Victim of accidental Bellingham shooting dies, Burlington PD searching for perpetrator of Sunday night shooting, Man hospitalized after being struck by train in Bellingham, Bellingham interim public works co-directors confirmed to permanent roles, Student workers at WWU go on strike, Blaine-based brewery set to open Bellingham waterfront location tomorrow, Housing prices continue to rise in Bellingham, Whatcom, and WA overall Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, May 28th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Victim of accidental Bellingham shooting dies A tragic update from Ferndale — 18-year-old Alejandro Pallares (pah-YUH-riz) has died, a week after being shot in the head. Pallares was reportedly playing with a gun alongside another 18-year-old when it went off. The shooting happened May 18th at a home on Creston Way in Bellingham. Police say the suspect claimed he did not know there was a bullet in the chamber, and later told officers, quote, “I messed up.” Pallares, a Ferndale High School senior and football player, died Sunday at St. Joseph Medical Center — just one week before graduation. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of first-degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm. His arraignment is set for Friday. The Whatcom County Prosecutor’s office has not said if additional charges will be filed now that Pallares has died. An autopsy is scheduled. STORY: Burlington PD searching for perpetrator of Sunday night shooting Burlington Police are investigating a Sunday evening shooting that left one man injured. Officers responded to reports of gunfire just after 6:30 p.m. on East Fairhaven Avenue. They found shell casings at the scene. A 26-year-old man from Shelton was later dropped off at Skagit Valley Hospital with gunshot wounds. He’s since been transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he remains in stable condition. Police are still looking for others involved. Anyone with information is urged to contact Burlington Police. STORY: Man hospitalized after being struck by train in Bellingham A man is in critical condition after being hit by a Burlington Northern train in Bellingham late Sunday night. The collision happened just before 11:30 p.m. near the tracks at Wharf and Cornwall Streets. Fire officials say the man, believed to be in his 50s, was rushed to St. Joseph Medical Center. Train engineers told police they hit the emergency brakes, but could not stop in time. The man’s identity and current condition haven’t been confirmed. It’s still unclear why he was near the tracks. STORY: Bellingham interim public works co-directors confirmed to permanent roles Mayor Kim Lund announced two new appointments to Public Works leadership positions yesterday. Joel Pfundt (FUNT) will be Bellingham’s new Director of Public Works, and Mike Olinger (O-lin-jer) will be Deputy Director. The pair have served as interim co-directors since last July, following the dismissal of previous director Eric Johnston. Pfundt and Olinger will continue to supervise the city’s largest department, which oversees everything from transportation planning, parking, and infrastructure maintenance to water, sewage, and stormwater management. Pfundt is a graduate from Western Washington University, and spent seven years as Kirkland’s transportation manager. He also worked for fifteen years in Redmond, where he coordinated with Sound Transit on the expansion of the area’s light rail, and oversaw pedestrian and bike rail projects. He returned to Bellingham in the summer of 2023. Olinger, meanwhile, has spent nearly 30 years with Bellingham’s Public Works department, starting as a utilities worker before becoming a construction inspector and manager, Operations Superintendent of Maintenance, and Assistant Director of Public Works for Operations. According to a statement from the City of Bellingham, the appointments follow a nationwide search, which ultimately lead Lund to the conclusion that, quote, “the exceptional leadership we need is already here,” unquote. STORY: Student workers at WWU go on strike Student workers at Western Washington University are on strike today. Western Academic Workers United — or WAWU — says it wants union recognition, bargaining rights, and fair pay for operational student employees. Those include resident advisors, lifeguards, and front desk staff from across the university. This week’s strike by operational student employees at WWU comes almost exactly one year after a major walkout by over 1,000 educational student employees. That 2024 strike led to a union contract following months of negotiations. Now, operational student workers are pushing for similar recognition and rights. WWU officials say they support student organizing efforts, but will not recognize the union without new state legislation. The university says it is working to minimize disruption, and does not expect an impact on classes, grades, or graduation. Picketing is expected from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. each school day the strike continues. STORY: Blaine-based brewery set to open Bellingham waterfront location tomorrow A popular Blaine brewery will expand to Bellingham’s waterfront. Beach Cat Brewing will officially open its second location at C Street tomorrow. The brewery first opened in Birch Bay in 2020 — just before the pandemic — and has since built a loyal following. The new Bellingham taproom opens at 11 a.m. Operating hours have not yet been announced. STORY: DNR to host free vessel turn-in event in Whatcom County The Washington State Department of Natural Resources will host a free vessel turn-in event in Whatcom County this summer. The event is open to any Washington resident who has either proof of ownership or the legal authority to dispose of the vessel. DNR says it will not accept any boats larger than 34 feet in length. According to the agency, the event’s purpose is to, quote, “help prevent boats from becoming derelict or abandoned and to keep pollution out of our marine habitat” unquote. Any interested parties have to submit their application by July 1st to get pre-approved before they are notified of the event’s date and location. STORY: Housing prices continue to rise in Bellingham, Whatcom, and WA overall Home prices are on the rise again in Whatcom County and Bellingham. In April, Whatcom County’s median home sale price hit $605,000 — up nearly 2% from March. …
May 23, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham PD searching for suspect in armed robbery, Bellingham man arrested in connection with multiple garbage bin fires, Two suspected drug dealers arrested in Ferndale, Bargaining nurses vote on temporary agreement, Ferguson decries “cruel,” Medicaid cuts that would affect over 200K Washingtonians by the end of next year, WA AG wins court order, Fri to Chea – Ski to Sea Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, May 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham PD searching for suspect in armed robbery A suspect is still on the loose after a Tuesday evening robbery at knifepoint in Bellingham. Police say it happened just before 6:30 p.m. on North Samish Way, when a man was approached behind a nearby business by a white male in his 30s who began speaking with him — before threatening him with a knife and demanding his belongings. The victim handed over the items, and the suspect took off. As of now, no suspect has been identified. Police are continuing their investigation. STORY: Bellingham man arrested in connection with multiple garbage bin fires A Bellingham man faces multiple felony charges after being linked to a pair of recent fires in the city. Police arrested 35-year-old Malcom Lamar Matulevich (mah-too-LEH-vitch) on April 27th. He’s now charged in connection with two separate incidents involving fires set in recycling and garbage bins –– one on Racine Street, and another on Woodstock Way. Matulevich now faces two counts of second-degree arson, along with charges of malicious mischief and reckless burning. He remains in custody at the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Two suspected drug dealers arrested in Ferndale Two suspected drug dealers from Blaine are behind bars after a bust near Ferndale earlier this week. According to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office, deputies arrested the pair on Tuesday after spotting them in a parked car. The man in the passenger seat was wanted in connection to a previous cocaine investigation, and the woman behind the wheel was caught holding a drug pipe. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators found about 160 grams of fentanyl and meth, along with drug paraphernalia and cash. Both suspects remain in the Whatcom County Jail with no bail set. STORY: Bargaining nurses vote on temporary agreement WSNA nurses at St. Joseph Medical Center are voting today on a contract that would finally resolve months of bargaining with PeaceHealth. The deal comes six weeks after the previous contract expired, and follows four months of negotiations, 14 sessions, two pickets, and even a protest song. 1,100 nurses are represented by the Washington State Nurses Association, which is recommending a yes vote. Jessica Moran (more-IN), a bargaining committee member and operating room nurse, had this to say about the temporary agreement. MORAN audio 1 In addition to more money, the contract also includes an elimination of gaps in step raises, as well as the addition of tier one local pharmacies to their health plan. Voting on the proposed contract is happening now, and will end tonight. MORAN audio 2 Moran says she’s cautiously optimistic. MORAN audio 3 STORY: Ferguson decries “cruel,” Medicaid cuts that would affect over 200K Washingtonians by the end of next year In more health-related news, Governor Bob Ferguson is sounding the alarm over a proposed $700 billion cut to Medicaid by Congress, warning it could strip health coverage from hundreds of thousands of state residents. Speaking from the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle yesterday, Ferguson said the House-approved tax-and-spending bill would result in Washington losing around $2 billion in federal Medicaid funding over the next four years. The state’s Medicaid program — Apple Health — currently covers 2 million people, including 800,000 children and over 60% of nursing home residents. Ferguson called the proposed cuts “a four-alarm fire,” saying they could lead to hospital closures and leave at least 200,000 residents without coverage by 2026. Healthcare leaders, including Harborview’s CEO, warned the cuts would deeply damage Washington’s entire healthcare system — not just for Medicaid patients, but for everyone. The Senate is now set to review the bill. STORY: WA AG wins court order In a major legal victory Thursday, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown and a coalition of 20 other state attorneys general won a court order halting the Trump administration’s plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The ruling from the U.S. District Court Judge Myong Joun (me-YOUNG JOON) in Massachusetts comes just weeks after the coalition filed suit to stop proposed layoffs affecting half of the Department’s workforce. The lawsuit followed executive actions from March that aimed at closing the Department and outsourcing key functions, such as student loan management and special education services. The court’s preliminary injunction reinstates employees already laid off, and blocks any further efforts to gut the agency. The attorneys general argue the administration lacks the authority to dismantle a department created by Congress without Congressional approval, and that the mass firings violated federal administrative law. The Trump administration, however, defends its reorganization efforts as a path to greater efficiency. With an emergency appeal already promised by the administration, the controversy is far from over. STORY: Fri to Chea – Ski to Sea It’s Ski to Sea weekend in Whatcom County! The iconic multisport relay race runs Sunday from Mt. Baker to Bellingham Bay, with racers skiing or snowboarding, running, biking, canoeing, and kayaking their way to the finish line at Marine Park in Fairhaven. Spectators and racers can also check out the Historic Fairhaven Festival happening just up the hill at the foot of Harris Avenue. Drivers, take note: The Mount Baker Highway will be closed from 7:15 to 11:30 a.m. on Sunday between Canyon Creek Road in Glacier and the Mt. Baker Lodge. Anyone heading to the top must pass Canyon Creek Road before 7:15, and no vehicles will be allowed down the mountain until around 10:45. More details are available at SkiToSea.com WX: You’re sunbelievable And now for the weather: Today will be mostly sunny and warm once again, …
May 22, 2025 News Transcript
18-year-old arrested in connection with Bellingham shooting, Marysville man pleads guilty to 2023 Boulevard Park murder, Whatcom-Skagit Housing program facing federal cuts, Bellingham Intl Airport receives $2 million for runway reconstruction project, Second Bellingham Trader Joe’s set to open next week, Ferndale announces new Chief of Police, Over half-a-million WA kids to receive SUN Bucks, New data shows Whatcom unemployment continued to decline throughout April Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, May 22nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: 18-year-old arrested in connection with Bellingham shooting A Ferndale teen is not expected to survive after being shot in the head in what appears to be an accidental shooting. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy told the Cascadia Daily News the incident happened last Sunday on Creston Way, where an 18-year-old suspect called 911 and told police he did not know there was a bullet in the chamber. Officers arrived to find another 18-year-old, later identified as Alejandro Pallares, unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the head. According to court documents, a juvenile witness said the two teens had been playing with the gun when he briefly left the room. He said when he returned, Pallares had been shot and the suspect said he — quote — “messed up.” Pallares was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center in critical condition. His mother says he’s on life support with no chance of recovery. Family members wrote on GoFundMe that Pallares was a kind, bright young man full of life, and that the devastating news has left the family heartbroken. STORY: Marysville man pleads guilty to 2023 Boulevard Park murder A Marysville man has pleaded guilty to the 2023 murder of a well-known homeless man in Bellingham. 24-year-old Elijah Belmont admitted in court this Monday to killing 48-year-old Henry “Hank” King on March 12th of last year. King was found dead near the boardwalk between Taylor Dock and Boulevard Park, with gunshot and stab wounds. Belmont wasn’t arrested until nine months later, after Bellingham Police tracked him down using cell phone location data. He was charged with first-degree premeditated murder. King was a familiar face in the community, known for his kindness and love of sports trading cards. Belmont will be sentenced today, and faces life in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. STORY: Whatcom-Skagit Housing program facing federal cuts A critical housing lifeline in Northwest Washington is under threat. The nonprofit Whatcom-Skagit Housing has helped over 700 low-income families in Northwest Washington build homes through USDA’s Rural Development programs. However, President Trump’s proposed budget would eliminate key funding — including Section 502 home loans and Section 523 Self-Help Housing grants. Families in the program buy land, secure a construction loan, and put in 35 hours a week building their homes alongside others — often while working full-time jobs. 400 homes in Ferndale have been built this way — 7% of the city’s housing. However, after last year’s funding cuts, the waitlist has grown, with some families waiting five years. Local leaders and board members are urging Congress to preserve about $1.25 billion in funding nationally. Without that money, the nonprofit says it may turn to private sources to help keep families building — and dreaming. STORY: Bellingham Intl Airport receives $2 million for runway reconstruction project Runway improvements are set to take off at Bellingham International Airport. In a recent press release, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell announced the airport will receive 2-million dollars from the Federal Aviation Administration as part of a national Airport Infrastructure Grant program. Cantwell said the funding will cover the design phase of a major runway rehabilitation project. The project targets 67-hundred feet of the paved runway, and it aims to improve the runway’s structural integrity and lifespan. This marks the first phase of a long-term improvement plan at the airport. STORY: Second Bellingham Trader Joe’s set to open next week Bellingham’s second Trader Joe’s is finally opening its doors next week. The new store, located at the former Bed, Bath and Beyond location in the Cordata Center, will open on Thursday, May 29th. Store Captain Brian Casey and his team will kick things off with a short ribbon-cutting ceremony before officially welcoming customers at 8am. The nearly 10,000-square-foot space marks the city’s second Trader Joe’s location. Once open, the store will operate daily from 8am to 9pm. STORY: Ferndale announces new Chief of Police Ferndale has named its new permanent Chief of Police. In a press release from Tuesday, the City announced that Matt Huffman has officially stepped into the role after serving as interim chief since December. An offer of employment had initially been made to Sean O’Laughlin, pending a background check. However, according to the release, it was later decided by both parties that O’Laughlin was not the right fit for Ferndale. Huffman previously retired in 2023 after a 26-year career with the Ferndale Police Department, where he last served as a lieutenant. He’s a graduate of the FBI National Academy, and played a key role in helping the department earn recognition for high professional standards. Mayor Greg Hansen praised Huffman’s calm and collaborative leadership style, and called him a steady presence with deep roots in the Ferndale community. STORY: Over half-a-million WA kids to receive SUN Bucks This summer, over 600,000 children in Washington are set to receive SUN Bucks. The one-time payment of $120 per eligible child aims to help cover food costs while school is out. The SUN Bucks program is part of the USDA’s new, permanent Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer — or Summer EBT — initiative. Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services is partnering with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to distribute the benefits beginning in early June. Families who receive SNAP or TANF, or whose children qualify for free or reduced-price meals, may get SUN Bucks automatically. Others can apply online through August 29th. Visit textsunbucks.dshs.wa.gov to sign up for updates. STORY: New data shows Whatcom unemployment continued to decline throughout …
May 21, 2025 News Transcript
Man arrested after reportedly threatening to kill Bellingham woman at work, Governor signs budget, WTA to improve service on busiest bus lines rather than converting to rapid transit system, Two local educators win awards, Public participation requested for county Homeless Housing Plan, Two local educators win awards, Public participation requested for county Homeless Housing Plan, Marysville man pleads guilty to 2023 Boulevard Park murder, Bellingham Intl Airport receives $2 million for runway reconstruction project, Second Bellingham Trader Joe’s set to open next week, Ferndale announces new Chief of Police Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, May 21st. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Man arrested after reportedly threatening to kill Bellingham woman at work A Bellingham man is behind bars after allegedly threatening a woman and preventing her from calling for help. Police say the incident happened Friday afternoon at an apartment complex on Samish Way. Bellingham Police Lieutenant Claudia Murphy told the Bellingham Herald that the man approached a woman working at the complex and asked to use her car. When she refused, he watched where she went, then followed her into an apartment. Inside, he allegedly chased her, blocked her from calling police, threatened to kill her and then fled before officers arrived. Later that evening, he called police himself and agreed to meet at a location on Orleans Street, where he was taken into custody without incident. The man now faces charges of felony harassment and unlawful imprisonment. Police have not released his name. STORY: Governor signs budget Yesterday, Governor Bob Ferguson signed the $77.8 billion, two-year state budget — along with a sweeping tax package –– to help close a massive $16 billion shortfall. The first-term Democrat praised the bipartisan effort, saying the final deal required, quote, “a lot of compromise.” Ferguson approved around $4 billion in new and higher taxes, including hikes on big businesses, banks, and tech firms, and an expanded sales tax on services. He used his veto power sparingly — most notably to preserve a tax break for community banks supporting affordable housing. Ferguson also approved a 6-cent gas tax hike — Washington’s first since 2016 — to support a $15.5 billion transportation plan. The gas tax will rise to 55.4 cents per gallon in July, then increase by 2% each year. Republicans blasted the governor, calling it the largest tax increase in state history. Ferguson, however, says the state must invest in public needs while keeping an eye on unintended consequences of the tax hikes. In total, the revenue measures are expected to keep the budget balanced, while leaving $2 billion in reserves. Lawmakers return to Olympia in January, but a special session could be called sooner if federal funding is cut. STORY: Governor signs historic right to repair bills: And in more political news, Governor Ferguson also signed two groundbreaking bills yesterday that expand the right to repair for consumers across Washington. The Right to Repair Act, led by State Representative Mia Gregerson (greg-GUR-sin), gives everyday Washingtonians and independent repair shops access to the parts and tools needed to fix phones, tablets, and laptops — without being forced back to the manufacturer. The bill also bans “parts pairing,” a tactic that requires manufacturer-specific replacement parts and one which consumer advocates say has driven up repair costs. A second bill, State Bill 5680, focuses on mobility devices like powered wheelchairs, and aims to cut long wait times and reduce repair costs for people with disabilities. Both laws take effect on July 26th, paving the way for more affordable repairs across the state. STORY: WTA to improve service on busiest bus lines rather than converting to rapid transit system The Whatcom Transportation Authority says it will shift gears — and will not pursue a costly rapid transit system. Instead, WTA will team up with the City of Bellingham to improve service on its four busiest bus corridors, known as the Go Lines. WTA has explored bus rapid transit since 2023, but now says the scope and cost — with tens of millions in federal funding and years of planning needed — just aren’t practical. Planning Director Tim Wilder told the Bellingham City Council this week that WTA will instead focus on boosting frequency, reliability, and amenities on existing routes. Ridership has now topped pre-pandemic levels, and Wilder says making buses more convenient is key to continued growth. Both WTA and the city plan to draft a joint agreement and seek public input this fall. They hope to adopt a final improvement plan by the end of 2025. STORY: Two local educators win awards Two outstanding educators in Whatcom County are being recognized for their dedication in and out of the classroom — and they’re each taking home a $5,000 prize. Riley Liddle and Dave Tjoelker (CHOLK-er) have been named Educators of the Year by the Brown & Brown Excellence in Education Award Program. Liddle, a career and technical education teacher at Squalicum High School in Bellingham, was one of five public-school finalists from Whatcom County. Other finalists included teachers from Blaine, Bellingham, and the Meridian School District. Liddle received the award during a May 15th ceremony at the Jansen Art Center in Lynden. On the private-school side, Dave Tjoelker, a longtime teacher at Lynden Christian Schools, was recognized for going beyond academics to connect with students personally. Other finalists in the private-school category also came from Lynden Christian’s elementary and middle school campuses. Both Liddle and Tjoelker received $5,000 awards for their achievements. STORY: Public participation requested for county Homeless Housing Plan Whatcom County is shaping its next five-year Homeless Housing Plan — and your voice matters. County officials invite residents to attend one of two upcoming public meetings to learn about progress so far and weigh in on which housing strategies should be prioritized for 2026 through 2030. The first meeting will take place on Monday, June 2nd, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Civic Building in downtown Bellingham. The second will be held on …
May 20, 2025 News Transcript
Former Bellingham youth ministry volunteer sentenced for sexually abusing child, Proposed Bellingham ballot measure would protect renters from landlord retaliation, Blaine School District announces new superintendent, Whatcom Public Works Dept petitions council to amend accounting rules, hoping for greater road work financing, Opioid deaths down statewide, Higher fines for littering go into effect in July, Two local educators win awards Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, May 20th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Former Bellingham youth ministry volunteer sentenced for sexually abusing child A former youth ministry volunteer has been sentenced for sexually abusing a young girl. The Bellingham Herald reports 62-year-old Michael Wayne Breeding was sentenced to 67 months — roughly five-and-a-half years — in prison Monday. Court records say Breeding met the girl while volunteering at Assumption Church in Bellingham. He later took her for bike rides, where he sexually assaulted her and threatened to harm her and her family if she reported the abuse. Prosecutors asked for the top standard sentence of 89 months — a roughly seven-and-a-half year sentence — citing Breeding’s lack of accountability. The defense, however, asked for a sentence below the standard range, saying Breeding has accepted his punishment while still maintaining his innocence. Breeding told the court that he will do everything he can to serve his sentence with dignity, adding that he will return from prison as a better husband and father. STORY: Proposed Bellingham ballot measure would protect renters from landlord retaliation In Bellingham, a grassroots group is pushing for new renter protections on the November 4th ballot. Community First Whatcom says it is gathering signatures for Initiative 25-03 (25-oh-3), a measure that would ban landlord retaliation in key situations, such as when tenants report unsafe conditions or organize with neighbors. If passed, the initiative would allow tenants to hold meetings, post signs, and distribute information without fear of punishment. It would also outlaw non-disclosure clauses in leases and give tenants the right to take civil action — up to $2,000 in damages and an additional $1,000 in punitive penalties. Organizers have until June 27th to gather just over 3,100 valid signatures to qualify for the ballot. Petitions can be found around town, including the Bellingham Farmers Market and local grocery stores. Community First Whatcom has previously championed successful measures on rent control and minimum wage hikes. STORY: Blaine School District announces new superintendent The Blaine School District is welcoming a new superintendent — and it’s someone with deep local roots. The Northern Light reports Dan Chaplik has been selected to take over from outgoing superintendent Christopher Granger. In a unique twist, Granger will move into Chaplik’s current role as superintendent of the Sultan School District, effectively creating a superintendent swap. Chaplik started his education career at Blaine Elementary and has led the Sultan district since 2007. He was one of seven candidates for the interim position in Blaine and told the school board he’s drawn to smaller districts where he can build strong ties with students, staff, and the community. The Blaine school board made the appointment earlier this month. Chaplik will begin his new role on the 2025-2026 school year. STORY: Whatcom Public Works Dept petitions council to amend accounting rules, hoping for greater road work financing Whatcom County’s Public Works Department is facing a cash flow crunch, and the County Council is being asked to step in to keep road projects moving. The issue lies in the county’s Road Fund, which pays for road construction, repairs, and snow removal. While the fund has enough money on the books, delays in property tax collections and falling gas tax revenue leave it short on actual cash during peak construction season. Public Works Director Elizabeth Kosa (coe-SAH) says the rise of labor and material costs, along with long-standing budget challenges, will put key summer projects at risk — including work along Everson-Goshen Road and rock slide removal work on Lummi Island. To manage the shortfall, Kosa is asking the council to allow short-term interfund loans of up to $4 million. The council agreed to consider the request at its meeting tomorrow. If approved, the money would likely come from the General Fund or real estate excise taxes, and would eventually be repaid. Officials stress this is about managing timing, not overspending. To cut costs, Public Works has delayed some projects and frozen 14 job openings. They warn that, without stable cash flow, the county could struggle to respond to emergencies like washouts or landslides. STORY: Opioid deaths down statewide There’s a glimmer of hope in Washington state’s battle against the opioid crisis. Preliminary data from the CDC suggests that drug overdose deaths may finally be declining after years of increases. In 2024, an estimated 3,160 people died from opioid overdoses across the state — that’s down about 12% from almost 3,600 deaths in 2023. King County, which includes Seattle, saw an even sharper drop: a 22% decrease, with deaths falling from 1,340 to 1,040. Washington state health officer Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett says it is still too early to declare a sustained trend, but he hopes it’s the beginning of lasting change. Several factors could be driving the shift, including wider access to the life-saving drug naloxone (nuh-LAAK-sown), known commonly as Narcan, which became available over the counter in 2023. It’s now carried by first responders and stocked in public spaces. John Doyle, with the state Department of Health, also points to expanded access to addiction treatment medications like methadone and buprenorphine (byoo-pruh-NOR-feen). He does, however, also offer a sobering possibility: some of the decline may be due to the loss of the most at-risk individuals, shrinking the population vulnerable to overdose. The data is provisional and could change — but for now, there’s a cautious sense of progress in the fight against overdose deaths. STORY: Higher fines for littering go into effect in July Governor Bob Ferguson signed a new law this weekend that will increase littering fines and delay new plastic bag …
May 19, 2025 News Transcript
PeaceHealth nurses set to vote on new contract this week, Port of Bellingham set to acquire Boxx Berry Farms, WA breweries avoid raised increased excise tax on beer, though it remains on the agenda for next legislative session, Pro-transgender crowd demonstrates outside of Lynden School District board meeting, Bureau of Land Management announces fire restrictions on all public lands in WA and OR, Whatcom Public Works Dept petitions council to amend accounting rules, hoping for greater road work financing, Blaine School District announces new superintendent Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, May 19th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: PeaceHealth nurses set to vote on new contract this week After a full day of bargaining last Friday, nurses have reached a proposed agreement with PeaceHealth. The Washington State Nurses Association says the deal includes the largest three-year wage increases in the unit’s history — starting with a flat 4-25 hourly raise in year one, followed by 3-point-25-percent and 3-percent increases in years two and three. The union’s bargaining team is urging members to vote “yes” when they cast ballots on Thursday and Friday. STORY: Officer-involved shooting south of Bellingham leaves one dead A 34-year-old man is dead after a police standoff southeast of Bellingham. The Bellingham Herald reports the incident began Saturday evening when officers tried to stop a stolen motorcycle on I-5 near Mount Vernon. The rider fled, eventually abandoning the bike on Alger Cain Lake Road. Deputies say the man then took a boat onto the lake, and fired shots near surrounding homes. SWAT officers returned fire, hitting him. He was pulled to shore and given first aid, but died from his injuries. An autopsy is pending. The Snohomish County Multiple Agency Response Team is investigating the shooting because it involved officers from multiple agencies in Whatcom and Skagit counties. STORY: Port of Bellingham set to acquire Boxx Berry Farms A popular berry farm is reaching the end of its 65-year history in Ferndale. The Boxx Berry Farm announced last Friday that they are in the process of selling the property to the Port of Bellingham. According to a letter from Port Economic Development Director, Tyler Schroeder, to County Executive Satpal Sidhu (saht-POW see-DO), the Port presented an application for a planned agricultural research station to be located on the property. The project has been in the works for years and is backed by the Port, Whatcom County, and local agriculture leaders. It will provide a research hub for farmers and scientists working together on modern agricultural challenges. The Port has requested a nearly 2-million-dollar grant and a 933-thousand loan from the county’s Economic Development Investment board to complete the purchase. The Port also received a 741-thousand dollar grant from the state. The funding will cover the purchase of property, with Washington State University and other partners expected to contribute research and resources. County officials are expected to finalize the agreement by mid-June. Boxx Berry Farm will operate as normal this summer with berries, flowers and corn. STORY: WA breweries avoid raised increased excise tax on beer, though it remains on the agenda for next legislative session Washington’s small breweries are breathing a sigh of relief — for now. A controversial bill that would have nearly doubled the beer excise tax on small breweries failed to pass during this year’s legislative session in Olympia. But brewers say it’s likely to return next January. House Bill 2079 would have raised taxes on breweries that produce under 60,000 barrels annually — a move that would impact more than 400 craft brewers statewide, including several in Whatcom County. The Washington Brewers Guild calls the proposal a direct threat to small, independent producers already struggling with inflation, shifting consumer habits, and slow post-pandemic recovery. Local brewery owners warn the added costs could lead to higher prices, reduced staff, and even closures. The Brewers Guild is urging lawmakers to reject the bill when it returns. STORY: Pro-transgender crowd demonstrates outside of Lynden School District board meeting A school board resolution in Lynden is drawing statewide attention and protest over its stance on transgender student-athletes. About 100 people demonstrated outside the Lynden School Board meeting last Thursday, opposing a resolution that challenges state policy on transgender students in school sports. The board voted last month to pursue legal action against Washington’s education department, arguing that allowing transgender girls in girls’ sports creates unfair competition and may violate federal law. The resolution follows a local athlete’s loss to a transgender competitor at a state track meet. Supporters say the board is protecting fairness in girls’ athletics. Opponents say the move threatens the safety and inclusion of trans students. Washington law protects against gender identity discrimination, and state officials say current athletic policies comply. Attempts to change those policies have already failed at the state level. Despite the backlash, Lynden’s board is moving forward with legal complaints. Advocates on both sides say they will continue to push their cases. STORY: Bureau of Land Management announces fire restrictions on all public lands in WA and OR Fire restrictions went into effect across all public lands in Washington and Oregon last Thursday. The restrictions were announced a day after their enactment by the Bureau of Land Management. The use of fireworks is now prohibited, as is the use of exploding or metallic targets, steel component ammunition, tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns. Those who break the law can be fined up to $100,000 and face up to a year in prison; additionally, anyone found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression. The Bureau says the restrictions are meant to reduce human-caused fires, which have increased over the years. STORY: Additional checkpoints added at two WA-Canadian border crossings Drivers heading north through the Peace Arch border crossing are seeing tighter security in recent weeks — and longer delays. Customs and Border Protection has added extra checkpoints along I-5 near the U.S.-Canada border, briefly …
May 16, 2025 News Transcript
Nurses join PeaceHealth protest, Blaine man arrested following surrender of flash drive containing child pornography, Lummi Island ferry rates to increase once again, WSDOT sets June deadline for removal of I-5 graffiti rock, Birch Bay Waterslides set to re-open, Free and Cheap, WA breweries avoid raised increased excise tax on beer, though it remains on the agenda for next legislative session, Additional checkpoints added at two WA-Canadian border crossings Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, May 16th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Nurses join PeaceHealth protest The number of picketing healthcare workers in Bellingham continues to grow. Over a thousand registered nurses at St. Joseph Medical Center joined an informational picket yesterday, standing in solidarity with striking service workers and physicians. While the nurses, represented by the Washington State Nurses Association, are not on strike yet, they previously rejected PeaceHealth’s latest contract offer, and were set to resume negotiations this morning. Meanwhile, the current strike is expected to end this evening with a rally featuring guest speakers and local elected officials. PeaceHealth management canceled bargaining sessions scheduled for this week, which strikers say raises concerns about the hospital’s commitment to negotiate in good faith. PeaceHealth says it is focused on maintaining patient care during the work stoppage, and it plans to return to the bargaining table once the strike ends. All three unions are calling for better wages, more affordable health insurance, and greater respect in the workplace. STORY: Blaine man arrested following surrender of flash drive containing child pornography An alarming discovery led to the arrest of a Blaine man on child pornography charges. According to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, a person came forward after finding illegal images on both a flash drive and a hard drive which they believed contained only movies and adult content. The devices reportedly belonged to a mutual friend who had lent them out. Deputies seized the drives and uncovered over 3,500 images and 170 videos of child pornography. A search of the suspect’s rural Blaine home turned up a computer with similar material. Officials say none of the images involved local children. The 33-year-old man was arrested Wednesday morning, and is being held without bail at the Whatcom County Jail. STORY: Lummi Island ferry rates to increase once again Fares on the Lummi Island ferry are set to rise again this year. At a recent council meeting, Public Works Director Elizabeth Kosa (coe-SAH) described the ferry system as being quote “in crisis,” and cited a $430,000 payout from the road fund to the ferry fare box as well as rising operational costs. The fare box, which is supposed to cover over half of the system’s daily expenses, has seen revenues fall behind. A previous fare hike was reversed earlier this year after a court ruled the county miscategorized some expenses. The legal settlement forced the road fund to repay the ferry account — which further strained both budgets. The County Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to urge the executive to raise fares immediately and explore long-term funding solutions. In the meantime, county officials are also delaying projects and freezing staff positions, while they look for other cost-saving measures to plug an over-$8 million budget gap projected by the end of 2025. Any potential increase likely won’t take effect until July due to administrative requirements. STORY: WSDOT sets June deadline for removal of I-5 graffiti rock The Washington State Department of Transportation has set a deadline of June 1stfor community members to find a new home for Bellingham’s celebrated “graffiti rock”. The rock’s removal or destruction has become necessary in order to complete a three-year project to widen salmon-bearing streams that run under I-5 toward Bellingham Bay. Located near exit 246, the 8-foot tall, 100-ton boulder has become an ad hoc community message board and local landmark since the first graffiti appeared there in 1969. Photographs and stories from the past 55 years have been collected on the Bellingham Rock Facebook page, which has nearly 5,000 followers. In a letter posted to the page, project engineer Megan Mosebar notes that WSDOT has explored multiple options for relocation, including to public and private properties, as well as different land owned by the Department of Transportation. However, significant obstacles have arisen, including the rock’s size and weight, the presence of high levels of cadmium and lead in the layers of paint, and the necessity for any new site to provide maintenance, environmental safeguards, and adequate pedestrian access. Administrators of the Bellingham Rock Facebook page continue to call for any school, agency, municipality, or organization that can help to get in touch and help them, quote, “protect a piece of Whatcom County’s history”, unquote. STORY: Birch Bay Waterslides set to re-open Nearly a year after a serious injury shut it down, Birch Bay Waterslides has announced it will reopen on June 14th. The park closed last August after a Navy veteran was hurt on a slide and later sued the owners. A new management firm is now overseeing major repairs and safety upgrades. Whatcom County health officials must reinspect the park before it can reopen. That inspection could happen shortly after repairs are complete. The park says it’s committed to guest safety as crews continue restoration work through May. STORY: Free and cheap It’s Friday – if you’re looking for something free or cheap to do this weekend, here’s a little of what’s going on around the county. A special celebration will take place in downtown Blaine tomorrow. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Blaine Spring Block Party will feature attractions such as face painting, kids’ activities and live music. More information can be found at the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District’s website. Tomorrow will also see the Bellis Fair Mall host the Miles for Memories Walkathon from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will provide community members with a chance to visit Amy’s Place, the nonprofit Dementia Support Northwest’s new office headquarters-slash-community center, which is slated …
May 15, 2025 News Transcript
Man arrested in Bellingham on suspicion of attempted solicitation of sex from minor, Bellingham Public Schools rolls out new plan to withstand $15 million budget shortfall, Some Whatcom council members seeking new legal counsel after progressive loss of trust in Prosecutor’s Office, Ranked choice voting could be on the ballot, Nearly half of all Whatcom households reportedly below ALICE level of financial stability, Blaine man arrested following surrender of flash drive containing child pornography, WA breweries avoid raised increased excise tax on beer, though it remains on the agenda for next legislative session, Birch Bay Waterslides set to re-open Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, May 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Man arrested in Bellingham on suspicion of attempted solicitation of sex from minor A 44-year old man has been arrested for sending sexual online messages to a young girl. According to an affidavit of probable cause filed at the Whatcom County Superior Court on May 1st, Bellingham Police responded to a report of an adult male who was communicating online with a juvenile female. His side of the conversations became explicit; he sent videos and requested photos from her, which she refused to provide. The parents consented to letting law enforcement take over the girl’s online account. During subsequent conversations with an undercover officer, a meeting was set where he was taken into custody. 44-year-old Morgan William Benson of Sedro-Woolley was arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. He now faces charges of 1st-degree attempted assault of a child, exploitation of a minor, and communication with a minor for immoral purposes. Bail was later set at $500,000. Benson remained in custody as of yesterday. STORY: Bellingham Public Schools rolls out new plan to withstand $15 million budget shortfall Bellingham Public Schools announced it will make significant staff cuts as it works to close a major budget shortfall. In a recent letter to parents, Superintendent Greg Baker says the district faces a projected $15 million deficit for the upcoming school year. While about a quarter of that gap will be covered through new state funding, fee increases, sponsors, and support from the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation, the remaining $11.4 million must be addressed through budget cuts. The district plans to eliminate the equivalent of 25 full-time positions. That includes eight administrative and support staff roles, 15 certificated teaching positions, and just over two classified staff jobs. District spokesperson Dana Smith says some of those reductions are already happening through attrition and leaves of absence. In addition to the staffing cuts, the district will slightly increase class sizes for grades 4 through 12, and shorten the school year by one day. Superintendent Baker also hinted at a possible special levy in November to help fund maintenance projects. Despite some increases in state funding for specific needs, Baker says overall support for K-12 education remains, quote, “inadequate.” STORY: Some Whatcom council members seeking new legal counsel after progressive loss of trust in Prosecutor’s Office A fiery email from a Whatcom County Council member is reigniting debate over whether the council should have its own legal advisor — separate from the Prosecutor’s Office. Council member Todd Donovan sent a blunt message to county leaders last Friday, declaring that the council quote “now lacks legitimate legal counsel.” His email followed ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in the Prosecutor’s Office — including recent reports of internal misconduct and mismanagement. The council voted unanimously on Tuesday to explore hiring independent legal counsel — citing growing frustration and a lack of trust in Prosecutor Eric Richey’s office. Tensions have been building since 2023, when council members said they were blindsided by a $225,000 sexual harassment settlement. That distrust deepened after revelations of a secret relationship between senior members of the Prosecutor’s Office and the resignation of Deputy Prosecutor George Roche. Some council members argue that the Prosecutor’s Office is tasked with protecting the county government — not the legislative branch — and say they need legal advice tailored to council priorities. Council member Jon Scanlon said he has researched models in King and Pierce counties, where councils have limited but dedicated legal advisors for policy matters. Prosecutor Richey has pushed back, saying hiring outside counsel could waste taxpayer dollars and violate the separation of powers. The council is set to take up the issue in more detail at its next meeting on May 27th. STORY: Ranked choice voting could be on the ballot Ranked choice voting could be headed to the ballot in Whatcom County — but time is running out for the Charter Review Commission to decide. The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission is debating whether to implement the new approach — also called RCV — which lets voters rank candidates by preference. Supporters say RCV leads to fairer, more representative elections and reduces strategic voting. But critics — including the Whatcom County Auditor and local Republican leaders — warn the system could confuse voters and bring high implementation costs. County Auditor Stacy Henthorn estimates the change would cost at least $256,000 — and notes the necessary software isn’t even certified yet in Washington state. The 15-member commission is politically split, and needs a supermajority of 10 votes to send any amendment to the ballot in November. While progressives on the commission appear to support RCV, it’s unclear whether the proposal will gain enough traction before the July 10th deadline. At a special meeting on Monday, commissioners heard from national experts on both the pros and cons of RCV. Several draft proposals were floated, from limited primary reforms to sweeping council restructuring. The next meeting is set for next Thursday at Bellingham’s Civic Annex Building, where the commission may decide whether to move forward with a ranked choice proposal. The commission will also take up a separate proposal on June 3rd to eliminate two at-large county council seats. Any final charter changes must be approved by voters this November. STORY: Nearly half of all Whatcom households reportedly …
May 14, 2025 News Transcript
Lelo joins class action lawsuit against immigration court, Domestic assault suspect arrested in Ferndale after refusing to exit vehicle, Bomb squad deployed to Lynden after man digs up dummy grenade, Tribal health organization partners with St. Joe’s in effort to reduce maternal death and disease among indigenous women, State cuts to child literacy program expected to impact over 4,000 children in Whatcom alone, Garden Minute airs today, Correction, WA breweries avoid raised increased excise tax on beer, though it remains on the agenda for next legislative session, Residents of Bellingham apartment complex receive notice of drastic rent hike just ahead of new statewide cap Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, May 14th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Lelo joins class action lawsuit against immigration court Prominent farmworker activist Alfredo “Lelo” Juarez Zeferino (LAY-lo who-ARE-is zeh-fuh-RENO) is now a named plaintiff in a federal class action lawsuit. Juarez Zeferino was detained by ICE agents in Sedro-Woolley on March 25th, based on a 2018 deportation order. His attorney, Larkin VanDerhoef (van-der-HOFF), says the activist was taken into custody after ICE agents smashed his car window while he was dropping his girlfriend off at work. He was denied bond on May 8th, after Immigration Judge Theresa M. Scala (SKAA-luh) ruled she lacked jurisdiction. However, she noted that if she had the authority, she would have granted the $5,000 bond request. Juarez Zeferino is now part of a federal class action lawsuit filed by the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. The suit alleges the Tacoma Immigration Court routinely denies bond to immigrants detained after entering the U.S. without inspection—granting only 3% of bond requests last year, the lowest rate in the country. Juarez Zeferino’s legal team is also working to suppress his original 2015 arrest, arguing it was unlawful and may have violated his rights. His next hearing is scheduled for early June, and his legal team is hopeful that developments in the lawsuit could change the outcome of his case. Juarez Zeferino remains in detention, but is reportedly in good spirits. His attorney has appealed the bond denial, though the process could take several more months. STORY: Domestic assault suspect arrested in Ferndale after refusing to exit vehicle A domestic violence suspect is in custody following a standoff outside a Ferndale restaurant yesterday morning. Just after 7:30 a.m., officers from the Lynden Police Department responded to reports of a domestic disturbance involving a man in an SUV parked near the intersection of Barrett Road and Main Street in Ferndale. Witnesses reported the man was arguing with the driver of the vehicle. The male passenger refused to comply with officers’ commands, and officers used a non-lethal method to gain compliance and successfully detain the suspect. A 23-year-old Lynden man was arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail. He faces charges of fourth-degree domestic violence assault, obstructing law enforcement, and resisting arrest. No injuries were reported during the incident. The suspect’s name has not yet been released. STORY: Bomb squad deployed to Lynden after man digs up dummy grenade A surprising discovery in rural Whatcom County this morning had law enforcement on alert. A man digging a trench near the 11-hundred block of Van Dyk Road, just south of Lynden, unearthed what looked like an unexploded hand grenade. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater told the Bellingham Herald that deputies responded quickly, along with the Bellingham Police Department’s bomb squad. Fortunately, it turned out to be a false alarm. The bomb squad determined the object was a hollow training grenade filled with dirt. Bellingham’s bomb squad is made up of four nationally certified technicians who must recertify every 3 years. According to the City of Bellingham, the team responds to up to 40 similar calls each year. STORY: Tribal health organization partners with St. Joe’s in effort to reduce maternal death and disease among indigenous women The Northwest Washington Indian Health Board has been awarded a 400-thousand dollar grant to boost maternal health services for Tribal communities. The organization will receive funds over a two-year period, funded through Washington’s 2025 Maternal Health Innovations Program. The grant will support a new community-based doula network and expand the organization’s partnership with Bellingham’s St. Joseph Medical Center, the region’s only birthing hospital. The initiative focuses on providing culturally rooted childbirth education, lactation support, and perinatal (peh-ruh-NAY-tl) mental health care—addressing critical gaps in maternal services for Tribal families. The funding is part of a statewide push by the Department of Health to reduce maternal health disparities in under-served regions. STORY: State cuts to child literacy program expected to impact over 4,000 children in Whatcom alone State lawmakers have cut funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Washington from the final 2025-2027 budget. The literacy program, which was founded by Parton in 1995 in honor of her father—who could neither read nor write—provides a new, age-appropriate book every month to eligible children from birth to age five, at no cost to families. The Washington chapter—the first on the West Coast– was established in 2022, after the state promised essential funding through House Bill 2068. In a statement on the Washington affiliate’s webpage, Executive Director Brooke Fisher-Clark called the decision to halt funding, quote, “a heartbreaking loss to our team, our 46 local Imagination Library partners, and, most importantly, the 121,000 children across Washington who receive the gift of a free book each month” unquote. According to the Library’s quarterly report from December, over 4,600 of those children reside in Whatcom County. Fisher-Clark is calling on the public to donate through the ILWA website and help ensure the program’s continued viability. STORY: Garden Minute airs today What should you be doing in your garden right now? Tune into the Garden Minute today after the 5pm news to find out the latest tips and hints–– this week we’ll hear from Paige from the Garden Spot Nursery. STORY: Correction And finally, in yesterday’s story on the strikers at PeaceHealth we said that Nurse Practitioner Katie Pernick …
May 13, 2025 News Transcript
PeaceHealth worker strike begins, Whatcom confirms first case of mumps in seven years, officials say no risk to public health, Seattle man sentenced to eight years for role in Whatcom drug ring, Bellingham School District changes calendar, Whatcom County launches customer service portal for online permits Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, May 13th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: PeaceHealth worker strike begins Healthcare workers are striking at St. Joseph’s, and the hospital says it remains committed to patient safety — even as some services are temporarily impacted. In a statement released on Friday, hospital officials said temporary replacement staff and existing care partners are filling in — a standard industry practice. However, two Priority Care Clinics — Medical Office Plaza and Sedro-Woolley — are temporarily closed due to the strike. Both are expected to reopen on Monday. The strike involves caregivers represented by SEIU and UAPD, and follows over eight months of negotiations. PeaceHealth says it has offered a competitive package, including wage increases of up to 36% for SEIU members over four years, and up to 10% in the first year for advanced practice clinicians. But union members argue that the medical group as well as its contractor, Sound Physicians, are purposely misleading the community. Cardiology nurse practitioner Graham Meeks had this to say. Strike Audio 1 not market rate :50 For many on the picket line, the experience is one they never thought they would be part of. Joe Crane, an organizing coordinator with the Union of American Physicians and Dentists, explains. Strike Audio 2 people like this 1:01 At the end of the day, nurse practitioner and SEIU member Katie Pernick says it’s all about patient care for those walking the picket line. Strike Audio 3 one hoop at a time :24 While strikers complain about bad-faith bargaining and call for stronger commitments to wages and staffing, when asked what options exist if PeaceHealth refuses their demands, union members say they’ll have to wait and see. Strike Audio 4 are effective :14 Strike Audio 5 possible every one :24 Bargaining is paused during the strike. Meanwhile, PeaceHealth nurses represented by the Washington State Nurses Association are still in stalled negotiations. PeaceHealth declined an offer to comment on this story. STORY: Whatcom confirms first case of mumps in seven years, officials say no risk to public health A case of mumps has been confirmed in Whatcom County for the first time since 2018. Whatcom County Health and Community Services has confirmed the case, but say there is no immediate risk to the public. Officials believe the individual may have been exposed while traveling on a cruise ship outside the U.S. The person is recovering at home, and was not hospitalized. Public health staff have identified and notified those who may have had close contact with the patient. Those individuals are being monitored for symptoms, and no further spread has been reported. Officials urge people to stay current on their Measles, Mumps, and Rubella—or MMR—vaccinations. Mumps is a viral illness spread through coughing, sneezing, or sharing food or drinks. Common symptoms include puffy cheeks, fever, headache, and tiredness. Most people recover fully, but serious complications can occur. To learn more about mumps and where to get vaccinated, visit the Washington Department of Health website. STORY: Seattle man sentenced to eight years for role in Whatcom drug ring A Seattle man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in a fentanyl trafficking operation in Whatcom County. Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller announced on Friday that 35-year-old Mohamed Abdirisak (ab-DEER-is-ak) Mohamed was sentenced after pleading guilty to drug distribution and firearms charges last year. According to court records, Mohamed was twice caught with thousands of fentanyl pills and firearms. The trafficking ring moved fentanyl from the Seattle area to redistributors in Bellingham, with much of the drug supply reaching the Lummi Indian Reservation. Mohamed was one of six people charged in the months-long investigation. He is the fifth individual to be sentenced; three Bellingham residents and another Seattle man were previously sentenced. One suspect from Burien remains at large. STORY: Bellingham School District changes calendar In an effort to address a budget shortfall, Bellingham School District has updated the 2025–2026 school year calendar. According to a letter sent to families yesterday, the changes were made after collaboration with labor associations and gathering input from the community. The start and end dates of the school year have been shifted, and professional development days for staff have been reduced. Key calendar updates include: ● Grades 1-thru-12 and Community Transitions will begin school on Tuesday, September 2nd, following a regular schedule; ● Elementary school hours end 7 minutes later each day at 2:30 p.m.; ● Middle school and high school hours will stay the same; ● Kindergarten and Promise K will start on Thursday, September 4th, with early dismissal at 12:20 p.m; ● Preschool begins on Friday, September 5th, on a regular schedule, and; ● The last day of school next year is set for June 12th, 2026, unless adjusted due to weather or emergency-related closures. The release refers parents and community members to the updated calendar for further details. STORY: Whatcom County launches customer service portal for online permits Whatcom County residents can now easily track construction projects in their neighborhoods—thanks to a new online tool. The county’s Planning and Development Services department has launched a Customer Service Portal on its website. The portal allows anyone to search permits, site maps, inspections, and other planning documents by address. Residents can also make payments and estimate fees through the tool. Officials say additional services for other permits and planning needs will be added over the next year. WX: It Will Rain And now for the weather: Today will be warm and overcast. Temperatures should get up near 65 degrees. Nighttime lows are projected in the upper-40s. Rain is expected tonight, with the sun coming back in the morning. Expect some clouds by …
May 9, 2025 News Transcript
Crowds of protesters gather outside of Lelo’s court hearing, no immediate verdict rendered, Bellingham grassroots group launches petition to impose term limits on mayoral and city council positions, Fueler’s strike expected to impact Sea-Tac flights, State supreme court upholds ban on high-capacity magazines, It’s Mother’s Day. Do not settle for free and cheap, Whatcom drug dealer reportedly transferred to ICE custody Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, May 9th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Crowds of protesters gather outside of Lelo’s court hearing, no immediate verdict rendered An immigration judge has delayed ruling on whether Alfredo “Lelo” (LAY-lo) Juarez Zeferino will be granted bond following his March 25th arrest by ICE. Zeferino, a Whatcom County farmworker and immigrant rights activist, is being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center, and seeks release ahead of a November court date. His attorney requested a $5,000 bond, but Judge Theresa M. Scala could rule that she lacks jurisdiction — a growing trend in immigration cases. ICE argued Zeferino is a flight risk due to a missed court date, which his attorney says he was never notified of. Over 60 supporters rallied outside the facility during Thursday’s hearing. Zeferino is known for his work with Community to Community and the farmworker union Familias Unidas por la Justicia (fah-MEE-lee-us oo-NEE-duhs POR LAH hoo-STEE-see-uh). Both U.S. Senator Patty Murray and U.S. Representative Rick Larsen have voiced support for Zeferino and criticized ICE’s actions. A ruling is expected soon. STORY: Bellingham grassroots group launches petition to impose term limits on mayoral and city council positions A grassroots group in Bellingham is pushing for term limits for the city’s elected leaders. Community First Whatcom has launched a petition drive for a ballot measure that would cap service at 12 years for the mayor and City Council members. The proposed charter amendment would limit council members to three consecutive four-year terms, and the at-large seat to six two-year terms. The group has until June 27th to collect nearly 4,800 valid signatures to qualify the measure for the November ballot. Some council members voiced skepticism this week. Councilmember Dan Hammill, now in his 11th year, said he’s still learning. Skip Williams added that the decision is ultimately in the hands of voters. Community First Whatcom previously led successful initiatives on renter protections and raising the minimum wage. STORY: Fueler’s strike expected to impact Sea-Tac flights Members of Teamsters Local 174, which represents 150 aircraft fuelers at SeaTac Airport, voted unanimously to authorize a strike on Tuesday night. If enacted, the strike could disrupt travel, and compel most planes passing through the airport to find alternative ways to refuel. Union members serve planes from Alaska, American, Delta, and United airlines. In addition to an increase in pay, workers want designated parking, a clean lunchroom, and the opportunity to wash jet fuel off their clothes after completing their shifts. Employer Swissport Ltd. issued a response later that Tuesday night, claiming that their latest proposed offer would make union members the highest paid fuelers at SeaTac. Both Swissport and the Port of Seattle say the company has contingency plans in place to minimize disruptions in the event of a strike. STORY: State supreme court upholds ban on high-capacity magazines The Washington State Supreme Court has voted to uphold the state’s ban on the sale of high-capacity gun magazines. Yesterday, justices voted 7-to-2 to side with the state, reversing a lower-court ruling from last year on a lawsuit brought by Gator’s Custom Guns, a gun shop in Kelso. Gator’s attorneys claimed that Washington’s 2022 prohibition on the sale, import and manufacture of ammunition magazines containing over 10 rounds violated both the state’s constitution and the U.S. Constitution’s Second Amendment. However, most of the justices found that such magazines are not “arms,” instead viewing them as a modifier or an attachment to a weapon. They also disagreed with the Gators’ attorneys’ argument that high-capacity magazines are used for self-defense. The ruling has led to varying responses from state leaders. Washington State Republican Party Chair Jim Walsh said in an interview that he was disappointed but not surprised by the news, and that, quote, “this will end up in federal court, by hook or by crook” unquote. However, state Attorney General Nick Brown applauded the decision, saying in a social media post that it will save lives. STORY: It’s Mother’s Day. Do not settle for free and cheap It’s Mother’s Day Weekend– if you’re looking for something to do with your mother-figures, here are some options. On Saturday, there’s Live Music at The Shakedown, the show starts at 8:30 pm and features The Palmer Squares. Why not check out Improv Game Night: Blood on the Clocktower at The Upfront Theatre. It’s a social deduction game where everyone has a trick up their sleeve. Tickets are about $10 and the fun starts at 9:30pm. On Sunday, consider taking mom to the EN Valley Farmers Market at Everson City Park, and maybe pair it with a run in the Farmers Market 5k at Everson City Park. WX: Particle Man, Partlysunny Man. Doin’ the things a partlysunny can. And now for the weather: A predominantly overcast day is in store for us today, with periods of sunshine breaking through here and there. Daytime highs are projected around the mid-60s, with evening lows falling into the high 40s. The UV index has fallen back to the low-to-moderate range, but pollen counts are considered high today, at 8.3. According to pollen.com, they are expected to spike up to 8.7 on Sunday – so if you have allergies, bring tissues. Look for a mostly overcast, albeit warm, weekend as well, with infrequent showers expected throughout Saturday and Sunday. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers Carlos Braga (BRA-guh), Connor O’Boyle, Kyler Cantrell, Theron (THAIR-in) Danielson, Cody Mills, Aidan Larson, Glen Hirshberg (HERSH-berg), and Kathi O’Shea (O-shay). Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p.m. For news tips and feedback, send …
May 8, 2025 News Transcript
Bellingham man hospitalized following accident near Everett, City of Bellingham terminates agreement with waterfront developer, Bellingham tiny house village set to open at the end of the month, City of Bellingham seeks community member support, 14 Whatcom County Schools Honored for Student Success, Rep. Larsen to hold town hall in Skagit County, Statewide cap on rent hikes signed into law Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, May 8th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Bellingham man hospitalized following accident near Everett A Bellingham man was hospitalized following a multi-vehicle crash on northbound I-5 in Everett on Tuesday night. According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash happened just after 9 p.m. near some road work that had reduced the highway to a single lane. A 51-year-old man driving a 1993 GMC truck changed lanes to avoid a stopped vehicle, but struck a semi-truck and trailer before it crashed into the stopped truck from behind. The GMC driver was taken to Providence Medical Center in Everett. It’s still unclear whether he was wearing a seatbelt or if impairment was a factor. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. STORY: City of Bellingham terminates agreement with waterfront developer The Port of Bellingham has officially ended its development partnership with Ireland-based Harcourt Developments. In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, Port commissioners approved a termination agreement following years of delays and legal disputes. Commissioner Michael Sheppard said the Port has made every effort to work with Harcourt but emphasized that “contracts matter” and the public expects them to be enforced. Under the agreement, Harcourt loses its exclusive development rights on the waterfront, which it held since 2015. The company must also clear all of its stockpiled materials from Port-owned property within a year. Harcourt will retain ownership of the restored Granary Building and three condo buildings along the Whatcom Waterway — two of which remain under construction. Port Legal Counsel Holly Stafford said it was quote “a miracle” the two sides reached a deal, ending a strained relationship marked by lawsuits and even a restraining order. The Port says discussions about next steps for the waterfront will happen in future meetings. STORY: Bellingham tiny house village set to open at the end of the month North Haven, the new tiny home village in Bellingham, is set to open by the end of this month to support local residents without permanent shelter. The village will merge two existing communities — Swift Haven and Unity Village — that are being relocated. Construction is underway at the new site on Northwest Avenue, just south of Fire Station 5. About fifty new 8-by-12-foot homes are being built by volunteers, including City Council member Michael Lilliquist, who says he has spent several days helping frame the structures. The City of Bellingham purchased the property for just over $1 million earlier this year, and has invested another almost $1.5 million to add essential utilities like electricity, water, and sewer. Community and Economic Development Division Manager Tara Sundin (sun-DEAN) says the investment reflects a push toward “more permanence” in mobile housing. City Council also voted unanimously this week to donate fifteen smaller 8-by-8-foot units — no longer suitable for the new site — to the United Way of Skagit County. The North Haven village will continue to be operated by Homes Now! and will include mobile kitchens, laundry, shower, and toilet facilities. STORY: City of Bellingham seeks community member support If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to help the City of Bellingham grow, here are two options. The City says it currently has two open positions on the Transportation Commission — an advisory board that plays a key role in guiding local transportation planning and policy. If you’re passionate about how people get around Bellingham, visit cob.org/bc to learn more and apply. And if clean water, healthy forests, and outdoor recreation is more your thing, don’t miss the upcoming community meeting on the Lake Whatcom Forest Management Plan. The City of Bellingham and Whatcom County are partnering with experts to plan the future of over 13,000 acres of forested land. Join the conversation today, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Silver Beach Elementary School. Can’t make it in person? Share your input online at engagebellingham.org. STORY: 14 Whatcom County Schools Honored for Student Success Fourteen schools in Whatcom County are being recognized by the Washington State Board of Education. The School Recognition Program for outstanding progress in key areas of student achievement has honored six schools in the Bellingham School District, including Cordata, Lowell, Northern Heights, Parkview, and Wade King Elementary Schools, along with Bellingham High School. Blaine High School was also recognized for its achievements. In the Ferndale School District, Eagleridge Elementary, Vista Middle School, and Ferndale High School were honored. Additional local schools receiving recognition include Vossbeck Elementary in the Lynden School District, Meridian School District’s Irene Reither (RYE-ther) Elementary; Harmony Elementary in the Mount Baker School District, and Nooksack Elementary. This year, only 16-percent of schools statewide were recognized. The awards are based on data from the Washington School Improvement Framework, and reflect high performance in areas such as academic growth and closing achievement gaps. Each honored school will receive a banner to display in its building. STORY: Rep. Larsen to hold town hall in Skagit County U.S. Representative Rick Larsen will host an in-person town hall in Skagit County at 6 p.m. on Monday. Representative Larsen says he will respond to questions from local residents and share details about his dealings with the Trump administration. Anyone interested in attending must RSVP for the meeting ahead of time; the exact location of the town hall will be shared on the morning of the event with those who register. The meeting will also be livestreamed over Representative Larsen’s Instagram and Facebook pages. STORY: Statewide cap on rent hikes signed into law And in more political news, Washington now has a statewide cap on rent increases. Governor Bob Ferguson signed a new law …
