Severe weather warning in place for Whatcom County, October rainfall in Bellingham was half an inch over average, Chuckanut Drive clear of overnight landslide, Sedro-Woolley man arrested following fatal crash on Halloween night, Boulevard Park severely vandalized, In-person visitation to resume at Whatcom County jail, Gov. Inslee sets National Guard on standby in advance of Election Day, Voters to decide future of long term care, Lawsuit challenges Washington’s anti-housing discrimination plan, Commercial salmon fishers in Western WA and beyond struggle with declining prices Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, November 4th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Severe weather warning in place for Whatcom County The National Weather Service has issued a high-wind warning for Whatcom County. Today’s storm, which will bring southern winds of up to 35 mph and gusts of up to 60 mph, is expected to blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages and property damage are also expected. As well as the high-wind warning, a gale watch is in effect for the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and a winter storm warning is in effect for the mountains. The Weather Service asks people to avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches, and to remain in the lower levels of their homes during the windstorm and avoid windows if possible. They also ask people to use caution if they must drive. STORY: October rainfall in Bellingham was half an inch over average The National Weather Service has also found that last month’s rainfall amount was higher than the monthly average. In total, Bellingham received 4.38 inches of rain in October, with a single-day record of 2.12 inches on October 27th — the day a landslide closed I-5 down for hours. On average, October rainfall sits around 3.85 inches. Higher-than-average rainfall and cooler-than-average temperatures are expected due to a weaker La Niña system which will hit western Washington over the coming months. STORY: Chuckanut Drive clear of overnight landslide Chuckanut Drive has reopened after an overnight landslide blocked both lanes with dirt, debris, and car-sized boulders near milepost 13. The road, also known as State Route 11, was closed south of Larrabee State Park. Crews from the Washington State Department of Transportation used heavy equipment to clear the scenic route, which connects Whatcom and Skagit counties. WSDOT (WASH-dot) says landslides like this are common on the route, especially during the rainy season. STORY: Sedro-Woolley man arrested following fatal crash on Halloween night A Sedro-Woolley man is being held on a million-dollar bail for vehicular homicide, DUI, and assault charges following a Halloween night crash in rural Whatcom County that killed a minor and critically injured an 18-year-old. The accident occurred when 30-year-old Tyler Higdon’s eastbound car struck a Ford Fusion turning onto Goodwin Road. The impact ejected the Fusion’s 18-year-old passenger and fatally injured the 11-year-old child. Witnesses reported Higdon was speeding, and alcohol is believed to be a factor. Higdon was treated at a hospital before being taken into custody. The crash drew a large emergency response, but the conditions of the other passengers have not been disclosed. STORY: Boulevard Park severely vandalized An off-road driver caused damage at Boulevard Park with a Halloween night joyride, leaving muddy ruts near the waterfront. According to the Bellingham Police Department’s online reports, the incident happened around 2 a.m. Friday. This is the second vandalism case in less than a year, following similar damage in November 2023. Lake Padden Park also experienced similar incidents last year, with repair costs estimated to be as high as $3,000. According to the Bellingham Parks Department, security measures like night-closed gates have been considered, but it’s unclear if gates were in place during this latest incident. Boulevard Park is one of Bellingham’s top attractions, drawing over 400,000 visitors annually. STORY: In-person visitation to resume at Whatcom County jail The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will resume in-person jail visitation on December 7th. Visitation was suspended in early 2022 due to an elevator system failure that made visits unsafe. Repair delays were attributed to the age of the infrastructure, which made replacement parts hard to find. Sheriff Donnell (dah-NELL) Tanksley emphasized the value of in-person visitation for detainee well-being and rehabilitation. Visitation will be available only on weekends. STORY: Gov. Inslee sets National Guard on standby in advance of Election Day Governor Inslee has activated the Washington National Guard to support law enforcement this week as a precautionary measure. Starting today, Guard members will be on temporary active duty until after midnight on Thursday to help protect public safety and election infrastructure. The decision follows recent arson incidents involving ballot boxes in Portland and Vancouver, Washington, where an incendiary device damaged ballots. Local officials in Whatcom County have increased ballot pickup frequency, and local law enforcement has increased patrols around dropboxes. The Department of Homeland Security has also indicated that threats to election infrastructure are high this cycle. STORY: Voters to decide future of long term care Initiative 2124 would make contributions to the long-term care program known as WA (“wah”) Cares optional for workers. Opponents of the measure say it could effectively end the program. 2124 AUDIO WX: Keep it breezy And now for the weather: A high wind warning has been in effect today, with average wind speeds around 30 miles per hour, and gusts reaching over 50. Rain is expected to accompany the windstorms on and off today, so please, exercise extreme caution while driving. Daytime highs are projected to be in the mid-50s. The wind is expected to slow slightly as the evening wears on, with temperatures dropping to a low in the mid-40s. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Brodey O’Brien, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduño (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p.m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email …
The Wandering ‘Hamster
November 1, 2024 News Transcript
Bellingham motorist dies following collision on I-5, Whatcom undersheriff reinstated following investigation into undisclosed allegations, Lawsuit challenges Washington’s anti-housing discrimination plan, Initiative could harm wildfire efforts, Free and Cheap, Mount Vernon police currently investigating suspected murder-suicide, Blaine PD warns residents of circulating phone scam, Lynden resident injured in hit-and-run Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, November 1st, 4 days ‘til election day. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bellingham motorist dies following collision on I-5 A motorcyclist, identified as 20-year-old Brian E. Bachman of Bellingham, died in a single-vehicle accident on northbound I5 near Northwest Avenue just after midnight yesterday. The accident blocked all northbound lanes and one southbound lane for almost six hours. According to police reports, Bachman failed to navigate a curve, drove off the road, hit a barrier on the shoulder, and came to rest against a cable barrier. He was wearing a helmet but was ejected from the motorcycle. STORY: Whatcom undersheriff reinstated following investigation into undisclosed allegations Whatcom County Undersheriff Steve Harris is returning to full duty today after a two-month investigation after undisclosed allegations were made against him in late August. Sheriff Tanksley confirmed that Undersheriff Harris, a nearly 30-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office, was on paid administrative leave amid an independent investigation by a Seattle law firm. No details about the allegations or disciplinary actions were provided due to privacy protections. Harris, who became second-in-command last December after Tanksley’s election, had previously served as a deputy and detective. Tanksley emphasized that administrative leave is standard practice during investigations and is non-disciplinary, and does not imply the truth of the allegations. STORY: Lawsuit challenges Washington’s anti-housing discrimination plan Washington’s pioneering homebuyer assistance program now faces legal challenge. Washington’s Covenant Homeownership Program, which assists homebuyers affected by historic racist housing policies, is being sued by the Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism, a national nonprofit that has advocated against diversity efforts at schools and other organizations around the country. FAIR filed a lawsuit against the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, claiming the program violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment by excluding homebuyers based on race. The program, launched this summer, offers down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers from racial groups historically targeted by discriminatory practices, provided they meet certain income and residency criteria. FAIR argues the program should be race-neutral, alleging it excludes eligible buyers, such as white applicants. In a recent release, the commission defended the homeownership program, citing extensive research and the persistent racial ownership gap in Washington, where Black and Hispanic ownership rates lag behind white homeownership. STORY: Initiative could harm wildfire efforts An initiative on the ballot for Washingtonians this year would repeal the state’s Climate Commitment Act. Opponents of the measure say it would harm efforts to fight wildfires. Eric Tegedoff has the story… WILDFIRE audio STORY: Free and cheap It’s Friday– and here’s your list of free or cheap things to do this weekend: Tonight: It may be drippy outside, but it’s First Friday– so grab your raincoat and visit the local artists, galleries, places to dine and sip, late night shopping, and live music all around downtown. First Fridays happen every month from 6-10pm. Walking maps are available at downtownbellingham.com. A bunch of events are due to take place tomorrow. Firstly, it’s salmon season in Whatcom County, and the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association is hosting multiple Salmon Sightings this week and beyond. One of them is taking place tomorrow from noon till 3pm at Oyster Creek in Bow. Parking will be available by the Taylor Shellfish Farm. All Salmon Sightings are free, and a full schedule is available at the NSEA website. Also tomorrow — learn and try a variety of adaptive sports at the YMCA Adaptive Sports Demo. The event runs from 11:30-1:30 and is free to members, $5 for non-members. The event is open to the whole community and to people of all ages and ability. The Upfront Theatre is hosting Hellingham, Bellingham’s favorite improvised murder mystery. There are still tickets available at the Upfront Theatre’s website for the second evening show tomorrow. Tickets start at $12.30. Get them before they sell out! Also on Saturday, why not join the Daughters of Norway for the Annual Nordic Fest? There’s entertainment all day with ethnic music, dancing, vendors, a costume parade and much more. The fun goes from 10-4pm at the Ferndale Events Center. Admission is $5. And, finally, the Ferndale Events Center is hosting another big event on Sunday — this time, it will be Open Book: A Festival for Readers, which will run from noon till 5pm. The event, sponsored by the Whatcom County Library Foundation, celebrates readers, writers, and bookish enthusiasm with attractions spread across 20 booths and stages. Admission is free! WX: Shower thoughts And now weather: Look for more clouds and showers to come in the next few days, with highs peaking in the low 50s. Expect mild east-northeast winds, with gusts up to 20 miles per hour. Evening lows are projected in the low 40s. A near-identical weather pattern is forecast for next week. Good news for the frogs! OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Brodey O’Brien, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduño (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). 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 station, powered by your donations. Check out our Patreon page or visit kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m _David Korb_______________… thanks for listening. ## STORY: Mount Vernon police currently investigating suspected murder-suicide Mount Vernon police are investigating a suspected murder-suicide involving 24-year-old Erik Johnson and 61-year-old Dvorah Carrasco (duh-VOE-rah kuh-RAS-coe). Carrasco, a mental health counselor, reportedly knew Johnson, and both were found deceased a week ago at Carrasco’s office on South 1st Street. Police …
October 31, 2024 News Transcript
Lummi police officer discharges weapon during arrest of man accused of ramming patrol car, Custer man arrested for unlawful firearm possession, Bellingham mayor calls 2025 budget a “temporary bridge”, Still time to vote, Several Bellingham restaurants offer free meals to children on Halloween Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October 31st. Good afternoon, I’m Theron Danielson. STORY: Lummi police officer discharges weapon during arrest of man accused of ramming patrol car A law enforcement officer from the Lummi Nation fired multiple shots during the arrest of a Bellingham man who rammed his vehicle into a patrol car. According to Whatcom County Sheriff’s Department Public Information Officer Deb Slater, it all started when officers from Lummi Nation Police responded to a report of a domestic disturbance on Tuesday night. 30-year-old Johnnie Hewett, who left the scene before police arrived, was found in a vehicle and attempted to run from the scene. During the ensuing chase, Hewett reportedly hit a patrol car on North Red River Road, prompting a Lummi officer to fire at least two shots in response. Hewett fled the scene, and a multi-agency effort to assist in his capture took place. A Whatcom County K-9 unit ultimately located Hewett, who was taken into custody. He was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on multiple charges, including attempted vehicular assault, and is being held without bail. The officer in the damaged vehicle received minor injuries from the collision but has been medically cleared, while an investigation remains active as the case has been declared an officer-involved shooting. STORY: Custer man arrested for unlawful firearm possession On October 18th, County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a shots-fired call at a residence on Birch Bay-Lynden Road in Custer. 43-year-old Joshua Burke was reportedly shooting a gun into the air, despite two no-contact orders prohibiting him from possessing firearms. Burke fled in a flatbed truck, stopping abruptly when deputies attempted a traffic stop. He ignored commands, reversed his truck toward deputies without hitting their vehicles, then exited and walked onto nearby property. According to Sheriff’s reports, deputies used less-lethal munitions to take him into custody. A search of his residence uncovered firearms and ammunition. As of yesterday, Burke remained in jail on a $20,000 bond, facing charges of second-degree assault and unlawful firearm possession. STORY: Bellingham mayor calls 2025 budget a “temporary bridge” Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund presented a new, single-year budget for 2025, which marks a shift from the city’s previous two-year cycle. Lund says the $543 million proposal aims to curb deficit spending and stabilize the city’s finances while maintaining essential services. Key budget elements include a 1% property tax hike, funding for public safety and climate action, and limited new positions in public service. The proposed budget would also reallocate certain funds, increase the solid waste utility tax to support environmental projects, and redirect money from street and firefighter pension funds. This comes as a $10.8 million adjustment was recently approved to cover fire and police costs, which draws heavily on reserves and potentially advances the need for emergency reserve usage to 2025. The council will discuss this budget proposal in a public hearing on Monday. STORY: Still time to vote Election Day is just a few days away, but there’s still time for Washingtonians to make their final voting decisions. ELECTION audio STORY: Several Bellingham restaurants offer free meals to children on Halloween It’s Halloween, and several Bellingham restaurants are joining in the fun! These deals are only for today, dine-in only, and details vary by location. WX: Halloween And now for the weather: The forecast today calls for consistent clouds, with infrequent showers in the afternoon and evening. Daytime highs are projected in the mid-50s, alongside calm southeastern winds. We should see a bit more this evening, with lows in the mid-40s, so if you’re going out with Trick or Treaters tonight, make sure to bring an umbrella, just in case. More rain is expected tomorrow. Same as it ever was. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Tristan Trudell, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Brodey O’Brien, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduño (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). 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 station, powered by listener donations. Check out our Patreon page or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m Theron Danielson, and thank you for listening.
October 30, 2024 News Transcript
Suspect in Ferndale High School bomb threat arrested, Bellingham Police seeking information on whereabouts of missing man, Cargill announces closure and demolition of Ferndale dairy plant, Whatcom County to hire full-time archaeologist following costly mishandling of indigenous cultural materials, Proposed gravel mine near Sumas likely to require additional environmental impact studies prior to approval, EPA announces $82 million in grants to improve Washington ports and waterfront infrastructure, Washington tops list of most energy-efficient states Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October 30th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Suspect in Ferndale High School bomb threat arrested A 14-year-old Canadian has been arrested in connection with a bomb threat that targeted Ferndale High School earlier this month and led to the evacuation of staff and students. The arrest on Monday is part of a larger investigation, as the teenager is suspected of making dozens of false emergency threats, or “swatting” incidents, across the U.S. and Canada. Schools, businesses, and government facilities across 12 U.S. states and parts of Canada were targeted, causing widespread disruption and emotional impact on affected communities. Craig Tremaroli, the FBI Special Agent in Charge, credited domestic and international collaboration in stopping the ongoing disruptions. In a press release, Ferndale Police reassured the public of their ongoing commitment to student and staff safety and acknowledged the incidents may be part of a broader swatting trend. STORY: Bellingham Police seeking information on whereabouts of missing man Bellingham Police is seeking the public’s help to locate 44-year-old Donald Cameron, who has been missing since June. Cameron, believed to be unhoused in the Bellingham area, is described as white, 5’9″, and 180 lbs. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact BPD. STORY: Cargill announces closure and demolition of Ferndale dairy plant Cargill is closing its Ferndale plant. In a news release, the global food processor announced it is permanently stopping production at its Ferndale facility in mid-November. The company attributed its decision to the number of upgrades and investments needed to modernize the facility at Third Avenue. Cargill, a family-owned enterprise which currently operates in 70 countries, has operated in Ferndale for 88 years. Kelly Sheehan, the company’s media relations director, says that the company is working with the 12 Ferndale employees to find them employment at other Cargill facilities. Once the plant is closed, it will be demolished, and ownership of the land will be retained by Burlington Northern Railway. No official closing date or demolition date has been set for the plant. STORY: Whatcom County to hire full-time archaeologist following costly mishandling of indigenous cultural materials The Whatcom County Council has approved an exemption to its hiring freeze to recruit a full-time archaeologist. Last summer, a Public Works crew working in Point Roberts removed hundreds of yards of soil from a culturally sensitive site during drainage work without consulting an archeologist. The subsequent mishandling of Indigenous cultural materials is now expected to cost the county hundreds of thousands of dollars. As a response, the county established policies that require archaeological assessment for projects in sensitive areas. According to Public Works Community and Tribal Liaison Roland Middleton, the county has been working with outside consultants for years, however the price of consultants is going up while the number of consultants able to address these issues are going down. The county says a few applicants have already applied for the position, and they hope to have a person hired by the end of the year. The new archaeologist will oversee cultural training for staff and conduct site reviews. STORY: Proposed gravel mine near Sumas likely to require additional environmental impact studies prior to approval The Whatcom County Planning Department is likely to require additional studies for the proposed Ranch Quarry gravel mine near Sumas. Cowden Inc. is seeking approval for the proposed mine, which consists of a 70-acre hard rock pit on 108 acres between Sumas Mountain and Vedder Mountain. According to company president Brent Cowden, the pit would provide gravel and rocks for future development and safety projects without disrupting existing homes and the community. However, some of those living near the proposed quarry site are opposed to the development, and say they fear that the mining operation would negatively impact nearby bodies of water, as well as salmon, wildlife, air quality and other factors. The project has been under review by the county planning department since 2021. In May 2023, the county technical review committee requested additional studies be done by Cowden on factors such as stormwater management and asbestos testing. The studies, provided to the planning department a year later, were assessed by the planning department during the summer. On September 26th, the department sent a letter to project representatives warning that the proposal would likely have significant adverse environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated. The letter further stated that an official Determination of Significance ruling would require the project proposal include an in-depth Environmental Impact Statement. If Cowden opts to go forward with the plan, once the EIS is complete, the county will make a recommendation on the application to the hearing examiner. STORY: EPA announces $82 million in grants to improve Washington ports and waterfront infrastructure The Port of Bellingham received about $1.5 million planning grant as part of $82 million in federal funding awarded to Washington state ports for waterfront infrastructure. Anacortes received the largest award of just over $65 million, and more than $9 million is going to Port Angeles through the EPA’s Clean Ports Program. U.S. Senators Cantwell and Murray emphasized the importance of these grants for port competitiveness and local economic growth. Though Bellingham received a smaller amount in this round, Port of Bellingham spokesman Mike Hogan told The Bellingham Herald that port officials appreciated the grant. Hogan also highlighted over $50 million in state and federal grants secured in the last two years for projects, including a recent almost $18 million grant to enhance its rail connectivity. Port executive Director Rob Fix noted that the port …
October 29, 2024 News Transcript
Western student sexually harassed in Sehome Arboretum, I-5 landslide caused by blocked culvert, Multiple incidents of arson destroy ballot boxes across Washington and Oregon, Bellingham residents voice opposition to city council decision delaying replacement of Chuckanut Creek bridge, Bellingham to develop new public beach in early 2025, Whatcom County to hire full-time archaeologist following costly mishandling of indigenous cultural materials, Washington tops list of most energy-efficient states Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October 29th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Western student sexually harassed in Sehome Arboretum A Western student was sexually harassed in the Sehome Arboretum during the weekend. A campus advisory released by WWU says that the student was walking in the Arboretum around 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, when he was approached by an older man. According to the student, the man grabbed his arm and tried to fondle him before running off towards the top of the hill. The suspect is believed to be between 50-to-70 years old with a dark complexion and a thin, average build. The man was wearing blue sweatpants and a baseball cap during the incident. Bellingham Police have not yet confirmed whether they’re still investigating the incident. STORY: I-5 landslide caused by blocked culvert According to the Department of Transportation and City of Bellingham officials, the Sunday morning landslide that covered the northbound lanes of I-5 was triggered by a blocked culvert at Maryland Street. A piece of wind-blown carpet padding caused water to build up and saturate the soil during heavy rainfall, which led to the slide. An estimated 2,000 cubic yards of debris covered the road and a semi-truck was temporarily stranded. No injuries were reported. According to the National Weather Service, record rainfall in Bellingham on Sunday morning likely contributed to the slide. City engineers have assessed the area and say there is no immediate risk to surrounding infrastructure. While this specific slope is not classified as unstable, landslides are a common hazard in western Washington, especially during heavy rain and snow-melt cycles. Community members are encouraged to clear or report clogged drains to help prevent future incidents. Repair efforts are still underway, and are being monitored by the city and WSDOT. STORY: Multiple incidents of arson destroy ballot boxes across Washington and Oregon Authorities are investigating after fires were set in ballot drop boxes early yesterday in Portland and Vancouver, Washington. In Portland, an incendiary device placed in the drop box damaged three ballots, with nearly all other ballots protected by a fire suppressant. Affected voters will be contacted for replacement ballots. In Vancouver, a fire on the Fisher’s Landing Transit Center drop box destroyed hundreds of ballots despite a fire suppression system, which failed to activate. Surveillance cameras were present, and officials are increasing ballot collection frequency and shifting collection to the evening to reduce overnight risk. A similar attempt earlier this month in Vancouver did not damage any ballots. In a conversation with KMRE, County Auditor Stacy Henthorne said that all ballot drop boxes in Whatcom are equipped with fire suppression. Henthorne says the Auditor’s office is not particularly concerned with the anti-voting action in the Portland area because although Whatcom is growing, it is still a smaller, close-knit community. Election workers visit each dropbox once a day. In addition, Henthorne says that, before dropboxes were installed, she sent letters to the mayors of all the small cities, as well as the Whatcom County Sheriff, to ask for additional help in oversight. In an email to KMRE, Sheriff Donnell (don-ELL) Tanksley said this morning that the Sheriff’s office is committed to protecting the voting rights of everyone in the community, including detainees. Tanksley said, quote: “we’re proud to work closely with the Auditor’s Office to ensure the integrity and accessibility of our local elections.” unquote. Both Washington and Oregon are primarily vote-by-mail, allowing ballots to be returned by mail or drop box. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by election day, or put in a dropbox by 8pm sharp on November 5th, for your ballot to be counted. STORY: Bellingham residents voice opposition to city council decision delaying replacement of Chuckanut Creek bridge Families who live in Bellingham’s South neighborhood say they face an uncertain future after city officials halted developments on a bridge replacement project. The community of Chuckanut Village is located south of Historic Fairhaven around Chuckanut Bay’s estuary. The only access to residents’ homes is through a temporary bridge on 19th Street, south of Rainier Avenue. The original bridge was washed out during a storm in November 2021. According to The Bellingham Herald, residents say they were informed of a recommended solution that involved selling the impacted properties to the city to be converted into conservation land instead of rebuilding the bridge. Homeowner Rebecca Bunn launched an online petition to convince the City Council to reject that recommendation. The city has since decided to delay any decision-making related to the bridge. According to Public Works spokeswoman Riley Grant, sea-level rise and flooding related to climate change are key factors under consideration. The city’s Public Works Department website says staff is looking for a permanent solution that balances environmental impact, long-term costs, and resident access. A City Council presentation is expected in the first half of 2025. STORY: Bellingham to develop new public beach in early 2025 Bellingham’s Boulevard Park will have a new beach early next year to help mitigate storm damage exacerbated by climate change. Construction is scheduled to begin in the next few months and will restore the shoreline from Woods Coffee to beneath the South Bay Trail trestle. The area was fenced off after severe erosion in the November 2021 storms. Boulevard Park, which sees over 400,000 visitors annually, is a popular site with amenities connecting downtown Bellingham to Fairhaven and the Interurban Trail. The project is budgeted at just over $800,000, and funded by a $500,000 state grant as well as Greenways levy funds. According to Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Oliver, …
October 28, 2024 News Transcript
I-5 in Bellingham clear after landslide debris blocked traffic, Slater Road posted for water over roadway, Fire heavily damages fishing boat in Squalicum Harbor, WWU enrollment rises, Whatcom sheriff’s office incorrectly reports release of sex offender in Bellingham, Whooping cough on the rise in Whatcom, WTA eyeing purchase of land for new Bellingham downtown bus station, Washington tops list of most energy-efficient states Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October 28th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: I-5 in Bellingham clear after landslide debris blocked traffic Interstate 5 in Bellingham was closed for several hours yesterday after a landslide blocked the freeway. The slide, which was triggered by torrential rain, caused northbound lanes to close for nine hours, while the southbound lane was closed until around noon after the landslide pushed a concrete median into southbound lanes. In a post on X, WSDOT (wash-DOT) said maintenance crews and geotechnical engineers worked with the City of Bellingham, State Patrol officers, and first responders to tow and clear 2,000 cubic yards of debris. Bellingham Fire posted that a crew member removed a portion of carpet padding from a two-and-a-half-foot culvert that caused the water to back up near the slide. Motorists were diverted from the freeway onto city streets. A passenger car and a semi-truck were trapped by debris; both were eventually dug out, and no injuries were reported. The National Weather Service office in Seattle noted that Bellingham International Airport accumulated 1.75 inches within two hours yesterday morning, and that yesterday was BLI’s second wettest October day ever. STORY: Slater Road posted for water over roadway Officials with Whatcom County Public Works are asking motorists to look out for water over the roadway on Slater Road east of the Nooksack River bridge. As of this morning, the road is open with speed reduced through the area. While the Nooksack River has not flooded, Whatcom News reports that quote “pastureland in the area has been saturated by rain and recent moderate rainfall has caused surface water flooding in low-lying areas” unquote. STORY: Fire heavily damages fishing boat in Squalicum Harbor A 68-foot fishing boat, the Alaskan Girl, was severely damaged by a fire early Sunday while moored in Squalicum Harbor. No injuries were reported, and Bellingham’s fireboat, Salish Star, responded quickly, and managed to mostly extinguish the blaze. The fire caused extensive damage to the boat’s top deck, cabin, and galley, though it remained afloat. It’s unclear if any fuel or hazardous chemicals leaked and, according to Bellingham Fire Captain Dustin Michaelis (muh-KAY-lis), the fire’s cause and damage estimate have yet to be determined. STORY: WWU enrollment rises Western Washington University announced that its total enrollment is rising for the first time since the pandemic. According to a recent release from WWU, there are nearly 15,000 students registered for fall 2024. Shelli Soto, WWU’s Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management, says spring 2024 was the first time since the pandemic that total enrollment took an upward turn from the previous year. She says the fall 2024 numbers are a confirmation that Western enrollment is back on an upward trajectory. FAFSA completion rates among new students are up by 3%, which the University says has also played a role in rising student numbers. The university says it has distributed $2 million more in Pell Grant funding for 2024 as opposed to last year. STORY: Whatcom sheriff’s office incorrectly reports release of sex offender in Bellingham An outdated webpage on the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office site mistakenly indicated that convicted sex offender Jake Unick was free in Bellingham. In reality, Unick remains in custody at McNeil Island following a judge’s order last month. The error caused concern when an email list subscriber noticed Unick’s incorrect location on the registry. Unick was previously imprisoned for attempted abductions in 2013 and is being held pending a June trial that may lead to an indefinite civil commitment. Washington law allows such commitments, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. The webpage has since been corrected. STORY: Whooping cough on the rise in Whatcom Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) says whooping cough is on the rise in Whatcom County. Eight cases have been confirmed so far this month, and officials suspect several more. Community Services says they are contact tracing, working with schools and healthcare providers, and sending exposure notifications. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis (pur-TUH-sis), is highly contagious and particularly dangerous for infants, pregnant individuals, and those with lung or immune conditions. It can cause severe coughing fits and, in some cases, serious health issues. Those exposed are advised to stay home if symptomatic and consult a doctor. Vaccination remains the most effective protection, and DTaP and Tdap vaccines are recommended for children, preteens, adults, and pregnant individuals. Free vaccines are available for children under 18 in Washington, though administration fees may apply. STORY: WTA eyeing purchase of land for new Bellingham downtown bus station Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) says it plans to spend $16 million of its cash reserves next year on a new downtown bus station. According to the WTA, the expenditures will include nearly $6.5 million to buy the former Base Camp property for the new station. They also plan to allocate funds for service expansion, paratransit bus replacements, and nine new positions. The WTA also received nearly $5 million in grants through the Climate Commitment Act for the past two-and-a-half years, for paratransit service and general operations. Last year, the WTA also spent millions from its reserves, which had been built up with federal COVID-19 relief money. Despite strong reserves, WTA expects a $7.6 million operating deficit and a $16.5 million net loss due to lower ridership and the gap between operating revenues and expenses. To address this, WTA will form committees to explore revenue expansion and cost-cutting strategies. In a Board of Directors meeting last week, Finance Director Shonda Shipman said WTA is proposing a “robust” budget to invest in the community. Shipman said there …
October 25, 2024 News Transcript
Health officials caution Washington residents after avian flu cases reported within state, Still time to vote, State awards over $2 million in funding for outdoor recreation facilities in Whatcom County, Whatcom County affirms food security as public health priority, outlines plan of action, Federal judge upholds WA ban on over-the-counter sexual assault kits, Free and Cheap, Washington tops list of most energy-efficient states, WWU enrollment rises Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 25th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Health officials caution Washington residents after avian flu cases reported within state Two people have tested positive in Washington for avian flu earlier this week, although this H5N1 strain does not easily infect humans. An outbreak of the virus affecting over 800,000 chickens was reported at a commercial poultry farm in Franklin County. According to the Washington State Department of Health, two workers had presumptive positive tests soon after. Whatcom County and Washington state officials now urge residents to take steps to prevent the spread of this virus, especially among backyard flocks. Precautions include: wearing protective gear when handling sick or dead birds, cover your coops to prevent contact with wild birds, use separate clothing and shoes while working with birds, and clean equipment regularly. Residents should report sick or dead domestic birds to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, and wild birds to the Department of Fish & Wildlife. STORY: Still time to vote Election Day is 11 days away, but there’s still time for Washingtonians to make their final voting decisions. Here’s more from reporter Eric Tegethoff. ELECTION Audio For more on how the local election process works, tune in today after the 5 o’clock news. STORY: State awards over $2 million in funding for outdoor recreation facilities in Whatcom County The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office awarded over $2 million for outdoor recreation in Eastern Whatcom County. The Nooksack School District will receive over $800,000 to install artificial turf on the high school campus. Meanwhile, nearly $1.2 million will go to the East Whatcom Regional Resource Center to build a multi-sport athletic court, along with a roof for year-round use, enabling both sports and community events. STORY: Whatcom County affirms food security as public health priority, outlines plan of action The Whatcom County Council unanimously passed a resolution this Tuesday affirming food security as a public health priority. Of the $2 million requested by the Whatcom County Food Bank Network in annual funding from the county, only $138,000 was actually allocated to the network. Council member Kaylee Galloway said that she and other council members have asked the executive’s office to see if the allocation can be increased, but it’s unlikely the county will accommodate the food bank’s full ask due to budget constraints. One step outlined by the resolution requires the county executive to work with state and federal officials, as well as the county’s lobbyists, to identify and advocate for additional food bank funding resources. According to the network, which consists of 13 food banks across the County, a quarter of county residents patronize our food banks. STORY: Federal judge upholds WA ban on over-the-counter sexual assault kits A federal judge upheld Washington’s 2023 law banning the sale and advertising of over-the-counter sexual assault evidence kits. The Attorney General’s office argued that the kits were inadequate compared to forensic exams carried out by medical professionals. The judge ruled that the ban is economic regulation, not a violation of free speech, while Attorney General Bob Ferguson emphasized that it protects survivors from misleading claims and promotes access to trained forensic care at no cost. Leda Health faces similar legal battles in other states over its products, and says the ban restricts survivors’ control over their recovery process. The company says it plans to appeal. STORY: Free and cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. Three trick-or-treating events are taking place tomorrow. The First Congregational Church will host a free Trunk-or-Treat event from 2-to-4 p.m. Trick-or-treating in downtown Ferndale will also run from 2-to-4 p.m., while Birch Bay’s fourth annual Trick-or-Treat on the Berm will take place from 3-to-5 p.m. Tomorrow will also see the Pickford Film Center host Bleedingham, a horror short film festival featuring films from the area and all around the world. Tickets start at $11 and can be purchased online. Finally, in terms of live events, the Blue Room will host the Unique Technique Adult Dance Showcase tomorrow at 8 p.m. Audiences 18 and over will have an opportunity to see a mix of hip hop, pom, chair, heels, jazz, and more. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at the Blue Room’s website. WX: Cloud ‘n….. actually, no, just clouds And now weather: Cloudy skies are in the forecast for today, with daytime highs in the mid-upper 50s. Expect calm east-blowing winds throughout the day, with evening lows in the mid-upper 40s. Expect rain tonight, which is forecast to stay with us for the weekend. Hope you all picked out your pumpkins already, or do that Northwest thing and dress for rain. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman (COOL-mun), Tristan Trudell, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Brodey O’Brien, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick, and Miguel Garduño (MEE-gel gar-DOO-ño). 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 station, powered by your donations. Check out our Patreon page or visit kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m _David Korb_______________thanks for listening. ## STORY: Washington tops list of most energy-efficient states A new WalletHub study ranked Washington as the most energy-efficient state in the contiguous U.S.. According to the consumer financial website, the study analyzed factors like low residential energy use and low average miles …
October 24, 2024 News Transcript
Maple Falls man who shot two Whatcom deputies sentenced to 40 years in prison, Everson man sentenced to prison on drug and sexual assault charges, Bellingham man assaulted after asking for directions, One of two WWU students found dead on campus identified, Whatcom County unemployment rate declined in September, still up from 2023, NWS forecasts colder, wetter winter weather for Western WA, DOT warns drivers of toll scam in Washington, WWU enrollment rises Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October 24rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Maple Falls man who shot two Whatcom deputies sentenced to 40 years in prison On Tuesday, a Maple Falls man was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the shooting of two Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies in 2022. According to court documents, the two deputies were called to the home of 63-year-old Joel Young, who was firing his shotgun into the air after an argument with his neighbor. The deputies asked Young to drop the gun – instead, he fired at them, striking both officers in the head. The court documents state that, despite surviving the shooting, both deputies lost their jobs, had significant vision loss and developed PTSD. At 63, Young is likely to spend the rest of his life in jail. His lawyer, public defender Kurt Parrish, has filed an appeal. As of today, Young remains imprisoned at the Whatcom County Jail, waiting for his transfer to the state Department of Corrections’ custody. Both deputies have filed a separate civil lawsuit against Young based on the harm and losses they suffered after they were shot. STORY: Everson man sentenced to prison on drug and sexual assault charges An Everson man has been sentenced to prison after he sexually assaulted a minor. 48-year-old Arturo Navarro approached the minor at a bus stop in March 2023, and asked her if she wanted to do drugs with him. Within the course of several hours, Navarro plied the girl with multiple drugs including fentanyl, and sexually assaulted her. In the following days, Navarro gave the minor more drugs in exchange for explicit images and electronics. Navarro will spend over 11 years in prison, followed by another 4 years of community custody. He will also be required to register as a sex offender following his sentence. STORY: Bellingham man assaulted after asking for directions A Bellingham man was assaulted while in his car in a parking lot earlier this month. One of the assailants, 43-year-old Coleman Knezek, knew the victim and instructed him to exit his vehicle while threatening to take his belongings and car. The driver locked his door, but Knezek tased and punched him through an open window, while another man stabbed the victim. The driver managed to escape and sought emergency surgery for his injuries. Knezek, arrested on October 16th, now faces charges of first-degree assault and robbery, with arraignment set for tomorrow. The second attacker remains at large. STORY: One of two WWU students found dead on campus identified One of two WWU students found dead on campus within less than 24 hours has been identified. Newsweek reports that the family of 18-year-old Micah Mazzuca identified him as the student who died from an apparent fall from Nash Hall on the night of October 9th. The body of the second student was found a day later in Alma Clark Glass Hall. According to Western, the deaths do not appear to be connected, and there was no evidence of foul play or ongoing danger to the community. A GoFundMe was set up by Mazzuca’s aunt, Vanessa Grimm, to raise money for the family, and has raised over $20,000 so far. Mazzuca lived in Olympia for most of his life, and after graduating from high school earlier this year, attended WWU on a music scholarship. According to his obituary, he double majored in music and education, and planned to become a high school choir, drama and English teacher. He leaves behind his mother, father, stepmother, two brothers and sister. STORY: Whatcom County unemployment rate declined in September, still up from 2023 Unemployment rates for Whatcom County and Bellingham decreased in September. According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, Whatcom County’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.1%, a significant decrease from 5% in August. However, the rate was higher compared to September of last year, when it was 3.7%. The City of Bellingham also saw the same amount of decline, also dropping to 4.1%. Statewide, Washington’s unemployment rate stayed steady at 4.8% from August to September, even though the number of unemployed decreased by almost 4,000 people. Washington’s unemployment rate of 4.8% is higher than last year’s 3.6%, and, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is the fifth-highest unemployment rate in the country, following Kentucky, California, Illinois and Nevada. STORY: NWS forecasts colder, wetter winter weather for Western WA The National Weather Service has a new three-month forecast that predicts a weak La Niña weather pattern for Western Washington. That means we can expect colder, wetter conditions from December through February. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts a 60% chance of La Niña developing by November and lasting through March. That means above-average precipitation for the Pacific Northwest and other northern U.S. regions. Meteorologists say that while La Niña increases the likelihood of cooler, wetter weather, snow in the Seattle lowlands remains a 50-50 chance. Historically, about half of weak La Niña patterns since 1950 have resulted in above-average snow. Mountain snowpack is expected to be strong, which should be good news for skiers. STORY: DOT warns drivers of toll scam in Washington Washington residents are being warned about a phishing scam that targets Good To Go! toll users. According to the state Department of Transportation, scammers are sending fake text messages or emails that claim users owe money for tolls and direct them to non-legitimate websites to pay. WSDOT (WASH-dot) wants the public to know that any message asking for payment through sites other than MyGoodToGo.com is a …
October 23, 2024 News Transcript
Update: report of assault near Deming leads to SWAT team response, Ferndale woman arrested following multiple accusations of child abuse by ex-partner, Bellingham pet-sitter accused of stealing and selling dog, Bellingham real estate vacancies up in downtown, declining in rest of city, Bellingham releases plans for updates to Civic Athletic Complex, Bellingham extends mature tree preservation ordinance for additional six months, Dept. of Commerce releases five-year plan to combat record-high homelessness, State awards over $2 million in funding for outdoor recreation facilities in Whatcom County Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. Yesterday, whilst talking about the budget proposal to the County Council, we referred to “banked capacity” as the difference between what the city could charge and what they are charging. In fact, the difference is between what the county could charge and what they are charging. We apologize for the error. STORY: Update: report of assault near Deming leads to SWAT team response More information has been released on a man arrested last week after a domestic dispute near Deming. During the incident, Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 31-year-old Preston Torres after he allegedly shook an infant, slammed an adult against a wall, and assaulted them. The incident required a SWAT team response. The infant was unharmed, and Torres was arrested without incident. He now faces charges including third-degree assault of a child, two counts of second-degree assault domestic violence, and other related charges. Torres remains in custody on a $20,000 bond. STORY: Ferndale woman arrested following multiple accusations of child abuse by ex-partner A Ferndale woman was arrested for felony malicious prosecution following multiple accusations of child abuse by her ex-partner. An arrest warrant was issued for 25-year-old Merissa Saenz (SIGNS) of Ferndale on October 11th, after probable cause was developed to charge her with gross misdemeanor, felony malicious prosecution and perjury. The charges stem from accusations of child abuse Saenz made against her estranged husband, the father of her two children, starting in 2022. Despite repeated investigations, including trips to St. Joseph Medical Center and sexual assault examinations, no evidence of abuse was found. Authorities say they believe Saenz’s accusations were an attempt to wrongfully have her husband arrested. Saenz was arrested yesterday, and is being held without bail. STORY: Bellingham pet-sitter accused of stealing and selling dog Bellingham Police arrested a pet-sitter accused of stealing and selling a dog she had been pet-sitting in August. 20-year-old Katelyn McLean was dog-sitting for an individual who was out of town. According to BPD spokesperson Megan Peters, upon the owner’s return, McLean claimed she had lost the dog. McLean, who dyed the dog’s fur in an attempt to disguise it, allegedly sold it to a third party, who later learned the dog was stolen when they tried to register it. The purchaser and McLean took the dog to a police station to report the incident. At the station, McLean reportedly admitted to stealing the dog, saying she did so after suspecting the original owner had been neglecting the animal. McLean was arrested on multiple charges, including first-degree trafficking stolen property. She was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on October 14th and released later that same day. The dog has since been returned to its original owner. STORY: Bellingham real estate vacancies up in downtown, declining in rest of city A report from Pacific Continental Realty shows that Bellingham’s commercial real estate market showed a positive decline in vacancy rates in the third quarter of this year. Office space vacancies dropped slightly from 4.62% to 4.05%, industrial vacancies from almost half a point, and available retail space also dropped slightly. However, downtown Bellingham faced challenges, with office vacancies rising to 8.18% and retail vacancies increasing to 8.39%, well above the city’s average. Retail rental prices also increased slightly from the previous quarter, with an average increase of 46 cents per square foot. STORY: Bellingham releases plans for updates to Civic Athletic Complex The City of Bellingham has updated its master plan for the Civic Athletic Complex, which outlines a long-term vision for the community’s main recreational area. Two new ideas are being considered: one that would increase recreational opportunities and improve climate resiliency at the new Carl Cozier Elementary School, and another that would expand facilities for aquatic and indoor recreation, along with community gathering spaces within the complex. A public open house to discuss the updates will take place on November 6th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bloedel Donovan Park’s community building. STORY: Bellingham extends mature tree preservation ordinance for additional six months Last night, the Bellingham City Council extended an ordinance that protects mature trees as city staff continue working with developers and the community to refine the regulation. The ordinance, enacted this past May, was a response to an increase in tree removals ahead of the new regulation. It established a ‘Landmark Tree Inventory’ to protect trees with a diameter of 36 inches or greater, and set guidelines for when large trees can be removed. While the ordinance has been effective in preserving trees, it has also caused challenges for developers, leading to construction delays and concerns about housing projects. During the City Council meeting last night, City staff and council members acknowledged the need for more time to review the ordinance in order to strike a balance between tree preservation, housing development, and other city priorities. The ordinance has been extended for six more months. STORY: Dept. of Commerce releases five-year plan to combat record-high homelessness A new report from the Washington State Department of Commerce reveals a marked increase in homelessness throughout the state, and outlined a new five year plan to ease the problem. According to the report, over 200,000 residents experienced homelessness or housing instability in July 2023— a 10% increase compared to five years ago, and a record high. The rise was more pronounced in rural areas, with Yakima, Whatcom, and Stevens counties seeing significant increases. The newly-released state’s …
October 22, 2024 New Transcript
Update: high-speed Bellingham chase puts two in hospital, Bomb squad dispatched after sparkler bomb is found by Whatcom County authorities serving warrant, Whatcom nails down location for severe weather shelter, Average Bellingham coffee prices slightly below those of state, Whatcom County’s new budget proposal includes use of “banked capacity”, Pertussis outbreak leads to highest number of cases in WA since 2015, Dept. of Natural Resources seeking input on first statewide recreation plan, Bellingham releases plans for updates to Civic Athletic Complex Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October 22st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Update: high-speed Bellingham chase puts two in hospital The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office has updated information regarding an arrest made earlier this month. On October 5th, deputies responded to a report of a person passed out in a pickup truck on Olson Road in Ferndale. 37-year-old Randy Chandler was found slumped in the driver’s seat with the engine running. Chandler fled when deputies attempted to approach him, leading them on a high-speed chase before crashing into another vehicle. He was arrested nearby after fleeing on foot. The Sheriff’s office now says Chandler faces multiple charges, which includes two felonies for vehicular assault and eluding police, along with misdemeanors for DUI and drug possession. Chandler also faces a separate felony drug possession charge from an August 27th incident, when Bellingham police found him passed out in a vehicle surrounded by drug paraphernalia and illegal substances. He remains in custody as of today. STORY: Bomb squad dispatched after sparkler bomb is found by Whatcom County authorities serving warrant A search warrant conducted by Bellingham Police a week ago resulted in a bomb squad being dispatched after the discovery of a homemade explosive device. According to BPD spokeswoman Megan Peters, investigators determined the device to be a sparkler bomb. Sparkler bombs are homemade fireworks which consist of hundreds of sparkler-style fireworks taped together. The search also revealed a stolen handgun, equipment and paraphernalia commonly used to distribute drugs, as well as $3,000 in cash. After the search, 46-year-old Joshua Byram from Blaine was arrested on multiple charges, including delivery of a controlled substance. He remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail as of today. STORY: Whatcom nails down location for severe weather shelter As Whatcom County faces a potential cold, wet winter due to La Niña (luh KNEE-nyah), officials say they may have found a severe weather shelter solution for local people struggling with homelessness. After months of looking, the County was unable to find a private organization willing to operate the shelter, so the county’s Department of Health and Community Services says it will now lead the effort and hire and train staff. In addition, Lutheran Community Services at Central Lutheran Church says it will offer overnight space for up to 70 people. The county will contribute $450,000, with Bellingham expected to add $100,000. Although the newly opened Lighthouse Mission can currently offer only 20 to 40 beds, it hopes to provide up to 100 beds in the future during cold snaps. STORY: Average Bellingham coffee prices slightly below those of state According to a new study, Washington state has the third highest price for a cup of coffee in the country – but thankfully, Bellingham roasters brew more for less. According to Toast – a restaurant point of sale company – The average cup of coffee in the state costs $3.69, which comes behind California at $3.88 and Hawaii with the most expensive cup at $4.89. Bellingham charges 18 cents less than the state average, at $3.51 – with the cheapest cups coming in at less than 3 dollars before tax. STORY: Whatcom County’s new budget proposal includes use of “banked capacity” Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu submitted the biennial budget proposal to the county council, which includes a modest property tax increase for homeowners. Whatcom County has significant “banked capacity” of potential tax revenue compared to other cities our size. In 1986, the Washington State Legislature allowed local governments to levy less than the maximum increase in property taxes allowed under law without losing the ability to levy higher taxes later if necessary. The difference between what the city could charge and what they are charging is referred to as “banked capacity”. Sidhu says this is necessary due to budget pressures from new services and reduced federal funding. However, some council members oppose the move, citing concerns about burdening taxpayers. If the county doesn’t use banked capacity, it will need to make $7 million in cuts, which would affect public services like food banks, law enforcement, and road maintenance. The county says it is considering long-term strategies for financial sustainability. Budget deliberations begin at this evening’s Whatcom County Council meeting– the public is invited to attend and give their input with in person, or online. STORY: Pertussis outbreak leads to highest number of cases in WA since 2015 Whooping cough is spiking throughout the United States and Washington. Washington state has reported 873 cases through the first 40 weeks of the year, a dramatic increase from 2023 and the highest since 2015. Other Washington counties are also experiencing a sharp rise in reported cases of the disease, also known as pertussis, with Chelan County reporting the highest case rate relative to population. Children aged 1-to-9 are the most affected, with 45% of cases in this age group. The spike is largely attributed to the return of normal post-pandemic activities, increased exposure, and improved testing methods. Pertussis symptoms are similar to a cold, but with severe coughing fits. Health officials say the best prevention is vaccination, often included in the tetanus shot. Treatment is available with antibiotics, and severe cases may require hospitalization. STORY: Dept. of Natural Resources seeking input on first statewide recreation plan The Washington Department of Natural Resources is seeking public feedback on its first statewide outdoor access and recreation strategic plan. According to the Department, the plan responds to a 21% increase in recreational use of state lands …
October 21, 2024 News Transcript
WWU Dean of Libraries fired, Rite Aid robbery in Blaine leaves employee hospitalized, Bellingham’s final fugitive cow now safely in custody, Two people and their pet rescued from vehicle surrounded by rising water, List of closed roads in Whatcom, WCC debuts new Latine Studies course, Nooksack indigenous families fighting eviction among disenrollment dispute, Ecology fines Whatcom County berry farm for illegal use of water Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October 21st. Good afternoon, I’m Theron Danielson. STORY: WWU Dean of Libraries fired In an update sent to the WWU campus community, University Provost Brad Johnson announced that the former Dean of Libraries, John Danneker, is no longer employed at the University. The announcement comes after Danneker’s arrest last Tuesday on charges of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes. The Bellingham Prosecuting Attorney did not file charges after it was discovered the victim was not a minor. Johnson’s message acknowledged the difficulty of the situation and encourages faculty, staff, and students to seek support through available resources. STORY: Rite Aid robbery in Blaine leaves employee hospitalized A robbery at the Rite Aid in Blaine on Thursday evening resulted in one arrest and a hospitalization. Blaine Police were alerted of a strong-arm robbery at the pharmacy at around 8pm. The suspect, 53-year-old David Brink, had already left the scene by the time officers arrived but was later identified by Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies with the help of witnesses. Brink confessed to stealing a bottle of vodka from the store and attacking an employee, who had tried to stop him. Brink was booked at the Whatcom County Jail on charges of robbery, assault and theft, while the employee was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center to be treated for minor injuries. STORY: Bellingham’s final fugitive cow now safely in custody The saga of the fugitive cow is over. According to the Whatcom Humane Society, Mabel– the brown cow who had been on the run since August 10th– was rescued late Friday night. Mabel had been on the run for over two months, with reported sightings of her throughout the Barkley neighborhood. In a social media post, the Humane society said the rescue was made possible with the help of a quote-unquote “village of people.” More details on the rescue will be released soon. STORY: Two people and their pet rescued from vehicle surrounded by rising water Two people and their pet were rescued from a vehicle surrounded by rising water on Saturday night. Emergency services were called to the 4600 block of State Route 9 at around 8:00 p.m. In a statement issued by Whatcom County Fire District 1, they noted that, with the assistance of Fire District 16 and mutual aid partners, they responded to the area under a bridge spanning the North Fork of the Nooksack River. Both individuals and the dog were stranded on top of a pickup truck. A rescue from Fire District 1 eventually retrieved both people and their dog. No injuries were reported. STORY: List of closed roads in Whatcom Whatcom County released a list of roads impacted by the weekend rain and wind. Travelers are warned to avoid: For updates, please check the county’s Public Works website. STORY: WCC debuts new Latine Studies course A new study area at Whatcom Community College aims to address equity gaps. According to a news release from last month, the college has introduced a Latine (luh-TEE-nay) Studies area, the first of its kind among two-year colleges in Washington state. Latine Studies aims to quote “bridge lived experiences with interdisciplinary course curricula, and encourages treating students as extended family” unquote, as well as including resources such as professional opportunities and free course materials. The goals for Latine Studies’ grant team, which will receive $45,000 in funding from a three-year College Spark Washington grant, include having 15-to-25 courses that highlight the Latine Studies area, recruiting 15-to-20 faculty members, and hosting student activities once per academic year. STORY: Nooksack indigenous families fighting eviction among disenrollment dispute More than twenty disenrolled Nooksack people are once again facing eviction from their homes on tribal land in Deming. The eviction notice comes after a long-lasting legal battle regarding the families’ enrollment in the Nooksack Indian Tribe. They had been participating in a federal program that allows tribal renters to purchase their homes after 15 years. However, the disenrollment of over 300 people from the tribe in 2016 now prevents the families from qualifying for the purchase, and Nooksack authorities now say they will evict the families. Tribal leaders say the families have not provided adequate proof of their lineage, a requirement for families to live in Nooksack tribal housing. However, Michelle Roberts, one of the disenrolled tribal members, told the Bellingham Herald the families have documentation which has been ignored by the Tribal Council. The Tribe says it intends to reallocate the homes to enrolled Tribal families on the waiting list for low-income housing. The Tribe also said if certain conditions are met and if they agree to leave voluntarily, they will be allowed to stay in their homes through the end of the year. STORY: Ecology fines Whatcom County berry farm for illegal use of water The operators of a blueberry farm between Lynden and Sumas were fined $20,000 by the state Department of Ecology for unpermitted water use. RAN General Partnership and its owner Rick Alamwala (alum-WUH-luh) were fined for irrigating about 40 acres of crops despite having no water rights associated with the property. Ecology spokesman Jimmy Norris told the Bellingham Herald that it’s unclear where the water used by Alamwala originates, and underscored the importance of all users applying for water rights. It’s the second time in two years that Alamwala has been fined for this violation, including a $12,000 fine from last year. WX: Hey, ‘least the wind stopped Scattered sun and showers are expected to continue throughout today, with highs in the mid-50s. Expect calm westward winds, and evening lows in the …
October 18, 2024 News Transcript
Details released regarding arrest of Bellingham man accused of possession of child pornography, Former NWYS CEO under state investigation for alleged “inappropriate relationships” with youth, Projects to impact traffic on Guide Meridian, Atmospheric river event set to hit Western Washington midday today, Healthy Children’s Fund decision appealed to state Supreme Court, Free or cheap, Average Bellingham coffee prices slightly below those of state, Pertussis outbreak leads to highest number of cases in WA since 2015 Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 18th. Good afternoon, I’m David Korb______. STORY: Details released regarding arrest of Bellingham man accused of possession of child pornography More details have been released about the man arrested on October 10th for possession of child pornography. Bellingham Police were alerted on September 28th by a woman who found the pornography on 38-year-old Christopher McCullough’s phone. When officers attempted to serve a warrant at McCullough’s lakeside residence, he initially attempted to evade them by hiding in a crawlspace but was eventually apprehended. During the search, police found a partially buried phone, a computer hard drive, and containers of a substance that tested positive for cocaine. During McCullough’s initial court appearance last Friday, bail was set at a million dollars, which he posted the next day. He was released with conditions, including no contact with minors. McCullough’s arraignment is scheduled for today in Whatcom County Superior Court. STORY: Former NWYS CEO under state investigation for alleged “inappropriate relationships” with youth Former Northwest Youth Services CEO Jason McGill is under a state investigation for alleged inappropriate relationships with current and past clients of the Bellingham nonprofit. The probe, confirmed by Bellingham Police, is being conducted by the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families. The Department’s investigation is running in tandem with an independent investigation by the board of directors. According to recent reporting by the Cascadia Daily News, McGill created “a situation ripe for exploitation, coercion and harm by housing at-risk youth in his own home, and discussing sexual experiences and desires”. The Youth Services board was alerted in August of a 20-year-old former client living with McGill, a situation widely considered to be not only in violation of ethical codes for social services, but also a probable breach of organizational policies. In a letter to the board, a concerned community member said McGill allegedly shared his sexual interest with the youth – something that tracks with concerns voiced by current and former Youth Service employees. According to Cascadia Daily, McGill declined to answer questions about accusations that he housed multiple current or former clients and made sexual advances on people within the organization’s service age range. STORY: Projects to impact traffic on Guide Meridian Two more construction projects are scheduled to begin on Meridian Street on Tuesday. According to the city, left turns will be permanently prohibited onto the I-5 northbound onramp from Meridian Street due to safety concerns related to frequent collisions. Drivers that need access northbound will now need to use the Bakerview or Northwest onramps. Additionally, the city will launch a two-year project to replace over two miles of aging sewer lines along Meridian Street, from Orchard Drive to Van Wyck Road. Construction will primarily occur at night, but some daytime work may cause delays. Access to businesses and emergency vehicles will be maintained throughout the project. STORY: Atmospheric river event set to hit Western Washington midday today Another atmospheric river is here. According to the Department of Energy, atmospheric rivers are large weather fronts that carry moisture from the tropics to the poles and significantly increase rainfall in areas that they hit. Forecasters at the National Weather Service caution that this weekend’s rain system will also carry winds gusting up to 45 miles per hour. The advisory lasts from 2 p.m. today through Saturday. This atmospheric river is expected to bring 2-to-4 inches of rain to the lowlands of Whatcom County, and up to 6 inches of rain in the mountains. Rivers and streams will rise sharply, and the Nooksack River is expected to rise dramatically through Monday, but none are expected to flood. The atmospheric river is predicted to affect Western Whatcom County, San Juan County, Everett, and other nearby areas. STORY: Healthy Children’s Fund decision appealed to state Supreme Court The group seeking to repeal the Healthy Children’s Fund in Whatcom County has appealed a September ruling that kept their initiative off the November ballot. Proposition 5 passed narrowly in 2022 and increased property taxes to fund childcare, early learning programs, and support for vulnerable children. The fund is projected to raise $100 million by 2032. Washingtonians for a Sound Economy (WFASE)– a political action committee formed in 2019 and made up of primarily individuals and businesses from Lynden and greater Whatcom County– sought to repeal the tax in order to lower their property taxes. In August, Protect Whatcom Kids, a group supporting the fund, filed an injunction to block the repeal initiative, claiming it was invalid. Judge Lee Grochmal (GROCK-mal) ruled the initiative substantively invalid, citing that it would disrupt county plans and contracts, which are administrative, not legislative. Yesterday, Washingtonians for a Sound Economy appealed to the Washington Supreme Court, arguing that the original suit wasn’t filed within the proper timeframe. If the appeal succeeds, the initiative may appear on a future ballot. STORY: Free or cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap this weekend, here’s a little of what’s going on around the county. Tonight at 7:30, the Mount Baker Theatre will host a showing of The Land Has Spoken, a radio-style drama with an all-Indigenous cast. Tickets for the event, which features haunting stories about menacing monsters, treacherous shapeshifters and cunning tricksters, start at $20.75 and can be purchased at MBT’s website. Tomorrow, local author Rustan Robertson will be at Village Books in Fairhaven to present his new book, The Wages of Sin, which tells the story of a bank robbery in Sedro-Woolley in 1914 and …
