Investigation underway into fire that completely destroyed residential trailer in Ferndale, PeaceHealth expansion still underway amid uncertainty of federal funding cuts, Bellingham rental prices rise, while most other Whatcom cities trend downward, No jail time for Whatcom man who pled guilty to sexually assaulting child, Two people fined over $7 million for perpetrating years-long, statewide estate sale scheme, Flags to fly at half-staff in honor of JBLM crash victims Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Investigation underway into fire that completely destroyed residential trailer in Ferndale A fire that destroyed a fifth-wheel trailer home in Whatcom County last week is under investigation by the county Fire Marshal’s Office. Fire crews were called around 5:50 p.m. last Thursday to the 5000 block of Elder Road. When firefighters arrived, a camper and fifth-wheel being used as a single residence was fully engulfed. No one was home at the time, and the resident was uninjured. Crews from Fire District 7, North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, and District 17 knocked down the main flames in under 10 minutes, then worked several hours extinguishing hot spots. While blocking the road, a Sheriff’s Office vehicle was hit, which injured the deputy inside. The deputy has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home. STORY: PeaceHealth expansion still underway amid uncertainty of federal funding cuts PeaceHealth officials say they’re keeping a close eye on how federal health care changes. At a community meeting Monday, PeaceHealth Northwest Chief Executive Charles Prosper said federal and state policy shifts are still evolving, and the hospital will stay alert as those changes unfold. Meanwhile, construction on PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s 80-bed expansion continues along Squalicum Parkway, with sidewalk and bike lane work set to wrap up by the end of the month. The project will add 120,000 square feet to the Bellingham hospital, which includes a new emergency department, single-patient rooms, and a rooftop helipad. Most of the new beds are expected to be licensed by mid-2027, with the rest coming online in 2029. According to PeaceHealth, the $336 million expansion will improve access to care without raising patient costs. STORY: Bellingham rental prices rise, while most other Whatcom cities trend downward Rental prices in Bellingham ticked up this month, even as many nearby cities saw drops. According to new data from Zillow, the average rent in Bellingham reached $2,200 in early October — up $50 from September and $200 higher than a year ago. That’s about 8% above the national average. Elsewhere in Whatcom County, rental trends were mixed. Prices dropped in Lynden, Blaine, Sumas, Birch Bay, and Deming, while Ferndale and Everson saw increases. Ferndale’s average rent rose to $2,400, the highest in the county, while Deming had the lowest average at about $1,300. STORY: No jail time for Whatcom man who pled guilty to sexually assaulting child A Whatcom County man who admitted to the sexual assault of a child will not serve jail time. Sixty-five-year-old Luciano Lozano pleaded guilty and was sentenced Tuesday under a special sex offender sentencing alternative. This means his more than five-year prison term is suspended if he follows court-ordered treatment and supervision. Lozano was arrested in January 2022 after telling his pastor he had inappropriately touched a 10-year-old girl. The pastor contacted authorities, which led to Lozano’s arrest. Judge David Freeman approved the agreed-upon sentence, saying it appropriately addressed the charges. Lozano must complete five years of sex offender treatment and has a no-contact order with the victim. STORY: Two people fined over $7 million for perpetrating years-long, statewide estate sale scheme Two people have been ordered to pay more than $7 million for what state officials call a “probates-for-profit” scheme that cheated families across Washington. According to the state Attorney General’s Office, John Elliott and Shanelle Sunde used legal loopholes to get themselves appointed as estate administrators for nearly 200 deceased strangers, then sold off homes and assets without notifying heirs. They collected large commissions and sold at least 90 homes worth more than $28 million, with eight of those cases in Skagit County. A King County judge also barred the pair from ever serving as probate administrators again. STORY: Flags to fly at half-staff in honor of JBLM crash victims Last Friday, Gov. Bob Ferguson ordered U.S. and Washington state flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of four soldiers who died in a helicopter crash last month. The soldiers — Chief Warrant Officers Andrew Cully and Andrew Kraus, Sgt. Donavon Scott, and Sgt. Jadalyn Good — were killed in a training accident near Summit Lake in Thurston County on September 17th. Scott was from Tacoma, Good from Mount Vernon, Cully from Missouri, and Kraus from Florida. Flags at all state agency facilities will remain at half-staff until sunset or close of business on Friday. The Army has called the crash an “aviation mishap” and is still investigating the cause. WX: Sixty Degrees of Kevin Bacon And now for the weather: It’s another sunny fall day here in Whatcom. The forecast calls for bright, clear skies and highs around 60 degrees. Cloud cover is expected to remain minimal throughout the day and headed into the evening. Speaking of which, we’ve got another chilly fall night in store for us, with temperatures expected to hit lows in the mid-high 30s. Expect to see some increasing cloud cover tomorrow, with chances of scattered showers as the day wears on. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THARE-un) Danielson, Glen Hirshberg (HERSH-berg), Kathi O’Shea (o-SHAY), Bella Mae, and Kai Blais-Schmolke (KAI BLAZE-SHMOLE-kee). 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 _________, and thank you …
October 14, 2025 News Transcript
Blaine man sentenced to 15 years in prison for attempted murder of girlfriend, Weekend windstorms leave over 2,000 PSE customers without power, City of Blaine temporarily withdraws controversial urban growth plan, Accessible voting units available in Whatcom County (for 10/14), Lynden approves tax hike, Environmentalist groups challenge Whatcom County’s “robust” assessment of AltaGas terminal, Actuary for WA’s paid family and medical leave program paints dire picture of financial future, Ferndale ballot dropbox temporarily moved (kill 10/28 without edit, 11/3 with edit), Free and Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October 14th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Blaine man sentenced to 15 years in prison for attempted murder of girlfriend A Blaine man will spend 15 years in prison for the attempted murder of his girlfriend last summer. 42-year-old Clayton Dubois (doo-BWAH) was convicted of first-degree attempted murder and unlawful firearm possession nearly two months ago. He was sentenced to prison yesterday in Whatcom County Superior Court. According to police reports, Dubois hit his girlfriend in the face with a propane tank in August of 2024. She was later airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle with severe injuries. Judge Evan Jones called Dubois’ actions incredibly violent behavior. Dubois told the court he never intended for the assault to happen, and called it a quote “absolute tragic event”. STORY: Weekend windstorms leave over 2,000 PSE customers without power Wind gusts that swept through northern Whatcom County left more than 2,000 Puget Sound Energy customers without power. The gusts, which reached speeds of 40 miles per hour, affected the area on Sunday night and Monday morning. PSE identified trees and vegetation as the cause of virtually all of the outages. By Monday evening, more than half of the affected locations had seen their power restored. Work is ongoing. STORY: City of Blaine temporarily withdraws controversial urban growth plan The City of Blaine has paused its plan to move its urban growth area from east to west. Cascadia Daily News reports the proposal will be revisited after November’s vote on de-annexing nearly 600 acres in east Blaine. Alex Wenger, the city’s Planning Director, told the Whatcom County Planning Commission the city needed more time to work out issues and coordinate with neighbors to the south. The plan faced opposition from Birch Bay residents and local groups, who argued it could limit Birch Bay’s growth, worsen stormwater runoff, and increase traffic. County planners also raised legal and environmental concerns. Blaine proposed to expand the urban growth area on the Semiahmoo (seh-mi-AH-moo) Peninsula to make up for the potential lost land. However, the city has canceled its public hearing and presentation for now, and says it will refine the plan before moving forward. STORY: Accessible voting units available in Whatcom County (for 10/14) Voters with accessibility needs can cast their ballots independently on new accessible voting units in Whatcom County. The units, equipped with visual and audio technology, will be available at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office starting tomorrow. They will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through November 3rd. On Election Day, November 4th, the office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for accessible voting. The Auditor’s Office is located at 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 in Bellingham. More information is available by calling the office’s Election Division. STORY: Lynden approves tax hike Lynden leaders have approved a new 0.1% public safety sales tax. The Lynden City Council voted unanimously yesterday to impose the new tax, which is expected to bring in about 400-thousand dollars a year starting in 2026. A state law passed earlier this year allows cities to raise funds for criminal justice purposes without a public vote. The Lynden Tribune reported last week the city’s expenses are higher than budgeted for this year, and revenue — including sales tax — has been lower. City officials say the money will help maintain police services as costs rise and revenues fall. Lynden officials say the city has not faced financial strain like this since the 2008 recession. Council members admit they do not want to raise taxes, but say it’s necessary to keep the community safe. STORY: Environmentalist groups challenge Whatcom County’s “robust” assessment of AltaGas terminal Environmental groups are challenging Whatcom County’s approval of permits at the Ferndale LPG Terminal. Nonprofit law firm Earthjustice filed an appeal on behalf of local advocates. It says the county’s decision allows terminal owner AltaGas (AL-tuh GAS) to dramatically increase propane and butane exports to Asia without a full environmental review. They argue throughput (THROO-put) at the terminal has soared since 2016, bringing more trains, ships, and pollution risks to the Salish Sea. A 2021 investigation found the facility had already expanded without proper permits, resulting in a record 4-million-dollar air-quality fine. Whatcom County’s planning department issued a Determination of Non-Significance, which says the company’s mitigation measures make the actual impacts “non-significant.” However, Earthjustice calls that conclusion, quote, “clearly erroneous,” and says only a full Environmental Impact Statement can assess the project’s true effects on orcas, fisheries, and climate. On their end, AltaGas maintains their operations comply with environmental law and that the review was “robust and appropriate.” The appeal could test Whatcom County’s 2021 rules meant to limit fossil fuel expansion at Cherry Point. STORY: Actuary for WA’s paid family and medical leave program paints dire picture of financial future Washington’s paid family and medical leave program could soon run hundreds of millions of dollars in the red unless lawmakers act. According to a presentation given at the Paid Family & Medical Leave Advisory Committee meeting in September, the program’s actuary projects a deficit of more than 350-million dollars by 2029. State law caps payroll premiums for the program at 1.2%, and projections show it will hit that ceiling by 2027 — just as claims and costs continue to rise. The program, launched in 2020, lets workers take paid time off for serious health issues or to care for family …
October 13, 2025 News Transcript
Jury settles negligence case after Deming woman injured at Costco, Search teams rescue injured biker on Lookout Mountain, One lane of I-5 in Ferndale closes this week for construction projects, SR 20 closes for three days, COB says avoid flooding, adopt a stormdrain, Water rates going up in the New Year, Dept. of Fish and Wildlife announces record sockeye returns to Baker River system, Dept. of Health announces second round of funding for key federal food assistance program, Nightclub catering exclusively to young adult patrons opens in Bellingham, Accessible voting units available in Whatcom County (for 10/14), Ferndale ballot dropbox temporarily moved (kill 10/28 without edit, 11/3 with edit), Free and Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October 13th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Jury settles negligence case after Deming woman injured at Costco A Whatcom County jury has ruled that Costco was not negligent in a personal injury lawsuit brought by a Deming woman. Heather Bradford filed the lawsuit in 2021, years after an incident in which an employee reportedly struck her with a cart loaded with furniture boxes, causing her lasting neck, shoulder, and back pain. After hearing from medical experts on both sides, the jury deliberated for one day before it decided that neither Costco nor Bradford were negligent in the incident. STORY: Search teams rescue injured biker on Lookout Mountain Search and rescue teams responded to Lookout Mountain on Friday morning after a mountain biker was injured on a steep trail. The call came in just before 9 a.m. Crews from the Bellingham Fire Department, the South Whatcom Fire Authority, and Bellingham Mountain Rescue worked for several hours to bring the rider to safety. Chief Mitch Nolze said rescuers used a rope system to carefully lower the man down the mountain, describing the process as slow but necessary for safety. The injured biker was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center, and later released. Authorities have not shared details about his injuries. STORY: One lane of I-5 in Ferndale closes this week for construction projects Drivers should expect nightly lane closures on Interstate 5 in Ferndale starting this weekend. The Washington State Department of Transportation says the left lanes in both directions will close between Portal Way and Grandview Road for paving and safety upgrades. Southbound closures began last night and will continue through Friday morning, while northbound work starts tonight and also runs through Friday. Crews will repave the roadway and install new cable barriers as part of WSDOT’s (WASH-dots) ongoing Nooksack-River-to-Blaine paving project. STORY: SR 20 closes for three days State Route 20 near Oak Harbor will close nightly from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., tonight through Thursday. According to WSDOT (WASH-dot), the new West Fakkema (FEH-kuh-mah) Road roundabout will be paved. The new roundabout is designed to slow traffic, improve safety, and make navigation easier for large trucks. Travelers can get real-time updates via the WSDOT mobile app or the Travel Center Map. Drivers are advised to detour using West Ault (AALT) Field and Goldie roads, while local traffic on the east side can use Sleeper and Crescent Harbor roads. STORY: COB says avoid flooding, adopt a stormdrain As our fall weather gets windier, Bellingham officials want to remind residents to help keep storm drains clear. Leaves, trash, and debris can build up and cause secondary flooding on streets and into homes. City staff is urging people to adopt a storm drain near their homes and sweep or rake them, especially on rainy days. Officials say never sweep leaves into the street, or lift the storm grates. Instead, dispose of debris in yard waste or garbage bins. STORY: Water rates going up in the New Year The City of Bellingham wants utility customers to know they will see a 13.5% increase in monthly water bills next year. The City Council approved the rate increase in July, citing the need to upgrade aging infrastructure. The city announced it will expand its Customer Assistance Program to support households earning 80% of the area median income or less. Current participants will be automatically enrolled, and new applications are available online. More information on rates and assistance can be found on the city’s Customer Assistance Program webpage. STORY: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife announces record sockeye returns to Baker River system Sockeye salmon are making a historic comeback in the Baker River system near Concrete. From June through October, nearly 92,000 salmon returned to the Skagit River system on their way to Baker River and Baker Lake — a dramatic increase from fewer than 100 fish in 1985. The run includes salmon native to Baker Lake and the Baker River, a tributary of the Skagit. A record number of one-and-a-half million juvenile fish passed through Baker Lake and Lake Shannon during the May outbound migration. Returning sockeye are trapped below two dams on the lower Baker River and transported above the dams. Some are placed on artificial spawning beaches, some go to hatcheries, and others are released into Baker Lake to spawn naturally or be caught by anglers. Natural spawning occurs mostly at the head of the lake and in the upper Baker River, while fry grow in Baker Lake and Shannon Lake before heading downstream to the sea. STORY: Dept. of Health announces second round of funding for key federal food assistance program There is some good news for families relying on federal food assistance during the government shutdown. The Washington State Department of Health says its Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program — or WIC — will continue running through the end of October, thanks to a second round of federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. WIC provides healthy food, nutrition advice, and support for pregnant people, new parents, and children under 5. That funding will keep food benefits flowing and preserve the state’s 10-person WIC team — at least for now — despite uncertainty over how long the shutdown will last. The Health Department says it’s …
October 10, 2025 News Transcript
Sheriff Deputy injured in Whatcom County crash, Traffic stop leads to second arrest in four months for Bellingham woman in connection with dealing drugs, Lumber truck rollover north of Everson leads to power outage and closure of State Route 9, Ferndale man awaiting trial for property crimes arrested again while out on bail, WWU sees dip in enrollment, Ferndale breaks ground on new civic campus, Whatcom HCS warns of potential listeria contamination in ready-to-eat cauliflower, Free or cheap, Ferndale ballot dropbox temporarily moved (kill 10/28 without edit, 11/3 with edit), Free or Cheap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, October 10th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Sheriff Deputy injured in Whatcom County crash Two people were hospitalized after a car hit a Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office vehicle Thursday night on Mountain View Road near Barr Road. The Washington State Patrol says a 76-year-old Ferndale woman was driving west when her car struck a marked sheriff’s SUV that was blocking the road with its emergency lights on. Both drivers — the woman and a 31-year-old sheriff’s deputy from Bellingham — were taken to St. Joseph Hospital with injuries. Troopers say both were wearing seatbelts, and both vehicles were totaled. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and it’s not yet known if drugs or alcohol were involved. STORY: Traffic stop leads to second arrest in four months for Bellingham woman in connection with dealing drugs Police say an ongoing investigation has led to a Bellingham woman’s third drug-related arrest this year. According to The Bellingham Herald, 27-year-old Kylie Doreen Wilkinson was arrested most recently on October 2, stemming from multiple earlier incidents involving crack cocaine. Police say Wilkinson was first arrested in June after investigators found a crack-cooking station in a hotel room. She was released on bail, but later pulled over in July and August with suspected cocaine and drug paraphernalia in her car. Warrants from those stops led to her latest arrest. Wilkinson is now facing charges including possession and intent to deliver a Schedule 4 controlled substance and maintaining a vehicle for drug use. She remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail. The investigation has also led to charges against 34-year-old Raymond Robinson and Ashley Elizabeth Zaylor in related cases. STORY: Lumber truck rollover north of Everson leads to power outage and closure of State Route 9 Traffic has reopened on State Route 9 near Everson after a lumber truck crash closed the highway. According to the state highway report, the crash happened around 12:40 p.m. yesterday, just north of Tom Road. A truck hauling lumber went slightly off the road before tipping over and spilling its load across both lanes. No injuries were reported, but the crash damaged a nearby power pole. The road was closed for several hours but reopened late last night. STORY: Ferndale man awaiting trial for property crimes arrested again while out on bail A Ferndale man once again faces felony charges — this time for alleged property crimes while already awaiting trial in multiple other cases. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and Bellingham Police say 40-year-old Hal Louis Hovander was arrested September 25th and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. He’s now charged with organized retail theft, possession of stolen property, and trafficking stolen property. Investigators say security video showed Hovander leaving a Bellingham store with more than $2,400 in unpaid merchandise. He’s also accused of trying to sell stolen construction equipment valued at $20,000. At the time, he was already out on bail awaiting trial in Whatcom and Skagit County Superior Courts on several other felony theft and fraud charges. Hovander was later released after he posted a new bond. STORY: Skagit County judge throws out 2021 murder case after reveal of false testimony A Skagit County judge has thrown out a 2021 murder case. Superior Court Judge Laura Riquelme (ri-KWELL-may) dismissed the case, ruling that prosecutors failed to review key evidence before trial. 59-year-old Angela Conijn was accused of shooting and killing 32-year-old Kamran Cohee after a confrontation over a political sign outside her home. Riquelme found that prosecutor Brandon Platter committed government misconduct by not fully reviewing evidence photos — including one that showed a closed folding knife inside the victim’s truck. That detail, the judge said, could have supported Conijn’s claim of self-defense. The knife was never mentioned in reports or at trial, and Riquelme wrote that the prosecutor’s failure to catch it was “negligent, at best.” Because of the ruling, the Skagit County Prosecutor’s Office cannot refile charges against Conijn. STORY: WWU sees dip in enrollment Western Washington University is welcoming fewer freshmen this fall, which marks the third straight year of declining enrollment. According to an email sent to faculty and staff by President Sabha Randhawa, the university still noted progress. Retention is at its highest since 2020, and FAFSA completion reached a record high. Now Western hopes to build one of its largest classes in two decades, with guaranteed admission for eligible high school graduates and smoother transfers from community and technical colleges. STORY: Ferndale breaks ground on new civic campus Ferndale has broken ground on its new Civic Campus Project, a major step toward modern, accessible city facilities. The $6.75 million in state and federal grants will help fund the 19,000-square-foot building, which brings City Hall, Municipal Court, and Council Chambers under one roof. Mayor Greg Hansen called it a “historic investment” that will improve access and efficiency. Construction by Dawson Construction is underway, with completion expected in 2027. STORY: Whatcom HCS warns of potential listeria contamination in ready-to-eat cauliflower Local officials are joining a national warning about potentially contaminated ready-to-eat meals. Whatcom County Health and Community Services say riced cauliflower in certain Blue Apron and Marley Spoon products may be contaminated with Listeria. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a public health alert for these products, which are no longer available for purchase. The affected products include plastic tray packages labeled “DISH by Blue …
October 9, 2025 News Transcript
Officials warn of dangerous drug (for Thurs 10/9), Ferndale Council opposes citizen initiative on Nov ballot, County signs lease for Severe Weather Shelter for, Bham speed limit changes in near future run, Property tax hike among proposed solutions to Whatcom ambulance funding crisis, Property tax hike among proposed solutions to Whatcom ambulance funding crisis, Dept. of Energy expected to be able to fund Hanford site cleanup for first four weeks of shutdown, Ferndale breaks ground on new civic campus, Free or cheap, Twin Sisters Mobile Market – Every Saturday, now through October 25 from 10am to 2pm at the Deming Library, and from 9am to 3pm at the North Fork Library Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October 9th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Officials warn of dangerous drug (for Thurs 10/9) Whatcom County is seeing a dangerous spike in overdoses from an especially toxic drug supply – and officials say Narcan alone is not always enough. Both Lummi Counseling Services and the Lummi Tribal Health Center report several overdoses over the weekend where victims needed ongoing breathing support, even after multiple doses of Narcan. Preliminary tests point to carfentanil (car FEN tan il), a synthetic opioid up to 100 times stronger than fentanyl, and xylazine (ZAI-luh-zeen), or “tranq,” a powerful animal sedative. Carfentanil can cause instant overdose — even a few grains can be deadly. Meanwhile, Narcan will not reverse xylazine’s effects, but rescue breathing can keep someone alive until help arrives. Health officials urge anyone who uses: never use alone, take turns, and always carry Narcan. Free Narcan kits are available at various locations throughout the county, including Lummi CARE and the Lummi Nation Health Center, the Bellingham and Blaine Food Banks, the Ferndale Community Center, and Whatcom Health and Community Services. These kits can also be ordered online for free at WhatcomOverdosePrevention.org. STORY: Ferndale Council opposes citizen initiative on Nov ballot Ferndale voters are facing a fight over the city’s first-ever citizen initiative. The council voted 5-to-2 Monday night to oppose the November ballot measure that would ban so-called “junk fees” for renters. The initiative would cap rental application fees at $50, and prohibit extra charges for using in-unit appliances, mail services, or shared spaces. In a resolution, the council argued the proposal could hurt small landlords and make it harder to keep up with maintenance and safety work. Council member Jon Mutchler (MUCH-lur) voted to oppose, saying the initiative ties the city’s hands. [clip: mutchler.wav, :08, out: “…raise rents”] Council member Ryan O’Larey (OH LARRY), however, voted no on opposing the measure, and said residents told him the council should stay out of it. [clip: olarey.wav, :04, out: “…to the voters”] The initiative goes before Ferndale voters in the November general election. STORY: County signs lease for Severe Weather Shelter (for 10/9) Help is on the way for Bellingham’s unhoused this winter. The Whatcom County Council approved a new lease on Tuesday to reopen the city’s severe weather shelter. The county will once again partner with Lutheran Community Services Northwest to use space at 925 North Forest Street — the same location as last year. The lease runs from November through March and costs about $66,000. If expenses climb, the City of Bellingham has agreed to match up to $100,000. The shelter is expected to be open between 25 and 35 nights when temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below, with costs totaling around $425-to-525,000. The shelter will provide 60 beds, hot meals, and nightly visits from the Street Medicine Team. Hiring is underway now for shift leads and on-call staff to help operate the shelter. The shelter is expected to be ready to open by November 15th. STORY: Bham speed limit changes in near future (run ASAP) Slower speed limits could be coming to Bellingham roads. The City Council’s Public Works and Natural Resources Committee reviewed a proposal on Monday to lower limits in many parts of the city, especially in high-collision areas. The plan would make the downtown core 20 miles an hour throughout, and reduce speeds along stretches of Alabama Street, Lakeway Drive, and Sunset Drive. Another option would set 20 miles an hour as the default on residential streets, and designate some roads as shared streets. The committee voiced support for the changes, and staff showed how speed limits would gradually drop on roads like the Mount Baker Highway as it approaches the city. If approved, the changes could begin rolling out in early 2026. STORY: Property tax hike among proposed solutions to Whatcom ambulance funding crisis Whatcom County homeowners could pay higher property taxes next year to keep ambulance services running. The Medic One program operates the countywide emergency medical response, and officials say costs are rising faster than revenue. The current levy pays for five countywide ambulances staffed by paramedics, as well as training and equipment. Deputy Executive Kayla Schott-Bresler told council members this week that the program faces a nearly three-million-dollar deficit this year, which could double by 2028 without new funding. One proposal would add about twenty-six dollars to the average homeowner’s tax bill in 2026. Some council members say budget cuts should be on the table until voters renew the EMS levy in 2028. The EMS Oversight Board will discuss its options on Friday, and County Executive Satpal Sidhu (saht-POW see-DO) is expected to bring forward his own proposal soon. STORY: Whatcom farm reaches settlement with county over illegal irrigation allegations A Whatcom County farmer has reached a settlement with the state over claims of illegal irrigation. The Department of Ecology says RAN General Partnership will pay fifteen thousand dollars — without admitting wrongdoing — to resolve allegations it irrigated forty acres of blueberries west of Sumas (SUE-mass) without water rights. It’s the second penalty against the farm and its owner, Rick Alamwala (a-luhm-WAH-lah), following a twelve-thousand-dollar fine in 2023 for a similar violation. As part of the settlement, Alamwala must install remote water meters so Ecology can monitor usage …
October 8, 2025 News Transcript
WWU & WCC launch guaranteed admission, Whatcom officials weigh pros and cons of attaching mental health facility to upcoming detention center, Derek Long steps down, : More than $3.4 million in grants allocated to Whatcom County to aid in salmon habitat restoration, Products “on a stick,” recalled from two companies following reports of wood pieces embedded in food, Hello Fresh meals recalled, Intruder causes “significant damage,” after breaking into WA Capitol Building, State insurance commissioner calls on insurance companies to offer grace to federal workers, State insurance commissioner calls on insurance companies to offer grace to federal workers, Fire Safety Week focuses on fire safety, Bham speed limit changes in near future (run ASAP), Ferndale ballot dropbox temporarily moved (kill 10/28 without edit, 11/3 with edit) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October 8th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: WWU & WCC launch guaranteed admission Students at Whatcom Community College now have a guaranteed path to a bachelor’s degree at Western Washington University. A new transfer partnership was announced by both schools on Monday. The agreement guarantees admission to Western for Whatcom students who complete a transfer degree with at least a 2.5 GPA — and also waives the $70 application fee. In a release, WCC President Justin Guillory says the partnership removes uncertainty for students and strengthens collaboration between the two institutions. Western President Sabah Randhawa says the program expands access and removes barriers for transfer students. Qualifying students will enter Western as juniors, with direct admission into nearly 30 majors and coordinated advising to ensure a smooth transition. Whatcom joins four other community colleges in the region now offering guaranteed transfer to Western Washington University. STORY: Whatcom officials weigh pros and cons of attaching mental health facility to upcoming detention center As design work begins on Whatcom County’s new justice center, county leaders are debating where things will be located. Voters approved a 0.2% sales tax last year to fund both the jail and the treatment center. The jail will replace the aging downtown Bellingham facility, while the behavioral health center was pitched as a treatment alternative for people struggling with mental health or substance use. Locating the center next to the jail could provide treatment options for inmates and reduce incarceration, but it would limit access and make treatment ineligible for Medicaid funding. A site in Bellingham near the Anne Deacon Center for Hope, would allow more people to receive care and qualify for federal reimbursement but make access more of a problem for inmates. Officials say no final decision has been made, and costs and capacity are still being determined. County residents can learn more during a public town hall on November 20th. STORY: Galbraith hiking trails temporarily closed for construction of logging roads, longer-term closures expected in spring Trail closures are in effect at the top of Galbraith Mountain as logging crews build access roads. The Bellingham Herald reports the closures affect about two miles of trails, including Evolution, Scorpion, Swirlz, Wraparound, Tower Trail, and others. The roads should be finished by next week, with trails reopening until logging begins next spring. The work is part of the Junia Timber Sale, where Janicki Logging paid $700,000 for the right to harvest about 48 acres, with some trees left standing for wildlife habitat. Seasonal watershed rules prevent logging between Nov. 1 and March 31, so construction is happening now. When the logging begins next spring, it’s expected to last about two months. The area will be replanted with a mix of species after the harvest. STORY: Derek Long steps down Sustainable Connections Executive Director Derek Long announced he will step down after more than two decades leading Sustainable Connections. In a statement yesterday, Long said he will leave the non-profit at the end of October to focus on family and make room for new leadership. The organization — known for its work in housing, food systems, and energy efficiency — says operations and programming will continue unchanged. Long’s tenure hasn’t been without controversy — some former employees criticized decisions around the Cloud Mountain Farm Center, which Sustainable Connections plans to divest from by the end of the year due to funding challenges. Still, according to Long, his departure isn’t related to those issues and that the organization’s staff will carry its mission forward. STORY: More than $3.4 million in grants allocated to Whatcom County to aid in salmon habitat restoration More than three million dollars is coming to Whatcom County to help restore salmon habitat. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office announced over sixty-one million dollars in grants statewide this week — including three projects in Whatcom County. The largest grant — nearly two-point-four million dollars — goes to the Lummi Nation Natural Resources Department to restore more than a mile of habitat along the South Fork Nooksack River. The project will add logjams and cooler water areas to support spawning salmon, including Chinook. The Nooksack Indian Tribe will receive half a million dollars to plan restoration of thirty miles of the Nooksack River. And the Whatcom Land Trust will use more than five hundred thousand dollars to purchase and restore land along lower Kenney Creek. State officials say these efforts are key to protecting wild salmon — nearly three-quarters of which are now listed as threatened or endangered in Washington. STORY: Products “on a stick,” recalled from two companies following reports of wood pieces embedded in food It’s the second big recall in a week for foods on a stick — Hillshire Brands is pulling back 58 million pounds of corn dogs and sausage-on-a-stick because of possible wood contamination. The USDA says pieces of wood were found embedded in the batter. The recall covers Jimmy Dean, State Fair, and Fresh to You products made between March and late September and shipped nationwide. Hillshire launched the recall after multiple consumer complaints, with five people reporting injuries. Packages show establishment numbers EST-582, P-894, or EST. 47991 near the USDA inspection …
October 7, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham man facing 11 felony charges after investigation into $400,000 cannabis fraud case, Everson man accused of assault and rape sentenced to three years in prison following guilty plea, Ferndale council opposes junk fee initiative, Port of Bellingham releases strategy for revitalizing Point Roberts, Phase 1 of Bellingham childcare / affordable housing project expected to be completed by next spring, Fires still burning in WA, Orcas Island group, politicians call for release of flotilla member detained by Israel, WWU & WCC launch guaranteed admission, More than $3.4 million in grants allocated to Whatcom County to aid in salmon habitat restoration, Intruder causes “significant damage,” after breaking into WA Capitol Building Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, October 7th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man facing 11 felony charges after investigation into $400,000 cannabis fraud case A months-long fraud investigation has landed a Bellingham man in jail. 46-year-old Jason Kenneth Lehman allegedly convinced several friends and relatives to invest in nonexistent cannabis stores. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office told KMRE News that eight people invested $400,000 in the scam. One of the investors eventually found out none of the cannabis stores were real. Lehman later admitted to the deception. He also said he would eventually repay investors – something which never happened. Lehman was eventually detained on September 30th at his Sudden Valley home and taken to Whatcom County Jail. He has since been bonded out. Lehman faces five felony counts of first-degree theft and money laundering. STORY: Everson man accused of assault and rape sentenced to three years in prison following guilty plea An Everson man is headed to prison for domestic violence following a disturbing 2021 case. According to court records, 43-year-old Pedro Perez-Lopez was sentenced yesterday in Whatcom County Superior Court to three years in prison, followed by two years of community custody. The case began after a woman wrote police a letter saying Perez-Lopez had sexually and physically assaulted her, threatened her with a knife, and forbade her from leaving the house. Perez-Lopez later pleaded guilty to felony harassment, third-degree rape, unlawful imprisonment, and two counts of assault. Perez-Lopez did not speak at his sentencing, and the victim declined to provide a statement. Judge Jennifer Slattery called the experience “terrifying” and urged Perez-Lopez to seek treatment for domestic violence and behavioral issues while in prison. STORY: Ferndale council opposes junk fee initiative The Ferndale City Council has come out against a citizen initiative aimed at limiting rental “junk fees.” The measure would prohibit what supporters call unfair or excessive fees charged to renters. In a five-to-two vote on Monday night, the council approved a resolution that opposed the measure. Council member Jon Mutchler (MUCH-lur), who sponsored the resolution to oppose, said the initiative could have unintended consequences and discourage landlords from renting, which would make housing less affordable. Supporters, led by Community First Whatcom, argue the proposal would help tenants as it requires fee transparency; it would also place a cap on additional charges for things like mail delivery or in-unit appliances. Even with the council’s opposition, however, the measure remains on the ballot. Ferndale voters will decide the issue in November. STORY: Port of Bellingham releases strategy for revitalizing Point Roberts Point Roberts may be getting an economic lifeline. In a new economic strategy unveiled yesterday, the Port outlined its plan to help the remote border town overcome years of isolation, infrastructure issues, and an overdependence on Canadian tourism. Funded by a state grant, the plan outlines steps to diversify the economy. Included in the report are a suggested broadband expansion, sewer system improvements, and the creation of a resilience hub for small businesses and workforce training. The Port will present the strategy to the community on October 16th at the Point Roberts Community Center, with an option to join online. Officials say the next step is working with locals and partners to set priorities and secure funding to turn the plan into action. STORY: Phase 1 of Bellingham childcare / affordable housing project expected to be completed by next spring Construction is underway on a bold new housing project in Bellingham. Cedar Commons, located at the corner of Bellis Fair Parkway and Eliza Avenue, will include more than 120 affordable apartments and a five-classroom early learning center. According to a recent release, the Opportunity Council’s two-phase development aims to provide affordable, sustainable housing for families and older adults in Whatcom County. Phase 1 is already underway. It features family housing and the early learning center with up to 80 new childcare slots — a big boost for local parents. It’s expected to be finished by next spring. Phase 2, which starts this year, will focus on senior housing for adults 62 and older. It will offer sensory-friendly units, shared wellness spaces, and two-bedroom options designed to accommodate live-in caregivers or roommates. The project prioritizes accessibility, green space, and energy efficiency, along with new bike and pedestrian paths to better connect the neighborhood. Supported by city, county, state, and federal partners, the Opportunity Council says Cedar Commons is a key step toward housing that’s affordable, sustainable, and truly community-focused. STORY: Fires still burning in WA Two wildfires east of the Cascade Mountains have become the state’s largest this season, covering over 125 square miles. The Labor Mountain and Lower Sugarloaf fires, both sparked by lightning, are being fought by more than 2,400 firefighters and 18 aircraft, and cost about $1 million per fire per day. Blewett (BLEW-IT) Pass, which connects Leavenworth and Ellensburg, has been closed since late September, with no reopening date currently set. Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove visited the area last Wednesday, and highlighted that longer fire seasons along with reduced wildfire funding are behind the higher costs. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources estimates overall costs could reach $132 million through the next fiscal year. Upthegrove also noted that the longer fire season is fueled by climate change, and stressed the importance of …
October 6, 2025 News Transcript
Competency eval ordered for Bellingham man charged with arson, assaults and eluding, Child sex trafficking ring busted in Liberty Lake, Water at Silver Beach Elementary School tests with high levels of lead, Whatcom home prices decline, Skagit County implements 90-day hiring freeze as budget woes increase, Skagit Regional Health patients eligible for claim from class action lawsuit, Chicken corn dog products recalled due to possible extraneous matter contamination, Orcas Island group, politicians call for release of flotilla member detained by Israel, More than $3.4 million in grants allocated to Whatcom County to aid in salmon habitat restoration, Fires still burning in WA Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, October 6th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Competency eval ordered for Bellingham man charged with arson, assaults and eluding A Bellingham man accused of arson, assault, and eluding law enforcement is headed for a competency hearing. Based on police records, KMRE previously reported that the 30-year-old was arrested on September 23rd after he allegedly pepper-sprayed two people, set a contractor’s van on fire, and fled the scene in a pickup. According to court documents, he now faces multiple felonies, including second-degree arson and assault with a poisonous substance. A court-ordered competency hearing is set for October 16th. He remains in jail on a $150,000 bond. STORY: Child sex trafficking ring busted in Liberty Lake Twelve men and one woman have been arrested for child sexual abuse and exploitation near the Idaho border. Dubbed Operation Liberty Lake, the multi-agency sting was led by the Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force, who worked with Homeland Security Investigations and local law enforcement. Five of the men were over 50, and six lived in Idaho. Since launching similar operations in 2015, the task force has made more than 360 arrests statewide and rescued numerous children from danger. Liberty Lake Police Chief Damon Simmons said protecting vulnerable children remains one of law enforcement’s top priorities. STORY: Environmental coalition appeals decision to expand Ferndale Terminal propane A coalition of six environmental groups say they will appeal Whatcom County’s decision to move forward with the ALA (uh-LAH) Energy Terminal. The county issued a Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance last month for 33 projects at the AltaGas (AL-tuh GAS)-operated site, which stores and exports propane and butane. The ruling means the county found no significant environmental harm — however, groups including RE Sources, the Sierra Club, and Friends of the San Juans disagree. Their appeal argues the county’s decision ignores legal standards and fails to address safety and environmental risks tied to fossil fuel expansion at Cherry Point. The appeal will go before the Whatcom County hearing examiner within the next few months. If denied, the coalition says it will take the case to the Superior Court. STORY: Water at Silver Beach Elementary School tests with high levels of lead Newly-released state data shows a Bellingham elementary school had some of the highest lead levels in school water anywhere in Washington. The tests were conducted under a 2021 state law that requires schools to check for lead in drinking water. The Department of Health found two sinks at Silver Beach Elementary with lead concentrations more than 800 times the legal limit. One sink has since been removed, and follow-up tests showed the other had returned to safe levels. District spokesperson Dana Smith says independent contractors could not replicate the unusually high state results. Most other Whatcom County schools tested at or below legal limits. STORY: Whatcom home prices decline Last quarter saw the steepest drop in Whatcom County home prices in more than a year. A new report from Bellingham’s Muljat (MUL-yacht) Group shows the median sale price at the end of September fell 4.3% from a year ago — down about $10,000 to $624,000. The number of homes sold also slipped by 2%, with 724 properties changing hands during the third quarter. Broker Adrik Brashear (AYE-drik bruh-SHEE-ur), who compiled the data, says inventory and mortgage rates now hover around 6%, which could bring some buyers back into the market. He predicts a slower fall and winter season could actually remain steady if borrowing rates hold. The report includes details for Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine-slash-Birch-Bay, and other county communities. STORY: Skagit County implements 90-day hiring freeze as budget woes increase Skagit County officials say a $19 million budget shortfall has forced them to make some tough decisions. After a series of department budget meetings, the County Commissioners announced a 90-day hiring freeze to help stabilize spending while the 2026 budget is developed. According to the County, the deficit stems from rising operational costs, flat revenues, and uncertain state and federal funding. Commissioners say workforce reductions, service cuts, and new revenue options — including a possible public safety sales tax — are all on the table. The preliminary 2026 budget will be released on November 17th, and a public hearing is set for December 1st. The final budget adoption is scheduled for December 8th, ahead of the state’s December 31st deadline. STORY: Skagit Regional Health patients eligible for claim from class action lawsuit Skagit Regional Health patients may be owed money over claims their private info was shared without consent. Cascadia Daily News reports the hospital has agreed to a $400,000 class action settlement, without admitting wrongdoing. This comes after a lawsuit alleged the hospital gave patients’ personal and health information to third parties via its online portal. Anyone who used the portal between May 2021 and September 2025 can file a claim for $20, with payments arriving by mail. The deadline to file is November 3rd, and the claim form is available on the Claim Depot website. This is the latest in a string of data privacy cases involving Washington healthcare providers. STORY: Chicken corn dog products recalled due to possible extraneous matter contamination Millions of chicken corn dogs are being recalled because there may be wood in the batter. Foster Poultry Farms has issued the recall of over 3.8 million pounds …
October 2, 2025 News Transcript
(RETRACTION): MIPA canceled for Ferndale teen, Bellingham police seeking information on suspect in gunpoint robbery near Grant and Lakeway, Deming man arrested after stabbing a man with a dental tool, Thieves steal $1M in whiskey from Skagit distillery, Student financial aid applications now open, Wildfire smoke linked to thousands of deaths, New baby orca born, Free or Cheap (kill 10/3), WIC program faces funding shortage, Fires still burning in WA, WA files anti-trust lawsuit against Redfin and Zillow, Election Town Halls slated for October (kill 10/4) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, October 2nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY (RETRACTION): MIPA canceled for Ferndale teen Yesterday, we reported on a Missing Indigenous Person Alert issued for 15-year-old Kamran Finkbonner of Ferndale. As it happened, Finkbonner had been found, and the alert was canceled before our newscast went on the air. We apologize for the error. STORY: Bellingham police seeking information on suspect in gunpoint robbery near Grant and Lakeway Bellingham Police are investigating an armed robbery on Grant Street reported late last Friday. According to Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy, details regarding the incident are not being released publicly to preserve the integrity of the investigation. Police ask residents in the Grant Street and Lakeway Drive area to check security cameras for possible evidence. No arrests have been made as detectives continue working to identify suspects. STORY: Deming man arrested after stabbing a man with a dental tool A man was arrested by Bellingham Police after an alleged assault involving a dental tool. Officers say 42-year-old Tibrucio Almojera stabbed another man three times in the back with a dental scaler during a fight on West Maplewood Avenue on the morning of September 27th. He fled on an electric bike, but was later detained in Ferndale. Almojera was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of assault and drug-related charges. STORY: Lynden man arrested for bringing a gun to school A Lynden man was arrested after he was spotted with a firearm on school property. According to court documents, the 41-year-old man walked into Lynden High School on September 23rd to pick up his sick child. Staff members told police the man acted aggressively and smelled like alcohol; they eventually noticed a pistol on his hip as he and his child prepared to leave campus. Police later found the suspect is unable to legally own a firearm due to his status as a registered sex offender. He was arrested last Wednesday, and released on cash bail a day later. STORY: Driver hospitalized following rollover crash in Ferndale A driver was seriously injured in a rollover crash that closed the northbound I-5 on-ramp from Ferndale’s Main Street yesterday morning. Washington State Patrol says a pickup truck left the off-ramp and collided with a sedan around 8:45 a.m., sending the sedan’s driver to the hospital. The ramp was closed for several hours before reopening at about 1 p.m. Troopers say alcohol and drugs were not factors, and the cause remains under investigation. STORY: Thieves steal $1M in whiskey from Skagit distillery A million dollars’ worth of whiskey from Skagit County is gone without a trace. Thieves pulled off one of the rarest liquor heists in U.S. history this summer, vanishing with 12,000 bottles of craft whiskey from the Westland Distillery in Burlington. The Associated Press reports the suspects arrived at the distillery warehouse on July 31st in a freight truck, carrying what appeared to be legitimate paperwork to pick up a shipment headed for New Jersey. The whiskey, however, never made it. Among the stolen cases is nearly half the stock of Westland’s 10-year Garryana single malt, a special anniversary release that took over a decade to create. Westland’s managing director Jason Moore called the incident a “sophisticated, fraudulent carrier scheme,” and says the stolen Garryana bottles are irreplaceable. The Skagit Valley Sheriff’s Office is investigating the heist, and collectors are now left wondering where — and if — those rare bottles might surface. STORY: Student financial aid applications now open Financial aid applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now open for Washington students. About half of the families in our state may qualify for free money for college, trade school, or apprenticeships. Students can apply using the FAFSA for federal and state aid, or the WAFSA for state aid only. An early application is the first step toward funding higher education. STORY: Wildfire smoke linked to thousands of deaths A new study warns that wildfire smoke could cause tens of thousands of extra deaths each year. The study involves over 1.2 million Kaiser Permanente members from Southern California, and shows that if climate change continues unchecked, wildfire smoke could cause more than 70,000 extra deaths in the U.S. by 2050. This includes up to 1,400 deaths annually in Washington. Researchers say the findings underscore the urgent need for forest management, clean air protections, and climate pollution reduction to prevent the worst health impacts. STORY: New baby orca born And now for some good news — a southern resident orca has been born! Researchers have confirmed the birth of the orca calf, J64, spotted last Tuesday in the Georgia Strait with its mother, J42. The Center for Whale Research says the calf appears healthy and is nursing, but warns that survival during the first year is uncertain. With fewer than 75 whales remaining, each birth is critical for the endangered population. WX: It’s not all Goodall in the Hoodall And now for the weather: It looks like another day of mostly gray skies and scattered showers today, as we continue our attempt to hang onto those summer-adjacent temperatures. Highs today should remain in the upper-60s, with continued high winds up to 27 miles per hour. The evening should remain relatively mild, with cloudy skies and lows around the high 40s. Expect low chances of showers tomorrow, although we might see some partial afternoon sunshine as well. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga …
October 1, 2025 News Transcript
Release of Epstein files delayed by government shutdown, MIPA issued for at-risk youth out of Ferndale, Two men taken into custody in southern Oregon in connection with death of Bellingham man, Bellingham mayor’s proposed 2026 budget includes new sales tax and widespread layoffs, Bellingham City Councilmember alleges fraud in race for council seat, Bellingham Central Lutheran church set to host severe weather shelter, No students injured in school bus collision on Lakeway, WA co-leads 16-state lawsuit in fighting federal cuts to sexual health education, Thieves steal $1M in whiskey from Skagit distillery, Wildfire smoke linked to thousands of deaths, Free or Cheap (kill 10/3), Free or Cheap (kill 10/3), Election Town Halls slated for October (kill 10/4) HEADLINES Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, October 1st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Release of Epstein files delayed by government shutdown The federal government has shut down. The Republican-led Congress failed to reach a funding deal, resulting in major consequences for Washington state’s 82,000 federal employees. Services ranging from parks to air travel will also be impacted. According to reports, essential operations like Social Security and mail delivery will continue, but many workers could be furloughed or forced to work without pay, as in the 2019 shutdown when rangers and staff at Mount Rainier were sent home. Veterans’ medical care would stay open, though regional offices and counseling programs would close. Lawmakers are trading blame, with Republicans accusing Democrats of obstruction. However, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen says that, for Democrats, this is all about keeping healthcare affordable for middle-class Americans. [clip: LARSEN RECAP 1, :33, out: “…the lack of action on the Affordable Care Act tax credits”] While the shutdown continues, another Congressional goal will also not move forward: the release of the long-awaited Epstein files. [clip: LARSEN EPSTEIN 1, :29, out: “…the House will have to act on the Epstein files”] Earlier today, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced that the House will not return to session until next week, as the government shutdown has no end in sight. STORY: MIPA issued for at-risk youth out of Ferndale A Missing Indigenous Person Alert has been issued for a Ferndale teenager. 15-year-old Kamran Finkbonner is 5-feet-5-inches tall, weighs 150 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. He was wearing black sweatpants and a black t-shirt at the time of his disappearance. Finkbonner was last seen at 9 a.m. on Monday, September 29th, at the 5000 block of Golden Eagle Drive in Ferndale, after which he set out on foot in an unknown direction. Finkbonner is autistic, and needs very clear instructions from police or social workers in order to understand the cause-and-effect of choices. Anyone with information is urged to call 9-1-1 immediately. STORY: Two men taken into custody in southern Oregon in connection with death of Bellingham man Two men are behind bars in Southern Oregon, accused of the murder of a Bellingham man. Oregon State Police SWAT raided a rural property in Klamath (KLAM-ath) County last Thursday morning and arrested 38-year-old Russell Carroway and 31-year-old Devin Pellerin (PEL-luh-rin). Both are charged in the death of 47-year-old Robert T. Hein (HINE) of Bellingham. According to the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, Klein was murdered — his body found in a wooded area in Oregon. The Klamath County Major Crime Team, led by Oregon State Police, is still investigating. No further details have been released. STORY: Bellingham mayor’s proposed 2026 budget includes new sales tax and widespread layoffs Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund unveiled her proposed 2026 city budget during last night’s City Council meeting. The 543-million-dollar plan would eliminate the equivalent of 40 jobs, including 12 layoffs. There will be reductions across nearly every city department — from police and fire to parks, libraries, and the mayor’s own office. Lund says the cuts will mean reduced library hours, less parks maintenance, and fewer walk-in services. She and all department heads will also forgo cost-of-living raises next year. To help balance the budget, Lund is also urging the Council to approve a one-tenth of 1% sales tax for public safety, expected to raise nearly 4 million dollars. The City Council will hold a public hearing on the budget next Monday at City Hall. STORY: Bellingham City Councilmember alleges fraud in race for council seat A Bellingham City Council member has accused local Democratic leaders of mishandling endorsements in a city council race. According to a complaint filed with the Washington State Democratic Party, council member Lisa Anderson alleges fraud in the Whatcom Democrats’ endorsement process. The dispute centers on how votes were counted in the Ward 6 race between incumbent Michael Lilliquist and former party chair Andrew Reding. The state party reviewed Anderson’s complaint, but said they found no code of conduct violations that required intervention. STORY: Bellingham Central Lutheran church set to host severe weather shelter The building that once housed the Central Lutheran Church in Bellingham’s Sehome neighborhood will once again serve as a severe weather shelter. The location was announced during a City Council committee meeting by Chris D’Onofrio (doe-NOFF-rio), the Housing Program Supervisor at Whatcom County Health and Community Services. Whatcom County has allocated 450-thousand dollars for shelter staff and operational costs. Furthermore, the City Council says it will consider the pledge of an additional one-hundred thousand dollars, which would be allocated only after all of the Whatcom County money has been spent. The Bellingham funds would come from the city’s affordable housing sales tax. According to D’Onofrio, Whatcom County has already announced plans to hire double the number of temporary staff for the shelter, as well as reducing the number of available beds from 80 to 60. Lastly, in response to concerns expressed by neighbors in the area surrounding the Forest Street location, the County will also provide transportation away from the shelter to overnight guests. STORY: No students injured in school bus collision on Lakeway Lakeway Drive was briefly closed on Monday after a traffic collision involving a school bus. …
September 30, 2025 News Transcript
WWU libraries closed while law enforcement searches for bomb, Federal government shutdown looms, Larsen responds, Fall’s first big windstorm expected to hit Bellingham coast this evening, New state sales tax set to take effect tomorrow, Multi-vehicle crash west of Ferndale leaves one dead and three injured, WA and states sue to maintain emergency services funds, No students injured in school bus collision on Lakeway, Thieves steal $1M in whiskey from Skagit distillery, Two men taken into custody in southern Oregon in connection with death of Bellingham man, Wildfire smoke linked to thousands of deaths, Free and Cheap (10/3), WA 3rd best for teachers, Election Town Halls slated for October (kill 10/4) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, September 30th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: WWU libraries closed while law enforcement searches for bomb Western Washington University’s Wilson Library and Haggard Hall were closed this morning for over an hour due to a threat of violence. According to a release from Western, the university received a racist email containing a vague threat around 8 a.m. During the closure, no students or staff were allowed in the buildings. However, after an investigation, law enforcement deemed the threat not credible. University and city police — along with K-9 units — swept the building as a precaution. The all-clear was issued at around 11 a.m. STORY: Federal government shutdown looms, Larsen responds U.S. Representative Rick Larsen says Republicans would rather shut down the federal government than negotiate to restore health care coverage. Larsen warns the GOP’s government funding plan would cause 80-thousand Washingtonians to lose their health insurance and drive up costs for everyone. [clip: LARSEN AUDIO 1, :44, out: “…the tax credits been extended”] Larsen points to local hospitals already cutting staff because of deep Medicaid and Medicare reductions, and says families like small business owners in Bellingham could see health insurance costs climb by tens of thousands of dollars. Furthermore, Larsen says Republicans shoulder the responsibility. [clip: LARSEN AUDIO 2, :49, out: “…on the edge of the economy”] Larsen also warns that cutting health care funding will affect the economy of the entire state. [clip: LARSEN AUDIO 3, :19, out: “…up into double digits”] Federal funding runs out at midnight tomorrow, and threatens thousands of Northwest Washington workers with furloughs, as well as delays in farm relief, and even missed paychecks for active-duty military. STORY: Fall’s first big windstorm expected to hit Bellingham coast this evening Strong coastal winds are headed for Whatcom County, and officials are urging boaters and coastal residents to get ready now. The National Weather Service says winds will begin increasing tonight as a stronger front moves into the region, bringing gale-force conditions to coastal waters, the east Strait of Juan de Fuca, and parts of the northern inland waters. A gale warning remains in effect through 5 a.m. tomorrow, with southeast gusts up to 40 knots and wind waves reaching as high as 5 feet, especially near Point Roberts. Boaters are advised to secure vessels in marinas, and coastal residents should tie down loose items such as lawn furniture and trash bins. Minor tidal flooding is possible in low-lying areas such as Sandy Point and Point Roberts, where winds may hit hardest. Drivers and beachgoers are advised to use caution near coastal roads. STORY: New state sales tax set to take effect tomorrow A sweeping new package of Washington state taxes is set to take effect tomorrow, headlined by a controversial sales tax on services. Lawmakers expect Senate Bill 5814 to bring in more than three and a half billion dollars over the next two years for the state budget. However, one of its biggest money-makers — a tax on advertising services — already faces a legal challenge from Comcast, which says the levy is unconstitutional. In all, more than 90,000 businesses will pay the new sales tax on services ranging from temp staffing and IT to live events and security. Other hikes include a higher business and occupation tax on banks and large service firms. Concurrently, the state’s new $15.5 billion transportation budget is raising fees — including driver’s license renewals, ferry surcharges, and tolls for transit vehicles. Democrats say the new revenue is essential to shore up state services and transportation projects, while Republicans universally oppose the tax hikes. STORY: Multi-vehicle crash west of Ferndale leaves one dead and three injured A crash near Ferndale left one dead and sent three others to the hospital. According to police records, the collision happened just after 7 p.m. on Sunday at the intersection of Mountain View and Olson roads. The Ferndale Police Department, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire crews all responded to the incident. Two motorcycles and a car were involved. One motorcyclist — 20-year-old Malakhi A. Moreau — died at the scene, while the other was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center. The two people in the car were also seriously hurt and hospitalized. The Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the collision. STORY: WA and states sue to maintain emergency services funds A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from withholding billions in emergency services funding in order to force states to assist with federal immigration enforcement. According to a recent release from Washington Attorney General Nick Brown’s office, the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA abruptly cut funding to several states on Saturday, including Washington, without notice or explanation and just four days before the end of the federal fiscal year. The money was reallocated to states that agreed to divert law enforcement dollars from core public safety services in order to assist in federal immigration enforcement. The new ruling comes after Attorney General Brown and 19 other attorneys general sued FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, arguing the agencies’ actions violated the Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act. The court agreed, and said the funding conditions were illegal and nearly impossible for states to comply with. Washington relies on these federal dollars for …
September 29, 2025 News Transcript
Trump send military to Portland: Oregon sues, Missing Bellingham man’s car found abandoned in Olympia, MIPA issued for woman out of Skagit County, Boundary Bay asks for help locating missing sign, New budget unveiled today, Work starts again on 12th Street, WCC awarded $1.9 million grant to aid low-income STEM students, AI reviews of Medicare eligibility to begin next year, Two men taken into custody in southern Oregon in connection with death of Bellingham man, WA co-leads 16-state lawsuit in fighting federal cuts to sexual health education, WA co-leads 16-state lawsuit in fighting federal cuts to sexual health education, Thieves steal $1M in whiskey from Skagit distillery, Wildfire smoke linked to thousands of deaths, WA and states sue to maintain emergency services funds, Two men taken into custody in southern Oregon in connection with death of Bellingham man, Veterans claim housing and suicide among their greatest issues in meeting with Rep. Larsen, Free or Cheap (kill 10/3), Election Town Halls slated for October (kill 10/4) Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, September 29th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Trump send military to Portland: Oregon sues Both Oregon and the city of Portland have sued the Trump administration to block the deployment of National Guard troops to the city. Besides President Trump, the lawsuit also names Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem (GNOME). The lawsuit refers to the deployment as unlawful, and a violation of the 10th Amendment. On their end, the administration says the move is lawful, and that it aims to protect federal personnel and ICE facilities amid what it calls “violent riots.” Democratic leaders, including Governor Tina Kotek (COE-tek), argue there is no threat to public safety that warrants military intervention, and note that Portland’s crime rates are largely unchanged from last year. Kotek also criticized the federal takeover of the National Guard, saying the state has no information on deployment timelines, troop numbers, or whether they will be armed. Legal experts point to a recent federal ruling in California that found the administration’s National Guard deployment there violated the Posse Comitatus (POS-ee kom-i-TAH-tuhs) Act, which limits military use in domestic law enforcement. The Portland lawsuit frames the deployment as a broader clash over state versus federal authority, amid Trump’s threats to send troops to multiple Democratic-led cities, including Chicago, Baltimore, and New Orleans. STORY: Missing Bellingham man’s car found abandoned in Olympia The search is on for a missing Bellingham man whose abandoned car was found in Olympia. According to The Bellingham Herald, 22-year-old Charlie Burns was last heard from on September 18th. Two days later, his car was discovered at the Capital Mall’s parking lot, but he has not been seen or heard from since. Burns is 6-foot-2, about 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He’s a nursing student and plays with the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra. His family says he has no history of disappearing or cutting off contact, calling the situation deeply out of character. Anyone with information is asked to contact Olympia Police. STORY: MIPA issued for woman out of Skagit County In related news, an urgent search is underway for a missing Indigenous woman from Skagit County. The Washington State Patrol has issued a Missing Indigenous Person Alert for Nicole Day, a 45-year-old woman who has not been in contact with her family for about a year. She was last seen in Skagit County, and described as 5 feet 2 inches tall, around 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is urged to call 9-1-1 immediately. STORY: Boundary Bay asks for help locating missing sign Boundary Bay Brewery has asked for the community’s help after someone stole its blue “Bellingham’s Backyard” sign last Saturday night. The theft happened just days before the beloved Bellingham brewery pours its final pints tomorrow, marking the end of a 30-year run. Owners Ed Bennett and Janet Lightner will retire as the building’s lease expires. Anyone with information about the missing sign is urged to help return it — no questions asked. STORY: New budget unveiled today Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund will unveil the proposed 2026 city budget at today’s City Council Committee of the Whole meeting. The City says the financial plan tackles a projected $10 million gap in the General Fund with a local sales tax increase and spending cuts. Council members will begin work sessions next Monday, with public hearings set for that day and November 3rd. STORY: Work starts again on 12th Street Work resumes today on safety upgrades along the 12th Street and Finnegan Way corridor in Fairhaven. Crews will install a new traffic signal at 12th, Mill, and Finnegan streets, with construction expected to last through mid-October. This final phase of the project improves visibility and safety at this busy intersection. Drivers should expect delays and consider alternate routes. STORY: WCC awarded $1.9 million grant to aid low-income STEM students Whatcom Community College has been awarded a grant to help low-income students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs. The $1.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation will be used for scholarships of up to $15,000 for 96 STEM students over a six-year period. The grant also provides funding for mentoring, advising and research opportunities. Whatcom’s Learning Center director Jason Babcock calls the grant a major breakthrough. He says many talented local students have the potential for well-paying STEM careers or to launch tech startups, but financial barriers have held them back. The grant aims to remove those obstacles and builds on a previous $650,000 grant that helped 51 students. According to WCC, students who were helped by the previous grant now work for multinational companies such as Marathon Oil, General Dynamics, and PACCAR (PACK-car) Inc. They are also employed by dozens of smaller local employers, including Herrera Environmental Consultants and Team Corporation. STORY: AI reviews of Medicare eligibility to begin next year Medicare in Washington will soon use AI to decide if certain medical …
