Sedro-Woolley man sentenced for role in 2022 Bellingham shooting, Blaine PD searching for street sign thief, New Bellingham park opens as first stages of construction wrap up, Mount Baker School District to begin interviewing semi-finalists for school superintendent position, BLI gets air traffic controller after temporary tower closure, Trump tariffs likely to impact key imports and exports for WA, State rep calls for federal audit of WA voter registration practices Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, March 5th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Sedro-Woolley man sentenced for role in 2022 Bellingham shooting A Sedro-Woolley man was sentenced to nearly a year in jail for his role in a 2022 drive-by shooting in downtown Bellingham. 24-year-old Emanuel Martinez-Lucero was arrested last March, five months after allegedly shooting a man in the stomach outside the former Underground Nightclub. The incident followed an altercation between Martinez-Lucero and the victim’s friend. Initially charged with first-degree assault and drive-by shooting, Martinez-Lucero pleaded guilty to amended charges of fourth-degree assault. The victim declined to pursue a trial, and wished Martinez-Lucero well. Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Lee Grochmal (GROCK-mall) sentenced Martinez-Lucero to 364 days in jail, with the option to apply for jail alternatives after 89 days. A no-contact order with the victim was issued, and he must also complete a course on parenting, conflict resolution, or anger management. STORY: Blaine PD searching for street sign thief Blaine Police are asking for assistance in identifying a thief responsible for stealing multiple street signs in Blaine and Birch Bay. Stop signs and pedestrian crosswalk markers were taken. Authorities note that each sign costs taxpayers around $250 to replace — and that missing signs are a hazard for drivers. Anyone with information about the thefts or potential suspects is urged to call 9-1-1. STORY: New Bellingham park opens as first stages of construction wrap up Bellingham’s newest park is set to open its first phase with a public ceremony today. The City of Bellingham says that North Lights Park covers nearly two acres. The new park is located in a narrow courtyard between townhomes, and will feature innovative play structures designed for all ages. The park includes climbing rocks, a scrambling net and a bamboo jungle, with equipment designed to promote active lifestyles. The second phase will introduce complementary play structures to serve a broader range of users. The budget for the project was $719,000, and was funded by the developer in exchange for a fee credit. STORY: Mount Baker School District to begin interviewing semi-finalists for school superintendent position The Mount Baker School Board will hold public interviews for superintendent candidates over the next week, starting with six semi-finalists on Saturday. Candidates include five educational leaders from Washington and one from Alaska. Included in the list of contenders is Mount Baker’s Interim Superintendent Nick Perigo (PEAR-eh-go). The district has been without a permanent superintendent since December of 2023. The interviews will begin at 8 a.m. at the district office, with a webinar link available for community members. Three finalists will be selected for community forums on March 11th, 12th, and 13th at 6:15 p.m. at the Mount Baker School District office in Deming. Community members can submit questions for the finalists online before 5 p.m. on Monday. STORY: BLI gets air traffic controller after temporary tower closure The control tower at Bellingham Airport has gained a temporary air traffic controller, and two more are on the way. The tower at BLI, which is staffed by Serco under an FAA contract, has had to limit its operations since February, when the number of air traffic controllers dropped from three to two. The staff shortage has forced the tower to close on Tuesdays and every fourth Wednesday of the month. On these days, pilots flying into Bellingham have had to use the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency to announce their intentions – something that Lyle Jansma (JANS-muh), a local pilot and the founder of Six Pack Aero, has described to the Cascadia Daily News as complicating situations. According to Matt Rodriguez, the airport operations manager, the temporary air traffic controller started at BLI on Monday and is currently going through certification at the airport. The tower will continue to run on limited operations until they are fully certified. The two other air traffic controllers, one temporary and one permanent, are due to start next month. STORY: Trump tariffs likely to impact key imports and exports for WA President Trump has enacted a series of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, fulfilling a key campaign promise. The 25% tariffs, initially delayed, took effect Tuesday, with a 10% tariff applied to Canadian energy products. In response, Canada has imposed tariffs on $155 billion of U.S. goods, while Mexico is expected to announce its counter tariffs soon. Trade is a major economic driver in Washington state, and businesses across the state are expected to feel the impact. Referred to as the “lifeblood of Washington state’s economy” in a fact sheet from Senator Cantwell’s office, Canada is Washington’s number one trade partner. According to the state Department of Commerce, Washington did nearly $20 billion in imports and $9.4 billion in exports in 2023 alone. Mexico ranks fifth, with over $3.48 billion in exports. Key industries affected include fuel, vehicles, aircraft, and agriculture. STORY: State rep calls for federal audit of WA voter registration practices A Republican lawmaker from Aberdeen has called for a federal audit of Washington’s voter registration practices. Representative Jim Walsh introduced House Joint Memorial 4007 at the state House of Representatives on Monday morning. The document calls for a federal review of the state DOL’s implementation of the Motor Voter Act, signed in 1993 by then-President Clinton and which allows U.S. citizens to register to vote at the DMV. HJM 4007 cites concerns that ineligible voters are being added to the voter registration database, an assertion that echoes the GOP’s claims of widespread election fraud in recent years. Representative Walsh’s petition to President Trump and …
KMRE NEWS Transcripts
March 4, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham employees terminated over vaccine mandate appeal judge’s dismissal of lawsuit, Whatcom County District Court announces warrant quash day on Wednesday, Center for Biological Diversity sues for local species of moth to be federally recognized as endangered, Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill, WA considering reformation of high school graduation requirements Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, March 4th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham employees terminated over vaccine mandate appeal judge’s dismissal of lawsuit Eighteen former employees who sued the City of Bellingham and former mayor Seth Fleetwood say they will appeal their case in federal court. The plaintiffs, including former police officers, firefighters, mechanics and Public Works employees, filed the original lawsuit in U.S. Western District Court in Seattle last June. They argue that a vaccine mandate issued by Fleetwood in late 2021 deprived them of equal protection rights, right to privacy and the option to refuse. The plaintiffs sought a jury trial, as well as damages to cover alleged harms such as emotional distress and loss of income. Attorneys for Fleetwood and the city submitted a motion to dismiss the lawsuit last August, arguing that the plaintiffs’ claims quote “suffer from inherent legal and factual deficiencies” unquote. District Court Judge Barbara Rothstein (ROTH-steen) granted the motion to dismiss the case on January 21st; she disagreed with the plaintiffs’ claim that constitutional and state law were violated, as well as their claim that the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 was a quote-unquote “investigational drug.” The plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal on February 18th; the case will now be heard at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit starting on April 2nd. STORY: Whatcom County District Court announces warrant quash day on Wednesday The Whatcom County District Court is holding a Warrant Quash Day from 10 a.m. to noon tomorrow. The occasion will present an opportunity for defendants with a warrant to avoid jail time. A judge will quash their warrant and set a new court date without taking the defendants into custody or increasing their bail. The event aims to get cases back on track and prevent unnecessary incarcerations. According to recent reporting by MyBellinghamNow, District Court Judge Jonathan Rands says the services of prosecutors and the public defender’s office will also be available, which will present defendants an opportunity to potentially solve cases completely. Quash Day will be held at the District Court Clerk’s Office, located on the fourth floor of the county courthouse. Anyone who can’t make it may also schedule a hearing to address their warrant any Tuesday through Friday. STORY: Center for Biological Diversity sues for local species of moth to be federally recognized as endangered The Center for Biological Diversity has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to seek Endangered Species Act protections for a rare moth. The lawsuit, which was announced last Wednesday, argues the sand-verbena (vur-BEE-nah) moth, a rare species found only on select beaches on Whidbey and Vancouver islands, is at risk of extinction due to habitat loss and rising sea levels caused by climate change. The moth depends entirely on the sand-verbena (vur-BEE-nah) plant, which itself is threatened by invasive species. The lawsuit aims to push federal agencies to base decisions on scientific research rather than political considerations. The Trump administration previously denied the moth protection under the Endangered Species Act in 2019. STORY: Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill Relatives of individuals who have died in local jails say that more oversight is needed to prevent future tragedies, and are urging lawmakers to do just that. Proponents of Senate Bill 5005 — which would establish an oversight board to monitor jails, investigate complaints, and promote best practices — spoke in favor of the bill in Olympia this past week. The bill, sponsored by Senator Rebecca Saldaña (sol-DUN-nyah) of Seattle, has garnered support from the ACLU, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the League of Women Voters, and major labor unions. However, it faces opposition from groups such as the Washington Association of Counties and the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. Currently, Washington lacks a statewide jail oversight body, despite having one for state prisons. Advocates highlight the need for accountability, and cite the state’s historically high jail mortality rate and costly wrongful death lawsuits. The oversight board would include various stakeholders, including formerly incarcerated individuals and jail staff, aiming to ensure humane treatment and transparency. While opponents question the feasibility of a statewide board overseeing diverse local jail standards, supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step toward meaningful reform. A companion bill is being introduced in the House, and lawmakers continue to debate the proposal amid budget concerns. STORY: WA considering reformation of high school graduation requirements The state Board of Education says it will reassess high school graduation requirements through the FutureReady initiative. The effort aims to create a reformed set of standards that better prepare students for college and careers, with a final proposal expected in 2027. Concerns about current requirements, such as the 24-credit mandate, have been raised by students, educators, and employers. Critics argue that the standards are either too rigid or not relevant enough to postsecondary success, while logistical challenges make implementation difficult in some districts. According to the Board, the initiative is estimated to cost $440,000, with funding from the state Legislature and The Gates Foundation. A task force, launched in January, is gathering research and community input. A key part of the plan is aligning education with workforce needs, as 70% of jobs in Washington are expected to require postsecondary credentials. The High School and Beyond Plan, a graduation requirement since 2009, is also under review. An online version of the program was launched last month; it aims to standardize the plan across districts and address concerns that students often complete the requirement without meaningful engagement due to limited counselor …
March 3, 2025 News Transcript
4.5-magnitude earthquake off Orcas Island shakes Bellingham, Caulking gun mistaken for firearm triggers school lockdown in Blaine, WWU cuts 74 staff positions, Measles confirmed in King County, Whatcom well below recommended federal target vaccination rate, FCN inpatient care network to end at St. Joseph’s at the close of April, Whatcom County Council discusses timeline for new jail, Weeks-long road work set to begin in Ferndale, Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill, Center for Biological Diversity sues for local species of moth to be federally recognized as endangered Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, March 3rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: 4.5-magnitude earthquake off Orcas Island shakes Bellingham A 4.5 magnitude earthquake shook Bellingham early this morning. According to NOAA (NOAH), the quake’s epicenter was on Orcas Island, about 29 miles west of downtown Bellingham and at a depth of nearly 17 kilometers. Shaking was felt as far north as Vancouver and as far south as Seattle. No tsunami warnings were issued. STORY: Caulking gun mistaken for firearm triggers school lockdown in Blaine A false alarm triggered a lockdown at the Blaine Schools campus on Friday. School district officials placed the elementary school campus in Secure Mode in the afternoon, after a student reported a potential security threat. Blaine Police were dispatched around 1 p.m. following a report of an armed individual on campus. Law enforcement from the County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Customs searched the area while officers interviewed witnesses. However, security footage revealed the reported “gunman” was actually a maintenance worker using a caulking gun, which had likely been mistaken for a firearm. The lockdown was lifted by 1:55 p.m., and officials confirmed all students were safe. STORY: WWU cuts 74 staff positions WWU announced it will eliminate 74 staff positions in an effort to address an $18 million structural budget deficit. In a letter to staff from WWU President Sabah Randhawa (suh-BAH ran-DOW-uh), the university has identified over $13 million in recurring cost reductions to-date. The reductions came from administrative restructuring, IT service consolidation, and non-academic expenses. The letter further stated that the measures are part of a broader strategy to enhance enrollment and retention, while creating new pathways for Washington students. As part of the cost-saving initiatives, WWU will eliminate staff positions, primarily in administrative and support units. However, 36 of the positions are currently vacant. The remaining 38 people will start to receive pink slips today. In the letter, Randhawa acknowledged the impact on employees and morale. He emphasized the decisions were made strategically to minimize disruptions while ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability. Despite the reductions, WWU says it still needs to identify an additional $5 million in savings to fully eliminate the structural deficit. The university is also monitoring the Washington state budget outlook, which could influence future funding. STORY: Measles confirmed in King County, Whatcom well below recommended federal target vaccination rate Health officials in Whatcom County are urging residents to stay up to date on their measles vaccinations as cases rise across the country. Right now, only 81% of kindergartners in Whatcom County are vaccinated against measles, far below the 95% needed for herd immunity. Health officials warn that low immunization rates put the community at risk for outbreaks. Measles can cause severe complications including pneumonia, brain swelling, and lifelong neurological issues. Last Thursday, doctors in King County diagnosed an infant with measles. In Texas, the outbreak has grown to 124 cases, with 18 people hospitalized and one unvaccinated child dying from the disease. Measles was eradicated in the United States 25 years ago but remains highly contagious, spreading through the air and infecting up to 18 people per case. There is no treatment for measles, but the vaccine is 98% effective. In Washington, vaccines are available for children under 18. Free clinics and mobile Care-A-Van services are available in Whatcom County for those needing vaccinations. STORY: FCN inpatient care network to end at St. Joseph’s at the close of April Family Care Network announced it will end inpatient care services at the St. Joseph Medical Center on April 30th. The move marks the end of a 15-year program that provided hospital care to FCN patients, and raises concerns for both hospital staff and patients about sudden increases in workload. In an interview with Cascadia Daily News, Dr. Chao-Ying Wu (CHOW YANG WOO), a founding member of FCN, called the loss enormous for the community and patients. FCN has not disclosed the number of affected positions or the reason behind ending the program. PeaceHealth says it is working on a smooth transition. Pending contract negotiations, ten additional hospitalists may be hired. The closure impacts over 100,000 Family Care Network patients, many of whom are on Medicaid, eliminating the option for their primary care group to oversee hospital care. FCN declined to comment on the number of Family Care employees affected, and PeaceHealth declined to comment on the impact to the overall hospital workforce. STORY: Whatcom County Council discusses timeline for new jail Whatcom County Council says it is refining plans for the capacity, budget, and design of the new jail and behavioral health center. A preliminary budget estimate is expected in May, along with a capacity study for both facilities. In the meeting, Council member Jon Scanlon emphasized the need to consider policies that could reduce incarceration rates, which would potentially impact the size of the jail. It remains undecided whether the jail and behavioral health center will be housed in one or two buildings. Design planning begins in August, and the final cost estimate is expected by the end of 2026. The county says it plans to inform and engage the community throughout the process, and will launch an informational data dashboard on its website soon. STORY: Weeks-long road work set to begin in Ferndale A road closure and detour for utility work in Ferndale starts today, and is expected to last up to 6 …
February 28, 2025 News Transcript
Ferndale house fire leaves one deceased, Bellingham addressing housing shortage by targeting “middle housing”, Governor’s office proposes $4B in cutbacks and furloughs ahead of government shortfall, Governor’s office proposes $4B in cutbacks and furloughs ahead of government shortfall, Volunteers express concern over upcoming summer at Mount Baker in wake of mass government firings, Free and Cheap, Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill, Center for Biological Diversity sues for local species of moth to be federally recognized as endangered Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, February 28th. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: Ferndale house fire leaves one deceased Firefighters responded to reports of a loud explosion and house fire on Falcon Lane in Ferndale Wednesday morning. Fire crews arrived to find a single-story home fully engulfed in flames. During a search, firefighters discovered the deceased property owner, identified as a 78-year-old man. Authorities confirmed no criminal activity was involved. The Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office determined the explosion was caused by multiple propane tanks inside the residence. However, the fire’s origin remains undetermined. The county Medical Examiner’s Office is handling the investigation into the cause of the man’s death. STORY: Bellingham addressing housing shortage by targeting “middle housing” To promote diverse and affordable housing, the City of Bellingham says it will consider expanding “middle housing” to nearly all residential zones. Middle housing includes duplexes, townhouses, and small multiplexes—options smaller than apartment complexes, but denser than single-family homes. The move aligns with Washington state’s 2023 “missing middle” bill, which mandates that cities allow middle housing by June 2026. If Bellingham does not adopt its own regulations, the state code will take effect. Mayor Kim Lund issued an executive order in November to accelerate housing development. Currently, about 31% of renters in Bellingham pay over half their income on rent. The city issued 534 housing unit permits in 2024, only half of its target. Community Development Director Blake Lyon told the city council on Monday that expanding the city’s 2009 infill toolkit could boost development. The guidelines support middle housing options like courtyard cottages and four-plexes. Since its adoption, 450 in-fill units have been built, with 136 under construction, and 168 in permitting. A public hearing on March 24th will discuss an interim ordinance to extend the infill toolkit citywide, except in the Lake Whatcom watershed. The city is also working to streamline the permitting process to support more affordable housing development. More information about middle housing is available on the city’s website. STORY: Governor’s office proposes $4B in cutbacks and furloughs ahead of government shortfall Governor Ferguson has proposed requiring state employees to take one unpaid furlough day per month, for the next two years, as part of a plan to reduce state spending by $4 billion. While unveiling this proposal on Thursday, Ferguson outlined various cost-cutting measures, including spending delays and reductions in agency budgets, but funding would be maintained for key services like K-12 education and homelessness programs. The furloughs, set to begin in July, if approved, are intended to help address a projected $15 billion budget shortfall for the state, and would save approximately $300 million. Certain workers would be excluded, such as State Patrol and prison staff. The plan has drawn criticism from the Washington Federation of State Employees, which is urging lawmakers to raise taxes on the state’s wealthiest residents instead. Meanwhile, business groups and Republican lawmakers have expressed support for the governor’s emphasis on cost-cutting over tax hikes. Democratic legislative leaders are set to release their own budget proposals next month, with some arguing that new taxes will be necessary to fully address the budget gap. Ferguson has not ruled out tax increases but stated they would be a last resort. STORY: Volunteers express concern over upcoming summer at Mount Baker in wake of mass government firings Several long-standing volunteer programs in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest are in jeopardy following mass firings in the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service. Thirty-six probationary employees in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest were terminated by the Trump administration. These cuts follow the Forest Service’s September decision to halt seasonal hiring, except for fire response, amid a $700 million budget shortfall. The Mount Baker Mountain Stewards program, which has operated since 2002, has already seen its scope reduced due to declines in Forest Service staffing. Volunteers worry this summer could be a “free-for-all” without oversight. The Seattle Times reports that longtime volunteers, who have spent years teaching visitors about wilderness ethics, worry that losing these programs will hurt public safety and environmental protection. The Forest Service says it remains committed to keeping recreation areas open but has not explained how it will handle staffing shortages. With enforcement and maintenance uncertain, volunteers warn that the increase in outdoor recreation after COVID-19, coupled with fewer resources, could lead to overcrowding and environmental damage. The recreation.gov website remains functional for campsite reservations, but the future of volunteer-led outdoor education is unclear. 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. Western’s Outdoor Center will host the No Man’s Land Film Festival today at 5:30 p.m. The Denver-based festival is described as “the premier all-woman + genderqueer adventure film festival”. Previous films from the festival’s decade-long history have approached topics ranging from skateboarding in Morocco to drag queens in Alaska. Tickets for Western’s showing are $8 for students and $14 for general admission; this price includes a raffle ticket, and proceeds will go toward the Outdoor Center’s efforts to foster outdoor access for all. The WECU Expo Building at the Lynden Fairgrounds will host the Whatcom Farm Expo tomorrow from 9 to 2 p.m. As Cascadia Daily News put it, the event has “brought together community members, businesses, organizations and other agricultural resources every spring for nine years now”. This year’s lineup includes speakers and demonstrations …
February 27, 2025 News Transcript
ICE arrests man in Lynden previously jailed for assault, Lynden man involved in fatal head-on collision, Seven-month hiring freeze lifted by county government, Whatcom County Council hires consulting firm to review HR policies following sexual harassment settlement, Whatcom superintendents oppose proposed limitations to transitional kindergarten program, New proposed bill would increase penalties for violence against healthcare workers in WA, Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, February 27th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: ICE arrests man in Lynden previously jailed for assault A man previously jailed for a stabbing incident in Everson now faces deportation under federal immigration enforcement efforts. U.S. Border Patrol’s Blaine Sector confirmed that agents assisted ICE in the arrest of 42-year-old Antonio Santiago-Vazquez, a Mexican citizen, (sun-tee-AH-go VAHS-kiss) near Lynden on Tuesday. Santiago-Vazquez was initially arrested in May 2021 after stabbing three people at a party at the Glen Echo Community Center. Two victims sustained serious injuries that required emergency surgery. Santiago-Vazquez later accepted a plea deal and served three months in jail for third-degree assault. Authorities say Santiago-Vazquez has already been deported multiple times and is now being processed for removal to Mexico. STORY: Lynden man involved in fatal head-on collision A Lynden man survived a head-on collision Tuesday afternoon that resulted in the death of the other driver. Washington State Patrol says 60-year-old Dennis VanBeek (VAN BEAK) was driving a dump truck north on State Route 9 near milepost 25 when a Subaru Impreza, driven by 68-year-old Kimberly Glasgow of Marysville, crossed the center line. The vehicles collided head-on just after 1 p.m. Glasgow was pronounced dead at the scene. VanBeek sustained minor injuries. Both drivers were wearing seat belts, and the State Patrol reports that both vehicles were totaled. VanBeek, a CDL driver for Faber (FAY-burr) Construction, is expected to recover. The crash remains under investigation. STORY: Seven-month hiring freeze lifted by county government Whatcom County government’s seven-month hiring freeze has been lifted. County Executive Satpal Sidhu (saht-PAUL see-DO) signed an executive order to lift the freeze Wednesday. The county enacted the freeze on July 15th of last year to curb spending as it faced the loss of COVID-era federal aid, stagnant sales tax revenue, and rising labor and project costs. The freeze did not apply to positions covered by grants or separate funds. It was originally instituted for 90 days but continued through the biennial budget process last fall. Sidhu noted in his executive order that the budget prioritized maintaining core services while rebuilding and stabilizing the organization. He said contract negotiations for union-represented county employees will take place this year. Most departments will have to cover wage increases negotiated for 2026 within their adopted budgets. STORY: Whatcom County Council hires consulting firm to review HR policies following sexual harassment settlement In more County Council news, an outside firm has been hired to examine the county’s HR policies and procedures. In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, the council approved a $76,500 contract with Matrix Consulting Group to conduct the review. The decision follows the county’s $225,000 settlement in November of 2023 involving former Public Works director Jon Hutchings, who resigned before an investigation into sexual harassment allegations. Council members launched their own probe into the county’s handling of such claims last April, after learning of the settlement through a news investigation. Nearly a hundred county employees later urged transparency and regular updates on the process to restore trust in leadership. Matrix Consulting Group will spend four months reviewing the county’s HR policies. The assessment includes an employee survey, policy review, staffing analysis, and final recommendations. The contract runs through August 31st. STORY: Whatcom superintendents oppose proposed limitations to transitional kindergarten program All seven Whatcom County superintendents oppose changes to the state’s Transition to Kindergarten program, saying the proposal would limit enrollment and put more financial strain on schools. In a letter to state lawmakers, they criticized House Bill 1450, which would add new administrative requirements and cut available seats for children. They argue the bill would hurt families who depend on the program for free early learning. Transition to Kindergarten currently serves 4-and 5-year-olds who don’t qualify for federal early education programs but cannot afford private child care. One of the bill’s sponsors, Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos (tow-MEE-koh SUN-toes) of Seattle, says the changes aim to protect the private early learning sector from losing enrollment to public schools. The superintendents say the program is already effective, pointing to data that shows it improves kindergarten readiness. They also oppose the bill’s added requirements, including a new approval process and site visits, arguing they come without additional funding. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Appropriations Committee. STORY: New proposed bill would increase penalties for violence against healthcare workers in WA A new bill in the state Legislature could adjust the state’s assault law for health care workers by creating an exemption for mental health patients. For nearly 30 years, Washington law has allowed prosecutors to file felony charges against individuals who assault health care workers, even for minor offenses like spitting. House Bill 1220 aims to prevent seriously mentally ill patients from being automatically charged with felonies for low-level assaults, while still allowing charges based on the severity of the attack. Supporters argue that criminalizing minor assaults by those in mental health crises does not reduce violence and often worsens their condition. An investigation conducted by The Seattle Times and the Marshall Project shows that, between 2018 and 2022, 76% of people charged in King County under the current law showed signs of serious mental illness. The state Medical Association and emergency physicians have raised concerns, warning that a broad exemption could fail to protect health care workers facing rising workplace violence. A survey conducted by National Nurses United last year found that nearly half of nurses reported increased violence on the job. The bill is currently under review by the …
February 26, 2025 News Transcript
Two suspected fentanyl dealers arrested in Bellingham, Man arrested on suspected DUI charge after impacting WTA bus, Bill to lower BAC resurfaces during State Senate exec. Session, New student fee to be allocated at WWU, proceeds to aid in combating student food insecurity, Blaine considers merging primary and elementary schools in response to financial troubles, Sedro-Woolley residents voice concerns following sudden departure of popular school superintendent, New proposed bill would increase penalties for violence against healthcare workers in WA, Relatives of those who have died in state custody speak in support of oversight bill Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, February 26th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Two suspected fentanyl dealers arrested in Bellingham Two suspected drug dealers from Everson were arrested on Friday. The arrests come after a months-long investigation conducted by the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force into the suspects’ activities. The two suspects, a 39-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman, allegedly worked together to buy drugs from a Seattle mall and drive them up to Whatcom County. A search into the suspects’ car yielded a kilo of fentanyl powder inside a suitcase. A search was also conducted at their house; officers found a firearm owned by the man illegally, as he is not a U.S. citizen. According to County Sheriff Office’s spokesperson Deb Slater, the man admitted to sending proceeds from drug sales to Mexico, as well as handling funds from local members of the drug ring. Both suspects were booked at Whatcom County Jail, where they remain as of today. STORY: Man arrested on suspected DUI charge after impacting WTA bus A 26-year-old man was arrested after crashing into a WTA bus in downtown Bellingham on Sunday night. Bellingham Police Lt. Claudia Murphy said that officers observed the driver swerving and speeding on North State Street before he drove through an alley and struck the bus on East Magnolia Street. Police arrested the driver on suspicion of driving under the influence. Fortunately, no one on the bus was injured. STORY: Bill to lower BAC resurfaces during State Senate exec. Session Washington state lawmakers are once again considering lowering the legal blood alcohol content limit for drivers. State senators discussed Senate Bill 5067 in an executive session on Tuesday. If passed, the bill would reduce the legal alcohol limit from 0.08% to 0.05%. Despite strong bipartisan support, similar proposals have failed in the last two legislative sessions. Opponents argue the change could overwhelm an already backlogged judicial system, while supporters point to a sharp rise in DUI crashes since 2019 as a reason to push the bill forward. STORY: New student fee to be allocated at WWU, proceeds to aid in combating student food insecurity The WHOLE Pantry, WWU’s largest food pantry, is struggling to stay stocked as student demand remains high. Within hours of replenishment, supplies are often depleted, highlighting a growing issue of food insecurity on campus. According to a new report from the Washington Student Achievement Council, food and housing insecurity at Western increased by 5% last fall compared to 2022. Over 54% of students reported experiencing at least one form of basic needs insecurity, slightly above the statewide average of 52.4%. The Northwest Indian College, which participated in the survey for the first time, reported even higher levels of need. Nearly 90% of its students experienced food or housing insecurity, with 27% facing homelessness. The college is using this data to advocate for House Bill 1540, a bill aimed at expanding support for homeless students. In response, Western has expanded efforts to connect students with resources such as SNAP benefits and the Department of Social and Health Services. A newly approved student fee of $4.50 per quarter will provide sustainable funding for food pantries, including hiring a full-time staff member to oversee food recovery efforts from campus dining services. Despite increased donations and partnerships with local businesses, Western’s Basic Needs Hub continues to seek ways to support students struggling to afford essentials. STORY: Blaine considers merging primary and elementary schools in response to financial troubles The Blaine School District says their primary and elementary schools may merge next year in order to close a growing budget deficit. The proposed consolidation is one of several cost-saving measures under consideration, which were briefly discussed at a school board meeting on Monday. According to Superintendent Chris Granger, a merger could save the district an estimated $600,000. Under the plan, Blaine Primary would become an early learning center for preschool, transitional kindergarten and kindergarten, while Blaine Elementary would serve first through fifth grades. The district aims to reduce duplicate services, such as operating two separate offices and cafeterias. The district faces a projected deficit of up to $3 million for the upcoming school year, driven by state underfunding and declining enrollment. While the plan would not eliminate all staff reductions, Granger hopes it will minimize job losses. The proposal remains under discussion, with the Blaine School Board set to revisit the topic in late March. Some community members oppose the merger, and cite concerns over student support and logistical challenges. A petition against the plan has gathered more than 300 signatures. Superintendent Granger acknowledged the community’s frustrations, and emphasized that difficult decisions stem from inadequate state funding. The district continues to advocate for legislative solutions to secure long-term financial stability. STORY: Sedro-Woolley residents voice concerns following sudden departure of popular school superintendent The Sedro-Woolley community is reeling from the sudden resignation of a popular school superintendent. Dozens of people attended a Sedro-Woolley School Board meeting on Monday. This came three days after the announcement that Superintendent Mirian Mickelson, originally hired in 2021, had departed the board. A news release by the board states that they are looking forward to quote “taking the district in a new direction, building on the work that Dr. Mickelson has done these past four years” unquote. The release also noted that four of the board members responsible for hiring Mickelson were no longer on the …
February 25, 2025 News Transcript
Manslaughter charges dropped against Bellingham man involved in fatal overdose, other charge stands, Assault charge dismissed against Lynden Chamber Exec and City Councilor Gary Alan Vis, Two Whatcom County health care providers’ licenses suspended, Joann Fabrics now to close all locations in WA, including Bellingham, Report indicates Bellingham Intl Airport above national average for flight vacancies, State GOP criticizes new signature verification bill as “initiative killer”, Several bills die in House Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, February 25th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Manslaughter charges dropped against Bellingham man involved in fatal overdose, other charge stands 55-year-old Brian Tolstrip Christensen will spend 20 months in prison after pleading guilty to unlawful delivery of controlled substances. The charge stemmed from a fentanyl overdose death in March of 2023, which was linked to drugs he reportedly provided. Manslaughter and other drug charges were dismissed as part of a plea deal. Christensen was initially arrested in September 2023, and later released on bond. He was returned to custody last February after violating release conditions. He also pled guilty to felony witness tampering in January, receiving an additional four-month sentence. Christensen was transferred to the Department of Corrections last Tuesday to serve the remainder of his sentence, which will be followed by 12 months of community custody. STORY: Assault charge dismissed against Lynden Chamber Exec and City Councilor Gary Alan Vis A second-degree assault charge against 57-year-old Gary Alan Vis was dismissed with prejudice on February 12th, after he was found to have complied with court requirements. The charge stemmed from a domestic incident on January 21st of last year, when Vis allegedly placed a family member in a chokehold. Whatcom County prosecutors initially charged Vis — a longtime executive of the Lynden Chamber of Commerce and a recently elected Lynden City Council member — in the County Superior Court. Court records from August indicate ongoing negotiations before the case was ultimately dismissed. STORY: Two Whatcom County health care providers’ licenses suspended The state Department of Health announced today that the licenses of two healthcare providers from Whatcom County have been suspended. Corey Len Campbell’s EMT license was suspended indefinitely in January. He was found to have consumed alcohol at his workplace in November of 2023, and failed to respond to a letter of cooperation from April and a statement of charges from October. Campbell must enroll in a recovery and monitoring program and respond to a letter of cooperation before petitioning for reinstatement. The other provider is Amber Joan Valdez (vahl-DIS), whose CNA license was suspended in December. Valdez was found under the influence by law enforcement in April of 2023; additionally, fentanyl was found during a search of a residence where she worked. Valdez failed to respond to a statement of charges from August; the DOH says she must enroll in a recovery and monitoring program before petitioning for reinstatement. STORY: Joann Fabrics now to close all locations in WA, including Bellingham National craft and fabric retailer Joann announced it will close all its store locations, including those in Bellingham and Olympia. Going-out-of-business sales are now underway. Joann had previously announced plans to close 21 stores in Washington while keeping nine, including Bellingham and Olympia, open. However, the company confirmed it was officially acquired and the remaining locations will be shut down permanently. Financial services firm GA Group, along with Joann’s lenders, acquired the company’s assets. Store closure dates will be announced online, and customer gift cards remain valid through Friday. Discounts on fabrics, yarns, and other craft supplies are already available. STORY: Report indicates Bellingham Intl Airport above national average for flight vacancies A recent report found that Bellingham Airport had a higher-than-average vacancy rate, with 19.2% of seats empty on flights in and out of the airport—compared to the national average of 18.9%. The study, conducted by Luxury Link, used data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics from November 2023 through October of last year. Bellingham was ranked 87th out of 192 U.S. airports for empty seats. The report noted that shorter flights and budget airlines had more vacancies, while major carriers like Delta, American, and United saw fuller flights. Bellingham averaged 99 flights per week, with around 25 empty seats per flight. Southwest Airlines, which ceased service to Bellingham in August, previously cited financial losses, travel pattern shifts, and aircraft delivery delays as reasons for its exit. Officials from the Port of Bellingham declined to verify the data or comment on the report. STORY: State GOP criticizes new signature verification bill as “initiative killer” A proposed Senate bill that would add new requirements to Washington’s initiative process is facing heated opposition. The bill, backed by Democrats, would require the Secretary of State’s Office to verify addresses during signature checks; it would also require signature gatherers to sign declarations on each petition sheet. Supporters argue it increases accountability, while critics — including Republicans, former Secretary of State Sam Reed, and current Secretary of State Steve Hobbs — call it an unnecessary barrier to direct democracy. They say the bill could discourage volunteer participation and make the initiative process more difficult. The legislation follows a year where six Republican-backed initiatives reached the Legislature, with three passing and three failing at the ballot box. A hearing on the bill is scheduled for Monday. STORY: Several bills die in House Several proposed bills in Washington state failed to meet the legislative deadline on Friday, meaning they will not advance this session. Among them are bills on firearm safety, the minimum wage, and a redesign of the state flag. Two firearm safety bills that would have required gun owners to carry liability insurance and another that eased restrictions on restoring firearm rights for certain individuals both stalled in committee. The minimum wage proposal would incrementally raise the state’s minimum wage to $25 per hour by 2031—- it did not progress past a public hearing. House Bill 1630, a bill that would have required dairy farmers to …
February 24, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham PD searching for suspect in Maple Street burglary, WWU crowd protests state funding cuts to higher education, Longtime County Councilmember dies at 78, Two Whatcom County officials confirm online impersonation, WCC names new president, State Superintendent of Public Instruction tells public schools to resist federal directive to end DEI programs, Audit shows Dept of Commerce improperly gave grants to applicants Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, February 24th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham PD searching for suspect in Maple Street burglary Bellingham Police are looking for a suspect involved in a burglary last week at an East Maple Street business. According to BPD Lieutenant Claudia Murphy, the break-in was reported shortly after 6 a.m. on Friday. The suspect entered the business by smashing through the front door, and stole cash before fleeing. Police attempted to track the suspect using a K9 perimeter, but were unsuccessful. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the burglary to contact BPD. STORY: WWU crowd protests state funding cuts to higher education Over a hundred students, faculty, and staff at Western Washington University gathered in the rain Friday to protest proposed funding cuts to higher education. Student employees who spoke at the rally warned that, without full funding, some of the university’s lowest-paid and most vulnerable workers could face layoffs and financial hardship. The demonstration also highlighted concerns over broader political attacks on education, workers, and diversity initiatives. Western is facing an $18 million budget shortfall this year, and has already announced plans to cut over 50 positions. The state legislature, which will determine funding allocations, is in session until April. STORY: Longtime County Councilmember dies at 78 Barbara Brenner, a longtime Whatcom County Council member known for her independent spirit and dedication to local issues, is dead at the age of 78. According to her son Wesley, she died at home on February 9th of complications from a long-term respiratory illness; she was surrounded by family. Brenner served on the council from 1991 to 2019, never sought higher office and self-funded her campaigns to maintain independence. She was widely respected for her commitment to transparency and accessibility, even listing her home phone number publicly. Colleagues remembered her for her passionate advocacy, especially her efforts to eliminate “local long-distance” phone charges and regulate medical waste incineration, a battle she waged after suspecting it had caused health issues in her community. Brenner is survived by her husband, Ed; sons Wes and Collin; and three sisters. A public memorial is planned for May. Contributions in her memory can be made to the Sean Humphrey House or mental health organizations like NAMI (nah-ME) Whatcom. STORY: Two Whatcom County officials confirm online impersonation Two elected officials in Whatcom County were impersonated by online trolls who posted inflammatory comments under their names on YouTube. Bellingham City Council member Michael Lilliquist and Whatcom County Charter Review Commissioner Liz Darrow confirmed the impersonations to The Bellingham Herald. YouTube disabled the fake account impersonating Lilliquist after an inquiry from KCPQ-TV in Seattle, whose report exposed the scam. A YouTube spokesperson stated that impersonation violates the platform’s community guidelines. Darrow believes her impersonator’s account has also been removed, but YouTube has not confirmed it. The fake accounts posted a mix of provocative statements, which included remarks about affordable housing and offensive comments targeted at minority groups. Under Washington state law, online impersonators could face criminal prosecution and potential civil lawsuits for defamation or invasion of privacy. STORY: WCC names new president Justin Guillory (gill-o-REE), former president of Northwest Indian College, will join Whatcom Community College as its new president May 1st. He replaces Kathi Hiyane-Brown (CATHY hee-YUN-nee BROWN) as she retires after 18 years of leadership. WCC’s Board of Trustees selected Guillory for his strong background in higher education leadership and alignment with the college’s vision. Board Chair John Pedlow (PAD-low) praised Guillory’s dedication to student success, academic excellence and community engagement. Pedlow called Guillory’s appointment a “significant milestone” for the institution. Guillory, a direct descendant of the Nez Perce (NESS PURSE) Tribe of Idaho, also has African-American and Hispanic ancestry. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity, and emphasized his commitment to expanding student opportunities and strengthening community partnerships. Guillory previously led Northwest Indian College for 12 years before departing last October. Whatcom Community College, located in Bellingham, had nearly 3,000 full-time students enrolled as of this past fall. STORY: State Superintendent of Public Instruction tells public schools to resist federal directive to end DEI programs Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal (rike-DOLL) is advising schools to resist a directive from the Trump administration to dismantle DEI programs. According to a recent announcement, Reykdal’s office received a “Dear Colleague Letter” from the U.S. Department of Education, which declared DEI initiatives discriminatory and illegal. The letter warned that institutions who failed to comply could lose federal funding, and enforcement will begin at the end of February. However, Reykdal asserts that such letters do not carry the force of law, and urged schools to maintain their existing DEI policies. He emphasized that DEI has been a fundamental part of Washington’s education system and criticized the political “weaponization” of the term. Reykdal reassured schools his office is working with Washington Attorney General Nick Brown to address potential funding challenges that could result from federal actions. STORY: Audit shows Dept of Commerce improperly gave grants to applicants A recent audit revealed the State Department of Commerce failed to properly distribute grants to qualified applicants under the Behavioral Health Community Capacity Grant program. The State Auditor’s Office released the report in November as part of its effort to examine programs at high risk of fraud, loss, or abuse. The audit reviewed spending from July 2022 to June 2023 and found that none of the sampled grant recipients met all legislative criteria. Additionally, only a portion of the allocated funds was used in the 2023 fiscal year, with some money spent on unapproved items such as food, snacks, and a …
February 21, 2025 News Transcript
MIP alert put out for woman last seen in Bellingham, Suspect in custody after ramming Lummi Police vehicle, Man arrested after firing gun near Ferndale cemetery in road rage incident, Bellingham health officials seeking to divert non-emergency patients from overburdened ER, Community input sought for Meridian Middle School bond, Free and Cheap, Audit shows Dept of Commerce improperly gave grants to applicants Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, February 21st. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: MIP alert put out for woman last seen in Bellingham Authorities have issued a Missing Indigenous Person Alert for the Lummi Nation. Bessalyn James is 62, about 5’2”, and black-haired. She was last seen on January 21st in Bellingham, wearing black pants, a puffy, black jacket, white sneakers, and a stocking cap. She was last reported to be on foot, traveling in an unknown direction. People with information are asked to call 911. STORY: Suspect in custody after ramming Lummi Police vehicle A high-speed chase involving a pickup truck snarled traffic in a residential area near Thornton Street and Malloy Avenue in Ferndale yesterday. The incident began around 7:45 a.m., when Lummi Nation Police spotted a dark pickup truck leaving a vacant house in the Sandy Point Heights neighborhood. The truck rammed the patrol vehicle, then fled north on Lake Terrell Road toward Slater, which prompted the pursuit. The chase, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, covered various west county roads, sometimes at speeds reaching 100 mph. Sheriff’s Office personnel deployed a spike strip, destroying the truck’s tires. The suspect eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Lummi Nation Police later booked 39-year-old Calvin Ralph James, Jr. into Whatcom County Jail around 9:30 a.m. He now faces multiple charges in Lummi Tribal Court, including attempting to elude police and reckless driving. STORY: Man arrested after firing gun near Ferndale cemetery in road rage incident A Puyallup man was arrested in connection to a drive-by shooting at Ferndale’s Woodlawn Cemetery on Tuesday. Deputies responded to a report of a driver brandishing a firearm around 10:15 p.m. near the intersection of Northwest Drive and West Axton Road. A witness who called 911 reported that they had seen the driver fire the gun out of their window toward Woodlawn Cemetery. Based on the description, the suspect and his car were located and stopped 15 minutes later. According to Deb Slater, the public information officer for the County Sheriff’s Office, a passenger in the suspect’s car confirmed the driver had been involved in a road rage incident. Pistols and ammunition were found in the vehicle, and a shell casing found near Paradise Road matched the gun. The suspect was taken into custody without incident; he was booked into Whatcom County Jail at 11:45 p.m. STORY: Bellingham health officials seeking to divert non-emergency patients from overburdened ER The County Department of Health and Human Services says the surge in cases of respiratory viruses like RSV and the flu are overwhelming staff at St. Joseph’s. Dr. James Scribner, the hospital’s Emergency Department medical director, says patients with non-life-threatening conditions may face long wait times as staff prioritize more critical cases. Dr. Scribner said that if your symptoms aren’t life-threatening, a visit to your doctor or an urgent-care clinic might be a better option. By utilizing urgent care and primary care services for non-emergency medical needs, the community can help reduce the strain on hospital resources and ensure critical care remains available for those in serious need. For those experiencing non-emergency symptoms, several urgent care clinics are available in Whatcom County. STORY: Community input sought for Meridian Middle School bond The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office says it needs community members to write statements for the local voters’ pamphlet in opposition to the Meridian School District’s proposed $71 million bond measure. The bond, which would fund a new Meridian Middle School, will be on the ballot for the special election on April 22nd. Washington state law requires that an “against” statement be included in the voters’ pamphlet, but since the school district did not appoint a committee to write one, the auditor’s office must do so. This bond is a revised version of a similar measure that failed in last year’s general election, when it received just over 53% approval — a majority that came up short of the 60% required for passage. Community members interested in serving on the “against” committee must apply by next Wednesday at noon. More information is available at the Whatcom County Auditor’s website. 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. Through March 7th, the Idiom Theater on Cornwall Avenue will stage performances of Eugène Ionescu’s (yuah-NESK-ew) Exit the King. The play’s protagonist, King Bérenger (BAIR-un-shay), refuses to step away from his throne despite his advanced age and the crumbling of his kingdom. As the Idiom themselves put it, the King’s court bears witness to his unraveling, while the King himself “struggles to reconcile his crumbling authority with his own mortality”. All performances start at 7:30 p.m., and tickets starting at $12 can be purchased at the Idiom’s website. As it turns out, theatergoers have plenty of options; the Unsubdued Theatre Collective is staging a production of The Time of Cherries at WinkWink Boutique’s event space on Commercial Street through March 1st. The Time of Cherries is an historical drama set in 1871, when the Parisian working class seized power and established their own government. The play follows four characters during the two months of the Paris Commune’s existence. Just like Exit the King, performances start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $16.50 at the Unsubdued Theatre’s website. Finally, the Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon will host a screening of the New York Dog Film Festival this Sunday at 7 p.m. According to the Lincoln, the festival will feature a series of short films that celebrate the …
February 20, 2025 News Transcript
DOL investigation finds Fiamma restaurants owe workers more than $80,000 in back pay, Bellingham Port Commission approves next steps in affordable waterfront housing complex, Bellingham approves shared compost bins for certain residences ahead of new mandate, Bellingham Airport’s control tower struggling with understaffing, Deadline approaching for financial aid for property owners affected by November windstorms, State SC reaffirms commitment to equity amid federal pressure Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, February 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: DOL investigation finds Fiamma restaurants owe workers more than $80,000 in back pay A U.S. Department of Labor investigation found that managers at two well-known downtown Bellingham restaurants— La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza and Fiamma Burger— improperly took tips meant for employees. Seventy-three workers are still waiting for more than $80,000 in back pay and overtime, according to a new report. The Bellingham Herald reported that the firm agreed to follow the law moving forward but refuses to pay the back wages, liquidated damages, and civil penalties. Despite confirming the violations, the DOL announced it will not pursue legal action due to budget constraints, which means affected employees will have to seek compensation through private lawsuits. In a letter to employees, restaurant co-owner Ken Bothman denied wrongdoing, claimed compliance with labor laws, and stated the DOL chose not to move forward with litigation. However, the official investigation confirms that tips were improperly shared with managers, which constitutes a violation of federal labor laws. While the government will not enforce payment, the report concludes that La Fiamma and Fiamma Burger still owe their employees back wages. STORY: Bellingham Port Commission approves next steps in affordable waterfront housing complex Port of Bellingham commissioners have approved design documents for the second phase of the Millworks affordable housing project in Bellingham. The seven-story complex will be built next to the existing Millworks building at Cornwall Avenue and Laurel Street, and will include 109 workforce housing units and a multi-level parking garage. The development aims to provide housing for residents earning between 100 to 110% of the area’s average median income. The proposed plans put a local food campus on the ground floor, with office and meeting spaces for nonprofits on the second floor. The $140 million project will be funded through a combination of public and private grants, senior debt, and tax credit funds. Crews expect to finish construction by the end of 2027. STORY: Bellingham approves shared compost bins for certain residences ahead of new mandate Some Bellingham residents could see financial relief following adjustments to the city’s new food-waste rules enacted late last year. The changes require all households to have a separate bin for food and organic waste, alongside trash and recycling bins, with curbside collection handled by the Sanitary Service Company. In response to concerns about cost and excess bins, city council unanimously approved a measure that allows residents of accessory dwelling units, duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes to share waste bins, similar to apartment complexes. Low-income seniors and disabled residents may also qualify for a 15% discount on service fees. However, the council rejected exemptions for residents who compost at home, citing potential future state regulations that could make verification costly. Officials noted that the city’s FoodPlus! program accepts items that are difficult to compost at home, such as meat, dairy, and citrus peels. The new waste-sharing rules will take effect 15 days after final approval, which could come as early as Monday. STORY: Bellingham Airport’s control tower struggling with understaffing The control tower at Bellingham Airport has been forced to limit their hours of operation due to understaffing. The Cascadia Daily News report that the number of full-time air traffic controllers has dropped from three to two this month, a situation indicative of a challenge faced by airports throughout the country to properly staff tower operations. The shortage of air traffic controllers has forced Serco — the multinational corporation contracted by the FAA to staff the control tower — to close the tower on Tuesdays and every fourth Wednesday of the month. On their end, controllers working at Bellingham Airport have been limited to working ten-hour shifts and six consecutive days. An analysis conducted by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette found that roughly 98% of airport towers across the U.S. fail to meet staffing levels recommended by the FAA and the controllers’ union. Concerns have grown after the deadly mid-air collision in Washington, D.C. last month — with 67 killed, it was the deadliest U.S. air disaster in nearly 24 years. STORY: Deadline approaching for financial aid for property owners affected by November windstorms The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management reminds residents the deadline to apply for Washington State financial assistance for storm damage is Monday, March 3rd. Low-income residents who suffered major damage, or lost their primary home due to the bomb cyclone windstorms last November, may qualify for aid through the state’s Individual Assistance program. The program offers financial support for extended sheltering, home repairs, and other disaster-related needs. Deputy Director Matt Klein urged affected residents to reach out as soon as possible to determine eligibility. Assistance is available to households earning 80% or less of the area median income, as defined by HUD. For more information, residents should contact the Office Division of Emergency Management before the March 3rd deadline. STORY: State SC reaffirms commitment to equity amid federal pressure The state Supreme Court returned to Bellingham today for its Traveling Court program. At a Q&A session Wednesday at Western Washington University, justices answered questions about the court’s role, its ties to the U.S. Supreme Court, and the growing challenges to DEI efforts.The nine-member court includes five justices of color, six women, and representation from LGBTQ+ and disability communities—a diversity they say is a strength. Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis (mon-toh-YA LEWIS), a former Western professor and Whatcom County Superior Court justice, called the recent federal opposition to DEI efforts frustrating. She stressed that these initiatives ensure qualified individuals get considered, not that unqualified …
February 19, 2025 News Transcript
Bridge replacement project in downtown Bellingham close to completion, Bellingham law firm ordered to pay $1.3 million in sexual harassment bench trial, Man suspected of human trafficking across Blaine border crossing sentenced to 15 months, Second wave of flu season impacts Whatcom, House Democrats move to repeal cap on property tax hikes, Bellingham approves shared compost bins for certain residences ahead of new mandate Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, February 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bridge replacement project in downtown Bellingham close to completion An $11 million project to replace two bridges in downtown Bellingham is close to completion. The Meador Avenue bridge has been reopened to traffic after being closed for several months. In its online newsletter, the City of Bellingham says that a temporary pedestrian path will be in place until weather conditions allow for the construction of a permanent sidewalk – likely by the end of the month. Meanwhile, the nearby James Street bridge is once again closed. A temporary bridge is being removed to make space for a new, permanent one. Construction on both bridges began last spring. Alternating closures ensured that at least one would remain open at a time. The project’s completion is slated for early this summer. STORY: Bellingham law firm ordered to pay $1.3 million in sexual harassment bench trial Following a weeklong bench trial, Whatcom County Judge Lee Grochmal (GROCK-mall) ruled Thursday that attorney Craig Allen sexually harassed two former employees at his law firm. The ruling followed testimony detailing years of inappropriate behavior, including unwanted physical contact and sexually explicit comments. Allen denied the allegations, and claimed they were fabricated for financial gain, but the court found the plaintiffs’ accounts credible. The court awarded $800,000 in damages to Shawna Frolich, and $500,000 to Kim Davey. STORY: Man suspected of human trafficking across Blaine border crossing sentenced to 15 months The U.S. District Court in Seattle has sentenced an Oregon man to 15 months in prison for first-degree human trafficking. Authorities arrested 46-year-old Jesus Ortiz-Plata in Everett; three non-citizens smuggled from Canada into the U.S. were in his company. He pleaded guilty last November 20th to conspiracy to transport certain aliens for profit. Since late 2022, Border Patrol agents and investigators had repeatedly encountered a phone number linked to Ortiz-Plata while intercepting non-citizens attempting illegal border crossings. After months of surveillance, law enforcement tracked Ortiz-Plata’s movements and, on May 23rd of last year, followed him from his Oregon home to an apartment in Everett, where he was arrested. During sentencing, Judge James L. Robart condemned Ortiz-Plata’s actions, calling him a “commercial smuggler” motivated not by altruism but by profit. STORY: Grants to Ports of Bellingham and Anacortes hit by federal funding freeze Funds promised to the Port of Bellingham and the Port of Anacortes for job creation and energy transition projects are on hold. Both ports are working with Washington’s federal delegation to resolve the issue while their projects remain stalled. The Environmental Protection Agency awarded the grants last October through its Clean Ports Program. The Port of Bellingham received $1.5 million to develop an energy transition plan, while the Port of Anacortes secured nearly $64 million to support a public-private maritime partnership. President Trump’s executive order on his first day in office halted grant disbursements and environmental programs. A federal judge later ruled the funding freeze unconstitutional, and ordered the administration to restore the funds. However, uncertainty continues. During a House subcommittee hearing on February 5th, Representative Larsen criticized the freezes, calling them “a dumb move” and “disastrous.” Mike Hogan, public affairs administrator for the Port of Bellingham, said the port received notice two weeks ago that the funds were frozen. The grant portal temporarily reopened three days later, but faced another freeze last Tuesday. A separate $500,000 EPA grant for diesel emission reduction was also paused. However, other federally funded projects, including the Bellingham Shipping Terminal and rail reconnection project, remain unaffected. In a phone conversation with the Cascadia Daily News, Port of Anacortes Executive Director Brett Greenwood said his staff is checking the federal funding portal every few hours, waiting for funds to be released. The freeze has stalled hiring plans for private partners, who planned to hire 50 employees. It also prevents the port from advancing its electrification project, replacing diesel equipment, and purchasing new machinery. Greenwood worries inflation could increase project costs if delays continue. STORY: Second wave of flu season impacts Whatcom The County health department says flu cases in Whatcom County and across Washington are on the rise again. Ron Warner, communications specialist for the county health department, says that between February 2nd and 8th, flu cases accounted for 6.5% of hospitalizations in the region—91% higher than the season’s previous high and nearly four times last winter’s peak. Emergency room visits due to the flu also spiked— almost doubling the December numbers. Warner notes that while RSV is trending downward and COVID-19 rates have remained stable, influenza is now the dominant respiratory illness in the state. There are signs of a potential slowdown, however, as the increase in weekly flu cases has started to taper off, and the flu test positivity rate is rising at a slower pace. The flu has already contributed to 143 deaths statewide, including five in Whatcom County, which surpasses last season’s total of 132. STORY: House Democrats move to repeal cap on property tax hikes Democratic lawmakers in Washington state are proposing to repeal a voter-approved 1% cap on annual property tax hikes. The move would allow increases of up to 3% to generate revenue for public schools and local governments. House Bill 1334, discussed in a state House Finance Committee hearing yesterday, could bring in $818 million for education and nearly $1 billion for cities and counties over four years. Supporters argue the current cap limits essential services, while opponents warn of rising housing costs. A similar proposal failed last year amid strong opposition. No votes are expected soon, as …
February 18, 2025 News Transcript
Suspect in Bellingham shooting arrested, Remains of missing Marblemount man identified, Service providers claim “urgent need,” for daytime unhoused shelter in Bellingham, Bellingham Airport seeking new director of aviation, Lummi Nation breaks ground on detox center, Bellingham law firm ordered to pay $1.3 million in sexual harassment bench trial, Man suspected of human trafficking across Blaine border crossing sentenced to 15 months, Grants to Ports of Bellingham and Anacortes hit by federal funding freeze Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, February 18th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Suspect in Bellingham shooting arrested Bellingham Police arrested a man suspected of shooting another man on West Maplewood Avenue last week. Officers responded to reports of a shooting around three in the afternoon last Tuesday, and found a 37-year-old victim lying in a parking lot with a gunshot wound to the leg. A Whatcom County Sheriff’s Deputy arrived first and, with a civilian’s help, administered emergency medical aid. Investigators determined that the suspect, 26-year-old Timothy Stovall, had confronted the victim over an unpaid gas debt from the previous day. Stovall attempted to take the victim’s car and demanded cash before shooting him in the leg with a shotgun. Detectives later recovered the shotgun discarded along I-5. Stovall was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on Saturday, where he remains without bail. STORY: Remains of missing Marblemount man identified The Skagit County Coroner’s Office identified human remains found in November as those of Justin Spaeth (SPAY-th), a suspected murder victim who disappeared nearly a year ago. The 45-year-old Spaeth went missing on February 28th of last year after leaving his home in Marblemount to visit a friend two miles away. Three weeks later, Skagit County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 31-year-old James Kelly of Concrete on probable cause of first-degree premeditated murder. Investigators determined Kelly had played a role in Spaeth’s death and took him into custody after a two-day search. Hunters discovered skeletal human remains south of Rockport last October. DNA testing later confirmed the identity as Spaeth. The coroner’s office has not released the cause or manner of his death. Court documents indicate that Kelly allegedly shot Spaeth following an argument where Kelly accused him of speaking to law enforcement about a case where Kelly was a suspect. Witnesses stated Kelly threatened Spaeth, saying he would put a quote “bullet in his head” unquote at a nearby creek. Law enforcement found blood by the creek where the murder reportedly occurred. They also discovered burnt clothing during their search of the property. Kelly faces multiple charges, including first-degree premeditated murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and attempting to elude police. He is scheduled for a status conference in Skagit County Superior Court on March 17th, and could face life in prison if convicted of murder. STORY: Service providers claim “urgent need,” for daytime unhoused shelter in Bellingham A local service provider to the local unhoused community says Whatcom County overnight shelters are not enough. At a Whatcom County Council meeting last Tuesday, Amy Kenna, the operations director for Recovery Café Bellingham, urged the council to establish an additional seasonal day shelter next year, and emphasized the hardship faced by those without shelter. In past years, Bellingham has funded temporary daytime warming shelters and emergency overnight winter shelters, but these efforts have only been sustainable during extreme weather conditions. Without a daytime shelter this year, Kenna says unhoused individuals struggle to find a place to go during the day, and often seek refuge in libraries. According to Bellingham Public Library Director Rebecca Judd, the Central Library frequently exceeds its seating capacity, which highlights the urgent need for a dedicated day shelter. County Health and Community Services Director Erika Lautenbach (lot-n-BOCK) identified the absence of a day shelter as a critical gap in services. Melissa Morin (MORE-in), the Communications and Community Relations Director for the City of Bellingham, says the county receives state funding for emergency shelter operations, while the city has historically supplemented shelter funding from its general fund. An expansion of shelter services would require additional resources, trained staff, and an experienced organization to manage operations. STORY: Bellingham Airport seeking new director of aviation Bellingham Airport is looking for a new director of aviation nearly seven months after terminating the previous director for financial reasons. The Port of Bellingham announced the job opening on social media January 29th. The post emphasized the need for a hands-on leader to oversee daily airport operations and drive growth. BLI has faced challenges since Southwest Airlines announced last April that it would end service to the airport due to aircraft shortages and revenue concerns. Between 2021 and 2023, BLI earned over $5 million in direct revenue from Southwest. BLI aviation director Kip Turner was dismissed in July, less than a year after replacing retiring director Sunil (soo-NEEL) Harman. Nearly a month later, the airport’s deputy director of aviation resigned to take another job. Since then, Port Executive Director Rob Fix has managed airport operations on an interim basis. The hiring timeline for a new director remains uncertain, but the first application review is scheduled for March 3rd. Fix stated in December that BLI is working to restore air service. To attract new airlines and encourage existing carriers like Allegiant to expand routes, port commissioners approved an aviation incentive package in December, including waiving terminal landing fees for two years and providing marketing funds. STORY: Lummi Nation breaks ground on detox center The Lummi Nation broke ground on its stabilization withdrawal management services center on Friday – the first facility of its kind on tribal land in Washington. The center will expand the tribe’s healing campus as it continues to combat the fentanyl epidemic. The 24/7 secure residential stabilization center will feature 16 beds, healing spaces, a dining room, and a conference room. Lummi Nation Chairman Anthony Hillaire (hill-UR) acknowledged past tribal leaders who envisioned the project, and emphasized the importance of healing for their people. At the groundbreaking ceremony, Representative Larsen praised the …
