Flooding in Whatcom, Skagit, Washington, Hundreds show up in opposition to proposed Whatcom County metal shredder, Ferndale company fined nearly $1 million for environmental violations at Cherry Point, Bellingham school administrators accused of failing to report student assaults resolve cases, Ferndale company fined nearly $1 million for environmental violations at Cherry Point, Bellingham landlords may see stiffer penalties for substandard housing, Amtrak service between Seattle and Portland canceled due to landslide, Don’t eat pre-cut cantaloupe if the source is unknown, CDC says, as deadly salmonella outbreak grows ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Day, Date. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Flooding in Whatcom, Skagit, Washington Flooding along the Skagit River has come within inches of 2021’s flood event heights, and national aid has been deployed since Monday afternoon. The river reached nearly 39 feet in Concrete yesterday and almost 30 feet near Mount Vernon today, slightly below the peak in 2021. The Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter at Hamilton First Baptist Church in Sedro-Woolley, stocked with essential supplies, and all residents in the area are urged to seek safety immediately. As of 10 am this morning, Whatcom County Public Works officials have reported several road closures due to flooding of the Nooksack River and adjacent streams, including: Hannegan Road, Ferndale Road, and parts of Marine Drive. The flood stages for the Nooksack have ended, but overflowed water still remains. Emergency officials expect the impact from the floods to remain. STORY: Hundreds show up in opposition to proposed Whatcom County metal shredder A crowd of around 300 people gathered at the Squalicum Boathouse last night to express concerns and opposition to a proposed metal shredding facility. The audience raised questions about noise, traffic, and environmental risks associated with ABC Recycling’s plans to build a metal shredder in the Alderwood neighborhood of Bellingham. Many attendees were vocal in their opposition, showing a desire to run ABC Recycling out of town. Brian Sarni, a local with 40 years of experience cleaning hazardous materials, voiced his perspective: (SOUND BITE BRIAN SARNI) Sarah Gardener, a local, shared her concern with the shredder’s location: (SARAH GARDENER AUDIO) Despite shouts and comments from the crowd, the company outlined its plans, including the submission of a major project permit application and an environmental checklist. ABC Recycling has submitted documents, including a noise study and a 638-page stormwater management report, addressing worries. Riley Sweeney, communications professional at ABC recycling, attempts to calm concerns. (SWEENEY AUDIO 2) The project faces potential political pressure, and the final decision rests with the Whatcom County Council. ABC aims to start construction in 2024 and open the facility in 2025, pending permit approvals. STORY: Bellingham school administrators accused of failing to report student assaults resolve cases The three Bellingham school administrators accused of failing to report a former Squalicum High School student’s sexual assaults have resolved their criminal cases. The administrators entered into a deferred prosecution agreement at a court hearing yesterday at the Whatcom County District Court, having originally pleaded not guilty in the case. The Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced that the criminal cases will continue for 90 days while the administrators do community service, and that the charges will be dismissed once that has been completed. The administrators had originally been criminally cited in December of last year with one count of failing to report, which is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. News of the citations prompted several hundred Squalicum students to walk out of class in protest. In a note sent to the public, Bellingham Public Schools Superintendent Greg Baker stated the district continues quote “to believe that our staff acted in good faith to protect and support a student, and that the specific information they received did not require a mandatory report.” STORY: Ferndale company fined nearly $1 million for environmental violations at Cherry Point The owners of a biodiesel refinery west of Ferndale are being fined $900,000 by the Washington Department of Ecology for improper waste management. The Treoil (TREE-oil) industrial site has been used since the 80s to process pine tree rosin and refine biodiesel. During this time, the property accumulated a large amount of dangerous waste and company owners left it unsecured and improperly stored. Ecology first discovered the lack of waste compliance in 2014 and ordered Treoil to dispose of it properly. A 2017 inspection again found non-compliance on the site, and the EPA deployed an emergency response team to conduct a cleanup. Afterwards, the owner refused to grant property access to the departments. Inspectors obtained court-ordered access in 2022 and found that the site conditions were the same or worse than before the cleanup and conducted a second cleanup. The costs of the two cleanups totaled almost $4.3 million. The $900 thousand dollar penalty does not include cost recovery for those actions. Treoil has 30 days to pay the penalty or appeal it to the state Pollution Control Hearings Board. STORY: Bellingham landlords may see stiffer penalties for substandard housing The Bellingham City Council is drafting tougher penalties for landlords whose properties fail safety inspections. In a meeting last Monday, the council voted to pursue proposals that would expand Bellingham’s existing tenant protections and laws meant to ensure that rental properties are safe. The proposals come in response to a draft ordinance co-written by council member Kristina Martens and the renters’ advocacy group Tenants Revolt. The ordinance included a $10,000 penalty for landlords collecting rent from tenants living in substandard housing, as well as requiring landlords who failed a city inspection to pay for the costs of relocating renters. The changes proposed by the City Council would require the hiring of eight additional inspectors at a cost of $1.2 million dollars in annual salaries and benefits. STORY: Amtrak service between Seattle and Portland canceled due to landslide A landslide near train tracks in southern Washington has paralyzed the Amtrak service between Seattle and Portland. BNSF …
The Wandering ‘Hamster
December 5, 2023 News Transcript
Final Election Results, Resident Killed After Fireball Rips Through Bellingham Home, equipment breakdowns left two Bellingham fire stations without an engine to deploy Friday, Overdose death reported at Civic Field winter shelter, Blaine city council approves Plover restoration contract, WDFW researchers will use drones for swan and goose surveys in Whatcom, Respiratory illness in dogs’ first cases reported in WA, Don’t eat pre-cut cantaloupe if the source is unknown, CDC says, as deadly salmonella outbreak grows ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, December 5th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Final Election results This year’s general election results have been certified by the Whatcom County Election Division. In the Bellingham mayoral race, Kim Lund beat the incumbent, Seth Fleetwood, by 53 to 46%. Satpal Sidhu was re-elected as Whatcom County Executive with 57% of the vote, while his challenger, Dan Purdy, captured 42%. Undersheriff Doug Chadwick lost the race for Sheriff, trailing behind Donnell Tanksley by about five points. In the County Council races, incumbent Kathy Kershner from District 4 was unseated by her challenger, after capturing only 47 percent of the vote compared to Mark Stremler’s 52. Ben Elenbaas was re-elected at District 5 after beating Jackie Dexter by 22%. Jon Scanlon won the contest for an at-large position at the council by beating Hannah Ordos in a 56-to-42 race. The jail proposition was approved by 63% of the county’s voters. 66% of Bellingham’s voters voted in favor of the Greenways levy, 58% voted in favor of increasing the city’s minimum wage to more than the state’s current minimum wage, and the rental relocation initiative is also due to pass with 62% of voters in favor. STORY: Resident Killed After Fireball Rips Through Bellingham Home A Bellingham resident died after an open flame ignited an oxygen unit in the home on Friday. The deceased was discovered on Sunday, when someone they knew went to check up on them after not hearing from them for several days. According to the Bellingham Fire Department, it is likely that the victim didn’t die from burns, but rather smoke inhalation. Police say the fire did not catch the structure on fire, and while there was no apparent damage to the exterior of the building, the interior was very obviously burned. Nobody else was injured in the fire and It is unclear what open flame started it. An investigation is ongoing. STORY: Equipment breakdowns left two Bellingham fire stations without an engine to deploy Friday The Bellingham Fire Department is facing a shortage of fire engines due to maintenance issues, prompting the city to redistribute firefighting equipment among its six stations. Two stations were reportedly without fire engines for about 24 hours on Friday. Bellingham Public Works Department says that a lack of qualified mechanics at public works means no one is available to fix the fire pumps. Engines needing repairs are currently being sent to private companies for maintenance. Fire Chief Bill Hewett attributed the situation to a “perfect storm” of mechanical troubles. The firefighters’ union has expressed concern on social media, emphasizing the vulnerability of parts of the city in the event of a large fire or emergency. The city is working to address the issue and plans to have the situation corrected by tomorrow. STORY: Overdose death reported at Civic Field winter shelter An overdose death was reported at Civic Field early yesterday morning. Bellingham Police confirmed that two unidentified people were together when they arrived at Civic after the opening weekend of the Road2Home winter shelter program. The two people subsequently overdosed. Officers responded to the overdoses at around 3 am. The winter shelter program opened on Friday, December 1st, in the locker rooms under the scoreboard at Civic Field. STORY: Blaine city council approves Plover restoration contract On November 27th, Drayton Harbour Maritime was authorized by the Blaine City council to finish the restoration on the Plover ferry. The vessel transports passengers from Blaine to the Semiahmoo (sem-ee-AH-moo) Spit, but damages were discovered by the coast guard in fall 2022. Drayton Harbour was initially given over $46,000 dollars to fix the boat, but failed to complete it before their contract expired. This past September, the city attempted to find another shipwright to finish repairs – but Drayton Harbour remained the sole bidder. Drayton Harbour estimates the cost of repairs to be $82,000 with taxes – 7,000 more than the city budgeted for the project. The non-profit now has until May 15th to complete the Plover, or they will receive a $200 penalty each day over the deadline. STORY: WDFW researchers will use drones for swan and goose surveys in Whatcom The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will conduct surveys of swan and geese in Whatcom using drones. The plan comes as swan and geese migrate back to Whatcom and other counties in western Washington. Emphasis will be on flights over Fish and Wildlife managed lands, with WDFW seeking pre-approval by other landowners if additional areas are considered. The purpose of the flights is to assess the Department’s ability to capture high quality images of swan and geese to better monitor the birds. Department biologists will also assess how population estimates based on imaging compare with more traditional ground counts. No area closures or significant public impacts are expected. STORY: Respiratory illness in dogs’ first cases reported in WA The Washington State Veterinarian is urging dog owners to be cautious as an unidentified canine illness has now arrived in Washington state. The unknown disease has been known to be fatal to some dogs, and resembles Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex. Of the 16 reported cases, two have been confirmed in Snohomish and Clark counties. The affected dogs are recovering and the Washington State Department of Agriculture is investigating the remaining 14 cases. Experts have not observed transmission to humans. To prevent the spread, pet owners are advised to ensure vaccinations, avoid dog gatherings, keep sick dogs isolated, practice proper hygiene, and contact …
December 4, 2023 News Transcript
Body scanners are failing, allowing drugs and other contraband into Whatcom County Jail, Bellingham Asking for Public Imput: Park Naming and art installation, NWCAA lifts Stage 2 air quality ban for Maple Falls, WCC enrollment up, After a newly bought Bothel house exploded, experts urge caution, Amtrak adding 2 daily trips between Seattle, Portland, Former WSDOT economist alleges he was pressured to lie about gas prices, Blaine City approves Plover restoration project, WDFW researchers will use drones for swan and goose surveys in Whatcom, Don’t eat pre-cut cantaloupe if the source is unknown, as salmonella outbreak grows, Respiratory illness in Dog’s first cases reported in WA ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, December 5th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Body scanners are failing, allowing drugs and other contraband into Whatcom County Jail The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office announced last week that faulty body scanners at Whatcom County Jail have allowed drugs and other contraband to enter the facility. Undersheriff Doug Chadwick outlined the seriousness of the issue, noting thirteen overdoses at the Jail this year, including three fentanyl overdoses in the last two weeks. The two body scanners were bought in 2018 and 2019, but according to Chadwick have not been adequately maintained, with the company that makes the scanners not servicing them. Costs for replacing the scanners are expected to be $200,000 each and will come from the county Jail Fund. STORY: Bellingham asking for public input: Park naming and art installation The City of Bellingham is asking for help in choosing a name for a new park in the Cordata neighborhood. Those who want to share their ideas, or vote for others, can do so at the Engage Bellingham website. The city is also looking for artists for an interior installation at the new buildings being built for the Pacific Street Operations Center. The section will include a glass-enclosed lobby open to the public where people can enjoy the artwork. $240,000 will be available for design, materials, fabrication and installation of the artwork. Interested artists can submit a proposal by January 5th. More information is available on the city’s Public Arts page. STORY: NWCAA lifts Stage 2 air quality burn ban for Maple Falls area The Northwest Clean Air Agency canceled a Stage 2 air quality burn ban for the Columbia Valley and Maple Falls area last Friday. The agency stated that the air quality has improved, although they still ask residents to limit indoor wood burning as much as possible to avoid another burn ban in the near future. STORY: WCC enrollment up Enrollment at colleges across the country have been down due to the pandemic, but some are starting to recover, including Whatcom Community College. Reporter Connor O’boyle has more. WCC AUDIO STORY: After a newly bought Bothell house exploded, experts urge caution Experts are urging people to exercise caution with gas appliances in their homes after a Bothell house exploded Wednesday morning. The owners of the house had finalized the purchase of the house only two days prior to the explosion. The married couple and their two children had stayed at the house for the first time the night before, and all left just a couple of hours before the explosion. Authorities in Snohomish County are still investigating the cause, though they believe it was due to a gas leak. Experts urge anyone living in a house with gas appliances to recognize the sulfur-like smell of a gas leak, and say residents should get out of the house and call 911 immediately if they notice the smell. They also advise homeowners to ensure carbon monoxide detectors work and get regular maintenance done on gas appliances. STORY: Amtrak adding 2 daily roundtrips between Seattle, Portland Starting December 11, WSDOT and ODOT will introduce two additional daily roundtrip Amtrak Cascades trains between Seattle and Portland, bringing the total to six roundtrips per day. The new schedule aims to provide more convenient travel options, with additional morning and afternoon departures. Tickets for the added trains will be available starting December 1 on AmtrakCascades.com, with early booking encouraged, especially for the holidays. STORY: Former WSDOT economist alleges he was pressured to lie about gas prices A former economist for the Washington State Department of Transportation, Scott Smith, has alleged that he was instructed to lie about the impacts of the state’s carbon market on fuel costs. The conservative nonprofit Citizen Action Defense Fund filed a claim on behalf of Smith, stating that he was forced out of his job for refusing to violate state law and provide false information about the cost impacts of the state’s cap-and-trade program. The claim, a precursor to a lawsuit, comes amid opposition to the state’s carbon market, with critics attributing rising gas prices to the compliance fees. Smith alleges retaliation for refusing to mislead about the cost of the carbon market, with the claim emphasizing that this issue is not about climate change but about the treatment of an employee who refused to provide misleading information. WSDOT has yet to respond comprehensively, and investigations are expected. WX: Flood Watch, High winds Due to an active weather pattern that is expected to bring a series of frontal systems across the Pacific Northwest, there is a flood watch in much of Washington, including Whatcom County. The atmospheric river event could result in extensive street flooding and overflow of creeks and rivers. Today’s high will reach about 57 degrees, with lows around 48. Winds are expected to reach 23 mph in the afternoon, with gusts of up to 30 mph. The wind will persist, but settle down overnight. Tomorrow’s temperatures will be about the same. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Alex Michael, and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio …
December 1, 2023 News Transcripts
BPD asking additional victims of sexual assault to come forward, Whatcom sheriff’s early retirement to create brief leadership void, WWU battles persistent sewage leak affecting Outback Farm, Broken boiler leaves Bellingham Family Partnership students, staff in limbo, WA AG, others support blocking Idaho bathroom law, Free and Cheap, Flood Watch, Nooksack River up around “Action Levels” ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday November 1st. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: BPD asking additional victims of sexual assault to come forward The Bellingham Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying potential victims of sexual assault. BPD took 27-year-old Julio Ortiz-Ortiz into custody based on probable cause for an incident occurring earlier last month. He was booked into the Whatcom County Jail following his arrest. Victims are believed to be vulnerable men, such as those who are experiencing homelessness, or men incapacitated by alcohol and/or other substances. He is known to have picked up victims in a black truck. BPD released Ortiz-Ortiz’s photo in the hopes that other victims or witnesses will come forward. Anyone with information concerning these incidents are requested to call the BPD’s non-emergency dispatch line. STORY: Whatcom sheriff’s early retirement to create brief leadership void After more than 20 years as Whatcom County’s sheriff, Bill Elfo is leaving the position eight days earlier than planned. In a letter to the county council, Elfo cited state pension plan requirements as the reason for his early departure, with his last day set for December 31. Incoming sheriff Donnell (don-NELL) Tanksley won’t be sworn in until January 8. Tanksley, who won the November election, expressed readiness to start early if the council wishes, and both he and Elfo emphasized a friendly transition. The council will decide on December 5 whether to appoint someone for the interim period. STORY: WWU battles persistent sewage leak affecting Outback Farm Fairhaven College is still struggling with sewage leaks at the University’s Outback Farm. The leak was stopped last Monday when a hole along the pipeline was temporarily plugged. This has highlighted concern about Western’s aging stormwater system. Sewage was seen flowing into a farm waterway in October, which affected operations and forced the cancellation of the Fall Harvest Jubilee for the second consecutive year. The University has stated that there was no indication the soil at the farm was contaminated. STORY: Broken boiler leaves Bellingham Family Partnership students, staff in limbo A broken boiler at Larrabee Elementary School is causing uncertainties for the Bellingham Family Partnership Program which serves nearly 300 students. The Program has been using the 100-year-old Larrabee building, but now the school district has been unsuccessful at repairing the boiler. Temporary solutions included space heaters and external heating units, but no long-term plans have been made. While splitting the student population across different temporary locations is possible, the district says it is also exploring other options and says it is committed to finding a welcoming and safe space for the program in the short and long term. STORY: WA AG, others support blocking Idaho bathroom law Washington and New York Attorneys General are leading a coalition of 20 states in an effort to block an Idaho law that bars trans students from using their preferred school bathroom. The law, which came into effect in July, has an ongoing lawsuit against it from a seventh grade trans girl and the Boise High School Sexuality and Gender Alliance. They argue the law is unconstitutional and violates the equal protection clause, Title IX (9), and their right to privacy. As part of the lawsuit, a temporary restraining order has put the law on pause. The group of 22 attorneys general submitted a court brief in support of the students, stating that the law violates Title IX by discriminating against gender-identity, and that the protection of transgender people does not require any significant changes or an undue compromise of privacy. Under Washington law, school districts are required to allow trans students to use bathrooms consistent with their gender identity and must provide all students with an alternative restroom to use if they want more privacy, regardless of gender. STORY: Free and Cheap It’s the season for holiday events and there’s a lot going on. Today at 5pm, the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Community Tree Lighting at the Centennial Riverwalk Park Fountain, with hot cocoa, cookies, and carols. Fairhaven will have a meet and greet with Father Christmas tomorrow at the Village Green from 12-3pm. At the same time, there will be free horse-drawn carriage rides around the village. Later that day, from 5 to 8pm, the Fairhaven Firelight Stroll will feature a luminaria lined path, and cocoa or spiced cider as you stroll down the wooded path. From 5 to 9, Stones Throw Brewery is hosting the Winterfest Block Party. The annual Holiday Port Festival will take place this weekend, from 11am to 5pm each day. Hosted at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, the free, family-friendly event will have live performances by local music and dance groups, an annual Gingerbread House Contest and Display, and visits and photos with Santa Claus. And finally, if you’re in the mood for something more outdoorsy, volunteer work parties are happening every Saturday until December 16th throughout Bellingham’s parks. Volunteers are needed from 9AM-12pm– you can find out which parks are being worked on by visiting VolunteerBellingham.org. WX: Flood Watch, Nooksack River up around “Action Levels, An active weather pattern is expected to bring a series of frontal systems across the Pacific Northwest, leading to persistent rain and mountain snow with increasing intensity through the weekend and into next week. The atmospheric river event may result in extensive street flooding and overflow of creeks and rivers. The total rainfall forecast has increased, ranging from 3 to 7 inches over lowlands and up to 10 to 12 inches over the Cascades and 10 to 15 inches over the Olympics. Today’s high will reach about 46 degrees, with lows around …
November 29, 2023 News Transcripts
Big change’ in weather expected to strike Whatcom County over several days, SR20 will close ahead of potentially snow-laden storms on the horizon, Opportunity Council to launch new rental assistance program Dec. 1, City of Lynden buys last piece for trail extension, $4.8 mil in federal funding to refurbish Wash. state ferries, Methow Wildlife Area units close temporarily to protect wintering mule deer, $4.8 mil in federal funding to refurbish Wash. state ferries, Pac-12 lawsuit: New court ruling keeps conference frozen as WSU, OSU seek full control ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, November 29th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: ‘Big change’ in weather expected to strike Whatcom County over several days Storms heading towards Western Washington from the Pacific Ocean are expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds from today until next week. While the Nooksack River is expected to remain below flood stage, the National Weather Service has stated that this could change, and that Whatcom County is not out of danger. Temperatures will rise and winds tomorrow are expected to be strong enough that power outages are a possibility. The National Weather Service also said that Bellingham could see up to an inch of rain from today until tomorrow, and up to two feet of snow is also expected to fall in the North Cascades. STORY: SR20 will close ahead of potentially snow-laden storms on the horizon The North Cascade Highway will close for the season starting at 6 pm tonight. The Washington Department of Transportation announced the closure of State Route 20 will take place at the Ross Dam trailhead on the west side and the Silver Star gate on the east side. The closure comes in expectation of the two feet of snow later this week, an amount that can cause avalanche danger in the pass. Cayuse Pass and Chinook Pass have already closed for the season. All three passes will remain closed until spring. STORY: Opportunity Council to launch new rental assistance program Dec. 1 The Opportunity Council is launching a new rental assistance program tomorrow. The program, designed to assist low income seniors and families, will provide short-term rental assistance and case management. Those seeking services may complete a screening online at the Opportunity Council’s website, in-person at the Opportunity Council’s offices at Cornwall Avenue, or by calling their Homeless Prevention Screening Line. Households paying more than 50% or their income for rent or making below 50% of the area median income will be randomly selected through a lottery system and contacted to be scheduled with an appointment. Applications may be submitted starting tomorrow at 9 a.m. through the afternoon of December 8th. STORY: City of Lynden buys last piece for trail extension The Lynden City Council has acquired the last piece of land required to complete a trail that’s been in progress for almost 25 years. The land buy will complete the Jim Kaemingk Sr. (KAY-mink) trail that currently ends at City Park. Vander Griend (GRIND) Lumber sold the narrow strip along Fishtrap Creek to the city of Lynden for $380,000. The construction of this trail section is expected to cost about $1.6 million dollars and will be finished in 2024. According to Lynden officials, a state grant will cover approximately 60% of the expenses, including the footbridges over Fishtrap Creek. Eventually, the trail will follow the creek’s path and extend into new Dickinson Park, following the creek’s path. STORY: Methow Wildlife Area units close temporarily to protect wintering mule deer The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is closing five units of the Methow (MEH-tao) Valley Wildlife Area until next March. The closure aims to safeguard crucial winter foraging habitat for the largest migratory mule deer herd in Washington. The Wildlife Area spans over 34,000 acres and the closure is intended to reduce human disturbance during critical winter months. Recreational opportunities for visitors will not be affected, as the popular groomed trail system will remain open. Fish and Wildlife says the Methow area plays a vital role in preserving various habitats, benefiting not only the mule deer but also songbirds, mammals, salmon, and other wildlife. STORY: $4.8 mil in federal funding to refurbish Wash. state ferries Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murry announced yesterday that Washington ferries will receive nearly $5 million in federal funding. Washington State Ferries will be using the money to refurbish passenger areas on six aging boats in its fleet. Those six ships include the Chelan (shuh-LAN), which serves Anacortes and the San Juan Islands. The project will allow for more space between passengers in high-occupancy areas and make cleaning easier for staff. Since 2019, each of these six ferries have been out of operation for three months out of the year on average. The upgrades come as the Washington ferry system continues to struggle with maintenance and funding. A third of the 21 available boats are currently out of service. The state plans to add an additional 16 boats to the fleet and retire many of the aging vessels. However, contracts for new boats have yet to be agreed on, with estimates pointing to 2027, at the earliest. The project expects to extend the life of the aging vessels for another five to ten years. STORY: Pac-12 lawsuit: New court ruling keeps conference frozen as WSU, OSU seek full control The Washington Supreme Court has granted an emergency stay in the legal dispute between Washington State and Oregon State and the Pac-12 conference. The stay– issued by the Supreme Court’s commissioner– delays the attempts of WSU and OSU to take control of the conference’s governing board. WSU and OSU immediately filed an appeal directly to the judges, seeking to remove the stay. A preliminary injunction, granted last month by a lower court, initially gave the two universities control of the Pac-12 board and its financial assets. The court commissioner’s ruling sets a December 12 deadline for motions, after which the judges will decide whether to review the …
November 29th, 2023 News Transcripts
Sewage floods Bellingham apartment grounds; tenants take to social media, State DNR Looking To Acquire Ownership of Sehome Haggen in property swap, Authorities arrest two Whatcom County men with more than half a pound of Fentanyl, State DNR Looking to Acquire Ownership of Sehome Haggen in property swap, Coast Guard partners with local agencies with local agencies to respond to sinking vessel, San Juan County, WSDA wraps up another season of northern giant hornet trapping, Requirement to install electric heat pumps in new houses approved by WA regulatory body, WA lawmakers revive call to let cities have elections in even-numbered years, Student designs wanted for invasive species art contest ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, November 29th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Sewage floods Bellingham apartment grounds; tenants take to social media Residents of the Old Mill Village complex on Electric Avenue took to social media to complain about a sewage leak that took place last Friday. Silver Beach Neighborhood Association president Kerri Burnside, who is also a tenant in the complex, reported that the sewage leaked into a parking lot, the courtyard and at least one apartment unit. Burnside added that the property manager, Peak Management, had failed to protect residents from the spill, which was eventually cleaned up by a plumbing company hired by Peak Management on Saturday. In an email to the residents, Peak Management said the spill had been caused by “a buildup of grease and baby wipes,” which caused a blockage in the line. This is not the first time tenants have filed complaints against Peak Management; in the past, their complaints ranged from leaking roofs to mold. Whatcom County Health and Community Services staff had determined that there was no overflow into Lake Whatcom. STORY: State DNR Looking To Acquire Ownership Of Sehome Haggen in property swap The Washington Department of Natural Resources is considering a property swap that would see their ownership of a vacant office building in Issaquah exchanged for the parcel of land that houses the Sehome (SEE-home) Village Haggen. The purpose of the exchange is to provide revenue for the Common School Trust, which helps fund K-12 school construction projects statewide. DNR states that the office building in Issaquah is underproducing funds, whereas the Sehome Haggen would provide more stable long term income. The exchange would be done with RCO Capital, who is currently in the process of acquiring the Sehome Haggen. The deal is still in the early stages, and a public meeting is set for December 14th at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Bellingham. DNR welcomes public comments on the plan, whether in person or through email. STORY: Authorities arrest two Whatcom County men with more than half a pound of Fentanyl Two men were arrested in Ferndale last weekend with more than half a pound of fentanyl in their vehicle. Deputies responded to a welfare check of a man slumped over in the driver’s seat of the vehicle on Slater Road on Sunday. There they found 2 grams of methamphetamine and about 325 grams of fentanyl, as well as a handgun. The driver, 27-year-old Nicholas Donath, was arrested and booked at Whatcom County Jail on charges related to weapons, obstruction of a law officer and possession with intent to deliver. The passenger, 25-year-old Giovanni Orrantia-Pieper (uh-RAWN-shia PIE-per), was arrested for several outstanding warrants, including second-degree theft, hit and run, and fourth-degree assault. As of this morning, Donath has been released, and Orrantia-Pieper remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Coast Guard partners with local agencies to respond to sinking vessel, San Juan County Earlier this month, a vessel sank off the coast of Orcas Island, causing panic as several groups attempted to aid in the disaster. The 80 foot long vessel, named El Capitan, was found sinking with an oil sheen at the West Sound Marina on November 18th. Divers found no evidence of oil leaking, however, the Islands’ Oil Spill Association deployed booms and absorbents as a precaution, with help from the Washington Department of Ecology. A shoreline assessment determined there was no impact to the shoreline or wildlife in the area. The Coast guard and other groups are monitoring the situation closely and the fate of the vessel is still to be determined . STORY: WSDA wraps up another season of northern giant hornet trapping This month, the Washington State Department of Agriculture will begin removing about 800 northern giant hornet traps placed around Whatcom County. Tomorrow is the end of the season for trapping northern giant hornets, or NGH. No confirmed sightings have taken place to date in either Washington or British Columbia. This would make the second year in a row without any confirmed NGH sightings. The large insects were first found in 2019 in Blaine as well as the Canadian city of Nanaimo (nuh-NAI-moe). Federal guidelines say there must be 3 consecutive years with no confirmed NGH sightings before the hornets can be considered eradicated from the area. STORY: Requirement to install electric heat pumps in new houses approved by WA regulatory body Controversial regulations mandating the installation of electric heat pumps in newly constructed buildings in Washington have been approved by the State Building Code Council. The changes, part of the state’s broader effort to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency, will take effect on March 15, 2024. The regulations offer builders incentives for choosing electric heat pumps over natural gas furnaces during the permitting process. The council erased language mandating heat pumps for heating water and rooms in homes, and it revised how credits are awarded under the state building code scoring system. The decision follows a pause in May due to legal concerns and a federal appeals court ruling in California. Supporters praise the move for its climate and health benefits, while opponents argue it will raise costs and violate federal regulations. STORY: WA lawmakers revive call to let cities have elections in even-numbered years The November 7 …
November 28th 2023 News Transcripts
County Council, Executive seeking volunteers for over 30 commission, advisory board positions, Second deceased person discovered at Bellingham, NWCAA issues Stage 2 air quality burn ban for Maple Falls area, WDFW seeks comment on status review for killer whale, Over 200 employees hired to staff Tukwila behavioral hospital bought by Washington, Crime, taxes and artificial intelligence on tap as WA lawmakers prep for session, NASA satellites could be a new tool to help estimate snowpack, manage water resources, Students designs wanted for invasive species art contest, ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, November 28th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: County Council, Executive seeking volunteers for over 30 commission, advisory board positions The Whatcom County Council and County Executive are looking for interested residents to fill vacancies in over 30 advisory boards and commissions. The positions cover a variety of local issues such as agriculture, criminal justice, and land use planning. Most board members serve terms of two, three, or four years, with specific requirements for each position. Applications from Whatcom County residents will be accepted until 10 a.m. on January 2, 2024. More details and a list of current vacancies are available on the Whatcom County website. STORY: Second deceased person discovered at Bellingham encampment Authorities are investigating the discovery of a deceased individual found inside a tent at an encampment behind the Bellingham Walmart. The body was identified as 45-year-old Dean Dewberry, located by another person in the tent, leading to a 911 call. This marks the second such incident at the encampment in less than a month. The cause of death is under investigation. STORY: NWCAA issues Stage 2 air quality burn ban for Maple Falls area The Northwest Clean Air Agency has issued a Stage 2 air quality burn ban for the Columbia Valley and Maple Falls area, effective yesterday. The ban prohibits the use of indoor fireplaces and pellet stoves, and all outdoor fires of any kind. The only exception to the ban is when a woodstove is the only adequate heat source. The ban is expected to last a few days until the cold calm air changes, allowing for lingering wood smoke particles to clear. The NWCAA warns that wood smoke is especially harmful to children, adults aged 65 and over, and people with heart and lung problems. Violators of the burn ban could face fines or other enforcement actions. For more up-to-date information go to NWCleanAirWA.gov to learn more. STORY: WDFW seeks comment on status review for killer whale The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking public input on a recommendation to keep the killer whale on the state’s endangered species list. WDFW says that while efforts have been made since the last status review, the Southern Resident killer whale population is still in danger. The department recommends no change to the status, keeping killer whales as an endangered species. Southern Resident orcas live in coastal ocean waters off Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. There are 75 southern resident orcas today, about as few as when the capture era ended in 1976. Among them is L25, the world’s oldest living orca at around 95 years old. She is believed to be the mother of Tokitae, the orca who passed away at the Miami Seaquarium three months ago. The draft Periodic Status Review for killer whales is available to view on the WDFW’s website. Written comments on the document can be submitted via email or by physical mail. The public comment period is open until Feb. 19, 2024. STORY: Over 200 employees hired to staff Tukwila behavioral hospital bought by Washington Washington State has hired over 200 employees for the newly named Olympic Heritage Behavioral Hospital. Previously known as Cascade Behavioral Health, the hospital was closed in July amid conflict between staff and management. The state purchased the building in August for 30 million dollars, rehiring over half of the staff who were laid off due to Cascade’s closure. However, Cascade’s union filed suit against the purchase – arguing that the state should rehire all past employees under the union’s contract. U.S. District Judge Barbara J. Rothstein claimed that they were unlikely to win the case, since the union contract became void when the business closed. The new Olympic Heritage is now accepting patients and has enough staff to keep two wards open. Hospital administration says any additional hiring will be based on the funding they receive from the Legislature in the next supplemental budget session. STORY: Crime, taxes and artificial intelligence on tap as WA lawmakers prep for session As the Washington state legislature prepares to return to session next year, they will be prepped on important topics in the upcoming weeks. Senators are gathering this week in 14 committees holding work sessions on Thursday and Friday. Then on Monday and Tuesday, 19 House panels will be in action. Legislators expect to be briefed on topics ranging from fuel surcharges levied on farmers, to the accuracy of election vote counts. Other topics include artificial intelligence in public schools, the increasing costs of construction projects, and the allocation of the new capital gains tax. The full schedule of committee sessions can be found on the Legislature’s website and the hearings will be streamed live on TVW. STORY: NASA satellites could be a new tool to help estimate snowpack, manage water resources Scientists are now able to measure snowpacks with NASA satellites. This year scientists used a NASA satellite to measure the amount of snowpack in the Methow (MET-oww) Valley in Okanogan (ow-kuh-NAA-guhn) County and a river basin at Yosemite (yo-SEH-muh-tee) National Park. Snowpack estimates usually come from computer models, but the results from satellite measurements have proven to be surprisingly accurate. The lead author of a new study recently published in the journal “Remote Sensing of the Environment,” Hannah Besso, says this data could have a big impact on places like the Methow Valley, where not much is known about the snowpack. Researchers …
November 27, 2023 News Transcript
Security increases at Peace Arch border crossing following Rainbow Bridge explosion, Bellis Fair Macy’s employees return to work after Black Friday strike, WWU Shooting Alert, Another Shooting at Meridian, Suspect arrested in 2021 hit and run, WDFW warns of deer mating season migration near roadways, WNS – WA’s long-term care saving program, AGO wins largest largest-ever federal Emmett Till grant for Indigenous cold case project, Student designs wanted for invasive species art contest ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, November 27th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Security increases at Peace Arch border crossing following Rainbow Bridge explosion The Peace Arch border crossing in Blaine saw increased security last Wednesday. Officers from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection – some armed with rifles – surveilled cars entering the United States, spoke with passengers and conducted vehicle checks. The increased security came on the heels of a vehicle explosion at the Rainbow Bridge crossing in Niagara Falls last Wednesday. The vehicle’s two occupants were killed in the explosion. President Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (true-DOUGH) were informed of the incident. As of now, no evidence has been found that shows the Rainbow Bridge explosion was a terrorist attack. STORY: Bellis Fair Macy’s employees return to work after Black Friday strike About two dozen Macy’s employees at the Bellis Fair store returned to work today after going on strike during the Black Friday weekend. The workers voted last month to launch a strike after months of increased security concerns and failed contract negotiations with the company. Customers on Friday saw a sign listing revised business hours. Seasonal, non-union workers and members of Macy’s management team opened the store at 11 a.m. that day instead of 6. The employees at Bellis Fair joined those in Lynnwood and Tukwila in asking the public to not shop there on Black Friday, with organizers saying that over 17,000 people signed an online pledge to respect striking workers. STORY: WWU Shooting Alert An arrest has been made in a drive-by shooting reported yesterday evening that occurred about a half-mile south of the Western Washington University campus. The shooting happened at about 6:30 p.m. on the 2700 block of McKenzie Avenue.The suspects fled in a white Honda sedan and a dark-colored station wagon. UPD has also been able to work with the Bellingham Police Department to determine that there were no injuries at the scene, and the individuals targeted by the shooter were not WWU students. STORY: Another shooting on Meridian The Bellingham Police Department reports that an arrest has been made in another suspected shooting on Meridian Street. Despite reported damage, no injuries were documented. A suspect, identified as 29-year-old Roberto Briones, was arrested at the scene and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. Jail records indicate charges including driving under the influence, unlawful possession of a firearm, drive-by shooting, and domestic violence. There is no indication that the two shooting incidents are related. STORY: Suspect arrested in 2021 hit and run A suspect has been arrested in a hit and run incident that happened over two years ago. According to a filed affidavit of probable cause, the Washington State Patrol says Darren Wade Hicks, 58, hit a 21-year old Ferndale man who was assisting someone with a disabled vehicle. The impact caused significant damage to the car and the victim was thrown approximately 98 feet from the point of impact. Hicks was booked into jail on November 23rd. STORY: WDFW warns of deer mating season migration near roadways The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is warning drivers to be wary when driving as deer mating season continues. During mating season, deer are much more active and move between areas to find better foraging spots. In Western Washington, some groups of black-tailed deer migrate from summer ranges high in the Cascade and Olympic mountains to spend the winter in lower elevation forests and valleys, crossing roads in the process. WSDOT (WASH-dot) determined there are about 5,000 collisions with deer and nearly 300 collisions with elk each year. Two of the most common roadways that have the highest number of interactions between wildlife and vehicles are Highways 20 and 525 on Whidbey Island, and Highway 20 east of Concrete into the Cascades. WDFW recommends drivers be extra alert, pause after seeing any amount of deer, and not swerve during an imminent collision. If a collision does occur with a deer, move the body off the road if it can be done safely and report the accident to the Washington State Patrol. STORY: WNS – WA’s long-term care savings program Washingtonians with kids and older parents in need of care are praising the peace of mind the state’s new retirement savings program is providing them. Reporter Eric Tegethoff (TEG-it-off) has more. CARES AUDIO STORY: AGO wins largest-ever federal Emmett Till grant for Indigenous cold case project Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced last Wednesday that his office will be partnering with tribes across Washington to research, identify and create an inventory of cold cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous people that date back more than 40 years. The Attorney General’s Office received $1.5 million from the federal Emmett Till Cold Case Investigations and Prosecution Program, which supports state, local and tribal law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute pre-1980 cold cases involving racially motivated crimes or civil rights violations. The $1.5 million grant is the largest-ever provided by the program. The grant project will support the work of the new Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Cold Case Unit in the Attorney General’s Office. The federal grant will allow the office to hire two full-time staff, whose job will be to travel across the state over the next three years and work closely with up to 10 tribes. Each tribe will also receive compensation to assist in the research. WX: Mostly Sunny Today will be mostly sunny, with a high of 48 degrees and calm winds. Temperatures will drop …
November 22, 2023 News Transcripts
Popular sanctioned mountain bike trail has finished conversion to hiking only trail, Lummi Indian Business Council approves basic needs distribution for adult tribal members in need, Ferndale Overpass open, Man arrested after reports of machete attack at Maritime Heritage Park in Bellingham, State awards money for housing planning, WA ferry officials warn of long waits over Thanksgiving as broken boats sit idle, Student designs wanted for invasive species art contest ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, November 22nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Popular unsanctioned mountain bike trail has finished conversion to hiking only trail Last week, Whatcom County Parks & Recreation announced the completion of the Chanterelle Connector Trail. The trail links the upper part of the Chanterelle Trail to the Hertz Trail and includes diverse forest lands and a side-trail leading to an overlook of Lake Whatcom. The trail is designated for hiking only, and includes a stair section with over 300 steps. The hiking trail was built over the user-built Surfin’ Turf biking trail, which was shut down in 2015. Even after being officially closed, many bikers continued to ride the trail until earlier this year when the county put up signs stating its closure. The Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition advocated for Surfin’ Turf, like its neighbor and user-built trail Brown Pow, to be turned into a sanctioned mountain bike trail. The WMBC also offered to fully cover the cost of repairs to make the trail more sustainable, and to cover continued maintenance at no cost to the county by utilizing its volunteer trail maintenance crews. However, the county did not end up taking up the plan and instead contracted out the trail’s conversion to a hiking-only trail. A dedication ceremony for the new trail is planned for December, weather permitting. STORY: Lummi Indian Business Council approves basic needs distribution for adult tribal members in need The Lummi Indian Business Council approved a community distribution to assist adult tribal members in need yesterday. $500 will be distributed to eligible tribal members who are at least 18 years of age or older before December 31st. A motion was also made during the council meeting to begin planning for annual distribution every December that included all enrolled tribal members. The two-day distribution will take place on December 18th at the Silver Reef Casino, and December 19th at the Wex’liem (WECK-li-em) Community Building in Bellingham. More updates will be made available at the Lummi Communications’ Facebook page. STORY: Ferndale overpass open After over 3 decades of planning and design, and funding solutions that came together in 2018, Ferndale may now have less traffic on Main Street. The newly constructed Thornton Street overpass will officially open at 3pm on December 2nd, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1pm. The overpass, connecting Thornton Street to the southbound I-5 off- and on-ramp roundabout at Portal Way, provides a second railway crossing in Ferndale without train interruptions. The project began construction in 2020. STORY: Man arrested after reports of machete attack at Maritime Heritage Park in Bellingham A man was hospitalized after being attacked with a machete at Maritime Heritage Park last Sunday. 37-year-old Wayne Yale was running around the park with a machete and yelling shortly after 1:30pm and subsequently struck the man in the shoulder after being told to stop. The attacked man required medical attention. The Bellingham Police Department stated that Yale was found running on Dupont Street towards downtown Bellingham. Officers used less-than-lethal equipment to stop and stun Yale, who told police he had tried to kill the man because he felt the man who told him to “shut up” had violated his rights. Yale was taken into custody without further incident and booked into the Whatcom County Jail for first-degree assault. STORY: State awards money for housing planning The Washington Department of Commerce has announced a grant of $75,000 dollars to help Bellingham plan for the development of ‘missing middle’ housing. Nearly $3 million in total will be allocated to 54 cities across 16 counties to support the adoption of local comprehensive plan policies and zoning codes promoting middle housing in residential areas. The initiative is part of efforts to meet the state’s housing goals, with a focus on increasing homeownership opportunities and diversifying rental housing. Middle housing, defined as compatible with single-family homes and including duplexes, fourplexes, townhouses, etc., aims to address the housing shortage, rising prices, and rental costs in Washington. The Department of Commerce also announced funding for existing Housing Trust Fund projects at risk of losing affordability. STORY: WA ferry officials warn of long waits over Thanksgiving as broken boats sit idle People taking a trip on state ferries over Thanksgiving weekend are likely to face lengthy wait times. Officials with the Washington State Ferries warn travelers to be patient if their holiday includes crossing Puget Sound and to consider leaving earlier than they might have planned, as the usual late November rush in ferry travelers is expected. WSF currently has only 14 workable boats out of a fleet of 21. As a result, services such as Seattle-Bremerton and Edmonds-Kingston will be on reduced services. WSF also warns passengers there could be last-minute schedule changes, as there are no spare boats in case one of the 14 boats has any mechanical issues. Riders are advised to download the WSDOT (wash-DOT) app, which includes ferry schedules and updates. Routes will be on their holiday schedule. STORY: Department of Natural Resources pushes for Smokey the Bear on license plates The Washington Department of Natural Resources is pushing for the creation of a specialty Smokey Bear license plate. At a meeting Monday, Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz made the pitch to lawmakers, saying that the plates will help spread awareness of the growing frequency of wildfires. Franz explained that proceeds from the sales of the plates would go to wildfire prevention education and firefighter support, administered through DNR. To get the plates considered by the Department of Licensing, the initiative …
October 26, 2023 News Transcript
Blaine City Council Approves text amendment allowing large manufactured home parks, Whatcom County Council approves Winter 2023-24 Severe Weather Shelter, Emergency blood supply is dangerously low in WA, U.S. Supreme Court asked to review Washington’s new tax, Democracy Block, PROMO: BEYOND BARS, Arroyo Park bridge open after 3 years ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October 26th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Blaine City Council approves text amendment allowing large manufactured home parks On Monday, Blaine City Council voted to approve a text that will allow large manufactured home parks in east Blaine. The vote comes after over a year of debate in council meetings. The dispute surrounding the parks began after developers Skip and Katie Jansen submitted a planned unit development amendment. While the zoning code allows for manufactured home parks, the PUD code needed for larger developments, doesn’t. After the request, Blaine residents began voicing concerns about affordability, environmental impacts, and traffic. The planning commission recommended in September that manufactured home parks be constricted to a smaller development area. However on Monday, the city council ended up approving the amendment without a size restriction. The council held the vote with four out of seven members present. Councilmember Mike Hill said that this amendment fixes an inconsistency between zoning and PUD codes, a mistake on the part of the city. However, many residents are unhappy with the decision, not believing that the council listened to the voices of the residents. The Jansens plan to move forward with the manufactured home park development, and asked that people keep an open mind until they see what is being presented. STORY: Whatcom County Council approves Winter 2023-24 Severe Weather Shelter Two new severe winter shelters have been funded thanks to the Whatcom County Council and City of Bellingham. These shelters will alleviate some stress from the Lighthouse Mission Ministries Base Camp, which reports to be at or near capacity most nights. The two shelters will provide a total of 95 additional beds during the winter. The first shelter will be open nightly and run by Road2Home and located at Civic Field. The second shelter will be run by the Whatcom County Health and Community Services Department. It will be located at the State Street Creamery Complex and will open on nights when forecasts meet severe weather thresholds. The United Church of Ferndale will also host a shelter that will only be open during severe weather events. The mission would normally begin operating emergency overflow shelters. However, due to lack of volunteers, no overflow shelters will be provided this winter. The county is still looking for volunteers to get the new shelters fully staffed. STORY: Emergency blood supply is dangerously low in WA Blood banks are facing critical shortages of life-saving blood and blood products, particularly type O and Rh negative blood and platelets. According to a recent release by Washington State Department of Health, the shortage is a result of decreased donations during the COVID-19 pandemic and are concerning because they may hinder the ability to meet emergency needs such as trauma cases. To find out more about donating blood, go to the Northwest Blood Coalition website. STORY: U.S. Supreme Court asked to review Washington’s new tax Residents in Washington are challenging the state’s capital gains tax, claiming it violates the U.S. Constitution. A new petition delivered to the U.S. Supreme Court asserts that the court should clarify that out-of-state transactions should not be a source of taxable revenue for the state. The Washington Supreme Court had previously ruled that the capital gains tax was a tax on transactions, namely selling assets. However, according to the petition, the ruling now creates a conflict with the federal Constitution. Washington’s tax, passed in 2021, applies to capital gains over $250,000 but exempts farmland, timber, and livestock. However, it does apply to capital gains from selling shares in businesses.The Department of Revenue estimates it will raise $833 million in its first year with proceeds being earmarked for education. The U.S. Supreme Court has not yet decided whether to hear the case, with the Washington attorney general’s office given until November 3 to respond to the petition. STORY: Democracy Block Election Day is coming up, and to give our listeners more insight into the candidates for office, KMRE is airing a series of candidate forums every day at 11AM. Today, we feature a vigorous debate on the most recent Jail funding proposition. On the pro side are Peter Frazier and Stephen Gockley, and on the con side are Josh Ceretti (suh-REH-dee) and Jason McGill. Tomorrow’s Democracy Block will feature the candidates for Ferndale Mayor, incumbent Greg Hansen and challenger Jon Mutchler. PROMO: BEYOND BARS Also– coming up after the 5pm news– a decision on whether or not to fund a new jail. KMRE, in collaboration with Cascadia Daily News, produced a series of interviews with people who have experience and opinions on the subject. This week, we are re-airing those interviews. Today’s Beyond Bars interview features Steven Simmons, the Outreach Programs Manager at Community Action of Skagit County. A formerly incarcerated person, Simmons is working on his Master’s degree through the University of Washington, as well as working with the unhoused in Skagit County. He has a unique perspective on the work. STEVEN AUDIO Listen to the whole interview tonight after the 5pm newscast. WX: Freeze Watch Today will be mostly sunny with a high of 51°. Tonight has lows around 34 and winds of up to 9 mph. There will be frost in some areas overnight, with the temperatures being much of the same tomorrow. There is a freeze watch in place tomorrow night across Whatcom and Skagit as temperatures drop to around 32 during the weekend. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, and Connor O’Boyle. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at …
November 20, 2023 News Transcript
Bellingham Macy’s to strike on Black Friday; Bellis Fair employees calling for change, Fired Bellingham police detective’s court hearing delayed until December, Bomb threat derails Lummi Nation School evening meeting, Hiker stranded at Twin Lakes rescued from snowy conditions, Base Camp restricts non-resident access to day services, Western gray squirrels now consider ‘endangered’ in Washington, AG prosecutes first ‘organized retail theft’ case, Expert recommends isolating dogs amid deadly, highly contagious, ‘mysterious illness’, Student designs wanted for invasive species art contest, State awards money for housing planning independent, nonprofit community radio KMRE brings you local news for Monday, 20th November. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham Macy’s to strike on Black Friday; Bellis Fair employees calling for change Macy’s employees at Bellis Fair mall, Alderwood Mall, and Southcenter Mall, plan to go on strike on Black Friday. The strike will include about 400 employees who cite concerns over safety issues, pay that doesn’t match the rising cost of living, and insufficient measures to address shoplifting and violent shoppers. Macy’s Workers Union UFCW 3000 urges customers to support their cause by not shopping at Macy’s during the strike. Macy’s contends that they are seeking a mutually beneficial deal. The company had discussions with workers and the union in early November but failed to reach an agreement. The strike is scheduled for this Friday. STORY: Fired Bellingham police detective’s court hearing delayed until December A former Bellingham police detective is set to appear in court in early December on felony and gross misdemeanor charges. Adam (Bo) Stanton McGinty is accused of misappropriation of public funds, official misconduct, and third-degree theft. McGinty, who investigated sexual assault allegations in Bellingham Public Schools, is accused of misusing public funds. McGinty used another officer’s dry cleaning stipend, obtaining more than $750 worth of services in 2022 and 2023. McGinty was placed on paid administrative leave in June, and an internal investigation recommended termination, leading to his firing in August. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison. STORY: Bomb threat derails Lummi Nation School evening meeting A bomb threat disrupted a Lummi Nation School Parent Advisory Committee meeting last Wednesday. The threat, made by juveniles who hacked into a Zoom meeting, resulted in the building being evacuated, while Lummi Nation Police, with a canine unit, searched the area. The FBI and local authorities are investigating. STORY: Hiker stranded at Twin Lakes rescued from snowy conditions Last week, an out-of-state hiker was found at Twin Lakes after sending a distress call. He became lost after trying to find his way back from camping near Mount Baker. The Whatcom Search and Rescue 4×4 unit had time to strategize their mission since the stranded hiker was prepared to sustain himself for the next couple days. The volunteers were able to chain his vehicle and guide him back to the main road without harm. STORY: Base Camp restricts non-resident access to day services The Lighthouse Mission has restricted access to its day services at Base Camp due to high demand and increasing complexity of residents’ needs. Staff shortages and misconduct from day services for people experiencing homelessness contributed to the changes. People who are not official residents of Whatcom County can no longer use the day room or lockers. Showers and health care are on a case-by-case basis. According to staff, the shelter is reaching maximum capacity more frequently, with an increase in severe mental illness, chronic medical conditions, and substance use disorders among residents. The mission plans to improve access once a new shelter opens next Fall. STORY: Western gray squirrels now considered ‘endangered’ in Washington Western gray squirrels are now classified as “endangered” in Washington state. The uplisting in status comes after the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission held a periodic review process for the squirrels over the past few months. The current habitat is primarily limited to three areas: the Klickitat (KLICK-uh-tat) region, the North Cascades, and the southern Puget Trough. Researchers estimate the population to be between 450 and 1,500 squirrels. The more commonly found species, the eastern gray squirrel, is often mistaken for its threatened counterpart. Eastern grays are a non-native invasive species introduced in the early 1900s and are the most common tree squirrels in Washington’s urban areas. Now with the change in status, the squirrels have stronger legal protections, including higher penalties for harming or killing them and a greater overall effort in conserving the species moving forward. STORY: AG prosecutes first ‘organized retail theft’ caseWashington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced the first criminal prosecution by the newly formed Organized Retail Crime Unit. Organized Retail Crime involves groups stealing products for resale, posing a threat to retailers and potentially involving intimidation and violence. The new unit, led by Assistant Attorney General Kent Liu (LOO), is part of efforts to address organized retail crime, identified as a significant and growing problem. The unit, which began operation on July 1st, established in collaboration with the Legislature, aims to provide investigative and prosecutorial resources. STORY: Expert recommends isolating dogs amid deadly, highly contagious, ‘mysterious illness’ Dog owners are being warned about a mysterious and potentially deadly illness spreading nationwide, with over 100 reported cases in Oregon. The illness is still under investigation and is highly contagious among dogs. Owners should be on the look-out for symptoms such as fever, lethargy, and a productive cough resembling kennel cough. Kevin Snekvik, Executive Director of the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab, advises prompt veterinary attention for symptoms, and that vets test samples at state labs. Snekvik also suggests owners avoid dog parks and unfamiliar dog congregations. Boarding pets for the holidays is also discouraged. The cause and nature of the illness remain unknown. WX: Expect a partly sunny day, with a high of 51 degrees. Clouds will roll in towards the night, with lows around 38. Tomorrow will be warmer, but bring a high chance of rain in the afternoon. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, and …
November 17, 2023 News Transcript
Small earthquake near Stanwood, man found dead in homeless camp, ABC Recycling hosts community meeting, Fire District faces challenges, Strike yesterday at Starbucks, Rule announces run for re-election, Developer backs out of housing project, Cheap or Free Friday, ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, 17 November. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Small earthquake near Stanwood A magnitude 3.1 earthquake hit our area at around 5pm yesterday. Centered near Stanwood, the earthquake occurred at a depth of about 18 miles. Earthquakes of this magnitude are considered “minor” and typically only detectable by those nearby. There are no reports of injuries or damage. STORY: Man found dead in homeless camp An unidentified person was found dead at an homeless encampment near Walmart on Wednesday. Bellingham Police are working to contact the victim’s next of kin, and an autopsy to find the victim’s cause of death has been scheduled. This is the second death reported at that encampment in the last few months. STORY: ABC Recycling hosts community meeting ABC Recycling will host a neighborhood meeting to discuss the details of the proposed metal shredding facility on Marine Drive. ABC Recycling experts will be present to explain the equipment and processes involved in metal shredding, addressing how the facility fits into the industrial recycling process. The presentation will include a site plan, and potential areas of concern will be discussed, with an opportunity for the public to ask questions and express concerns. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 5th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Squalicum Boathouse, located at 2600 N. Harbor Loop Drive. STORY: Fire District faces challenges North Whatcom Fire and Rescue is struggling to make ends meet. Fire District 21 serves almost 34,000 people across 156 square miles, and encompasses Lynden, Laurel, Blaine, Custer, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo, and Whatcom County Fire District 4 through a contract agreement. Call volume has nearly doubled in the last decade, with 30% of calls overlapping. Last year alone, they had more than 3000 calls for emergency medical services. Despite increased demand, tax revenues have not kept pace with costs. In an interview with KMRE, Fire Chief Jason Van Der Veen outlined the struggle to meet service demands and the need for more firefighters, facilities, and equipment. After a successful levy lid lift in August for Fire District 4, Van Der Veen is requesting that Fire Commissioners approach voters for a levy rate reset for District 21. Chief Van Der Veen says Birch Bay, Blaine, and Semiahmoo have grown so rapidly services are stretched beyond capacity and response times are delayed. This would be the first time in almost 20 years that North Whatcom Fire has asked voters to reset the levy rate. If approved by the Fire District Commissioners, the public can expect a hearing next Spring. STORY: Strike yesterday at Starbucks Yesterday was Red Cup Day, Starbucks’ official unveiling of their holiday-themed cups, and more than 200 stores went on strike for unfair labor practices. One of those locations was the King and Iowa Street store. According to reports, Chloe Hogan, local barista and strike leader, claimed that her location unionized before the company released a benefits agreement – putting their workers at a disadvantage. They are hoping the strike gets the attention of executives. All Bellingham locations are open this morning. STORY: Rule announces run for re-election State Representative Alicia Rule announced she will run for reelection to the Legislature next year. Rule seeks a third term in the 42nd District House seat she has held since 2021. This comes on the heels of defeat in this year’s race for Whatcom County executive. Rule, a moderate Democrat and Blaine resident who runs a therapy practice in Bellingham, has focused on bills intending to help children and families access mental health services. She has also supported law-and-order legislation related to lifting restrictions on police pursuits and criminalizing street drugs. The 2024 campaign is due to begin in May while the Republican Party has already announced they will mount a challenge for the seat. STORY: Developer backs out of housing project A planned townhouse development in Bellingham that would have resulted in the removal of 327 trees, is on hold. The Seattle-based developer, Stream Real Estate & Development, has withdrawn from the purchase. According to the Cascadia Daily News, the company cited declining real estate values due to a rapid increase in mortgage rates as the reason for their decision. Despite the developer’s withdrawal, the land use permit, issued in September, remains with the Bellingham Country Club. The club plans to keep the property off the market, monitor real estate prices, and review options in 2024. The proposed project faced opposition from the Whatcom Million Trees Project, which argued against the loss of old-growth trees. STORY: Free or cheap Friday It’s Free or Cheap Friday, and here are some weekend entertainment options. Starting today and continuing until Christmas Eve it’s the Allied Arts 44th Annual Holiday Festival of the Arts. With over 100 booths of local artisans and craftspeople, the festival is located at 1331 Commercial St, and open from 10AM to 6pm. On Saturday the NSEA (en-SEE) is hosting a Salmon Sighting event from 12-3pm on Fishtrap Creek at Bender Fields, Lynden. NSEA and the Whatcom Conservation District will be on hand to demystify the Northwest’s most iconic fish…admission is free. Also on Saturday, Ferndale Arts Commission is hosting “Art in Action”, a free event unite local artists and the public in a captivating experience. Head to the Pioneer Pavillion in Ferndale from 1-5pm. WX: WX Expect partly cloudy skies all day today, with a high of 52 degrees. Overnight, you can expect a few passing clouds, but mostly clear with a low of 37. Saturday should be a mix of clouds and sun, with more clouds rolling in as the day goes on. Highs should be near 55. The rain should start sometime Saturday evening, and continue into Sunday. …
