Numerous Whatcom roads close amid mounting rains, Human remains discovered near Concrete identified as woman missing for weeks, Coast Guard rescues maydaying kayaker near Chuckanut Bay, Deming woman arrested following threatening calls to Whatcom jail, Whatcom Environmental Council appeals Bellingham’s development plan, Cuts to early education survive preliminary budget drafts, higher education spared, AG Brown joins multi-state lawsuit aimed at protecting anti-discriminatory housing programs Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, March, 19. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Numerous Whatcom roads close amid mounting rainsFlooding is impacting roads across Whatcom County. Officials say more than 30 roads are either closed or have water over the roadway. Among the affected areas are parts of Marine Drive, Bayon Road, and several roads near Lynden and Nooksack. On Wednesday afternoon, Public Works crews shut floodgates on Slater Road near Ferndale due to rising water. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded areas and check the county’s website for the latest road closures and updates. STORY: Human remains discovered near Concrete identified as woman missing for weeksThe Skagit County coroner has identified human remains found along the Skagit River east of Concrete as 37-year-old Krista J. Hunt. Hunt had been reported missing since early February. Her remains were discovered March 12th near State Route 20 during a sheriff’s office search of the river. Authorities say the cause of death is still under investigation, and the case remains active. Investigators have not confirmed whether a man last seen with Hunt is a suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office. STORY: Coast Guard rescues maydaying kayaker near Chuckanut BayCoast Guard crews responded to a mayday call near Chuckanut Bay Tuesday morning after a kayaker reported a medical emergency. Officials say the call came in around 11:30 a.m. from a tandem kayaking partner, reporting symptoms including an elevated heart rate and nausea. Station Bellingham crews arrived on scene within about 20 minutes and brought the kayaker back to shore. Emergency medical personnel were waiting and transported the individual to a local hospital. No further details on the kayaker’s condition have been released. STORY: Deming woman arrested following threatening calls to Whatcom jailA Deming woman is facing charges after allegedly making threats against the Whatcom County Jail. Forty-seven-year-old Abby Danielle Adams-Wright was arrested and charged with two counts of making threats to bomb or injure property. According to an affidavit of probable cause filed in Whatcom County Superior Court and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Law Incident Media Summary Report, she called 911 late Saturday night, demanding the jail and work center be evacuated and threatening to shoot people if inmates were not released. Investigators say Adams-Wright told deputies her boyfriend was in custody and made additional statements during a follow-up call. Court documents also cite an earlier incident in which she allegedly blocked a jail entrance while yelling for inmates to be released. She was arrested early Sunday morning, later released on bail, and is scheduled to appear in court April 8th. STORY: Whatcom Environmental Council appeals Bellingham’s development planAn environmental group is challenging the City of Bellingham’s newly adopted comprehensive plan. The Whatcom Environmental Council has filed an appeal with the state Growth Management Hearings Board, arguing the plan doesn’t do enough to prevent sprawl or protect Lake Whatcom, the community’s main drinking water source. Founded in 2024 by a group of civic-minded retirees, the group has joined other nonprofits to tackle local issues like the AltaGas appeal and Bellingham’s sewage incinerators at Post Point. WEC members say the plan allows new development in the watershed and lacks strong policies to promote dense, transit-oriented growth. City officials say they’re working with the council to address concerns and have agreed to pause legal proceedings while discussing a possible resolution. The comprehensive plan, adopted in December, will guide growth and development in Bellingham for the next 20 years. STORY: Cuts to early education survive preliminary budget drafts, higher education spared At the end of Washington’s 60-day legislative session, cuts to higher education were largely spared, but early education didn’t fare so well. The legislature adopted a 27 million dollar cut to Transition to Kindergarten. This program provides free early learning to four and 5-year-olds whose families don’t qualify for low-income federal or state early learning programs but still can’t afford child care. A majority of Whatcom County schools have the Transition to Kindergarten program. According to the advocacy group Start Early Washington, one-third of the Transition to Kindergarten program slots could be reduced as a result. For higher education, lawmakers redistributed funds meant for capital projects into institutions’ operating budgets, avoiding the expected cuts. Western Washington University received a 175,000 dollar cut to administrative funds, but received 10.1 million dollars in its operating budget as a result of this swap. STORY: AG Brown joins multi-state lawsuit aimed at protecting anti-discriminatory housing programs Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has joined a multi-state lawsuit aimed at protecting anti-discriminatory housing programs. According to a news release from Brown’s office, the lawsuit alleges that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is illegally trying to undermine its partnerships with state and local agencies. The department has allegedly threatened to withhold funding from these agencies, according to the lawsuit, which also claims that the HUD is trying to impose vague and unlawful language in its program funding conditions. Brown is joining fifteen other attorneys general on this lawsuit, led by California’s Rob Bonta (BON-tuh) and Illinois’s Kwame Raoul (KWAH-may rah-OOL). WX: Dripendo Duo And now the weather: Day two of this most recent flood watch is here, and has brought with it forecasts of a half-inch of rain backed by 27-mph winds. Daytime highs should remain in the mid-high 50s, with evening lows set to barely drop at all. Unsurprisingly, it’s looking like it’ll rain throughout tonight and beyond. The flood warning is set to close tomorrow as we see the last of this rainy spell hit us with another inch of …
March 18, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham considering temporary alley closures as part of effort to combat drug crime, District 42 representatives vote “no” on millionaire’s tax, Whooping cough at WWU, Mural Festival artists wanted, WA cities push back against detention centers, Parasitic weed detected near Yakima, Dept. of Agriculture warns, Governor signs bill preventing double voting, Nuclear is back on the table in WA, No Kings Day March 28th, Places to file your taxes for free, Free Or Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March, 18. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham considering temporary alley closures as part of effort to combat drug crime The City of Bellingham is considering temporarily closing alleys as part of an effort to combat drug crime. Under an ordinance still to be discussed by City Council next week, the Public Works Department director would have the authority to close alleys with fencing at the request of the police chief, according to a city council agenda. The fencing would cost 10,000 dollars. The ordinance states that some narrow alleys with limited access present challenges for enforcement actions against criminal activity. The proposal is intended to “disrupt the drug dealing and other illegal activity that has become entrenched in some alleys.” The agenda item says that in the event of a temporary closure, alleys would still be open for businesses and property owners, their vendors, utility and sanitation workers, and government and emergency personnel would still have access. STORY: District 42 representatives vote “no” on millionaire’s taxTwo Democratic lawmakers from Washington’s 42nd District broke with their party against the Millionaires Tax. Representatives Alicia Rule and Joe Timmons were among a small group of Democrats who opposed the proposal, which would tax income over one million dollars at nearly ten percent. Both said the state’s tax system needs reform but argued the plan lacked enough relief for middle- and lower-income residents and left uncertainty about how revenue would be used. Senator Sharon Shewmake, however, backed the bill, saying new revenue is urgently needed to prevent cuts to education and other essential services, especially amid rising costs and declining sales tax income. If signed by Governor Bob Ferguson, the tax would take effect in 2029 and impact roughly twenty to thirty thousand households, and generate an estimated three to four billion dollars annually. The measure is expected to face legal challenges and could be targeted by a repeal effort. STORY: Whooping cough at WWUThree confirmed cases of whooping cough—also known as pertussis—have been identified at WWU in the past week. Health officials say the contagious respiratory illness spreads through close contact and often begins with cold-like symptoms, but can lead to severe coughing and breathing difficulty. Those most at risk include infants, pregnant individuals, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Campus health leaders have urged students and staff to monitor symptoms, practice good hygiene, and stay up to date on the Tdap vaccine. Anyone experiencing symptoms is advised to stay home, limit contact with others, and seek medical care. STORY: Mural Festival artists wantedApplications are now open for artists looking to take part in Bellingham’s 2026 Noisy Waters Mural Festival. The three-day event is set for August 14th through 16th on the waterfront, and will feature muralists from around the world creating original works live in front of the public on large panels. Festivalgoers will vote on their favorite pieces, with the top artists earning commissions to return and paint murals across the city. Artists selected as finalists will receive a stipend and materials to participate. Applications are open now and close April 16th at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. STORY: WA cities push back against detention centersCities across the Seattle area are moving to block new immigration detention facilities. Recently, the Seattle City Council approved a one-year emergency moratorium on new or expanded detention centers. Similar measures have recently passed in King County, as well as Tukwila, SeaTac, Renton, and Kent. Pierce County leaders are also considering a temporary ban. The actions follow a federal notice seeking potential sites for a new detention facility in the region, though Immigration and Customs Enforcement says no specific project has been announced. Local officials backing the moratoriums cite concerns about the impact of detention centers on communities, while federal authorities say expanded capacity is part of a broader national deportation effort. Cities say the temporary bans will give them time to consider permanent regulations for any future facilities. STORY: State extends availability of RSV vaccineThe Washington State Department of Health is extending RSV immunizations for infants as virus activity remains high. Health officials say protections will now be available through April 30, about a month longer than the typical season. Doctors are urging parents of infants and higher-risk toddlers to talk with their health care providers about RSV protection as soon as possible. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious illness in infants and older adults. It remains a leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S. State health leaders say this season started later than usual, and cases peaked in January but have stayed elevated. STORY: Parasitic weed detected near Yakima, Dept. of Agriculture warns The Washington Department of Agriculture is warning the public of a parasitic weed spotted in Yakima. In an update posted to Facebook, the WSU Master Gardeners Program announced the discovery and reclassification of sunflower broomrape to Class A Noxious Weed after the Yakima sighting. According to an October 2025 announcement by the Ag department, broomrape can’t photosynthesize— instead, it attaches directly to plant roots and depends entirely on its host to survive. Once attached, each plant can produce hundreds of thousands of tiny seeds. If you see the plant, it is recommended not to disturb it and to take a clear photo to send to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. STORY: Governor signs bill preventing double votingWashington Governor Bob Ferguson has signed a new law aimed at preventing double voting. Senate Bill …
March 17, 2026 News Transcript
Bellingham man convicted of attempted second-degree murder in case of bus stop stabbing, BLI soon to begin direct service to Portland, DOT releases $17.5 million grant for Skagit Transit, Beleaguered vacation rental property in Glacier granted new life as AirBnB under new ownership, Coalition of sheriffs petition Gov. Ferguson for partial veto of new eligibility bill Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March, 17. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man convicted of attempted second-degree murder in case of bus stop stabbingA jury has convicted a Bellingham man of attempted second-degree murder in a stabbing at a city bus stop. According to court documents, twenty-five-year-old Bennie Demetrius Washington Jr. was found guilty of attacking his former roommate last June on Dupont Street. The victim suffered serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra and punctured diaphragm. Jurors acquitted Washington of attempted first-degree murder but found him guilty of the lesser charge, along with first-degree assault and use of a deadly weapon. A second suspect in the case has already pleaded guilty and is serving a three-year sentence. Washington is being held without bail and could face up to life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 16. STORY: BLI soon to begin direct service to PortlandA new nonstop flight is taking off this Thursday from Bellingham. According to a recent announcement, Alaska Airlines will begin daily direct service between Bellingham and Portland, which will cut travel time to about an hour. Airport officials say the route is part of a broader effort to expand direct flights and improve connections through major regional hubs. Flights will depart Bellingham each morning, with multiple return options later in the day. Introductory one-way fares start around $59, with service running year-round. STORY: Bellingham tree ordinance extended another six months In a unanimous vote, Bellingham City Council has extended its Emergency Landmark Tree Ordinance for another six months. Initially enacted in May of 2024, the Ordinance prohibits the damage or removal of specifically designated ‘significant’ trees. Violators can face fines of up to $5000 for each offense. According to the current version of the Ordinance, any healthy tree with a trunk diameter of at least 36 inches at breast height automatically qualifies as protected, excepting black cottonwoods. The Council also considers nominations for other landmark trees. Criteria for approval may include species, distinctive features or age, historical associations, and value as habitat for wildlife. This week’s vote marks the fourth extension of the Ordinance in the past two years, and buys the Council additional time to complete the formal process of formulating and approving permanent safeguards. STORY: Wrong-way collision near Birch Bay-Lynden road results in DUI arrestA man is in custody after a wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 near Birch Bay. Washington State Patrol says the collision happened just after 6 p.m. in the southbound lanes near the Birch Bay-Lynden Road exit, damaging two vehicles. Despite the impact, only minor injuries were reported. Troopers arrested the 35-year-old driver on suspicion of DUI. He’s now being held in the Whatcom County Jail on one-thousand dollars bail. STORY: DOT releases $17.5 million grant for Skagit Transit Skagit Transit will get a major boost to build its new operations facility in Burlington. Federal transportation officials have released $17.5 million for the project. The money had been awarded last year but was held up until this week. The funding will help Skagit Transit move forward on a long‑planned maintenance, operations and administration center — a key upgrade meant to support growing transit needs across the region. The grant is part of a broader package of federal transportation awards totaling more than $183 million statewide, including money for zero‑emission truck infrastructure, rail improvements, rural rail rehabilitation and safe‑streets projects. STORY: Beleaguered vacation rental property in Glacier granted new life as AirBnB under new ownership Glacier’s Oculis dome has reopened as an Airbnb. The dome sits on a two‑acre parcel once planned for a 27‑unit “luxury lodging” resort that raised more than $1.2 million on Indiegogo before the project collapsed. Construction stalled, backers demanded refunds, and the property was sold at auction last fall. The Bellingham Herald reports new owner Anna Van Ry, who grew up in Whatcom County, says she and her husband are keeping things small. They’ve renovated the dome, reduced guest capacity and met with neighbors to rebuild trust after years of controversy. Van Ry says they’re not reviving the resort plan or adding more domes — just running a quiet, transparent Airbnb that fits the neighborhood. She says more outdoor updates are planned this summer; the dome already features a sauna, covered fireplace, seating area and hot tub. STORY: Coalition of sheriffs petition Gov. Ferguson for partial veto of new eligibility billWashington sheriffs are urging Governor Bob Ferguson to veto parts of a controversial police accountability bill. In a letter this week, several county sheriffs said Senate Bill 5974 would give the state too much power over elected officials and could override voters’ choices. The legislation would require sheriffs to meet stricter qualifications, including law enforcement experience and certification standards, and could allow them to be removed from office if they fall short. Critics argue the measure shifts authority away from voters, while supporters say it ensures law enforcement leaders meet the same standards as rank-and-file officers. Ferguson says he plans to meet with sheriffs before deciding whether to sign the bill. WX: I’ve got sunshiiiiine…. on a different day And now weather: The pineapple express is visiting us this week, so expect a deluge today here in Whatcom— the weather will shift between mild showers and heavier downpours. Total precipitation should fall somewhere between a quarter to half of an inch, with gusts up to 20-mph. Expect temperatures to reach highs in the mid-50s, and don’t expect it to change much as we head into evening— nighttime forecasts call for another half-inch of rain and lows right around 50 degrees. Be ready for the skies to dump on us again tomorrow and …
March 16, 2026 News Transcript
Two Bellingham residents among three fatalities in crash east of Yakima, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, 2019 Baker Lake murder case finally settled with sentence of 16 months for defendant[4] [5, Hundreds sign letter to protest PeaceHealth cuts, Lummi Nation holds parade celebrating dual Blackhawks basketball triumphs, Ferndale finance director appointed to school board, Section of Truck Road closes for erosion protection[12] [13], Officials concerned over spike in measles, AG brings lawsuit against Dept of Ed Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March, 16. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Two Bellingham residents among three fatalities in crash east of Yakima Two Bellingham residents are dead after a head‑on crash in Yakima (YAK-uh-muh) County Friday. According to the Washington State Patrol, the collision happened around 9:45 p.m. on State Route 24, about 15 miles east of Moxee. Troopers say 39‑year‑old Luis Martinez and 38‑year‑old Yajaira Martinez of Bellingham were driving east in a Ford Expedition with two children when the driver pulled into the oncoming lane to pass and hit a Dodge Caravan head‑on. Both adults died at the scene. The two children, ages 6 and 8, were taken to Yakima Memorial Hospital. In the Caravan, 35‑year‑old Danielle Reed of Kelso survived, but an 11‑year‑old passenger was killed. Reed and a 13‑year‑old girl were hospitalized. WSP says several people in both vehicles were not wearing seat belts. Troopers list the cause as unsafe passing. It’s still unknown whether drugs or alcohol were involved. STORY: Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16 Whatcom County wants the public to weigh in on plans for the new jail and behavioral health facility. The county will host its second community engagement workshop for the voter-approved Justice Project next month in Lynden. The initiative, passed in November 2023, includes construction of a new jail and a behavioral care center. County leaders are expected to decide this spring on the final capacity, scope and budget before construction begins later this year. Residents can review project updates and provide feedback at the workshop, scheduled for Thursday, March 19th, at the Lynden City Annex Chamber. STORY: 2019 Baker Lake murder case finally settled with sentence of 16 months for defendant[4] [5] An Arlington man has been sentenced for killing his friend during a 2019 camping trip near Mount Baker. The Bellingham Herald reports 36‑year‑old Alexander Vanags (VAN-ahgs) was given 16 months in prison and three years of community custody Wednesday in Whatcom County Superior Court. Jurors found him guilty of first‑degree manslaughter last month after three trials. He had originally been charged with second‑degree murder for killing 28‑year‑old Mark Stebakov (steb-uh-KOV) with a machete while the two were camping at Bear Lake and using psychedelic drugs. Judge Lee Grochmal called it a difficult and complex case, saying both men were people their families were proud of and that neither was violent or “evil.” She said evidence suggested Stebakov was the initial aggressor, but Vanags used more force than necessary when he tried to defend himself. Grochmal said the sentence reflects accountability while giving both families a path to finally move forward STORY: Hundreds sign letter to protest PeaceHealth cutsHundreds of community members are urging PeaceHealth to restore its advanced care planning program after recent staff cuts. More than 400 people — including doctors, nurses and the board of the Northwest Washington Medical Society — signed an open letter to PeaceHealth CEO Sarah Ness that called for the reinstatement of four advanced care coordinators and two social workers eliminated in February. The group says the cuts harm patient care and undermine trust in the community, and note the program helps patients and families prepare for end-of-life decisions. STORY: Lummi Nation holds parade celebrating dual Blackhawks basketball triumphs Lummi Nation School held a parade for its boys and girls basketball teams on Friday. The boys’ team won its second consecutive state championship, while the girls’ team ended their season fourth in the state, their highest ever finish. Jemma James and Ailina Rabang (a-LEE-na ruh-BAHNG) of the Lummi Nation girls received player of the year honors, and so did Jerome Toby of the boys’ team. In a news release, school leadership expressed their pride in the team’s accomplishments and positive example for younger students. STORY: Ferndale finance director appointed to school board The Lynden School Board has appointed a finance director from the Ferndale city government to fill a vacancy on the board. Danielle Ingham was unanimously appointed during last Thursday’s meeting and will be replacing the role left behind by former school board director Tonya Hickman. According to Cascadia Daily News, Ingham beat out three other candidates during the hiring process and has two kids currently enrolled in the school district. She is set to be sworn in at the district’s next meeting on Thursday, March 26th. STORY: Section of Truck Road closes for erosion protection[12] [13] A section of Truck Road has been temporarily closed for erosion protection. In an update posted on the Whatcom County Public Works website, the department warned the road between Deal Road and Mosquito Lake Road will be closed for about four weeks. Work is underway to place 430 feet of buried rock trench along the North Fork Nooksack River in an effort to address the long history of erosion as well as recent flood damage. STORY: Submissions open for local poetry contest[14] [15] The 21st Annual Sue C. Boynton Poetry Contest is currently accepting submissions. According to the Whatcom Poetry Series’ website, the deadline is March 31st and the top ten poems will be engraved on plaques outside the Bellingham Public Library. Winners of the adult and children’s division will each be awarded 100 dollars. See the Poetry series website for more details. STORY: Officials concerned over spike in measles Washington health officials say measles cases are rising sharply this year. The Washington State Department of Health has …
March 13, 2026 News Transcript
Blaine teenager reported missing out of Bellingham, Bellingham PD searching for driver following Wednesday morning hit-and-run, Man brandishing firearm accidentally shoots self near Ferndale health facility, SCSO finds human remains east of Concrete during boat search of Skagit River, WCSO releases statement on drug arrests of two Bellingham men, Bellingham mayor reaffirms commitment to opening daytime shelter for unhoused people, Tribes receive funding for clean energy, FEMA releases over $4 million in hazard grant funding requested following 2021 floods[10] [11], State lawmakers approve partial rollback of estate tax hikes, citing fears of wealth exodus, Free and cheap – leprechaun edition, Baker Lake murder case finally settled with sentence of 16 months for defendant[4] [5], Officials concerned over spike in measles, Hundreds sign letter to protest PeaceHealth cuts, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, FREE OR CHEAP Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, March 13th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Blaine teenager reported missing out of Bellingham Washington State Patrol is asking for help finding a missing Bellingham teen. Seventeen-year-old Destany Gray-Haugness (DES-tuh-nee GRAY HAW-ness) was last seen February 25th. She’s described as 5-foot-8 and 195 pounds. Anyone with information is asked to call 911. STORY: Bellingham PD searching for driver following Wednesday morning hit-and-run Bellingham Police are asking for help tracking down a hit-and-run driver. Investigators say a pickup hit a pedestrian and a dog in a crosswalk Wednesday morning at Cottonwood and West Maplewood, then left the scene. The eastbound driver blew through a stop sign, struck the pair, stopped briefly at Shuksan Meadows Park, and fled north on Maplewood. The pedestrian and dog both required medical treatment. Police say they are looking for a dark-colored truck with oversized tires, a front brush guard, and yellow LED-style headlights — possibly with the right one burned out. They ask anyone who was in the area with dash-cam footage or home security video facing the intersection to come forward. Submit a tip at cob.org/tips — or call the tip line. STORY: Man brandishing firearm accidentally shoots self near Ferndale health facility Ferndale Police say a man accidentally shot himself near a local health facility Tuesday morning. According to Ferndale Information Officer Megan Jueneman (MAY-gun JUNE-uh-mun), police responded to the 6000 block of Portal Way on reports of a man brandishing a firearm. Nearby businesses, including Unity Care NW, briefly went into lockdown while police investigated. When officers arrived, they found a 64-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound and determined he was the same person reported in the original call. Police say the injury appears to be the result of an accidental discharge, and no one else was hurt. First responders transported the man to the hospital for treatment. His condition has not been released. STORY: SCSO finds human remains east of Concrete during boat search of Skagit RiverHuman remains were discovered in the Skagit River east of Concrete. In a social media post, the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office said the bones were discovered yesterday while deputies were conducting a boat search of the area. Detectives were called in to process the discovery. Officials say the Skagit County Coroner’s Office will work to identify the remains. Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area near milepost 90 as the investigation continues. STORY: WCSO releases statement on drug arrests of two Bellingham menThree men have been arrested following a multi-agency drug investigation that seized large amounts of suspected fentanyl. The Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force says the investigation, which began in January, targeted a Mexican-based criminal organization operating in the area. A March 4th search warrant in Federal Way led to the seizure of more than 33 pounds of suspected fentanyl-laced pills, about 2.3 pounds of fentanyl powder, and roughly $10,000 in cash. Authorities arrested 22-year-old Alfio Felix Rivera. A second set of search warrants served at locations in Bellingham turned up about 1.9 pounds of the powder, a handgun, and more than $15,000 in cash. Police arrested 26-year-old Omar Gaona-Garcia and 23-year-old Jorge Ramos, both of Bellingham. Bail was set at $100,000 and $250,000 respectively, and both were scheduled to appear in Whatcom County Superior Court. The sheriff’s office says the investigation involved assistance from the DEA, Homeland Security, Washington State Patrol, and several local police agencies. STORY: Bellingham mayor reaffirms commitment to opening daytime shelter for unhoused people Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund has reaffirmed her commitment to opening a daytime shelter for unhoused people. During Monday’s city council meeting, Lund said about one million dollars remains in state funding for the shelter. The shelter is planned to open this fall, ahead of the Bellingham Public Library’s temporary closure for renovations. The library has been a welcome place for unhoused people, with social services across the street. While no location or other details were shared during the meeting, Lund said the planned shelter could double as a cold weather shelter, and will also house the county’s Street Medicine team. STORY: Tribes receive funding for clean energy The Washington State Department of Commerce will award nearly $16.8 million in clean energy grants to tribes across the state. According to a recent announcement from Commerce, the money will help 17 tribal communities install solar panels and battery storage systems, electrify fishing vessels, and conduct feasibility studies for future energy projects. Several Northwest tribes will benefit, including the Nooksack Indian Tribe who were awarded just over $1 million dollars, and Lummi Nation, who were awarded $1.1 million. The money will fund solar projects and cleaner fishing vessels. State leaders said the grants are part of Washington’s broader push to expand clean energy and climate resilience. STORY: FEMA releases over $4 million in hazard grant funding requested following 2021 floods[10] [11] Nearly $4 million in federal hazard-mitigation funds are headed to Whatcom County. According to a recent announcement, FEMA signed off on long-delayed grants to elevate 16 flood-prone homes in Sumas, Ferndale, and Everson. The money comes …
March 11, 2026 News Transcript
Early-morning shooting in Anacortes leaves two dead, Crash on northbound I-5 results in driver being arrested by BPD on outstanding warrants, Bellingham I-5 onramp and northbound lane set to close tonight for maintenance, Deadline to file claims in Nooksack water rights case extended by one month, WTA seeking public input on proposed service upgrades to Go Line buses, Worse season for flu than covid, WA keeps preventive health services, Millionaire’s Tax passes, Wind advisory in effect as Whatcom braces for first in round of atmospheric rivers Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March, 11th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Early-morning shooting in Anacortes leaves two deadTwo people are dead following an early morning shooting in Anacortes. Police say officers responded to a report of gunfire just before 6:30 yesterday morning in the 1400 block of K Avenue, where they discovered two people dead at the scene. Investigators are continuing to process evidence, and authorities say more information will be released as it becomes available. Police add there is no ongoing threat to the public. Meanwhile, K Avenue between 12th and 17th streets remains closed as the investigation continues, and the Anacortes School District is urging drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes. STORY: Crash on northbound I-5 results in driver being arrested by BPD on outstanding warrantsTraffic on northbound Interstate 5 in Bellingham was slowed for several hours yesterday after a crash late in the morning. Authorities say the collision was reported just before 11:30 a.m. between the Northwest Avenue and Meridian Street interchanges. Initial reports indicate a vehicle traveling southbound veered into the median, where a cable barrier stopped it from entering the northbound lanes. Northbound traffic was reduced to a single lane through the crash scene until about 3:15 p.m. According to the Washington State Patrol, no one was injured. The driver was arrested on outstanding warrants from the Bellingham Police Department and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Bellingham I-5 onramp and northbound lane set to close tonight for maintenanceAnd speaking of I-5, expect overnight lane closures in Bellingham tonight. The Washington State Department of Transportation says the Iowa Street on-ramp to northbound I-5 and one northbound freeway lane near Lakeway Drive will close from 10 p.m. tonight until 4 a.m. Thursday. Crews will be performing guardrail maintenance and vegetation work during the closure. STORY: Bellingham’s newest municipal judge sworn inBellingham’s newest municipal judge has been sworn in. Nicholas Henery was sworn in during Monday’s city council meeting. Henery has served as a municipal court commissioner since 2022, and was selected out of four applicants. As part of its agenda bill for the meeting, the city acknowledged an increased case load and case complexity in recent years and noted that Henery’s appointment will help with that. Henery’s term will start next Monday and will last until January 1st, 2030. After that, the position will be determined in the November general election. STORY: Deadline to file claims in Nooksack water rights case extended by one month A major ecological case in Whatcom County just got more time. A judge has pushed the deadline to file water-rights claims in the Nooksack River basin to June 1st, 2027. The lawsuit, filed by the state Department of Ecology, will decide who holds senior water rights, and how much water they can legally use. The extension gives about 30-thousand farmers and property owners a chance to file claims in a case shaping recovery, rights and future development across the county. STORY: WTA seeking public input on proposed service upgrades to Go Line buses WTA is seeking public input on proposed service upgrades to its Go Line buses. The transit authority released a draft of its long-term plan to make the service of these buses faster, and improve the rider experience. All Go Line buses currently offer service every 15 minutes along four major corridors in Bellingham. Under WTA’s plan, it hopes these upgrades will cut the wait down to 10 minutes. Whatcom County residents are encouraged to provide feedback on WTA’s website about its Rapid Transit Plan. STORY: Worse season for flu than covid For the second winter in a row, flu cases in the U.S. have surged while COVID cases have declined. Flu primarily affects the respiratory system, while COVID can impact multiple organs and cause long-term complications known as long COVID. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 25 million people have caught the flu this season, resulting in 330,000 hospitalizations and 20,000 deaths. By comparison, since October COVID has sickened between 3 and 9 million people, with about half the hospitalizations and the same number of deaths. Experts say the difference reflects changes in the viruses as well as human immunity. Early in the pandemic, COVID was far more deadly and transmissible than flu, but widespread vaccination and prior infections have now tempered its impact. Meanwhile, the H3N2 flu strain has mutated— leaving vaccines less effective and driving higher flu numbers. Public health officials caution that both viruses still pose serious risks and vaccination remains the main defense against severe illness for both viruses. STORY: WA keeps preventive health servicesWashington Governor Bob Ferguson has signed a bill preserving no-cost preventive health services for residents who choose to use them. Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 2242 keeps coverage in place for services like well-child visits and immunizations that Washingtonians have received without cost since 2010. The measure, requested by Ferguson and Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer, passed the House 36–12 and took effect immediately after being signed Monday. STORY: Millionaire’s Tax passesAfter a record-setting floor debate, House members in Olympia approved on a long-awaited millionaires tax yesterday evening. Twenty-four hours and seven minutes after debate opened, the final count was 51 for and 46 against passage of a bill that will impose a tax on Washingtonians earning more than a million dollars a year. Changes made to the bill in committee will lower or eliminate a number of taxes currently paid by …
March 10, 2026 News Transcript
Whatcom man with outstanding warrant arrested following brief chase, Gas prices spike, Whatcom Chief dry dock dates updated, Submissions open for designs of Whatcom’s 2026 “I Voted” stickers, Legislature limits use of face masks, Ferguson announces pick for new WA Supreme Court justice, U.S. Congress renews attempt to remove dark money U.S., Worse season for flu than covid, Officials concerned over spike in measles, WA keeps preventive health services , Lummi Island ferry dry dock scheduled for mid-April, Places to file your taxes for free Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March, 10th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom man with outstanding warrant arrested following brief chase A 21-year-old Maple Falls man was arrested Saturday after deputies say he tried to evade police. The sheriff’s office says Ryszard Dylczyk (RISH-ard DILL-chick) had a 2023 warrant for third-degree assault with a weapon and third-degree malicious mischief. When deputies approached a compound off Lattimore Road on Saturday around 2:30 p.m., Dylczyk allegedly drove away at high speed. His vehicle was later found abandoned on Sunset Avenue. Deputies used a drone and a K9 unit to locate him in the woods nearby, where he was taken into custody without incident. Dylczyk was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of attempting to elude police and the 2023 charges. Authorities say he faces two class C felonies and a gross misdemeanor. STORY: Gas prices spike Gas has reached $5.10 a gallon at the Chevron on Sunset Drive. Prices are climbing quickly nationwide, as the conflict with Iran rattles global oil markets. According to a survey of local prices, a gallon averages about $4.62 a gallon throughout the county— just one cent lower than the state-wide average. For drivers looking for a bargain, it’s been posted as low as $4.09 a gallon at the Arco in Lynden. According to AAA (TRIPLE A) and GasBuddy, this price is up from roughly $4 a month ago and $3.69 two months ago. The national average sits around $3.48 a gallon. Analysts say fears of oil supply disruptions tied to tensions near the Strait of Hormuz have pushed crude prices above $100 a barrel, driving fuel costs higher. Experts say while geopolitical shocks may spike prices, the impact is often short-lived. STORY: Whatcom Chief dry dock dates updated The Whatcom Chief ferry will be out of service for its annual dry dock later this spring, Whatcom County officials announced last Wednesday. The outage is scheduled from April 25th through May 17th, a week later than previously planned. The ferry, which carries both vehicles and pedestrians between Gooseberry Point and Lummi Island, will be replaced by a pedestrian-only vessel during the maintenance period. This year, Lummi Island riders will no longer have access to the shuttle service that normally helps passengers get around. County documents say the shuttle vans, originally obtained from WTA surplus, have reached the end of their usable life, and replacing them is cost-prohibitive. STORY: Mount Baker officials announce night skiing following winter storm warning Mount Baker Ski Area officials have announced night skiing for March 13th and 14th, coinciding with a blizzard warning issued for the area by the National Weather Service. The Weather Service’s Seattle office says the blizzard warning will be in effect from Wednesday at 6 p.m. to Thursday at 5 a.m. Total snow accumulation is estimated to be between one and three feet in the affected area, which includes the Cascades from Whatcom County to northern King County. This is the first time that the Mount Baker Ski Area will open for night skiing in its 73-year history. Chair 7 will be in operation from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. STORY: Submissions open for designs of Whatcom’s 2026 “I Voted” stickers Submissions are now open for this year’s “I Voted” stickers in Whatcom County. The contest was announced by its organizers, the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, who will feature the winning design in its office beginning on July 15th. Submissions are required to fit within a 4-inch diameter circle. Hand-drawn and digital designs will be accepted, but no AI-generated art is allowed. Entries are due by May 1st. More information can be found at “whatcomcounty-dot-U.S.-slash-Elections” STORY: Legislature limits use of face masks Washington lawmakers have approved a bill limiting law enforcement’s use of face masks. Senate Bill 5855 passed the state Senate 30-to-19 and now heads to Governor Bob Ferguson, who is expected to sign it. The measure would ban officers — including federal immigration agents — from covering their faces during public interactions, with exceptions for SWAT gear, protective equipment, and religious coverings. Supporters say the law increases transparency and accountability, arguing communities deserve to know who is exercising government authority. Republicans opposed the bill, raising concerns about officer safety and questioning whether the state can regulate federal agents. The bill passed both chambers along party lines, with Republicans voting against it. The bill would go into effect immediately when signed. STORY: Ferguson announces pick for new WA Supreme Court justice In other political news, Governor Ferguson has announced the appointment of Theo Angelis (ANGELES) as the newest Washington Supreme Court Justice. Angelis will replace the retiring Chief Justice Barbara Madsen next month. He is the first Justice of Middle Eastern descent on Washington’s Supreme Court. According to a news release by the Governor’s office, Angelis has 25 years of legal experience as a partner at the law firm K&L Gates. Angelis will officially start on April 4th, as he sees out the remainder of Madsen’s term. STORY: U.S. Congress renews attempt to remove dark money U.S. Representative Rick Larsen has joined 184 colleagues in reintroducing the DISCLOSE Act, legislation aimed at ending “dark money” in U.S. elections. Larsen, who represents Washington’s 2nd congressional district, said the bill targets secret spending by super PACs, corporations, and other organizations. It also requires disclosure of donors who contribute more than $10,000, strengthens prohibitions on foreign influence, expands disclosure for online political ads, and applies to payments made …
March 9, 2026 News Transcript
BPD arrests two men in connection with rash of tire slashings, WCSO arrests three men accused of running small-scale criminal enterprise, New adult behavioral health center opens, City holds AMA for the public, Whatcom Reads brings bestselling author to Bellingham, Public input requested for new transit plan, Seattle utility company to pay up to $1.6B in Skagit County dam relicensing agreements, State legislature passes bill establishing legislative oversight board for sheriffs, Governor says he will approve Millionaires Tax, Worse season for flu than covid, U.S. Congress renews attempt to remove dark money, Officials concerned over spike in measles, Submissions open for designs of Whatcom’s 2026 “I Voted” stickers, Whatcom Chief dry dock dates updated, Seattle utility company to pay up to $1.6B in Skagit County dam relicensing agreements, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, No Kings Day March 28th, Lummi Island ferry dry dock scheduled for mid-April, Places to file your taxes for free Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March, 9th. Good afternoon, I’m b______. STORY: BPD arrests two men in connection with rash of tire slashings Bellingham Police have arrested two men suspected of slashing tires on more than a dozen vehicles across the city. Officers responded to the Broadway Park neighborhood on early Wednesday morning. A resident had reported a broken garage window and slashed tires on two vehicles; police then found eight more vehicles in the area with damaged tires. Later that morning, officers investigated another vandalism call on Aurora Loop by Britton Road, where nine additional vehicles had their tires punctured. Witnesses reported seeing two men pulling on car door handles before fleeing in a dark Subaru. Authorities say the suspects caused more than fifteen thousand dollars in damage in Bellingham. Deputies later located the two men near Britton and Hillsdale roads. They now face multiple felony charges, including malicious mischief, burglary, and vehicle prowl. Charges had not yet been formally filed as of Friday. STORY: WCSO arrests three men accused of running small-scale criminal enterprise The Sheriff’s Office says three men were arrested after a lengthy investigation into a small-scale criminal organization. The arrests happened on February 26th. Authorities say the men — ages forty-seven, twenty-seven and fifty-two — allegedly sold cocaine and fentanyl, resold stolen property for profit, and laundered the proceeds through a business. Much of the money was later converted into cryptocurrency. A search of property near Lake Samish yielded multiple firearms, suspected drugs, transaction records and about two-hundred-thousand dollars’ worth of suspected stolen property, including vehicles, ATVs and heavy equipment. The suspected leader was hospitalized during the arrest, but later booked into jail. All three men now face multiple felony charges related to drugs, stolen property and money laundering. STORY: New adult behavioral health center opens A newly renovated assisted living facility for adults with severe behavioral health needs is set to open soon in Bellingham. The Lake Whatcom Center announced on Friday that it has expanded and renovated its Birchwood building into an eighty-six bed assisted living facility. The project received a one-million-dollar grant from Whatcom County through a dedicated housing and behavioral health sales tax fund. County leaders say the upgrades improve accessibility, allow residents greater independence, and expand services for people who need supportive living due to behavioral health challenges. Lake Whatcom Center says residents from two existing facilities will move into the Birchwood building, with plans to later convert the vacated buildings into substance use recovery housing. An open house and tour is scheduled for March 17th. STORY: City holds AMA for the public Bellingham residents are invited to meet city leaders and ask questions at an upcoming community event. Mayor Kim Lund and members of her leadership team will host the city’s first Ask Us Anything meet-and-greet of 2026 on Wednesday, March 18th, at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. Mingling and refreshments begin at 5:30, followed by a presentation and question-and-answer session from 6-to-7 p.m. City officials say the event is an opportunity for residents to learn about city priorities and speak directly with local leadership. STORY: Whatcom Reads brings bestselling author to Bellingham New York Times bestselling author Javier Zamora (hah-vee-AIR zah-MORE-uh) is coming to Whatcom County to discuss his memoir, “Solito.” (soh-LEE-toh) The Whatcom Reads program, a countywide book club, selected Zamora’s 2022 book as its selected title for this year. The Mount Baker Theatre will host Zamora this Friday at 7 p.m. Zamora will also be at the Pioneer Pavilion Community Center in Ferndale this Thursday at 7 p.m. “Solito” tells Zamora’s three-thousand-mile solo journey from his small fishing village in El Salvador to the United States at nine years old. Both events are the first to ever sell out in the program’s history. However, registration for a livestream remains open on the Whatcom County Library System’s website. STORY: Public input requested for new transit plan Bellingham residents are being asked to weigh in on plans to speed up public transit across the city. The Whatcom Transportation Authority has released draft recommendations from its Rapid Transit Study; these recommendations are aimed at making Go Line buses faster and more reliable. Proposed upgrades include smarter traffic signals, improved bus stops, and roadway changes. Officials say the long-term goal is to increase bus service frequency to every ten minutes along major routes in Bellingham. Community members may review the plan and submit feedback online through the Engage Bellingham website before the proposal goes to the City Council and the WTA Board of Directors in April. STORY: Seattle utility company to pay up to $1.6B in Skagit County dam relicensing agreements Seattle City Light will pay up to 1.6 billion dollars as part of an agreement for the relicensing of three Skagit River dams. The agreement would commit up to 979 million dollars to fish passage, with another 200 million going toward salmon habitat and water quality monitoring, according to the Cascadia Daily News. Other separate agreements with the Upper …
March 6, 2026 News Transcript
State issues emergency closure of Drayton Harbor shellfish harvesting, Lynden girls and LC boys advance to state, Mt. Baker Ski Area open to night skiing for first time next weekend, Bellingham landlords critique new regulations in city survey, Flooded coal mine under Bellingham could become heat source for college, CHS announces more closures, Local Thai restaurant listed for sale, Two bills strike controversy over AG powers, Local couple walks 3000 miles for cancer research, Two bills strike controversy over AG powers, Free or cheap (Austin?), Officials concerned over spike in measles, Submissions open for designs of Whatcom’s 2026 “I Voted” stickers, Whatcom Chief dry dock dates updated, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, No Kings Day March 28th, Lummi Island ferry dry dock scheduled for mid-April, Places to file your taxes for free Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday March 6th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: State issues emergency closure of Drayton Harbor shellfish harvesting An emergency shellfish closure has been issued for Drayton Harbor. The Washington State Department of Health says several people got sick from oysters and clams harvested between February 13th and 23rd. Some were sold at the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, while others were sold at the Bellingham Dockside Market on February 21st. All shellfish harvesting in Drayton Harbor is now closed; it is expected to reopen by March 24th. Health officials say the symptoms reported are consistent with norovirus, including vomiting, fatigue, and stomach cramps. The Drayton Harbor Oyster Company remains open, but they are not serving harbor shellfish until the area is declared safe. STORY: Lynden girls and LC boys advance to state In high school basketball, the Lynden girls are headed to the state semifinals after another dominant win in Yakima. The top-seeded Lions beat Deer Park 58 to 33 in the 2A quarterfinals, extending their winning streak to 73 games. They face Clarkston in the semifinals tomorrow at 3:45. The Lynden Christian boys are also moving on after an 84 to 56 win over Seattle Christian. The Lyncs face the King’s in 1A semifinals tomorrow. Also advancing are the boys from defending 1B champion Lummi Nation, who beat Neah Bay 70 to 48 to reach the semis. Meanwhile, the Lynden Lions boys season ended with a 46 to 36 loss to Renton in 2A. Lastly — tonight, the Lynden Christian girls are seeking to reach the 1A semifinals when they face Annie Wright in Yakima. STORY: Mt. Baker Ski Area open to night skiing for first time next weekend Mt. Baker Ski Area will make history next weekend with its first-ever night skiing on Chair 7. The lift will run from 5:30 to 8:30pm next Friday, March 13th and Saturday, March 14th, lighting the terrain for evening runs. Season passholders and anyone with a day, half-day, or C-7 ticket will be allowed to ride, with extended food service in the White Salmon Lodge. General Manager Mike Trowbridge says that, if goes well, skiers could see more night runs in the future. STORY: Bellingham landlords critique new regulations in city survey Landlords and property managers in Bellingham say new state and local rental rules are making life difficult for them. According to a report issued by the City, a survey of nearly 630 landlords and property managers shows that the new ordinances — which include limits on fees and requirements for upfront disclosure — have prompted changes to leases and operations. Many respondents said rising utility costs and layered regulations add to the challenge, though only 7% of them report taking units off the market. The Bellingham City Council is set to review the survey results and discuss next steps at their meeting next Monday evening, with public comment accepted in person or online. STORY: Flooded coal mine under Bellingham could become heat source for college The old coal mine under the Birchwood neighborhood could soon heat a local college. Cascadia Daily News reports that Bellingham Technical College is exploring a geothermal project with Cascade Natural Gas. The plan would tap warm groundwater that fills the historic Bellingham Coal Mine. Engineers would pump the water to the surface, pass it through heat exchangers to warm or cool campus buildings, then send it back underground. If approved, the project could cut emissions, give students hands-on engineering experience, and turn a century-old mine into a new source of clean energy. STORY: Grocery Outlet announces some store closures Discount grocery chain Grocery Outlet is scaling back after expanding too quickly, announcing it will close 36 stores across the nation. CEO Jason Potter told investors that the closures are a correction to ensure profitability, and the chain is not fully exiting any state. Most of the cuts will occur on the East Coast — the Bellingham and Ferndale stores are not scheduled for closure. In addition, the 80-year-old company still plans to open 30 to 33 new stores in 2026. STORY: CHS announces more closures Lynden-based CHS Northwest says it has filed a mini-Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (or WARN) notice with the state ahead of plans to sell three additional locations — its Convenience and Farm & Home stores in Nooksack, Ferndale, and Lynden. The move follows earlier closure announcements this year, that included Lynden True Value and the Bellingham location. The company says employees were first notified last November as it began looking for a buyer focused on retail operations. Under state and federal law, WARN notices must be filed at least 60 days before a planned closure. STORY: Local Thai restaurant listed for sale Supon’s Thai Kitchen near Western Washington University is up for sale. A listing from a broker with RE/MAX says the 2,700-square-foot space seats up to 80 guests and includes a fully equipped commercial kitchen with woks, deep fryer, walk-in cooler, and prep stations. STORY: Local couple walks 3000 miles for cancer research A Bellingham couple is walking more than 3,000 miles this year …
March 4, 2026 News Transcript
BPD clarifies role in immigration, New pavement and street lighting in store for dangerous stretch of Samish Way, State game officials trap and euthanize cougar in Sudden Valley, New rock beach at Boulevard Park set to open to public this week, Scanlon promotes new public hospital district, Big Tech scores win in Olympia, PSE looks to ramp up rates by as much as 30 percent by 2029, B.C. to adopt permanent daylight saving time, Long term weather outlook Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 4th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. We would like to begin today’s newscast by noting that we were off the air and off the stream yesterday due to a Comcast service outage. Yesterday’s newscast is available to subscribers on SoundCloud, or on our home page at kmre.org. STORY: BPD clarifies role in immigration The Bellingham Police Department has clarified its role in immigration enforcement amid increased federal activity. In a video posted Monday, Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig said officers do not take part in civil immigration arrests, including deportations or detentions; they also do not ask about immigration status. Mertzig noted that federal agents may wear gear labeled “POLICE,” but BPD officers wear shoulder patches and badges clearly marked “Bellingham Police,” along with their names. Mertzig and Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley say their agencies continue to follow Washington’s Keep Washington Working Act, which limits local involvement in immigration enforcement. STORY: New pavement and street lighting in store for dangerous stretch of Samish Way New pavement and street lighting is in store for a dangerous stretch of Samish Way. On Monday, the Bellingham City Council unanimously approved a 2.3 million dollar grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation, which covers 100 percent of the project. Councilmember Michael Lilliquist told the council the design for the project will be going ahead this year, with construction set for sometime next year. Lilliquist also said that a separate sewer project along the same corridor will be completed before any work is done above ground, including lighting and resurfacing. WSDOT (WASH-DOT) data shows that between 2016 and last year, 10 bicyclists and pedestrians were hit by cars on that part of Samish Way, including two deaths in 2023. STORY: State game officials trap and euthanize cougar in Sudden Valley State wildlife officials trapped and killed a 145-pound cougar on Saturday after it attacked a family’s dog in Sudden Valley. Footage from the family’s doorbell camera shows the big cat carrying the small dog down the driveway before climbing a tree across the street. The dog’s owner chased after the cougar and threw rocks at it, prompting it to drop the pet. The injured dog underwent emergency surgery and is recovering. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says the cougar may be the same one reported in recent months in nearby Geneva. Residents should report sightings to Fish and Wildlife, and call 9-1-1 in emergencies. STORY: New rock beach at Boulevard Park set to open to public this week A new rocky beach at Boulevard Park is set to open to the public this week. Construction began last fall, with the total approximate funding of one-and-a-half million dollars. The city says on its website they hope the work will improve beach access with improved walkways, while newly planted native plant species will help buffer against sea level rise and coastal erosion. On the park’s eastern beach, the city said it focused on removing old retaining walls from the intertidal zone. On the western beach, crews added a small retaining wall and rock garden for shoreline protection. According to the City of Bellingham website, construction barriers will be removed tomorrow. Throughout construction, a temporary trail route was added closer to the parking lot. STORY: Scanlon promotes new public hospital district An effort to create a nearly county-wide public hospital district in Whatcom County will move forward. County Councilmember Jon Scanlon, the chair of the county’s public works & health committee, has been talking about establishing a public hospital district in Whatcom County since he ran for office in 2023. At a recent City Club meeting, Scanlon said he hopes supporters can collect the 17,000 signatures needed to place the measure on the November ballot. If approved, voters would also elect commissioners to oversee the district. Community First Whatcom is helping explore the campaign. Backers say a district could provide funding and local control to help fill gaps in care, possibly including a clinic in east Whatcom County. Officials note public hospital districts typically fund clinics — not new hospitals — and rely on partnerships with existing providers. STORY: PSE looks to ramp up rates by as much as 30 percent by 2029 Energy bills could be on the rise again across the Puget Sound. Puget Sound Energy has filed a three-year rate increase proposal with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. If approved, residential electric and natural gas rates would increase by about 30 percent and 20 percent respectively by 2029. PSE says it needs to invest more than $3 billion in its gas and electric systems, with about 70 percent aimed at strengthening and protecting the power grid as demand grows. A 2024 investigation by ProPublica and The Seattle Times found expanding data centers in Central Washington are adding strain to the state’s power supply. The company says it also plans to boost investments in local renewable energy. State regulators are expected to review the proposal over the next 11 months. STORY: Big Tech scores win in Olympia In related news, big tech companies scored a win in Olympia yesterday as a sweeping data center regulation bill failed to advance in the state Legislature. House Bill 2515 would have required data centers to pay additional utility charges, meet clean energy standards, and scale back power use during peak demand. Supporters said the measure was aimed at protecting other ratepayers, the power grid, and the environment as these facilities rapidly expand across the state. …
March 3, 2026 News Transcript
WSP issues MIPAs for pair of teens last seen in Bellingham, State game officials trap and euthanize cougar in Sudden Valley, New rock beach at Boulevard Park set to open to public this week, B.C. to adopt permanent daylight saving time, PSE looks to ramp up rates by as much as 30% by 2029, Big Tech scores win in Olympia, Long term weather outlook, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, No Kings Day March 28th, Lummi Island ferry dry dock scheduled for mid-April, Places to file your taxes for free Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 3rd. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: WSP issues MIPAs for pair of teens last seen in Bellingham The Washington State Patrol has issued three separate Missing Indigenous Person Alerts for two teen girls in the last 24 hours. 17-year-old Tabitha Running-Bear is 5 foot, 2 inches tall, and 120 pounds. She has brown hair and eyes, and was last seen in the Bellingham area on Sunday at 12:30 PM, wearing a black shirt and jacket. 16-year-old Ariel Feliciano (AIR-ee-el fuh-liss-ee-AH-no) is also 5 foot, 2 inches tall, and 130 pounds. She has brown hair and eyes, and was also last seen in the Bellingham area on Sunday at 12:30 PM. She was wearing a blue sweater, white tan checkered pants, gray shoes, and a large bag. The Patrol issued these alerts on behalf of Lummi Police, but did not indicate whether the cases were linked in any way. Each teen’s photo and case number have been posted on the State Patrol’s Twitter account. Anyone with information is asked to call the non-emergency number at 360-312-2274. STORY: State game officials trap and euthanize cougar in Sudden Valley State wildlife officials trapped and killed a large cougar on Saturday after it attacked a dog in Sudden Valley. Footage from the family’s doorbell camera shows the cat carrying the small dog down the driveway before climbing a tree across the street. The owner chased after the cougar and threw rocks at it, prompting it to drop the pet. The injured dog underwent emergency surgery and is recovering. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says the cougar may be the same one reported in recent months in nearby Geneva. Residents should report sightings to Fish and Wildlife, and call 9-1-1 in emergencies. STORY: New rock beach at Boulevard Park set to open to public this week A new rocky beach at Boulevard Park is set to open to the public this week. Construction began last fall, with the total approximate funding of one-and-a-half million dollars. The city says on its website they hope the work will improve beach access with improved walkways, while newly planted native plant species will help buffer against sea level rise and coastal erosion. On the park’s eastern beach, the city said it focused on removing old retaining walls from the inter-tidal zone. On the western beach, crews added a small retaining wall and rock garden for shoreline protection. According to the City’s website, construction barriers will be removed this Thursday. STORY: B.C. to adopt permanent daylight saving time This weekend’s switch to daylight saving time will be the last for British Columbia. Global News reports the province is moving to permanent daylight saving time. From March to November, clocks line up with the U.S. West Coast — but from November to March, B.C. will stay an hour ahead of Washington, Oregon, and California. Premier David Eby (EE-bee) says ending the clock change means fewer tired kids, confused pets, and groggy drivers. [clip eby-1.wav :11 out: of British Columbia] Washington approved permanent daylight time in 2019, but that was held up because federal law takes precedence. Congress would have to act before Washington can finally make the switch. STORY: PSE looks to ramp up rates by as much as 30% by 2029 Energy bills could be on the rise again across the Puget Sound. Puget Sound Energy has filed a three-year rate increase proposal with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. If approved, residential electric rates would rise nearly 30 percent and natural gas rates close to 20 percent by 2029. PSE says it needs to invest more than $3 billion in its gas and electric systems, with about 70 percent aimed at strengthening and protecting the power grid as demand grows. A 2024 investigation by ProPublica and The Seattle Times found expanding data centers in Central Washington are adding strain to the state’s power supply. The company says it also plans to boost investment in local renewable energy. State regulators are expected to review the proposal over the next 11 months. STORY: Big Tech scores win in Olympia In related news, big tech scored a win in Olympia yesterday as a sweeping data center regulation bill failed to advance in the Legislature. House Bill 2515 would have required data centers to pay additional utility charges, meet clean energy standards, and scale back power use during peak demand. Supporters said the measure was aimed at protecting other ratepayers, the power grid, and the environment as these facilities rapidly expand across the state. According to reporting by the Washington State Standard, tech giants including Microsoft and Amazon opposed the bill, arguing it would impose costly regulations and potentially expose trade secrets as companies race to build infrastructure for artificial intelligence. The bill was scheduled for a vote in the Senate Ways and Means Committee but was never brought forward before a key deadline. Lead sponsor Rep. Beth Doglio criticized industry lobbying efforts, saying the state must ensure that the costs of growth are not passed on to working families. Industry leaders countered that data centers support essential services, create jobs, and generate billions in investment. Lawmakers say the debate is likely to return next session. STORY: Long term weather outlook Spring in Western Washington is shaping up to be near normal for temperatures and rainfall, …
March 2, 2026 News Transcript
Blaine PD arrests man accused of brandishing weapon during road rage incident, Dept. of Ecology releases update on drought declared last April, California company donates mobile dam to Sumas fire department in efforts to stave off future floods, PeaceHealth to cap optional phase of cardiac rehabilitation, PeaceHealth has announced it will scale back part of its cardiac rehabilitation program in Bellingham, New Sunset Pond loop trail opens to public, Spanish-speaking callers to WA Dept. of Licensing answered by accented AI English voice, WA leaders decry “unconstitutional” attack on Iran, Invasive Species Awareness Week, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail RUN AGAIN BY/ABOUT MAR 16, Lummi Island ferry dry dock scheduled for mid-April, Places to file your taxes for free, Long Term Weather Outlook Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March, 2. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Blaine PD arrests man accused of brandishing weapon during road rage incident A 22-year-old man is in custody following a road rage incident involving a gun. Blaine PD says its officers were summoned just before 5 p.m. on Thursday after someone reported a man pointed a gun at them and began chasing them through the city. Police say the suspect was speeding and driving recklessly. Officers conducted a high-risk traffic stop at Third and H streets. Police say they were aware the suspect had previously possessed a firearm, and a loaded pistol was found inside the vehicle. The suspect was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of first-degree assault and reckless driving. Formal charges have not yet been filed. STORY: Dept. of Ecology releases update on drought declared last April A drought affecting thirteen Washington counties will continue on with no end in sight. In an update to its website, the state Department of Ecology said that a lack of snowfall this winter has contributed to the problem. February’s snowpack level is currently at 52 percent of its normal figures, which makes it the third-lowest on record for this time of year. The announcement comes as Washington faces increasingly warmer temperatures, with 2026 already the warmest year on record. The department said it will release a water availability forecast for residents living in the troubled Yakima (YAK-i-mah) Basin early this month. STORY: California company donates mobile dam to Sumas fire department in efforts to stave off future floods A California company has donated a mobile dam to the Sumas (SOO-mass) Fire Department. Heavy flooding caused by December’s atmospheric river caused Sumas Fire District 14 to evacuate for the third time since the station was originally built in the 1980s. According to a news release from the District, the department reached out to Aqua Dam Incorporated in Scotia (SKO-sha), California, which then gave the Sumas station the dam — for just the cost of shipping. The dam is a 420-foot water-filled barrier valued at over $44,000. District 14 says it plans to use the dam in future flood events, but will still set up a command center outside of Sumas as rescue vehicles are not able to leave the station when it floods. STORY: PeaceHealth to cap optional phase of cardiac rehabilitation PeaceHealth has announced it will scale back part of its cardiac rehabilitation program in Bellingham. Hospital leaders told patients and the community this week that Phase Three cardiac rehab — the optional, long-term maintenance program — will now be capped at eight weeks. Starting in late April, current participants will no longer be eligible once they reach that limit. PeaceHealth says rapid growth in its medically necessary Phase Two program — up about 12-to-13 percent annually — is driving the change. They also cite space constraints on the St. Joseph campus. The hospital says it is working on a partnership with the YMCA to transition patients after their eight weeks. However, many longtime participants say they’re concerned about losing medically supervised sessions near the emergency room, warning the change could impact their safety and long-term heart health. STORY: New Sunset Pond loop trail opens to public More than thirty years after it was first conceived, the Sunset Pond Loop trail is now open. Initially envisioned in Bellingham’s Greenways levy of 1990, Sunset Pond Loop is the product of four-plus years of recent design, permitting, and construction. According to a recent release by the City of Bellingham, highlights include boardwalks through scenic and previously inaccessible marsh and wetlands. Open to hikers and cyclists, the new path expands and connects trail networks from North Bellingham to Barkley Village, Bellingham Bay, and more. Parks & Recreation Director Nicole Oliver noted the years of work that went into Sunset Pond Loop’s development on the city’s website, and celebrated it as, quote, “a genuine nature escape right in the heart of North Bellingham” unquote. STORY: Spanish-speaking callers to WA Dept. of Licensing answered by accented AI English voice The Washington State Department of Licensing has pulled foreign language options from its phone system after callers discovered a bizarre glitch. People who selected Spanish were met with a voice speaking English — but with a heavy Spanish accent. The error went viral after a Washington resident posted a TikTok video that’s now racked up hundreds of thousands of likes. In an emailed statement, a spokesperson for the DOL said the error is an “unfortunate byproduct” of expanding services into nine new languages, and described the rollout as a complex phone system transition. Officials say the issue appears to stem from a configuration change and are still evaluating the cause. For now, foreign language options have been removed, and the agency says it’s monitoring the system to prevent the problem from happening again. STORY: WA leaders decry “unconstitutional” attack on Iran Washington state’s congressional delegation is sharply divided after President Donald Trump authorized U.S. airstrikes on Iran. In recent public statements, most of the state’s Democratic lawmakers condemned the move, calling it unconstitutional and warning it could drag the U.S. into a prolonged Middle East war. U.S. …
