforcement. The U.S. Department of Justice awarded the Byrne grants last month to the state and ten cities and counties across Washington. The two largest grants — totaling nearly six-and-a-half million dollars — went to the Washington State Department of Commerce. The money will be distributed to cities, counties and nonprofits for community safety programs. Seattle Police and surrounding jurisdictions will receive more than 842-thousand dollars for equipment, technology and overtime. Tacoma and Pierce County will get nearly 395-thousand dollars, including funding for Tacoma’s BRAVE program, which works to reduce youth and young adult violence. Other grants include nearly 139-thousand dollars for Vancouver and Clark County, more than 84-thousand for Snohomish County, and nearly 47-thousand for Kitsap County. Bellingham will receive about 44-thousand dollars to help bring back its motorcycle traffic unit, while Everett will get nearly 38-thousand dollars for investigative technology and a police drone. Smaller grants were also awarded to Longview and Cowlitz County, Bremerton, Marysville and other local jurisdictions. Federal officials say the grants are intended to strengthen partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement while improving community safety. STORY: Complete burn ban set to go into effect for Skagit County tomorrow A complete burn ban will go into effect tomorrow in Skagit County. All outdoor burning will be illegal in unincorporated Skagit County. …
August 10, 2026 News Transcript
Pair of fires reported in Skagit County, one continuing to burn, Complete outdoor burn ban issued for Bellingham, Bellingham man arrested after reportedly hurling racial slurs at and urinating on local business owner, Updated Whatcom County jail proposal to be voted on tomorrow, Alumni couple pledge largest planned donation in WWU history, Judge denies bid to remove disclosure statement from initiative repealing WA income tax, A ghost ship with a crew of cats (Tacoma), Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), A ghost ship with a crew of cats (Tacoma), Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), A ghost ship with a crew of cats (Tacoma), Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), : Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, August, 10. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Pair of fires reported in Skagit County, one continuing to burnFirefighters from multiple agencies worked together yesterday to quickly contain a roughly two-acre brush fire off Gilligan Road east of Mt. Vernon. Crews from Day Creek Fire Department, Clear Lake, Big Lake, the Regional Fire Authority and the Washington Department of Natural Resources responded. Five D-N-R Type 6 engines joined local brush engines and water tenders. Type 6 engines are lightweight, highly maneuverable 4×4 off-road brush trucks used for initial wildfire attacks A helicopter also made a critical water drop on the head of the fire, which helped firefighters stop the flames from spreading. Fire officials say the response is a good example of neighboring agencies working together during wildfire season. They’re also reminding residents to do their part to help prevent wildfires. A second wildire—The Prairie Mountain Fire— is burning about eight miles northeast of Darrington near Suiattle (swee-AT-tul) River Road and the Suiattle (swee-AT-tul) River Conservation Area, has grown to 156 acres. The fire is burning across Snohomish and Skagit counties and is currently 20 percent contained. Officials are listing the fire as active. The Prairie Mountain Fire was first reported August 7 and was last updated yesterday. STORY: Complete outdoor burn ban issued for Bellingham An outdoor burn ban has been issued for Bellingham due to dry weather conditions. Fire Marshal Shawn Linville has ordered a ban on all open burning within city limits. Unincorporated Whatcom County also has a HIGH fire danger rating and burn ban until further notice. The rules come after the Department of Natural Resources enacted a statewide burn ban. During the ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited, including recreational fires. Barbecues are allowed but hot charcoal has to be put out with water in a metal container at least 10 feet away from structures and vegetation. Fire pits are not considered equivalent to barbecues and are not allowed. Violating the rules could result in a minimum 250 dollar fine. If the fire department responds to an illegal fire that needs to be extinguished, the owner may be held criminally and financially responsible. STORY: Bellingham man arrested after reportedly hurling racial slurs at and urinating on local business owner A neighborhood dispute in Bellingham escalated into a hate‑crime assault. Police say the incident happened Tuesday night on Bill McDonald Way, where a man shouted racial slurs at a group of barbeque guests — all of East Indian or Hispanic descent — then urinated through a fence and onto one of the victims. Officers say he also bragged about smashing windows. The victim reported two recent window breakages at his business after a previous dispute with the man. Police found fresh urine near the fence and detained the suspect at his car. He was booked into the Whatcom County Jail for investigation of a hate crime and assault. He was also trespassed from the property for five years. STORY: Updated Whatcom County jail proposal to be voted on tomorrowWhatcom County officials are reconsidering parts of the proposed new jail that were cut earlier because of budget constraints. The County Council met Tuesday to review an updated plan that would restore a Rapid Resource Center for people leaving jail, along with a second courtroom intended to reduce case backlogs. Project manager STV estimates adding the space would cost about four-point-three million dollars. Another option would be to take space from the jail kitchen or housing units — but that could mean cutting about 40 beds. Lynden Mayor Scott Korthuis (CORE-tice) told the council reducing jail capacity is not an option for the county’s cities, which are helping fund the project. Officials are also considering taking money or space from the planned Behavioral Care Center. That could mean eliminating 16 treatment beds or a proposed 23-hour crisis center. The county is working under a preliminary budget cap of 205 million dollars for the jail and 34 million for the Behavioral Care Center. The council is expected to vote Tuesday on whether to authorize the updated jail plan. STORY: Alumni couple pledge largest planned donation in WWU history Two Western Washington University alums are making a record‑setting contribution to the school. Peter and Judith Hallson are giving $10.5 million — the largest planned gift in Western’s history. According to Cascadia Daily News, most of the money will establish the first endowed deanship in the College of Science and Engineering, supporting student research, faculty projects and new programs. The rest will fund biology research, environmental initiatives, a scholarship for Blaine High School graduates and a professorship at the Salish Sea Institute. The donors have supported Western for decades and say the gift reflects their commitment to the university’s future. STORY: Judge denies bid to remove disclosure statement from initiative repealing WA income taxA Thurston County judge has upheld the wording of a ballot statement and ruled against the group Let’s Go Washington. Superior Court Judge Chris Lanese rejected a challenge from open-government activist Arthur West, who argued the statement is politically charged and unconstitutional. Lanese said …
August 7, 2026 News Transcript
Legislative District 42 State Senate — razor-thin margin between Democrats, Air quality improves across the board in Whatcom and Skagit, Bellingham translator arrested on suspicion of stealing nearly $10,000 from client couple, Task force reminds civilians to keep drones away from fire-impacted areas as Spokane airspace declared no-fly zone, Work begins on Washington’s new ferries, Trump urges Senate to certify bill making daylight saving time permanent, Free or cheap, Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating, Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Inside Bellis Fair Mall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, August 7th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. UPDATE: Legislative District 42 State Senate — razor-thin margin between Democrats Primary results in the 42nd Legislative District Senate race remain extremely tight, with just two votes separating the two Democratic candidates. As of yesterday evening, Michael Alvarez Shepard has 12,856 votes, while Eamonn Collins follows with 12,854. Republican Erika Creydt leads the overall field. The Whatcom County Auditor says the next ballot update will be released today at 5 p.m. STORY: Air quality improves across the board in Whatcom and SkagitAir quality is improving across Western Washington as marine air pushes wildfire smoke out of the region. Cooler onshore winds are clearing hazy skies and bringing temperatures back to seasonal highs in the 70s and 80s. The Northwest Clean Air Agency air quality map shows AQI numbers in the mid to low 50s around most of Bellingham. Similar numbers are found in Skagit, which means air quality for our region is now considered moderate. While conditions are improving across the Whatcom and Skagit counties, smoke may linger near active wildfires and along the east slopes of the Cascades. Residents can check current air quality in their area through the EPA’s AirNow monitoring network. STORY: Bellingham translator arrested on suspicion of stealing nearly $10,000 from client couple Bellingham police say a local man is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from his employer while working as his translator. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says deputies began investigating after receiving a fraud report on June 17. The victim told investigators that their translator accompanied them to the bank and allegedly used sensitive personal information to withdraw nearly $3,000 from the victim’s account. The victim also reported that the translator cashed $6,500 in fraudulent checks from the same account. Investigators believe that nearly $10k were stolen. The 39-year-old suspect was arrested Wednesday and is being held at the Whatcom County Jail without bail. STORY: Task force reminds civilians to keep drones away from fire-impacted areas as Spokane airspace declared no-fly zone An FBI task force reminds civilians to keep drones away from Spokane’s temporary no-fly zone. The FBI Counter-UAS Task Force includes members of the Washington State Patrol and the Spokane County Sheriff. They monitor airspace to make sure Unmanned Aircraft Systems are staying out of restricted airspace. Due to the fires in Spokane, all unauthorized aircraft are restricted from entering the area so aerial firefighters can use their aircraft safely. Earlier this week, the task force identified 39 unauthorized drones within the restricted area. Aerial firefighting was paused and emergency response staff were at risk because of the disruption. The Washington State Patrol says using a drone in restricted airspace is illegal, and can result in civil or criminal penalties. Drone operators should always check for temporary flight restrictions and no-drone-zones before taking off. The temporary airspace restrictions in Spokane will continue at least until August 15th. STORY: Work begins on Washington’s new ferries Washington’s ferry system is finally getting new boats. Shipbuilders in Florida began cutting steel yesterday on the state’s first new ferry in 11 years — a 160-car hybrid-electric vessel that will be the flagship for the next generation of Washington State Ferries. Eastern Shipbuilding Group is building three ferries under a contract that came in more than 30 percent lower than the in-state bid, saving taxpayers an estimated $360 million. State ferry leaders say the new hybrid-electric vessels will boost reliability, cut emissions, and help restore service across Puget Sound. The first ferry is scheduled for delivery in 2030, with two more arriving in following years. STORY: Trump urges Senate to certify bill making daylight saving time permanent President Trump is urging the U.S. Senate to pass legislation that would make daylight saving time permanent nationwide. In a social media post Tuesday, Trump called the twice-yearly clock changes “foolish, inconvenient and, in some cases, very costly.” He urged Republican senators to lift procedural holds and allow the bill to move forward. The bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act passed the House in July on a 308 to 117 vote. The measure would end the practice of changing clocks twice a year by keeping the country on daylight savings time year-round. Supporters say this could reduce traffic accidents, crime, and some health risks, while also giving people more evening daylight. The bill faces opposition in the Senate, with Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton arguing the change would lead to much later winter sunrises, making mornings darker for schoolchildren and commuters. STORY: Free or cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. The Whatcom Museum has free admission and extended hours until 9pm tonight. The Lightcatcher hosts Illuminating Illusions from 6 to 7pm, where visitors can experiment with projectors to create large-scale visual effects. At Old City Hall, Devin Champlin’s Artful Ambience begins at 6pm, pairing original music with animations in the Rotunda Room. The Whatcom County Granges will hold their summer picnic this Saturday at the Rome Grange at 2821 Mt Baker Hwy. It starts at 4 p.m. Guests should bring their own grill items, tableware, and a dish to share. And a lawn chair is recommended …
August 6, 2026 News Transcript
Ongoing primary results, Auditor calls for “against” committee members (kill 8/8), Birch Bay Waterslides injury suit ends in $4 million settlement for plaintiff, Nooksack City Councilmember appointed to replace recently deceased mayor, Bellingham City Council announces hearing for appeal on controversial Edgemoor subdivision, Two bats in Whatcom test positive for rabies, HCS says no immediate risk of danger to nearby residences, Fair Season starts, North Cascades National Park names acting superintendent to full-time position, Canadian cyber-criminal pleads guilty to multiple charges in Seattle court, potentially facing sentence of over thirty years, Auditor calls for “against” committee members (kill 8/8), Ferndale Back-to-School night (kill 8/17-watch dating), Work begins on Washington’s new ferries, Dept of Ed demands change from WA and CA (bump for time if needed), Central WA data center scuppered (bump for time if needed), F&C August 7th:, F&C Aug 21, Children’s Craft Fair at the Bellis Fair Mall, Friday, August 21, 5:00 – 7:00 pm Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, August, 6. Good afternoon, I’m ______. UPDATE: Ongoing primary results The updated primary election results are in. Here are the unofficial results as of this morning: Rick Larsen leads the District 2 U.S. House race, with Edwin Feller close behind. In the 40th District, Debra Lekanoff (luh-CAN-off) and Alex Ramel (RAM-ull) hold wide leads in both House positions. In the 42nd District Senate race, Erika Creydt (KRITE) is ahead. It’s a tight contest for second place, with Michael Alvarez Shepard only about half a point ahead of Eamonn Collins. Alicia Rule leads the 42nd District House Position 1 race, and Joe Timmons leads Position 2. For Prosecuting Attorney, Ryan Swinburnson is in front. Jesse Corkern (KAWR-kurn) and Dona Bracke (BRACK) are close, separated by just over a point. At the Port of Bellingham, Paul Burrill and Tor Benson lead District 4, while Chris Elder and Shawn Ensley lead District 5. On ballot measures: The Fire District 1 levy lid lift is failing. The Glacier Fire & Rescue levy is passing. The Fire District 21 levy is also passing. The Auditor’s office says there are still about 11-thousand ballots to be counted. STORY: Auditor calls for “against” committee members (kill 8/8) If you’ve got a civic streak and a knack for writing, the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office is putting out the call. The county needs volunteers to write “against” statements for several city and district measures for the November voters’ pamphlet — proposals ranging from city governance changes to rental‑market rules and levy lid lifts for public safety and fire services. Applicants must live and be registered in the district, work cooperatively, and have email access. At least one member must agree to be named in the pamphlet. The deadline to apply is Monday at noon, with committee statements due at 4:30 p.m. the same day. Interested residents can email their name, voter registration address, phone number, and the district they wish to represent to elections@co.whatcom.wa.us. STORY: Birch Bay Waterslides injury suit ends in $4 million settlement for plaintiff A man severely injured at Birch Bay Waterslides in 2023 has settled his lawsuit against the water park. Whatcom News reports Larry Baker, who sustained severe leg injuries riding a water slide, will receive $4 million as part of the settlement. The structural condition of the waterslides was evaluated in 2022 by a third-party company and defendant in the case, Kingsworks Structural Engineers. The report showed faulty equipment, rusty nails, and water-damaged wood. Birch Bay Waterslides was immediately closed after the incident. Following safety inspections, it re-opened last year, but did not open for the 2026 season. The property is currently listed for sale for $6 million. STORY: Nooksack City Councilmember appointed to replace recently deceased mayor The Nooksack City Council appointed a new mayor following the passing of Mayor Kevin Hester. During the July 20th meeting, councilmember Marshall Judy was appointed to serve as mayor until the 2027 general election. The council also honored Hester’s service with a resolution. With Judy appointed as mayor, there is a vacancy in the council to fill. STORY: Bellingham City Council announces hearing for appeal on controversial Edgemoor subdivision A challenge to a proposed subdivision overlooking Mud Bay is headed to the Bellingham City Council. A local group, Protect Mud Bay Cliffs, has appealed the city’s approval of the Woods at Viewcrest development after officials determined an Environmental Impact Statement was not required. In justifying the appeal, the group cited erosion hazards and historical landslide activity. The council will hear the appeal this Monday, August 10th, with a written decision expected at a later date. STORY: Two bats in Whatcom test positive for rabies, HCS says no immediate risk of danger to nearby residences Two bats in Whatcom County have tested positive for rabies. The Whatcom County Health and Community Services reminded residents to avoid contact with bats. According to the agency, it does not matter where the bats were found; since they’re mobile creatures, they could be anywhere now. Furthermore, it is impossible to say whether a bat has rabies just by looking at it; as such, nobody should handle bats with their bare hands. Those who think they’ve been exposed are advised to seek medical care. STORY: Fair Season starts It’s opening day at the Skagit County Fair. The fair has been a summer tradition in Skagit for more than 125 years, and celebrates agriculture, 4-H and FFA youth programs, local organizations and family-friendly entertainment. Organizers say hundreds of volunteers help make the annual tradition possible. Those who have been craving an elephant ear, a crusty pup, a pickle-on-a-stick, or a fair burger, have a chance to experience fair life only until Sunday. That is, until the Whatcom County Fair starts next week. STORY: North Cascades National Park names acting superintendent to full-time position The North Cascades National Park Service Complex has a new leader. Jason J. Taylor has been selected as superintendent and will officially take over in late September. Taylor has been serving …
