The Wandering ‘Hamster

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 11, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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 10, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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 9, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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 6, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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 4, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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 3, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

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. …

March 2, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

BPD arrests four men in connection with string of residential burglaries primarily targeting Asian residents, Trial begins for Bellingham man accused of attempted murder, InterUrban trail reopens following completion of fish culvert project, Roundabout coming to Meridian and Birchwood Streets, Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail, PeaceHealth to consolidate priority care to their Cordata location, Low-interest loans available for Sumas businesses impacted by flooding, New plan to combat Nooksack floods involves dredging and widening the river, State lawmakers consider bill that would boost WWU funding, Free or cheap, Invasive Species Awareness Week, No Kings Day March 28th, Long term weather outlook, 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, February 27th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: BPD arrests four men in connection with string of residential burglaries primarily targeting Asian residents A sophisticated crime ring blamed for a string of high-end home burglaries across Northwest Washington has been collared. Documents filed in Whatcom County Superior Court indicate that four men were arrested after a multi-agency investigation involving surveillance, GPS tracking, and a K-9 pursuit. Detectives link the group to over $1.4M dollars in losses linked to the so-called “South American Theft Group”. Police say the suspects targeted primarily Asian business owners.  The four men face multiple felonies, including burglary, conspiracy, and hate crimes. All remain in Whatcom County Jail on bonds ranging from $150,000 to 260,000 dollars. STORY: Trial begins for Bellingham man accused of attempted murder A trial is underway for a 25-year-old Bellingham man accused of a violent stabbing last June. Prosecutors say Bennie Demetrius Washington Jr. attacked his former roommate, Tony Kilbert, at a bus stop on Dupont Street. Court testimony says Washington and an 18-year-old accomplice approached Kilbert and started a fight. Kilbert was later hospitalized. Surveillance video placed both suspects at the scene, and prosecutors say the victim’s blood was allegedly found on the aggressors’ hands. Washington’s attorney argues Kilbert’s testimony is unreliable, and notes no knife was ever recovered. Washington faces attempted first-degree murder and assault charges. The trial continues in Whatcom County Superior Court. STORY: InterUrban trail reopens following completion of fish culvert project The City of Bellingham has reopened part of the Interurban Trail.  According to an update posted on the city’s website, the completed project added two new fish-friendly culverts, trail resurfacing, new railings, fresh topsoil, mulch, and native plants. Construction was temporarily halted last August after nearly 700 gallons of diesel spilled into Padden Creek. The incident occurred due to a faulty pump at the construction site. A guided tour of the trail is planned for April 25th at 2 p.m., led by the project’s biologist. STORY: Roundabout coming to Meridian and Birchwood Streets A new roundabout is coming to Meridian Street. The city has posted notices at the intersections of Meridian and Birchwood streets, as well as Meridian and Squalicum Parkway. According to the City website, the plan would merge Squalicum and Birchwood, and build a single multi-modal roundabout that would replace the two signal lights. An open house is scheduled from 6-to-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Parkview Elementary School, where residents can review plans and provide feedback. STORY: Whatcom County to host second community engagement workshop for new jail 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 of 2023, includes construction of a new jail and 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, which is scheduled for Thursday, March 19th, at the Lynden City Annex Chamber. STORY: PeaceHealth to consolidate priority care to their Cordata location PeaceHealth says it will relocate priority care from its main Squalicum Parkway campus, consolidating it at their Cordata clinic. PeaceHealth’s website classifies priority care as ‘health concerns that are not considered emergencies, but should be addressed within 24 hours’. According to a recent release, the clinic already offers priority care, but it will now be PeaceHealth’s only location for priority care in Bellingham, once the change goes into effect on March 2nd. The hospital says it plans to expand orthopedic services into the newly vacated space of its main campus. STORY: Low-interest loans available for Sumas businesses impacted by flooding Sumas businesses and residents are now eligible to apply for disaster loans. In a recent Facebook post, the city of Sumas announced that the Small Business Administration has categorized the December flooding as a disaster. This designation means that low interest loans are now available to businesses that were economically effected. Homeowners, renters, and nonprofits will also be eligible to apply for the loans. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center has opened at the Sumas Advent Christian Church at 125 Front Street, where people can learn more about eligibility and get help filling out applications.  The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is April 27. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Nov. 24.  STORY: New plan to combat Nooksack floods involves dredging and widening the river Two major floods just four years apart have renewed debate over how to handle the volatile Nooksack River. After disasters in 2021 and again last December, some residents see build-up of gravel in the river as the main culprit, and want the river dredged. County flood managers shared their early action plan in a presentation to the county council on Tuesday, saying that simply removing gravel will not solve the problem. Instead, Whatcom County is advancing an ambitious plan known as “Widen the Corridor,” aimed at setting back levees near Everson to restore the river’s natural ability to move sediment. Leaders say the project could lower floodwaters by up to …

February 27, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Bellingham man formally charged in child rape case, WSP arrests motorcyclist following high-speed pursuit on I-5, Proposed Mount Baker geothermal plant could potentially power all of Whatcom County, Ferndale detective and business owner announces candidacy for State Representative, Free vaccine clinic for kids next week, Three finalists selected for Anacortes superintendent, community forums to open next week, Local brewery nominated for best brewpub in the U.S., WA’s legal alcohol limit for driving will not be lowered this year, No police hired thus far with WA’s $100 million grant, Invasive Species Awareness Week, No Kings Day March 28th, Long term weather outlook,  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 Thursday, February, 26. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man formally charged in child rape case A Bellingham man is facing multiple felony charges in Whatcom County Superior Court following the alleged rape and assault of a teenage girl. Kenneth Tyrell Peterson, 30, was arrested last Thursday by the Bellingham Police Department after the assault, which had been reported four days earlier. Court records state Peterson met the teen at the Whatcom Transportation Authority’s Bellingham Station on February 13th and invited her to stay at his encampment where he raped and choked her. Surveillance footage from the transit station and nearby street cameras also showed the two together. Peterson is a registered sex offender who was recently released from prison. He is charged with first-degree rape inflicting serious injury, second-degree assault, third-degree rape of a child and indecent exposure.  He has pleaded not guilty and is being held without bail in the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: WSP arrests motorcyclist following high-speed pursuit on I-5 A 23-year-old man is in custody after leading law enforcement on a high-speed motorcycle pursuit. According to the Washington State Patrol, around 7 p.m. on Tuesday, a trooper reported chasing a motorcycle northbound on Interstate 5 from the Main Street interchange in Ferndale. The rider allegedly reached speeds of 130 miles per hour, passed vehicles on the shoulder and nearly caused multiple collisions. The pursuit continued to the Peace Portal Drive exit in Blaine, where the rider attempted to turn back onto southbound I-5 but dropped the motorcycle at low speed. After a brief foot chase, the suspect surrendered. According to Whatcom County Jail records, the man was booked on charges of second-degree driving while license suspended and attempting to elude a police vehicle. STORY: Proposed Mount Baker geothermal plant could potentially power all of Whatcom County A major geothermal power project that could generate nearly enough electricity to power all of Whatcom County is being explored. According to the Whatcom County Public Utilities District, the Nooksack Indian Tribe signed a memorandum of understanding with them February 17th to study development of a geothermal plant near Mount Baker. A recent ‘prefeasibility’ study by Hotrock Energy Resource Organization found the right conditions could exist for a 250-megawatt facility — roughly equal to the county’s total electric load, not including the BP Cherry Point refinery. Geothermal energy taps heat beneath the earth’s surface to produce carbon-free electricity. Supporters say advances in drilling technology and growing demand for renewable power make the project more viable than in past decades. Still, officials say permitting could take up to 15 years, and environmental protections and cultural considerations will guide any next steps. STORY: Ferndale detective and business owner announces candidacy for State Representative Ferndale detective and business owner Justin Pike announced he will run as a Republican for state House of Representatives. The 42nd Legislative District contains most of Whatcom County, apart from south Bellingham and the county’s southeast corner. Pike, a first-time candidate, will challenge the Democratic incumbent Joe Timmons for Position 2, who has held the seat since 2022. Timmons previously won reelection in 2024 against Republican Kamal Bhachu. Pike made the announcement in a post on Instagram. In it, he emphasized affordability and practical policy decisions. He owns Ferndale Laundry and is a detective with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. STORY: Free vaccine clinic for kids next week Another vaccine clinic for Whatcom County kids is coming up next week. Whatcom County Health and Community Services will host a free immunization clinic Tuesday, March 3rd, from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Chestnut Professional Building. Both walk-in and scheduled appointments are available. Vaccines are free for anyone under 18 and will include COVID-19, hepatitis A and B, polio, chicken pox, flu and MMR shots. Health officials say the clinic is a convenient way for families to get children caught up on recommended immunizations. STORY: Three finalists selected for Anacortes superintendent, community forums to open next week The Anacortes School District has announced three finalists for its next superintendent. According to the district website, five candidates were interviewed on Monday, and the three finalists were announced on Tuesday evening. They include two Washington school district superintendents, and one from Pennsylvania.  One finalist will be interviewed each day from March 3rd to 5th. The winning candidate will have their contract approved by the school board at its March 19th meeting. The interviews will be held from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM in the Anacortes High School Library. Members of the public are welcome to attend or watch on a livestream through the district’s YouTube channel. STORY: Local brewery nominated for best brewpub in the U.S. A Bellingham brewery is in the running to be named the best brewpub in the country. Otherlands Beer, a brewery and café in the Sunnyland neighborhood, is one of 20 nominees in the U.S.A Today contest that serves their own house beers alongside tasty food options. This marks the second year the brewery has been nominated, after ranking seventh in last year’s top 10. According to their website, it was founded in 2020 by Lobrow and Ben Howe, and aims to create a cozy, inviting space with touches inspired by Lobrow’s Polish heritage.  The top 10 winners will …

February 26, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

 Former WCSO detective sues county for harassment and retaliation, Whatcom County flood managers announce reveal years-long early action plan, Local Zen Buddhism community leads interfaith walk for peace, Bellingham City Council formally denounces federal immigration action, Whatcom Democrats chair announces plans to step down in advance of run for state senate, 42nd District Town Hall airs today and Saturday on KMRE, Proposed federal rule barring mixed-immigration households from rental subsidies likely to affect hundreds of families across WA,  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 Wednesday, February, 25. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Former WCSO detective sues county for harassment and retaliation A former detective with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is suing Whatcom County.  Detective Samantha Robinson filed the lawsuit last Wednesday in Skagit County Superior Court, alleging sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation on the job. Sheriff Donnell Tanksley and two deputies were also named as defendants. Robinson resigned a day earlier, claiming constructive discharge — meaning she says working conditions were so intolerable she was forced to quit. The suit details allegations of sex-based comments during hiring, inappropriate conduct by colleagues, and a 2025 AI-generated explicit video that was allegedly shared within the department. Robinson says she later developed PTSD, and faced retaliation after filing complaints. Sheriff Tanksley says a third-party investigation is ongoing, and declined further comment. Robinson is seeking monetary damages to be determined at trial. STORY: Whatcom County flood managers announce reveal years-long early action plan Whatcom County flood managers say they have an early action flood plan.  The Public Works and Health Committee held a meeting yesterday to discuss the proposed plan. The plans include cutting a channel through Everson, levee improvements in Everson and Ferndale, and several other improvements. Flood manager Paula Harris estimates the early action plan alone to cost about $182 million.  [clip: harris-1.wav, :07, out: “for 182 million”] Harris estimates the long-term costs to exceed $474 million. [clip: harris-2.wav, :06, out: “change over time”] The county has requested money from the state to continue the planning projects. The implementation of the plan is expected to take several years.  STORY: Local Zen Buddhism community leads interfaith walk for peace A local Zen Buddhist community led a two-and-a-half-mile interfaith walk through downtown Bellingham on Saturday. The crowd began their walk at Waypoint Park offering prayers and calling for peace and justice, and finished at Marine Park. There, the group recited “Loving Kindness Sutra,” a Buddhist chant that urges people to replace violence and hatred with peace, compassion, and goodwill. According to the group’s website, no faith affiliation was required to participate. The group was inspired by Buddhist monks who walked from Texas to Washington D.C. in 108 days, also calling for peace. Organizers say a similar walk is being planned that will start in Blaine’s Peace Arch Park and end in Bellingham. STORY: Bellingham City Council formally denounces federal immigration action The Bellingham City Council has unanimously approved a resolution denouncing unlawful immigration enforcement in Whatcom. Council members Skip Williams and Dan Hammill introduced the measure on Monday, citing arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement near the county courthouse. The two said they are concerned those actions undermine trust in the government and the courts. Mayor Kim Lund said the City of Bellingham is committed to elevating diverse voices and immigrant stories, citing some recent examples.  [clip: lund-1.wav, :12, out: “for Solito”] Supporters say fear of detention has kept some immigrant families from seeking food, medical care, or legal services. Council member Michael Lilliquist pointed to the city’s oath to uphold constitutional rights, saying he’s watching the right to peacefully protest and criticize the federal government come under attack. [clip lillequist-1.wav   :15    out: and it’s unconstitutional      ] Council member Hannah Stone said the resolution sends a message that residents should still feel safe calling 9-1-1. The Whatcom County Council passed a similar resolution last month. STORY: Whatcom Democrats chair announces plans to step down in advance of run for state senate Eamonn Collins, the chair of the Whatcom Democrats, has announced his plan to run for the state Senate. Collins will run to replace Senator Sharon Shewmake, who announced last year that she will not seek re-election to the 42nd District. Collins is a science teacher at Lummi Nation School and the vice president of the Kulshan Community Land Trust. Additionally, a news release states he has experience as an education policy advisor in the U.S. Congress. Collins will join a crowded race of three other candidates: Port of Bellingham Commissioner Michael Shepard, a Democrat; Blaine School Board director Erika Creydt, a Republican; and unaffiliated candidate Ryan Bowman. STORY: 42nd District Town Hall airs today and Saturday on KMRE Just a reminder that you can listen to the 42nd District Town Hall Saturday at 8:30, or find it posted on our YouTube, Soundcloud, or Substack. STORY: Proposed federal rule barring mixed-immigration households from rental subsidies likely to affect hundreds of families across WA Hundreds of Washington families could lose housing under a proposed Trump administration rule that would bar federal rental subsidies to mixed-immigration households. The proposal from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development would prohibit families from receiving public housing or Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program support if even one member is ineligible due to immigration status. Federal data shows Washington had about 600 mixed-status families in subsidized housing in 2024 — the fifth-highest total in the nation. HUD Secretary Scott Turner says the change would prioritize limited housing aid for U.S. citizens. However, housing advocates warn it could increase homelessness — especially in high-cost areas like Seattle — and force some families to separate. The proposed rule is now open for a 60-day public comment period. WX: Conversations with Greg And now for the weather: Following yesterday’s surprise burst of sunshine, expect a return to overcast skies today, with moderate winds of around …

February 25, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Lummi Nation arrests two for human trafficking, Point Robert’s man arrested for bomb threat, Bellingham man arrested on child rape charges, Semiahmoo woman found guilty of murder, Gas prices jump, Mental health grants for schools going away,  Two budget bills in Olympia slated to draw from ‘rainy day fund’, AI suspected by ‘con’ side of Millionaire’s tax, Places to free file your taxes ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, February 24th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Lummi Nation arrests two for human trafficking Lummi Nation Police have arrested two people for alleged human trafficking and child rape. A 41-year-old woman and a 39-year-old man were booked into Whatcom County Jail on Friday. Records show they are associated with the same police case number. Both suspects are being held without bail and face charges of human trafficking, child rape, harassment, and intimidating a witness. The woman also faces charges of second-degree assault, child neglect, and criminal accomplice. The man faces additional allegations of misdemeanor assault, unlawful imprisonment, and patronizing a prostitute. As of Friday, neither individual had been formally charged. STORY: Point Robert’s man arrested for bomb threat A Point Roberts man was arrested after he allegedly threatened to bomb the exclave’s U.S. port of entry. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says officials called 9-1-1 early Saturday morning after the 34-year-old, armed with an ax, allegedly broke windows at a port building and damaged a government vehicle. Spokesperson Deb Slater says the man also made bomb threats, saying he would return and use his truck. Deputies say he returned to the port, where he was arrested and transported to the mainland for booking into Whatcom County Jail. Charges included suspicion of malicious mischief, bomb threats, burglary, and felony harassment. He’s being held on $150,000 bail. STORY: Bellingham man arrested on child rape chargesA 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a reported sexual assault in downtown Bellingham. According to the Bellingham Herald, the alleged rape was reported just after midnight on Sunday at East Magnolia Street, two days after investigators say the assault occurred. The man was booked into Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of assault, child rape, and indecent exposure. He is being held pending formal charges. STORY: Semiahmoo woman found guilty of murderA Whatcom County jury has returned a guilty verdict in a 2021 murder case. The Bellingham Herald reports jurors on Monday convicted 67-year-old Fairhaven resident Lynda Mercy of second-degree murder in the killing of 67-year-old Thomas Flood. Flood’s body was found on the Semiahmoo Spit in April of 2021 with two gunshot wounds. Prosecutors said Mercy shot him near the Coupeville ferry terminal to steal his vehicle, then drove it through Blaine and Fairhaven before abandoning it. Surveillance footage — including images of Mercy in a distinctive pom-pom hat — helped tie her to the crime. Investigators also linked a .40-caliber pistol owned by Mercy to bullets recovered at the scene. Mercy claimed Flood committed suicide and argued the investigation was flawed. Mercy has been held in Whatcom County Jail since her 2021 arrest, and will be sentenced in March. Second-degree murder carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. STORY: Gas prices jump Gas prices are spiking in Whatcom County. AAA reports that the average price has risen by nearly 60 cents a gallon over the last month. The average price for the county is currently four dollars, twenty-eight cents — but that is still some of the cheapest gas in western Washington. Analysts say that rising costs are driven by refinery issues, tightened regulations, and facility closures. STORY: Mental health grants for schools going awayWhatcom County schools are bracing for major cuts to student mental-health support. According to the Bellingham School District, more than one-and-a-half million dollars in temporary grants expire in June — funding that helps pay for specialists and clinicians to help students with anxiety, depression, attendance, and addiction.  Administered since 2002, the Washington state Healthy Youth Survey is a biennial, cross-sectional survey of 6th-thru-12th graders that measures adolescent health and wellbeing. The 2023 survey found 16% of Whatcom County 10th graders considered suicide in the past year, and 7% attempted it. Grant-funded partnerships provide services in-school for students who cannot access them outside of school. However, providers are in schools only one or two days a week, and typically only serve Medicaid-eligible students.  District leaders met in February to explore long-term funding — from insurance billing to federal grants — but no clear solution has been reached. STORY: Two budget bills in Olympia slated to draw from ‘rainy day fund’ Two different budget bills are being debated in Olympia. The Washington State Standard reports that majority Democrats in the House and Senate have unveiled two supplemental budget options as the March 12th legislative deadline approaches. Both proposals tap more than 700 million dollars from the state’s rainy day fund. Neither budget fully adopts Governor Bob Ferguson’s idea to use cap-and-trade revenue for tax rebates aimed at low- and middle-income households. The House would redirect some carbon auction dollars to rebates and construction, while the Senate leaves climate funding untouched. Overall spending would increase under both plans, with Democrats citing higher demand for services… and inflation. Republicans, meanwhile, argue the proposals reflect what they call a “spending addiction.” The committees vote this week, followed by their chambers, after which the House and Senate can hammer out a final version. STORY: AI suspected by ‘con’ side of Millionaire’s tax A flood of sign-ins against a proposed tax for high earners is now under investigation. According to the group Invest in Washington Now, many of those entries are fake. In a recent press release, the group says it has identified more than 100 confirmed false “con” sign-ins on Senate Bill 6346, which would levy a 9.9% tax on households who are paid over one million dollars per year. Beyond those individual cases, organizers said they identified nearly 38,000 additional opposition sign-ins generated through thousands of duplicate name …

February 24, 2026 News TranscriptRead More

Bellingham Public Schools weighing potential elementary school closures amid declining enrollment, Lynden Public Schools places levy on April ballot following three bond failures, City of Bellingham warns of fraudulent QR codes around downtown parking meters, Construction to cause Guide Meridian delays tomorrow and Wednesday, BLI to close runway for 30 days in 2027, WA joins 12-state lawsuit over Trump administration’s cuts to clean energy programs, including one in Whatcom, Whatcom County representatives lay out priorities for remainder of legislative session, WA’s congressional delegation pens letter in support of governor’s request for federal aid in wake of flooding ​​Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, February, 23. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham Public Schools weighing potential elementary school closures amid declining enrollment A new Bellingham Public Schools committee is debating what to do in the wake of declining enrollment, which could include school closures. The district has faced a drop of 600 students over the last six years. According to officials, the declining birth rate is one of the main reasons for the drop in enrollment. A 2022 district bond measure that provided funds to rebuild three elementary schools and to build a new one is currently on hold. The committee could advise the district to use the funds elsewhere amid the enrollment issue. Other options in addition to potential school closures include adjusting attendance boundaries and consolidating programs. The committee will draft recommendations on elementary school use for the years 2026 to 2036. STORY: Lynden Public Schools places levy on April ballot following three bond failures In more school news, the Lynden School Board has announced they will try again for a capital facilities levy. After three previous failed bond attempts, the district has been unable to secure the 60% approval needed to rebuild Lynden High School and expand two elementary schools. Now, officials have proposed a four-year levy that would raise $25.5 million from 2027 through 2030 for maintenance, safety and technology upgrades. The plan would fund elementary school expansions, building repairs, heating and ventilation upgrades, districtwide security improvements and the purchase of property for Lynden Academy. Superintendent David VanderYacht (VAN-dur YOT) said delaying repairs will only compound costs. After rejecting a similar proposal in December, the board — with new members — voted unanimously Thursday to place the levy before voters in a special election on April 28th. STORY: Bellingham property management company ordered to pay up following unlawful removal of tenant organization signs A Bellingham property management company has been ordered to pay $3,050 to a tenant advocate. Sparq Living must pay a union organizer over $3,000 after maintenance staff removed tenant union organizing posters from an apartment complex. Ethan Martez, with Tenants Revolt, sued under a 2025 voter-approved ordinance that protects tenant speech and organizing rights in Bellingham. A Whatcom County judge ruled in his favor on Feb. 12th. The company has 30 days to pay. STORY: City of Bellingham warns of fraudulent QR codes around downtown parking meters The City of Bellingham is warning people of fake parking meter QR codes.  According to official reports on the city website, the QR codes are actually a scam. Officials want to remind the public that the City of Bellingham never accepts payments through QR codes. If you see a QR Code near a parking meter do not scan it— report it instead to parking@cob.org. STORY: Construction to cause Guide Meridian delays tomorrow and Wednesday Construction will cause delays for drivers on the Guide Meridian north of the freeway tomorrow and Wednesday. The City of Bellingham says it will close the right northbound lane between 7 AM and 3 PM for street and sidewalk repairs.  According to an update released by the city, the construction is part of a sewer main improvement project, which aims to reduce sewer overflows.  The construction comes ahead of WSDOT’s (WASH-DOT) plan to resurface both sides of the Meridian, replace traffic loops, and improve traffic control. STORY: BLI to close runway for 30 days in 2027 Bellingham International Airport will close for one month next summer. In a meeting on Tuesday, the Port of Bellingham Commissioners unanimously approved the closure for commercial air traffic for repairs, which are estimated between 25 and 30 million dollars. Some improvements to the runway include runway shoulders and blast pads, which are designed to protect the runway from damage caused by aircraft exhaust during takeoff. BLI is expected to lose around 385,000 dollars in revenue when it closes for the month next year. Other airport services are expected to remain open, including the medical transport service Life Flight. STORY: WA joins 12-state lawsuit over Trump administration’s cuts to clean energy programs, including one in Whatcom Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is suing the Trump administration again—this time over deep cuts to clean energy funding. The suit comes in response to the U.S. Department of Energy and the Office of Management and Budget’s cancellation of billions of dollars in Congressionally mandated, previously awarded funding. Among the affected projects is the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub— the anticipated centerpiece of a clean hydrogen-initiative which aims to reduce climate change-causing emissions. Plans included construction of multiple storage tanks, two new power plants in Ferndale, and the creation of thousands of quality jobs statewide. The DOE initially granted $27 million dollars to the project in 2024, with a promise of up to $1 billion in additional funding. Without federal support, the project will not be able to move forward. In his statement announcing the lawsuit which includes 12 other states, Brown called the removal of funding illegal. STORY: Whatcom County representatives lay out priorities for remainder of legislative session Washington lawmakers have reached the halfway point of the 2026 short legislative session, but major decisions are still ahead. In the 42nd Legislative District— which covers most of Whatcom County— lawmakers say their top priorities include a proposed income tax on millionaires, education funding, flood recovery and immigration protections. Gov. Bob Ferguson has proposed a 9.9% tax …

February 23, 2026 News TranscriptRead More