Drug overdose deaths across Whatcom dropped sharply across 2024, Whatcom Councilmember proposes controversial changes to severe weather shelter, Proposal to lower state blood alcohol limit for driving under consideration in House and Senate, Free and Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, January 17th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Drug overdose deaths across Whatcom dropped sharply across 2024 Drug overdoses and overdose deaths in Whatcom County have decreased significantly over the past year. In 2024, there were 83 confirmed or probable overdose deaths, down from 137 in 2023, which marks a reversal of a five-year rising trend of deaths largely fueled by fentanyl. Whatcom County Health and Community Services say that’s largely due to coordinated efforts on the part of local government, as well as various agencies focused on intervention, treatment, and follow-up care initiatives. Programs that train medical staff on opioid treatment and the introduction of substance abuse professionals in emergency departments are two efforts that have contributed to the drop in local opioid deaths. While the decline is encouraging, officials stress that overdose remains a significant issue, with about 1,250 suspected cases reported last year. Local law enforcement and Whatcom’s health department say they are addressing the crisis through targeted interventions, such as drug task force operations, public safety directives, and expanded human services. Despite the progress, officials acknowledge that broader systemic factors, like housing insecurity and poverty, must also be addressed to ensure continued success in combating the fentanyl epidemic. STORY: Whatcom Councilmember proposes controversial changes to severe weather shelter A heated debate unfolded at a Whatcom County Council meeting after councilmember Kaylee Galloway proposed changes to the severe weather shelter policy. Galloway brought a letter to the full council and proposed that the council vote on making it a formal proposal to County Executive Satpal Sidhu (saht-POW see-DO). In the letter, Galloway called for the shelter to be opened during encampment clean-ups, an extension of operations to 14 consecutive days, and an increase in the temperature at which the shelter opens to 35 or 40 degrees. Currently, the shelter opens whenever 4 or more hours of temperatures at or below 32 degrees are projected. The letter also proposed local entities collaborate to construct another tiny home village. Council supporters such as Jon Scanlon highlighted health risks at lower temperatures and advocated for shared responsibility with local organizations. However, critics including councilmember Ben Elenbaas (ell-in-BUS) and County Executive Sidhu raised concerns about budget constraints. Sidhu emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility and noted that additional funding would require reallocation from other services. The letter was narrowly approved in a 4-to-3 vote and has been sent to Executive Sidhu for a formal response. STORY: Proposal to lower state blood alcohol limit for driving under consideration in House and Senate Washington’s proposal to lower the legal blood alcohol level has cleared its first legislative hurdle. If passed, Washington would join Utah as the only state with this stricter limit — a reduction of the blood alcohol limit from .08% to .05% — which proponents argue would reduce impaired driving and fatalities. Utah experienced a 20% drop in fatal crashes after adopting the .05% limit in 2018. Sponsored by state senator and former state trooper John Lovick, the bill addresses a sharp rise in traffic deaths in Washington, which hit 809 in 2023 — the highest since 1990. Impaired drivers were involved in about half of those fatalities. Supporters argue that drivers with blood alcohol levels over .05% are significantly more likely to crash, and the change could save lives. Opponents, including the hospitality industry, worry about financial impacts on bars and the challenges for servers to identify impaired behavior at the lower limit. Some suggest a two-tier penalty system, as seen in other states, to address these concerns. The bill includes public education efforts and requires an impact evaluation. If enacted, the new limit would take effect on July 1st of next year. Despite resistance, the proposal has gained momentum, with a House version set for a committee hearing soon. 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. The Chicago Experience will be performing at the Skagit Casino Resort tonight and tomorrow. The tribute band is led by Danny Seraphine (SEH-ruh-fin), the original drummer and a founding member of the iconic rock band Chicago, known for hits such as “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday in the Park,” and “If You Leave Me Now.” Both shows will take place at 8 p.m., and tickets can be purchased for $40 at the Skagit Casino’s website. Another Skagit offering will take place tomorrow at 6pm at the Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon. The venue will host the first Skagit Drag Show of 2025, a series of events emceed by local performer Gina Touchè. Unlike most Skagit Drag shows, however, this one will showcase live vocals by its performers. Tickets starting at $25 can be purchased at the Lincoln Theatre’s website. And, finally, we’re back in Bellingham for Mount Baker Theatre’s Bellingham Winter Wedding Show on Sunday, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is the ideal occasion for those just beginning to plan their wedding or are finalizing the details of their special day. The event, which will unite the local wedding industry under one roof, will feature 30 vendors, from photographers to caterers, venues, makeup artists and more. Tickets for the show can be purchased at MBT’s website for just $12; the theatre’s website also features the full list of vendors for the event. WX: SUN OF MAN, LOOK TO THE SKY! LET YOUR SPIRIT SET YOU FREE! And now weather, The work week is expected to close out with another day of partial sunshine, with light and variable winds, and daytime highs in the low-to-mid 40s. Cloud cover will steadily increase over the evening, which should result …
The Wandering ‘Hamster
January 16, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham man pleads guilty to charges related to forming online relationship with minor, Bellingham man sentenced in connection with 2022 Halloween murder, Charges dismissed for two men involved in Bellingham drive-by shooting last year, Bellingham dog-friendly bar burglarized a second time in two months, Eamonn Collins assumes role as chair of Whatcom Democrats, Expansion plans for port entry will require Sumas, Lynden landowners to sell property, Healthy Children’s Fund distributes over $5 million to Whatcom contracts, Gov. Ferguson calls for bipartisanship in inaugural address Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, January 16th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man pleads guilty to charges related to forming online relationship with minor A Bellingham man pleaded guilty on Monday to charges related to the exchange of explicit content with a 15-year-old Mississippi girl he knew was a minor. According to court records, 46-year-old Daniel Koval (co-VALL) faces up to 15 years in prison for felony charges of possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as communication with a minor for immoral purposes. Police say they found 18 images that depict the sexual exploitation of children after they executed a search warrant on Koval’s electronic devices. He turned himself in to Bellingham Police one year after the investigation began. A sentencing date has not been set yet. STORY: Bellingham man sentenced in connection with 2022 Halloween murder A man has been sentenced to over 21 years in prison for murder at a Bellingham Halloween party in 2022. 24-year-old Brian Pantoja (pun-TOH-ha) murdered 21-year-old Xyrone (ZY-rone) March-Walker of Ferndale after they got into a fight at a Halloween party on East Myrtle Street. During the altercation, Pantoja fatally shot March-Walker in the chest. This was not Pantoja’s first brush with the law; he was found guilty in two separate cases of vehicle theft and robbery in 2020. STORY: Charges dismissed for two men involved in Bellingham drive-by shooting last year Charges against two Seattle men accused of a drive-by shooting on East Bakerview Road last year have been dismissed. 42-year-old Michael Raymond King and 41-year-old Chomreun Sok (CHUM-roone SOH) were arrested for the incident last February; however, charges against King were dismissed without prejudice last June. Charges against Sok were also dismissed without prejudice on December 19th, after a jury had initially found him guilty in July. A new trial was ordered after the defense claimed that misleading statements during the state’s rebuttal closing prejudiced the jury. Prosecutors eventually dismissed Sok’s case due to insufficient evidence. Both men may face these charges again in the future. STORY: Bellingham dog-friendly bar burglarized a second time in two months Paws For A Beer, a Bellingham beer garden on Harris Avenue, has been targeted by the same burglar twice in two months. The most recent break-in occurred early Sunday, when the suspect stole cash, destroyed merchandise, and smashed a window. Co-owner Amy Schoen says she believes the suspect, described as a 6-foot-tall man weighing about 200 pounds and dressed in all black, is the same person who broke into the business on Thanksgiving and stole all the cash. STORY: Eamonn Collins assumes role as chair of Whatcom Democrats The Whatcom Democrats have a new chair. Eamonn (A-mun) Collins, a former federal policymaker and current science teacher at Lummi Nation School, will take the reins of the local Democratic Party after former chair Andrew Reding (RED-ing) withdrew his nomination. Reding, who was originally set to run unopposed for the position, said in an online announcement last week that two hallmarks of good stewardship are quote “preparing others for leadership, and passing on the top office from a position of strength and solvency” unquote. In a unanimous decision last Saturday, elected precinct committee officers chose Collins to take over the chair position. Collins, who has experience on the Whatcom Democrats executive board and campaign experience, says he would like to grow and engage the party membership. STORY: Expansion plans for port entry will require Sumas, Lynden landowners to sell property The Lynden and Sumas ports of entry are expandeding. The U.S. General Services Administration selected the north-south-oriented expansion for the Lynden port, and the multi-story construction expansion option for Sumas. The projects aim to reduce traffic at both ports and expand processing areas, especially for commercial vehicles. Both projects require the federal government to acquire land. In Lynden, that land includes farmland commercial facilities, a business and a residence; in Sumas, several businesses along Cherry Street would have to be sold to the government. Sumas residents have expressed concerns about the project’s potential impact on the town’s tax base, economy and community. Christi Votisek (vo-TEE-shek), a public affairs officer for the GSA, said the federal government expects to begin the real estate acquisition process in the first half of next year, with construction slated to begin in September 2026. STORY: Healthy Children’s Fund distributes over $5 million to Whatcom contracts The Healthy Children’s Fund distributed over $5 million to child-centered organizations throughout Whatcom County, according to the county’s Health and Community Services. The fund’s two main goals are to increase kindergarten readiness and reduce child abuse; Whatcom County currently has the highest rate of child abuse in Washington. A recent report on last year’s Children’s Fund investments includes expanded child care capacity in the county’s facilities, an increased amount of infant care supplies at the food bank, therapy services for individuals with developmental delays, as well as increased access to doula (DOO-la) services for low-income residents. Doula care — which provides support to women throughout pregnancy and the early months of childhood — has been shown to increase early childhood health and wellness, as well as reducing the risk of low birth weight and preterm babies. This year, county officials say they plan to create a childcare subsidy program to help stabilize the childcare market. STORY: Gov. Ferguson calls for bipartisanship in inaugural address After 12 years as attorney general, Bob Ferguson was sworn in yesterday as …
Janaury 15, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham PD seeking information on missing indigenous teen last seen near Ellis Street, Whatcom DUI suspect arrested on New Year’s Eve formally charged, Bellingham abolishes parking minimums for new developments built in the next year, Bellingham among nine designated “fan zone,” cities for Seattle’s 2026 FIFA World Cup games, Nooksack Tribe begins demolition of long-defunct Deming casino, State AG’s office orders medical equipment company to reimburse hundreds of residents, Bellingham dog-friendly bar burglarized a second time in two months Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, January 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham PD seeking information on missing indigenous teen last seen near Ellis Street The Washington State Patrol (WSP) issued a Missing Indigenous Person Alert (MIPA) for 15-year-old Ariel Feliciano, last seen on Monday in the 1700 block of Ellis Street. Ariel is described as 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, gray Adidas pants, red-and-gray Air Jordan shoes, and carrying a black and gray camouflage backpack. She left the area as a passenger in an early 2000s dark blue Honda Civic or Accord. Anyone with information regarding Ariel’s whereabouts is urged to call 911, or submit a tip online at cob.org/tips. STORY: Whatcom DUI suspect arrested on New Year’s Eve formally charged 24-year-old Ivan Leo Matthew Edwards II has been charged with a felony and multiple misdemeanors after a reckless driving incident on Mount Baker Highway on New Year’s Eve. According to police reports, witnesses saw Edwards drive at high speeds and rear-end a vehicle at Nugents Corner before fleeing to Smith Road, where his car broke down and caught fire. When bystanders tried to help, Edwards allegedly punched one person and elbowed another. He was restrained by emergency responders and taken to St. Joseph Medical Center, where he reportedly threatened hospital staff. Edwards now faces a felony charge for third-degree assault of a health care worker, along with gross misdemeanor charges for fourth-degree assault, hit-and-run, driving under the influence, minor in possession of alcohol, and driving with a suspended license. He was initially booked into Whatcom County jail, but has since been released. STORY: Bellingham abolishes parking minimums for new developments built in the next year The City of Bellingham passed an interim ordinance that eliminates parking minimums for new developments for at least one year. City staff say that the goal is to boost housing production, reduce costs, and align building codes with the city’s climate goals. Starting on January 28th, developers will no longer be required to build a set number of parking spaces, though the ordinance does maintain standards for bike parking. The move received broad public support at a lively public hearing held on Monday from developers, climate advocates, and housing advocates. However, some community members and council members raised concerns about equity and accessibility. Council members Lisa Anderson and Michael Lilliquist voted against the ordinance, arguing that parking reform should be focused on areas with robust public transit and that the removal of requirements could lead to a “pay-to-play” system. Accessibility advocates highlighted concerns that reduced parking could negatively impact disabled residents. In response, the ordinance requires ADA parking only when developers build parking; an earlier requirement for a mandatory ADA stall regardless of parking plans was removed. Council member Jace Cotton supported this change, but said he will push for higher accessible parking percentages in future regulations. The ordinance is part of a broader housing reform effort by Mayor Kim Lund, with two more interim ordinances planned to promote middle housing and streamline design review. State lawmakers say they may also consider statewide caps on parking mandates through proposed legislation by Sen. Jessica Bateman. STORY: Bellingham among nine designated “fan zone,” cities for Seattle’s 2026 FIFA World Cup games The City of Bellingham has been selected as one of nine official fan zones in Washington state for the 2026 FIFA (FEE-fuh) World Cup. As a fan zone, Bellingham will host watch parties for the matches at local venues, which includes a Team USA game on June 19th, 2026. Bellingham will also receive state and federal funding for security, small business readiness, and fan engagement activities. City organizers say they plan to hold additional events, arts, cultural programs, and tie-ins with existing local events to maximize community involvement. Officials say they see this as a chance to boost the local economy, support small businesses, and leave a lasting legacy for the city. Partnerships with organizations like the Port of Bellingham and Visit Bellingham will help promote tourism and economic growth. Over the next year and a half, local stakeholders will help plan transportation, business support, and city projects to ensure the event’s success. STORY: Nooksack Tribe begins demolition of long-defunct Deming casino The Nooksack River Casino building in Deming is being demolished after sitting vacant for nearly a decade. The Nooksack Tribal Council announced the demolition last Wednesday, and stated that finalized plans for the site will be shared with the community once they are available. The casino closed in December 2015 after defaulting on $15 million in renovation loans. The Tribe had been involved in a prolonged legal dispute with lenders over the unpaid debts. The site of the former casino is now an active construction zone. Community members expressed sadness over the demolition, sharing memories of the casino on social media. The Nooksack Northwood Casino near Lynden remains operational. STORY: State AG’s office orders medical equipment company to reimburse hundreds of residents Florida-based medical equipment company Lincare has been ordered to reimburse a little over a million dollars to hundreds of Washington residents after overbilling Medicaid customers for oxygen equipment rentals. The overcharges occurred over 15,000 times between 2017 and March 2023, when Lincare continued to bill patients after the state’s three-year rental limit expired. A medical fraud lawsuit was filed against Lincare in 2023 by Governor Bob Ferguson, Washington’s then-Attorney General; this took place after the company settled …
January 14, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham PD says stalking suspect arrested last month was in violation of no-contact order, One dead, another arrested following altercation in Custer over the weekend, Blaine woman arrested on suspicion of exploiting minors, String of cannabis store robberies continues at Birch Bay Budz, Whatcom County severe weather shelter will open this week, : South Whatcom Fire Authority threatens to end EMS calls in several rec areas if additional funding is not levied, Bellingham dog-friendly bar burglarized a second time in two months Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, January 14th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham PD says stalking suspect arrested last month was in violation of no-contact order A Blaine man was arrested by Bellingham Police after being found near a woman’s home with two loaded guns and a tactical vest. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy said the woman summoned authorities to an apartment building on Northwest Avenue on the night of December 29th. The woman said that months earlier she had ended a relationship with the suspect, 57-year-old Thomas Franklin Lingle, and that he was trying to enter her building. Lingle was found driving around the front of the complex; police determined he was likely intoxicated. In his car, officers found a loaded rifle, handgun and tactical vest. According to the woman, Lingle had called and texted her approximately 18 times in a space of nearly six hours, and he had threatened to use the guns on her. Lingle was arrested on two felony charges of stalking with a previous conviction modifier and violation of protective order with a deadly weapon. He has since been bonded out of custody. STORY: One dead, another arrested following altercation in Custer over the weekend Whatcom County authorities arrested a 43-year-old man in Custer on Saturday in connection with a homicide. Deputies responded to a domestic violence report on Valley View Road around 10:30 p.m., where they discovered 52-year-old Angel Rodriguez dead from multiple gunshot wounds. The suspect allegedly shot Rodriguez during a drunken argument after trying to prevent him from driving while intoxicated. Two other people were also assaulted, one of whom was hospitalized. Rodriguez was arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder and domestic violence charges and is being held in Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Blaine woman arrested on suspicion of exploiting minors A Canadian woman living in Blaine is facing five felony charges in Whatcom County Superior Court for the sexual exploitation of children and possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison or a $20,000 fine. 29-year-old Rachel Openshaw-Tapia was arrested after a months-long investigation involving the Bellingham Police Department and the national Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The investigation began when the messaging app Kik reported last November that a user shared CSAM in a private group chat, advertising the sale of illegal material across multiple platforms. A second report from Kik in December linked another account, registered to Openshaw-Tapia’s email, to sharing additional CSAM files. Court records indicate that Openshaw-Tapia admitted to sharing the material with a quote-unquote “online paramour” to maintain his sexual interest. After Kik banned her initial account, she created a second account, which was also banned. Openshaw-Tapia appeared in court on Sunday and remains in custody on a million-dollar bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Friday. STORY: String of cannabis store robberies continues at Birch Bay Budz The recent string of dispensary robberies in Whatcom County continues. In the early hours of January 3rd, burglars used a stolen SUV to break into Between the Ferns in Deming. This is the third dispensary robbery in the last few weeks, and police suspect the same group has been behind all three cannabis dispensary burglaries in Whatcom County this last month. The previous burglary, which took place at Birch Bay Budz in Blaine, led to a high-speed chase across four counties. The burglars are described as a group of up to six people who use the same method of breaking in each time by using stolen cars to smash through the front door and then taking merchandise from the dispensaries, mostly in the form of vape cartridges. The suspects have not been caught. STORY: Whatcom County severe weather shelter will open this week Whatcom County’s severe weather shelter at Forest Street in Bellingham will open this Friday. The opening will coincide with the clearing of a homeless encampment on Northwest Avenue and Bakerview Road. The encampment currently has up to 70 residents and has drawn community complaints; these residents will be formally notified of the clearing on Thursday. A news release by the health department says that their staff will provide support to people from the encampment, as well as other homeless community members, during the extended shelter opening. The shelter, currently slated to be open for 5 days, may be open for additional days depending on weather, staffing and supplies. While the shelter typically has a capacity of 70 people, the health department says it is preparing to surge and expand the number of beds available if needed. STORY: South Whatcom Fire Authority threatens to end EMS calls in several rec areas if additional funding is not levied The South Whatcom Fire Authority says it may stop responding to emergencies in recreation areas like Galbraith Mountain unless it gets reimbursed for calls outside its jurisdiction. Since summer of 2023, the Fire Authority has tracked out-of-jurisdiction calls, logging over 80 hours on 54 incidents by last November. These recreation areas are considered “no man’s land,” falling under the county’s jurisdiction but not within any fire district. South Whatcom Chief Mitch Nolze (KNOWLES) says taxpayers within the Fire Authority’s coverage area carry the financial responsibility, and as emergency calls to recreation spots increase, SWFA’s resources are showing the strain. During an interview with KMRE last summer, Nolze said emergency response could default to volunteer search-and-rescue teams under the sheriff’s office. Nolze sent a …
January 13, 2025 News Transcript
Motorcycle pursuit in Bellingham leads to arrest, Judge rules in favor of plaintiff on certain points of Lummi Island ferry suit, Camano Island police announce closure of 20-year-old murder investigation, Permanent speed reduction coming to stretch of I-5 in Skagit County, State Democrats plan to push for further restrictions on rent hikes, Senators Cantwell and Murray to pursue changes to proposed national immigration reform bill, School-based health clinic open in east Whatcom Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, January 13th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Motorcycle pursuit in Bellingham leads to arrest Police arrested a man in Bellingham last Thursday after he crashed a stolen motorcycle while trying to flee. A Washington State Patrol trooper spotted the motorcycle on Lakeway Drive and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect led officers on a chase that ended when he hit a retaining wall at the dead end of Verona Street. He tried to escape on foot, but was quickly apprehended. Authorities booked the man into the Whatcom County Jail without bail after checking him at the hospital. STORY: Judge rules in favor of plaintiff on certain points of Lummi Island ferry suit Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Evan Jones has ruled a planned 2024 ferry fare increase was calculated incorrectly. Jones ordered Whatcom County to exclude about $800,000 in emergency maintenance costs from fares and blocked the higher rates until the county restructures its fare system. Jones rejected the claim that tideland lease payments to the Lummi Nation should also be excluded from fares. Lummi Island resident Peter Earle filed a lawsuit in April, arguing the county violated its own charter which requires ferry users to cover 55 percent of operating costs by improperly including maintenance and lease costs as part of the ferry budget. Whatcom County officials say they will review the ruling to determine next steps. The Whatcom Chief ferry is the main transportation link for Lummi Island residents. STORY: Camano Island police announce closure of 20-year-old murder investigation A 20-year-old Camano Island murder case has been closed, but the suspect will not face trial. The Island County Sheriff’s Office identified 69-year-old Carl Schlobom as the perpetrator in the 2003 killing of Tammy Mattson. Schlobom is currently serving a life sentence in Arizona for a separate murder. Mattson’s body was found at Camano Island State Park, and a cigarette butt with Schlobom’s DNA linked him to the crime in 2009. Schlobom cannot be prosecuted for Mattson’s murder, even if prosecutors had sufficient evidence to prove his guilt, because he suffers from advanced dementia. Prosecutors say they hope the case closure provides some comfort to Mattson’s family. STORY: Permanent speed reduction coming to stretch of I-5 in Skagit County The speed limit on a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of I-5 in Burlington between State Route 20 and Cook Road will permanently drop from 70 to 60 mph starting this Wednesday. Washington State Department of Transportation crews will install the new signs in the morning, and the change will take effect immediately. WSDOT (WASH-dot) says the increased traffic in the area makes the speed reduction necessary and notes it will align this section of freeway with the speed limits in nearby Burlington and Mount Vernon. STORY: State Democrats plan to push for further restrictions on rent hikes Democratic lawmakers in the state say they will try to revive efforts to pass a rent stabilization bill this year. A new bill, backed by Rep. Emily Alvarado and Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, would cap yearly rent increases at 7% for most tenants. The bill would also require landlords to give 180 days’ notice for rent hikes over 3% and limit move-in fees. Backers argue the bill will help reduce evictions and homelessness, though it faces opposition from landlords, developers, and Republicans who warn it could worsen the housing shortage by discouraging new construction. Supporters believe the bill has a better chance this year due to changes in the Senate’s makeup and new legislative priorities. However, opponents suggest rental assistance for those in need instead would be more effective than rent caps, and emphasize the need to increase housing supply by permit reduction and land-use reforms. The proposal is expected to move quickly in the House but may face challenges in the Senate. Debate is likely to be intense— although both sides agree that the state is experiencing a critical housing crisis, they disagree on the best approach. STORY: Senators Cantwell and Murray to pursue changes to proposed national immigration reform bill Congress will focus on immigration policy this week as the Senate begins debating the Laken (LAY-kun) Riley Act, a bill that requires the deportation of undocumented immigrants charged with minor crimes. The bill passed the House with bipartisan support after the murder of a Georgia woman by a man who was in the U.S. illegally. The Senate’s procedural vote to debate the bill saw most Senate Democrats, including Sen. Maria Cantwell, voting in favor, while Sen. Patty Murray was absent but expressed opposition to the current version of the bill. Supporters argue the bill addresses public safety and border security concerns, while critics, including Murray, warn it could divert resources from the detention of violent criminals and be misused to target groups like Dreamers and essential workers. The bill also faces criticism for its high cost and potential to end programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The bill signals a tougher stance on immigration from some Democrats, partly in response to voter concerns after Donald Trump’s election. Republicans say they plan to introduce more immigration bills, including measures to punish sanctuary cities and increase penalties for undocumented immigrants who commit certain crimes. Debate on the bill will begin before Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20th. STORY: School-based health clinic open in east Whatcom A new Sea-Mar health clinic has opened its doors at the Mount Baker Senior High School. The clinic, which opened last Tuesday, will be open weekly from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. while school is in session, and …
January 10, 2025 News Transcript
Bike patrols return to downtown Bellingham amid city’s shift in security approach, In-person public comments to return to Bellingham city council meetings next Monday, Whatcom real estate market reports bounce-back in 2024, with increased prices and sales, Whatcom real estate market reports bounce-back in 2024, with increased prices and sales, Flu cases surge in Washington, UW School of Medicine receives federal grant to study respiratory diseases akin to COVID, WA to implement new abortion pill rules, Free or Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, January 10th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Bike patrols return to downtown Bellingham amid city’s shift in security approach Bellingham’s police bike patrol is back in action as part of the city’s updated downtown security plan. A sergeant and four officers now patrol downtown daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., focusing on community engagement and quality-of-life issues. This change allows private security firm Risk Solutions Unlimited (or RSU) to concentrate on patrolling city-owned parking garages. According to the City, the bike unit was previously deactivated due to staffing shortages but was reinstated to improve public safety and rebuild trust with downtown businesses. RSU guards, who handled round-the-clock patrols, will now focus on parking facilities during set hours. The Downtown Bellingham Partnership supports the bike patrol’s return, noting that local businesses have pushed for more community-focused policing. However, concerns remain about balancing police presence with civilian security. The city says its goal is to streamline security efforts downtown to enhance trust and safety. STORY: In-person public comments to return to Bellingham city council meetings next Monday Bellingham City Council will resume in-person public comment on Monday, having suspended the practice in November due to safety concerns. During Monday night’s council meeting, Mayor Kim Lund announced new security measures, including metal detector screenings before meetings. In-person comments were paused last fall following reports of inappropriate and profane behavior. Councilmember Michael Lilliquist said the tone of comments had become more hostile and politically charged during the COVID-19 pandemic. The council is also considering moving public comment to the start of meetings, but has not made a final decision. STORY: Whatcom real estate market reports bounce-back in 2024, with increased prices and sales Whatcom County’s real estate market rebounded last year, reaching an all-time high median home sale price of $635,000, up 7.8% from 2023. According to Peter Ahn of The Muljat Group, total home sales rose by 3.2% compared to 2023, with about twenty-four hundred homes sold. Bellingham led the county with the highest median home price at $765,000, followed by Lynden, Ferndale, and the Birch Bay/Blaine area. The lowest median price was in the Mount Baker area, at around $382,500. Ahn says stabilized mortgage rates have boosted the housing market, and they expect moderate growth in sales and prices in 2025 if mortgage rates remain stable. STORY: Flu cases surge in Washington Flu cases are surging in Washington. The State Department of Health says positive flu tests jumped from 148 in late November to nearly 600 by the end of December. Officials report 11 flu-related deaths and thirty-two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. 200 flu patients were admitted to Hospitals in the last week of December. Oregon is also urging precautions after two children died from the flu last month. Health officials in King County recommend flu shots, wearing masks indoors, improving ventilation, and staying home if you’re sick to help slow the spread. STORY: UW School of Medicine receives federal grant to study respiratory diseases akin to COVID In other health-related news, the University of Washington School of Medicine received a CDC grant to study the spread of respiratory illnesses, such as the flu, COVID, and RSV, over the next five years. The study will track 2,000 children and adults through weekly online surveys to monitor symptoms. Researchers will also study virus transmission in 150 households with confirmed infections. The goal is to improve understanding of virus transmission and better prepare for future pandemics. Researchers say the study builds on similar work conducted before COVID-19. STORY: WA to implement new abortion pill rules Pharmacists in Washington are being trained by a state-based nonprofit to prescribe abortion medications via telehealth. According to Dr. Beth Rivin (RI-ven), president and CEO of the nonprofit Uplift International, many people in Washington face barriers to abortion access due to factors such as where they live and how much money they earn. Dr. Rivin said these people would benefit most from having access to telehealth and a greater number of available pharmacists. To that end, Uplift International partnered with an online pharmacy called Honeybee Health to launch a pilot program in which ten pharmacists were trained to prescribe abortion medications to Washington patients experiencing up to 10 weeks’ gestation. The program also features a list of clinics where patients can be referred if any in-person follow-up care becomes necessary. The success of the pilot program has encouraged Uplift International, who said they plan to expand the program across the state. In the days leading up to President-elect Trump’s inauguration and potential abortion restrictions enacted by Congress, Dr. Rivin says the hope is for other states to implement similar models. STORY: Free or cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a bit of what’s going on around the county. The Make.Shift will host a quadruple-header, all-ages punk show starting at 8:30 tonight. The Hobby, a local punk band, will headline the occasion, with openers including Seattle’s political pop-punk outfit Kids on Fire. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Make.Shift’s website for $11; or at the door, they are cash-only, and will go for $15. The Pickford Film Center will be hosting two special screenings this weekend. First is a 10PM Saturday screening of legendary Czech filmmaker Jan Švankmajer’s (yun SVUNK-ma-yur) 1988 adaptation of Alice in Wonderland, which combines animation and live action. Then, at 1PM Sunday afternoon the Pickford begin its Alfred Hitchcock series …
January 9, 2025 News Transcript
Whatcom drug task force makes 11 arrests in Bellingham operation, Dr. Ming Lin settles lawsuit with PeaceHealth, Local students tell legislators they’re being “failed” by state’s K-12 funding model, Luxury housing and commercial development proposed for Bellingham waterfront, Mount Baker Ski Area to host free avalanche awareness and rescue course, WTA budgets $150,000 to improve infrastructure near bus stops, State reps announce $56 million in federal grants to be awarded to projects statewide Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, January 9th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom drug task force makes 11 arrests in Bellingham operation A two-month investigation by the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force has resulted in 11 arrests in downtown Bellingham on Tuesday. According to police, the suspected leader of the drug operation was based out of a recreational vehicle parked on East Magnolia Street. Authorities say they seized 226 grams of suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, counterfeit pills, psilocybin, and over $4,000 in cash from the RV. Undercover detectives made 24 drug purchases from the suspects in November and December. The leader of the operation, Satan Nehtah Wey, faces multiple charges, including delivery and possession of controlled substances and leading organized crime. The task force includes members from local law enforcement agencies and the DEA. Authorities expect more arrests and emphasize the dangers of fentanyl to the community. Overdose prevention resources are available at Whatcomoverdoseprevention.org. STORY: Dr. Ming Lin settles lawsuit with PeaceHealth Dr. Ming Lin, an emergency room doctor fired from St. Joseph Medical Center for speaking out about COVID-19 safety practices, has settled his lawsuit against PeaceHealth. According to a joint statement, both parties say they want to move forward and the confidential settlement was reached to avoid a prolonged trial. Lin’s lawsuit, filed in 2020, claimed he was terminated in retaliation for raising safety concerns early in the pandemic. His suggestions at the time included testing patients in the parking lot and mandatory temperature checks, but they were dismissed by hospital administrators. PeaceHealth has denied any wrongdoing. Though the PeaceHealth case is resolved, Lin will continue a related lawsuit against TeamHealth, a private equity-owned medical labor contractor. His amended complaint against TeamHealth includes claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, and negligent hiring and supervision. Lin alleges that TeamHealth retaliated against him for raising concerns about hospital practices and a hostile work environment. The case against TeamHealth is scheduled for a jury trial in May. Lin’s attorney emphasized that the lawsuit aims to prevent future harm to healthcare workers and patients. STORY: Local students tell legislators they’re being “failed” by state’s K-12 funding model A town hall in Blaine on Tuesday saw students tell legislators in attendance that they are being quote-unquote “failed” by Washington’s K-12 funding model. Blaine Middle School eighth-grader Ruby Belarmino noted how insufficient state funding led to the lack of a librarian at her school. Ferndale High School senior Gabby Lenssen stated that insufficient funding results in local tax dollars funding basic education instead of the extra electives and after-school activities. Finally, Mount Baker Senior High senior Cailyn Jewell said her favorite teacher was laid off due to budget cuts and two science classes she was looking forward to taking were removed. The town hall was organized by Fund Schools Now, a group of Blaine parents frustrated by the last two years of budget cuts due to insufficient state funding. In attendance were State Senator Sharon Shewmake, as well as Representatives Alicia Rule and Joe Timmons; all three politicians called upping state funding a priority heading into the legislative session, but Rule noted that they would also need to convince other members of the state legislature of the urgency of the funding crisis. In all, the Blaine School District has been underfunded by roughly $24 million since 2020; meanwhile, Ferndale estimates that it has been underfunded nearly $23 million for special education, materials and transportation costs, while Mount Baker estimates it has been almost $18 million short. STORY: Luxury housing and commercial development proposed for Bellingham waterfront A two-building luxury housing and commercial development has been proposed near Bellingham’s waterfront along 10th Street, south of Taylor Dock. The project, led by The RJ Group and designed by Zervas (ZUR-vus) Architects, includes 10 residential units and a shared 27-stall underground parking garage. The southern building would be fully residential with eight two-bedroom units, while the northern mixed-use building would have two residential units, a small restaurant, office space, and amenity areas. A public park plaza is planned between the two buildings, offering outdoor seating and connecting to local trails, including the South Bay Trail and Taylor Dock, via an ADA-accessible gravel path. Improvements to 10th Street include a new 10-foot pedestrian trail and 25 angled public parking spaces. According to Washington state housing targets, Whatcom County needs nearly 35,000 new housing units in the next 20 years, with Bellingham responsible for about 17,000 units. Over 60% of those must be affordable. To stay on track, the city needs to build more than 500 affordable housing units every year. Currently, 576 housing units are under construction in Bellingham, with another 612 units in the review process. If approved, construction is expected to begin in winter 2025, with occupancy planned for winter 2026. STORY: Mount Baker Ski Area to host free avalanche awareness and rescue course The Mount Baker Ski Area’s Mountain Education Center is offering a free avalanche awareness and rescue course on Saturday. The event includes hands-on training with transceivers to locate and uncover buried beacons. The Beacon Rally course runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Heather Meadows Base Area near Chair 1, with in-person registration required beforehand. A season pass or lift ticket is not needed, and the event will conclude with a raffle. STORY: WTA budgets $150,000 to improve infrastructure near bus stops The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) is allocating $150,000 from its 2025 Transit Access Fund to support infrastructure projects that improve access to bus stops within a quarter-mile radius. Eligible …
January 8, 2025 News Transcript
Multiple I-5 accidents in Bellingham leave at least one dead, Bellingham PeaceHealth workers expected to picket for higher wages this week, Whatcom SAR volunteers aid in rescue of lost backcountry skier, Harvesting of oysters closed in Drayton Harbor following outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, Governor unlocks relief funds for those affected by November bomb cyclone, WA bans commercial net-pen fish farming, WA bans commercial net-pen fish farming Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, January 8th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Multiple I-5 accidents in Bellingham leave at least one dead Interstate 5 in Bellingham reopened early this morning after a fatal crash last night closed both directions between Meridian Street and Northwest Avenue. Emergency services were alerted to a rollover crash in the northbound lanes around 6:45 PM. Officials from WSDOT, the State Patrol, and Whatcom County 911 used social media to inform the public of the closure and urge caution. According to police reports, when first responders arrived, they noted a pedestrian walking in the southbound lanes. A second incident took place when a small SUV, driven by 36-year-old Anna Casillas (ca-SEE-us) of Mount Vernon, swerved to avoid the pedestrian but was unsuccessful. The State Patrol later issued a press release confirming that Sean Smet, a 24-year-old Bellingham man, was pronounced dead at the scene in the southbound lanes. According to the PulsePoint EMS dispatch log reporting system, up to 3 patients were transported from the crash scenes to St Joseph Medical Center. One lane in each direction reopened around 9:15 PM, and both lanes were fully reopened shortly after midnight. The incidents are still under investigation. STORY: Bellingham PeaceHealth workers expected to picket for higher wages this week Health care workers at St. Joseph Medical Center will picket tomorrow to call for higher wages and other work benefits. According to a news release by SEIU Healthcare 99W, the union representing Bellingham’s PeaceHealth workers and 35,000 health care workers across Washington and Montana, the two sides continue to disagree on issues related to wages, safety issues and medical benefits even after multiple bargaining sessions. Almost a thousand union PeaceHealth workers, including imaging technicians, lab assistants and technologists, will picket from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to call for investments in quality patient care, as well as staff recruitment and retention. The picket, which will take place outside St. Joseph, will be open to the public; in fact, the union encourages community members to join the picket line and learn more about the contract negotiations. STORY: Whatcom SAR volunteers aid in rescue of lost backcountry skier The first day of the year got off to a dangerous start, when search and rescue volunteers spent 14 hours helping a skier lost in the backcountry. The Mount Baker Ski Patrol, U.S Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine support, and Whatcom County Search and Rescue volunteers collaborated to aid a 34-year-old skier who was separated from his partner and got lost in a drainage area. Volunteers had to contend with the ongoing risk of avalanche, open creeks, and waterfalls. The location was considered too dangerous to attempt a land rescue, so Border Patrol officers used a hoist-equipped helicopter from the U.S Coast Guard to air-drop an overnight kit with food, shelter, and a radio to the skier. The next morning, the Bellingham Mountain Rescue team navigated the extreme and hazardous terrain and successfully rescued the man. His name has not been released. STORY: Harvesting of oysters closed in Drayton Harbor following outbreaks of foodborne illnesses The Washington State Department of Health has issued an emergency closure of shellfish harvesting in Drayton Harbor after several people fell ill with symptoms of Norovirus after eating raw oysters harvested on December 28th and 30th. Similar outbreaks have also been reported in Puget Sound and British Columbia. The health department advises cooking all shellfish to 145 degrees Fahrenheit (or roughly 63 degrees Celsius) to kill harmful pathogens. Norovirus outbreaks have been rising nationwide, prompting the Whatcom County health department to issue additional safety guidelines earlier this week. STORY: Governor unlocks relief funds for those affected by November bomb cyclone Whatcom County residents affected by the November 19th windstorm can now apply for state assistance after Governor Inslee declared the event a state of emergency. The storm, caused by an offshore “bomb cyclone,” hit the Puget Sound area and left over 500,000 people without power. It also damaged over 40 structures in Whatcom County’s Sudden Valley. The governor’s proclamation unlocks a million dollars in state funds for recovery, and prepares the state to request federal aid for infrastructure repairs. Assistance is available for residents of Whatcom, King, and Snohomish counties who meet the following criteria: ● Those whose household income is at, or below, 80% of the area median income (that’s about $84,000 for a family of four in Whatcom County); ● Those who can provide proof of major storm damage that made their home uninhabitable, and; ● Those who have uninsured losses and can provide supporting claim documentation. The program provides funds for home repairs, temporary lodging, meals, and other household needs. Residents can apply through the Whatcom County emergency management website. STORY: WA bans commercial net-pen fish farming The Washington State Board of Natural Resources has permanently banned commercial net-pen aquaculture on state aquatic lands. According to a recent announcement by outgoing Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, the decision prioritizes protecting marine ecosystems for future generations. Franz highlighted the harm net pens pose to salmon, orcas, and aquatic environments, referencing the endangered southern resident orcas’ continued population decline. The ban follows growing public opposition to net-pen farming, with over 80% of public comments supporting the measure. Tribal leaders and conservation groups emphasized the need to protect wild salmon and marine life from harmful fish farming practices, calling net pens quote-unquote “marine feedlots.” However, opponents argued that the ban will hurt rural economies and limit food production. The Jamestown S’Klallam (SKLA-lum) Tribe and aquaculture representatives expressed concerns that the decision …
January 7, 2025 News Transcript
Three suspects arrested in Whatcom County on drug dealing charges, Blaine man facing hate crime and assault charges following Bellingham bar fight, Multiple Bellingham restaurants announce closures, Community townhall to be held in Blaine tonight to discuss education funding shortfall, Proposed tariffs could impact up to $7 billion in WA imports from Canada, WA sues T-Mobile over data breach thought to have affected over 2 million residents, Whatcom SAR volunteers aid in rescue of lost backcountry skier Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, January 7th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Three suspects arrested in Whatcom County on drug dealing charges A forgotten cell phone at a business in Bellingham led to the arrest of two suspected drug dealers on Saturday. While trying to identify the phone’s owner, security staff discovered evidence of drug dealing and alerted police. Authorities found the suspects’ vehicle at a local hotel, where a search yielded large amounts of fentanyl, meth, heroin, and cocaine. The suspects, a 37-year-old woman and a 38-year-old man, were arrested and remain in jail on $250,000 bail each. In a separate incident, a 47-year-old man was arrested for suspected drug dealing after a van with expired tags was pulled over. A K-9 search revealed fentanyl in his possession. He remains in jail on $175,000 bail. STORY: Blaine man facing hate crime and assault charges following Bellingham bar fight A Blaine man is facing hate crime and assault charges in connection with an incident at a downtown Bellingham bar in late December. 25-year-old Trevor R. Mikoch (ME-kotch) is accused of attacking a 23-year-old gay man from Lyndon in the early hours of December 21st at The Orion. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy said the incident started when the victim heard Mikoch using racial slurs toward another patron and telling other patrons he wanted to fight that person. When the victim tried to intervene, Mikoch responded by calling him a homophobic slur and attacking him. Mikoch was arrested that same day, but was released after posting bail on December 23rd. This is not his first brush with the law. Back in 2017, Mikoch was sentenced to two years of community custody as part of a deal to avoid prison after pleading guilty to possession of cocaine and alprazolam (al-PRA-zuh-lam) with the intent to distribute. That same year, he was also sentenced to three months in Whatcom County Jail after assaulting a law enforcement officer. Mikoch has been ordered to stand trial on charges including assault in the commission of a hate crime and fourth-degree assault. He pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set for March 17th. STORY: Multiple Bellingham restaurants announce closures Bellingham saw significant changes at the end of 2024, with three popular eateries closing in December. Pepper Sisters, a Southwestern restaurant in downtown Bellingham, closed after 36 years. Despite being listed for sale for $180,000, the business was unable to find a buyer. The space at North State Street will be taken over by Bordertown Mexican Grill. The Twin Sisters Brewing Company, located at Carolina Avenue, also shut down. The brewery announced its closure on New Year’s Eve, and thanked customers for their support. The space will be taken over by the Stemma Brewing Company, which plans to reopen after renovations. Finally, Little Dog Coffee Company, a drive-through espresso stand and cafe at East Bakerview Road, closed on December 12th after six years in business. The owners cited economic conditions and family priorities as reasons for the closure, expressing gratitude to their loyal customers. No new restaurants opened in December. STORY: Community townhall to be held in Blaine tonight to discuss education funding shortfall A town hall will be held tonight at 6 pm at the Blaine Performing Arts Center to discuss the education funding shortfall. The organizers, who describe themselves as quote “a group of dedicated parents and community members” unquote, along with a parent group called Fund Schools Now, say they hope to address inadequate state funding for public education. On their website, Fund Schools Now says the goal of the meeting is to start a conversation with legislators ahead of difficult budgetary decisions that are expected in the 2025 regular legislative session. Back in November, outgoing Governor Inslee warned that the state is facing a $10 billion deficit and reductions will need to be made. Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal (RIKE-doll) has requested an increase of nearly $3 billion for public schools in the 2025 budget. However, the current operating budget does not propose expanding current programs and services. STORY: Proposed tariffs could impact up to $7 billion in WA imports from Canada Proposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports could impact businesses and consumers, but their extent remains uncertain. The tariffs, initially floated by incoming President Trump as a 25% tax on goods from Canada and Mexico, are seen by many as a negotiating tactic. Trade between British Columbia and Washington state is significant: Washington imported $7 billion in goods from B.C. in 2023, including oil, lumber, and electricity, and exported $5 billion in goods such as refined petroleum, power, and seafood. Tariffs could disrupt supply chains since many products, like oil, cross the border multiple times. Economists warn that tariffs could hurt cross-border businesses and lead to retaliation from Canada, possibly targeting aerospace parts, machinery, fruit, and wine. Retaliation could also discourage Canadian shoppers from visiting the U.S., especially with Canada’s weakened currency. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement trade deal currently keeps tariffs low, but if the U.S. imposes new tariffs, duty-free exemptions for individual cross-border shoppers could be at risk. Experts agree the situation is uncertain, and businesses are bracing for potential impacts, depending on how negotiations unfold. STORY: WA sues T-Mobile over data breach thought to have affected over 2 million residents Washington state is suing T-Mobile over a 2021 data breach that exposed the personal information of over 2 million Washington residents and nearly 80 million customers nationwide. The exposed data included Social Security numbers, phone …
January 6, 2025 News Transcript
Car crash and fire on Portal Way sends family to hospital, West Bakerview homeless encampment to be cleared in coming weeks, Unemployment rates rose for Bellingham and Whatcom County in November, Battery energy storage system approved for industrial land near Mount Vernon, Public comments open on amendments to Northwest Forest Plan, WA sets record for eviction filings in 2024, Confluence of factors result in challenges for WA apple farmers Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, January 6th. Good afternoon, I’m Theron Danielson. STORY: Car crash and fire on Portal Way sends family to hospital First responders were dispatched to a car crash and fire on Portal Way in Whatcom County on New Year’s Day at around 3:30 p.m. According to police reports, they found a family of four trapped inside a vehicle which was fully engulfed in flames. All occupants — two adults and two children — safely exited the car and were transported to St. Joseph Medical Center. The car’s engine compartment sustained most of the fire damage. Portal Way was temporarily closed for about an hour. STORY: West Bakerview homeless encampment to be cleared in coming weeks The City of Bellingham says it plans to notify residents at the homeless encampment at West Bakerview Road and Northwest Drive of the upcoming cleanup of the site scheduled for January 23rd. According to the City, the makeshift campsite has grown significantly since the city cleared a similar large encampment behind Walmart in November. Property owners near the location have raised concerns over public health, safety, and criminal activity. Fifty service providers, city officials, law enforcement officers, and community members gathered Friday night for a collaborative meeting in preparation for another upcoming encampment cleanup. At the meeting, attendees expressed a desire to ease the transition for the unhoused individuals. While property owners support the cleanup, service providers worry that clearing encampments without immediate housing solutions will only perpetuate the problem. Suggestions included offering trash bags and carts to help residents move their belongings, and creating long-term solutions like tiny home villages. Nearby residents also expressed growing concerns about safety issues, and pointed to increasing incidents of gunfire, drug use, and rising theft. While emphasizing their compassion for the unhoused, they stressed the importance of increased collaboration between the city, county, and nonprofit organizations to more effectively address homelessness. STORY: Unemployment rates rose for Bellingham and Whatcom County in November Unemployment rates in Whatcom County and Bellingham rose slightly in November. Recent data by the Washington State Employment Security Department shows that Whatcom County recorded a 4.6% unemployment rate in November, up from 4.3% in October. Bellingham’s unemployment rate also rose to 4.6%, up from 4.3% in October, with 2,149 residents unemployed. Washington state saw a slight drop in its seasonally adjusted unemployment rate, from 4.7% in October to 4.6% in November. Despite the drop, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says Washington ranks seventh in the nation for unemployment. STORY: Battery energy storage system approved for industrial land near Mount Vernon A location for Skagit County’s first battery energy storage system has been approved. NextEra Energy Resources has received a special use permit to build the 200-megawatt facility on industrial land west of Mount Vernon. According to a report from Skagit’s planning department, the project would contain around 92 single-story inverter/transformer units and 368 battery cabinets within an 18-acre area, surrounded by a security fence. The project would facilitate the statewide transition away from fossil fuels by managing fluctuations in energy demand for the region and creating a more sustainable power grid. STORY: Public comments open on amendments to Northwest Forest Plan The U.S. Forest Service has proposed amendments to the 30-year-old Northwest Forest Plan that will impact nearly 800,000 acres in Skagit and Whatcom counties. Adopted in 1994, the original plan focused on habitat protection for threatened species, but now requires updates to address evolving climate impacts, science, and social conditions. Along with local forests, the update will impact 16 national forests in the West Coast. The Forest Service says the changes aim to integrate Indigenous knowledge, improve climate and wildfire resilience, protect ecosystems, and ensure predictable timber yields. A draft environmental impact statement (EIS) from November 2023 outlines their recommendation that combines active management with habitat protection. The EIS also differentiates between “moist” and “dry” forests, with most forests in Skagit and Whatcom counties classified as moist. It suggests opening some local forestlands to harvest and active fire management while preserving ancient stands, except in the case of cultural use or fire risk. Public feedback on the draft EIS is open until March 17th, with meetings planned, including one in Everett on January 15th. STORY: WA sets record for eviction filings in 2024 The Eviction Research Network says that Washington had its highest number of eviction filings in recorded history in 2024. Nine counties had already surpassed their previous records, and eight more were expected to do so by the end of December. In Whatcom County, 403 eviction filings were recorded in 2024; it recorded its highest number of evictions, 477, in 2004. The current eviction rate in Whatcom County is 1.2%, lower than the state average of 2.1%. Evictions have risen significantly across Washington since pandemic-era protections ended. The Eviction Prevention and Rent Assistance Program and Eviction Resolution Pilot Program were gradually phased out, which state officials say has contributed to the increase. Eviction rates have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with monthly filings exceeding 2019 numbers since July 2023. STORY: Confluence of factors result in challenges for WA apple farmers A string of economic challenges is devastating Washington apple farmers. Rising labor costs and stagnant prices paid to farmers, as well as apple oversupply caused by increased farm efficiency and the loss of international markets such as India and China due to tariffs imposed in 2018 by then-President Trump, have led small orchardists to sustain losses for years on end. These orchardists say they are unable to sustain these losses amid economic conditions they feel …
January 3, 2025 News Transcript
Ferndale man sentenced following pleading guilty to child sex offenses, One of two suspects in custody following attempted robbery in Bellingham, Bellingham to raise minimum wage twice in next five months, Numerous state laws enter into effect with the new year, Free and Cheap, Two beloved Bellingham restaurants announce closures, Car crash and fire on Portal Way sends family to hospital, WA sets record for eviction filings in 2024, Public comments open on amendments to Northwest Forest Plan Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, January 3rd. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Ferndale man sentenced following pleading guilty to child sex offenses A Ferndale man has been sentenced, by the Whatcom County Superior Court, to over 13 years in prison for child sex offenses. 55-year-old Jonathon Charles Sortino was arrested by Ferndale Police in December 2021. The arrest took place after an investigation into a child’s testimony regarding years of abuse, as well as online conversations between Sortino and a friend that included apparent confessions to the crimes. Sortino pled guilty to felony charges of first-degree rape of a child and dealing in depictions of minors engaged in sexual conduct. The judgement includes a lifetime in community custody after the sentence is served. STORY: One of two suspects in custody following attempted robbery in Bellingham One suspect was arrested, and another remains at large after a December 17th assault and attempted robbery at the Shamrock Motel. A couple staying at the Motel noticed their room door begin to open from the outside. Two people were at the door; a woman, 31-year-old Rico Spencer Hill, and an unidentified man dressed in black, wearing a mask and wielding a baseball bat. According to Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy, Hill, who was recognized by the female motel guest, attempted to steal a television and gaming console from the room – an attempt foiled by the male guest. An altercation took place between the two women, and Hill hit the female guest in the head with the bat. Hill was located by police near Franklin and Ohio streets last Saturday afternoon and taken into custody. She has been charged with first-degree robbery and was held at the Whatcom County Jail until posting a $10,000 bond on Monday. The other suspect remains at large. STORY: Bellingham to raise minimum wage twice in next five months As of Wednesday, Bellingham’s minimum wage has increased by 38 cents to $17.66, following a statewide adjustment for inflation. The city’s wage is set at a dollar higher than Washington’s minimum wage, which rises annually based on cost-of-living adjustments. Another increase will take place on May 1st, when Bellingham’s minimum wage will rise another dollar. The city’s minimum wage applies to all employees working within Bellingham city limits, with some exemptions for specific categories, including casual labor, newspaper carriers, and elected officials. Tipped employees must still be paid minimum wage, as tips cannot be used to offset wages. City employees are technically exempt from the policy, but the city is encouraged to match the rate. Bellingham is one of six cities in Washington with a higher minimum wage than the state’s. Seattle has the highest minimum in the state at $20.76. STORY: Numerous state laws enter into effect with the new year Several new Washington state laws have gone into effect in the new year, including animal testing bans, HIV prevention measures, and stricter penalties for negligent driving. The changes aim to improve public safety, financial support, and workplace protections across the state. Here’s a rundown of a few changes: 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. The first First Friday event of 2025 will take place tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Allied Arts Gallery on Cornwall Avenue. The Downtown Bellingham Partnership describes First Friday as a monthly celebration that showcases local artists and galleries, places to dine and sip, late night shopping, events, live music, and more. Today’s First Friday will see the opening of Heritage in Motion at Allied Arts, an exhibition that showcases work by Indigenous artists. The Karate Church on East Maple Street will host the Falsettos and Sunsets one-act show tomorrow at 8 p.m. The clown show, inspired by classic acts like The Three Stooges and Laurel and Hardy, is described as being packed with “outrageous physical comedy, startling emotional honesty and slapstick existential confusion.” Tickets starting at $10 can be purchased at the door, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Finally, the FireHouse Arts and Events Center on Harris Avenue will host a screening of Obsessed with Light at 3 p.m. on Sunday. The documentary, which highlights the work of dancer and modernist Loïe (LOW-ee) Fuller, is described as a “meditation on light and the enduring obsession to create”. Tickets starting at $13.73 can be purchased at Kuntz (COON-tz) and Company’s website. WX: Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed? And now weather: A strong day of rain is forecast for today, with expected precipitation reaching up to half an inch. Daytime hours should see temperatures in the mid-to-high 40s, along with mild northeastern winds. Evening lows will be in the mid-40s. Rain is expected to stick around through most of the weekend, with a chance of dry on Sunday. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Riley Weeks, Brodey O’Brien, Paloma Ortiz, Anna Hedrick and Miguel Garduño. 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: Two beloved Bellingham restaurants announce closures STORY: Car …
December 31, 2024 News Transcript
Burglary suspect finally arrested by Bellingham PD after nearly 16 months, Carjacker who fled police at Canadian border charged in Whatcom County, WSDOT awards $7 million grant to increase crossing speeds at US-Canadian border, Work on Whatcom bridge and culvert project to commence next spring, Work on Whatcom bridge and culvert project to commence next spring, Events, services and businesses affected by New Year’s, Public comments open on amendments to Northwest Forest Plan, Public comments open on amendments to Northwest Forest Plan, PeaceHealth Lynden Clinic earns LEED certification for sustainable design, Bellingham nonprofit introduces barnyard therapy for hospice patients and families Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, December 31st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Burglary suspect finally arrested by Bellingham PD after nearly 16 months Carl Ellis Woods, a burglary suspect who evaded law enforcement for over a year, was arrested by Bellingham Police on Friday. The 36-year-old Woods is wanted for multiple felonies, including a 2023 burglary in Blaine that involved assault and several counts of eluding police. According to police, officers found Woods in a car with stolen plates on Xenia (ZEE-nee-uh) Street. When he refused to exit the vehicle, officers broke a window with a bean bag launcher and used a chemical irritant. After the arrest, police discovered signs of fentanyl use, a firearm, BB guns, and additional stolen plates in the car. Earlier that day, Woods had evaded WWU officers during a high-speed chase, and was also linked to an attempted burglary on Lakeway Drive. He is now in Whatcom County Jail on over a dozen charges, including first-degree burglary, with bail set at over $300,000. STORY: Carjacker who fled police at Canadian border charged in Whatcom County 42-year-old Shawn Bergstrom has been charged in Whatcom County following a December 12th carjacking at the Canadian border that led to a high-speed chase through Whatcom County. Authorities allege Bergstrom used a bladed weapon to steal a pickup truck at the border, after which he rammed another vehicle and nearly struck Border Patrol officers. He now faces multiple charges, including second-degree assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a stolen vehicle. According to police documents, the chase began at the Blaine border crossing and extended south on Interstate 5. It ended in Skagit County near the Bow Hill rest area, where State Patrol troopers stopped the vehicle using a PIT maneuver. After a standoff, Bergstrom surrendered by discarding a machete and climbing onto the vehicle’s hood. The stolen truck was confirmed to have been taken from a Canadian business earlier that day. Bergstrom, identified as an unhoused individual from British Columbia, remains in custody. STORY: WSDOT awards $7 million grant to increase crossing speeds at US-Canadian border The Washington State Department of Transportation received nearly $7 million in federal funding to enhance border wait-time systems at the U.S.-Canada crossings in Blaine, Lynden, and Sumas. According to a release by Senators Cantwell and Murray, the grant is funded through a program from the U.S. Department of Transportation, and will go towards a project aimed at modernizing outdated systems and improving traffic management during border surges. In the release, Cantwell and Murray emphasized the importance of the project, noting that current wait-time notification systems are over 20 years old and unreliable. The upgrades will provide real-time and more accurate information, helping travelers and commercial vehicles navigate the busy crossings more efficiently. Blaine’s crossings are among the busiest on the U.S.-Canada border, with nearly 3 million passenger vehicles and over 356,000 commercial trucks crossing into the U.S. in 2023—a significant increase from 2022. STORY: Work on Whatcom bridge and culvert project to commence next spring Work is set to begin this Spring on a $160 million, three-year project to improve salmon passage under Interstate 5 (I-5) south of Bellingham. The Washington State Department of Transportation says its goal is to replace and widen culverts at several salmon-bearing streams, to fulfill a court order recognizing tribal rights. The project will occur in three phases, with significant traffic disruptions expected, including detours and lane closures. Locations for Culvert and Bridge Replacements will occur at: ● The I-5 at tributaries to Friday and Lake creeks; ● The I-5 and Old Samish Road at Chuckanut Creek, and ● Lake Samish Road at tributaries to Friday Creek. Work is expected to begin next Spring on the crossings at Friday and Lake creeks, with temporary bypasses and phased lane closures. Southbound I-5 is scheduled to close for 15 days, followed by a 12-day northbound closure, reducing traffic to one lane in each direction. In 2026, construction on the Chuckanut Creek crossings will use temporary bypasses, and Old Samish Road will be closed as a detour. A new bridge over Chuckanut Creek will permanently close Old Samish Road. In 2027, restoration of salmon habitat under the new bridges, as well as work at North Lake Samish, will require nightly lane closures and a reconfiguration of on- and off-ramps. WSDOT has warned of potential delays and significant backups during construction. Timelines and detour plans may change as design and permitting progress. STORY: Events, services and businesses affected by New Year’s It’s New Year’s Day tomorrow, and here’s a rundown of local business closures, as well as some fun things to do around Whatcom County. Expect many businesses and services— including U.S. Post offices, WTA bus service, banks, and libraries— to be closed tomorrow. Many grocery stores and some retailers will remain open, but others may have modified hours. If you are looking to ring in the new year with a celebration, here are some local options: Enjoy a Masquerade Party at Galloway’s Cocktail Bar. The event, which will take place from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., will include masks and raffle prizes, with room for limited walk-ins. There’s an 80s Ballroom Bash at Chuckanut Bay Distillery from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with music, a photo booth, prizes, and a champagne toast. The Firefighters Community Ball at Hotel Leo is a country-themed …
