Whatcom Democrats board calls for County Executive Satpal Sidhu’s resignation, Lummi Island resident sues county and executive over ferry rate hike taking effect June 1, Western’s Fairhaven Complex sewer project expected to be completed this summer, Bellingham private school seeks approval for building renovation, Lawsuit partially settled for $8 million in Point Roberts carbon monoxide deaths, Lawsuit partially settled for $8 million in Point Roberts carbon monoxide deaths, Northwest Tune-Up announces 2024 music lineup, Kroger to pay WA $47.5 million over role in opioid crisis, Social Security expands rental subsidy ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, April 25th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom Democrats board calls for County Executive Satpal Sidhu’s resignation Whatcom Democrats’ executive board has called for County Executive Satpal Sidhu to resign over his handling of sexual harassment allegations against former Public Works director Jon Hutchings. Sidhu did not inform the County Council about the investigation or a subsequent $225,000 settlement with a female employee. Sidhu accepted responsibility but did not bring the issue before the council, citing adherence to policies and procedures. The letter from the Whatcom Dems accused Sidhu of prioritizing relationships over duty and called for resignation to uphold basic values. Sidhu’s actions, including providing a recommendation letter for Hutchings, were criticized for undermining trust and betraying shared values. STORY: Lummi Island resident sues county and executive over ferry rate hike taking effect June 1 A Lummi Island resident is suing Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, Public Works Department Director Elizabeth Kosa, and Whatcom County over a ferry rate hike taking effect on June first. Last Tuesday, Peter Earle filed for an injunction against the increase, based on his claim that county officials were incorrectly calculating costs on the ferry to justify the raise in rates. According to the Whatcom County code, fares are meant to generate enough revenue on an annual basis to cover 55 percent of the ferry’s operating costs. Earle’s lawsuit claims the county violated the code and the county charter by including both emergency repair and real estate leasing fees as operational costs, rather than capital costs. Earle is seeking a temporary and permanent injunction to halt the fare increases from going into effect. He is also seeking a court order to prevent the county from charging anything other than regular and routine maintenance as operating costs. A hearing is set for 1:30 pm on Friday. STORY: Western’s Fairhaven Complex sewer project expected to be completed this summer Western Washington University sewage repairs to be completed this summer. According to Westerns’s construction coordinator, Andy Hansen, ongoing repairs to the Fairhaven Complex sewer lines will be completed this summer. After complaints from residents last October of a foul smell around the Fairhaven Complex and The Outback Farm, a hole in the sewage pipes was found in December by Fairhaven Complex Stack 3. The sewage leak has caused frequent disruptions to residents’ daily lives and sewage backups within the dorms. The project will be completed in three phases in hopes of minimizing impact on campus residents. Water shut offs and more disruptions will continue during construction. Western says it will notify residents in advance when water shut offs will occur. STORY: Bellingham private school seeks approval for building renovation A Bellingham private school is currently seeking approval for a renovation. Franklin Academy, a Pre-K through 8 school located in the Columbia neighborhood, is proposing a two-story addition to one of its buildings. According to Head of School Gretchen Bucsko (BUS-ko), the outdated infrastructure in Robin Hall is no longer meeting the needs of their students. Classrooms are being shared, and some rooms have infrastructure damage. According to reporting from the Bellingham Herald, concerns have been raised about the impact on traffic and parking during a neighborhood meeting last year. However, Cascadia Daily News says no substantial public comment was heard during yesterday’s meeting. Bucsko said the school doesn’t have a timeline yet for the build but hopes construction will begin within the next two years. Hearing Examiner Sharon Rice said she expects to release a decision on the permit in May. STORY: Lawsuit partially settled for $8 million in Point Roberts carbon monoxide deaths Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Robert Olson recently approved a settlement in a Whatcom County couple’s death from carbon monoxide poisoning. Murray Church, 67, and Gail Amundsen, 61, were found deceased in their Point Roberts residence on Thanksgiving Day in 2021 due to carbon monoxide exposure from a faulty boiler installation. The settlement, totaling $8 million, involves Ferndale-based Andgar Mechanical and contractors Optimum Contracting and Shoreline Electrical Services. Andgar will pay $6 million, while Optimum and Shoreline will each pay $1 million. The settlement was deemed reasonable by Judge Olson, considering various factors including damages suffered by the plaintiffs and the defendants’ ability to pay. A second lawsuit against Triangle Tube and Whatcom County, which were not part of the settlement, will proceed. STORY: Northwest Tune-Up announces 2024 music lineup Northwest Tune-Up Festival announced this year’s music line-up. The Festival located on the Bellingham Waterfront will run July 12th-14th and features live music, regional and national biking and outdoors brands, competitions at the pump track, and live art. This year, the headlining acts will be extended to 90 minutes and the festival will include free music from local bands. Bluegrass group “Yonder Mountain String Band” will headline opening night on Friday. Saturday’s show will feature Rapper Lupe Fiasco and Sunday’s headliner, electronica artist RJD2, will close the weekend festivities. Other artists announced in the lineup include Indigo De Souza (SOO-zuh), Saxsquatch and Bellingham-based Tom Petty tribute band Petty or Not. Early bird tickets for the Northwest Tune-Up Festival are on sale now through April 30th. STORY: Kroger to pay WA $47.5 million over role in opioid crisis The grocery chain Kroger is slated to pay the state of Washington $47.5 million for its role in the opioid epidemic. The lawsuit is part of a wave of legal actions taken by …
KMRE NEWS Transcripts
April 24, 2024 News Transcript
Special election results – Fire District 17 levy, Mount Vernon schools levy too close to call, Whatcom County releases plan to finance new jail, Whatcom County Council blindsided by news of $225,000 harassment settlement, Elementary education will become a major at Western in fall 2024, Bodies found near San Juan Island by San Juan County Sheriff’s Department, Bellingham looking toward community center, expanded indoor swimming and recreation, Washington State Digital Equity Plan wins approval, $15.9 million in federal funding, Social Security expands rental subsidy ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, April 24th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Special election results – Fire District 17 levy, Mount Vernon schools levy too close to call Results are back for the Whatcom and Skagit County special elections. The proposed tax levy increase for Fire District 17 in Sandy Point, aimed at funding a new station due to flood damage, seems to be failing, however ‘no’ is leading by only 8 votes. In Skagit County, three ballot measures— one to renew the Emergency Medical Services levy, another to replace the Mount Vernon School District safety and technology levy, and a third to increase the levy for Fire District 9— are all passing as of now. Mount Vernon’s levy is close, with just over 50% of votes in favor. A similar proposition failed in February by just six votes. The next ballot count for Skagit will be on Thursday, and the next for Whatcom is on the 2nd. STORY: Whatcom County releases plan to finance new jail On Monday, a letter was sent to the mayors of Whatcom’s seven small cities, detailing the funding plan for the proposed jail and behavioral health treatment facility over the next four to six years. In November’s election, voters passed a 0.2% sales and use tax aimed at funding services to upgrade the county’s justice system. A primary condition of the funding is that by 2029 fifty percent of the revenue must go to mental health services. The rest will go toward building a new jail as well as a behavioral care center that would provide re-entry services as an alternative to incarceration. Revenue collection for the tax will begin in June, with anticipated revenue for 2025 expected to reach almost $14 million dollars. To manage the funds, the county intends to establish a ‘finance and facility advisory board’ to monitor spending and provide yearly progress reports. The entire project is expected to cost 150 million dollars with construction to begin in 2026 and completed by 2028. The seven Whatcom County Cities must approve the proposed agreement by June 1st. STORY: Whatcom County Council blindsided by news of $225,000 harassment settlement Three Whatcom County Council members say they were unaware of sexual harassment allegations against former public works director Jon Hutchings until a recent report by Cascade PBS disclosed the information. Despite accusations from multiple women and an ongoing investigation into the allegations, no formal findings were issued. A letter was issued after a hearing, acknowledging Hutchings’ personal struggles but finding no clear evidence of harassment. The county assisted Hutchings in securing a new position in Lynden, where he now works, and settled a lawsuit for $225,000 dollars. County Executive Satpal Sidhu took responsibility for handling the incident independently of the council, stating that he worked with human resources and legal teams to ensure policy compliance. In a prepared letter to the County Council on Tuesday, Sidhu called the letter that introduced Hutchings to his new employer a “difficult” decision, but said he stands by the content. Yesterday, Lynden City Administrator John Williams said the city was not aware of any allegations against Hutchings until it was first reported by PBS, but said that Hutchings was hired after passing background checks. Since then, the City learned that an investigation and recently concluded review by the County found that Mr. Hutchings did not violate County policies against sexual harassment. An email from the County to Hutchings stated that they now consider the matter resolved. STORY: Elementary education will become a major at Western in fall 2024 Western Washington University announced a new major in Elementary Education. Previously, students interested in education studies had to complete 30 credits in a related department as well as finish the professional course sequence. According to a recent release from Western, the addition of the new Elementary Education major will now allow students to complete their degree in 4 years as opposed to the previous 5. The change will give students the option of earning elementary endorsements while also getting a Bachelor of Arts in Education along with a teaching certificate. The new major is expected to benefit freshman and incoming students but will not replace the heavy credit studies that current students must complete. STORY: Bodies found near San Juan Island by San Juan County Sheriff’s Department The San Juan Sheriff’s office announced that the two bodies of deceased men have been found off of San Juan Island. According to the San Juan County Sheriff, the bodies were found on April 22nd and 23rd on the south side of the island, just days after two Canadian kayakers were declared missing. The sheriff’s office has not yet confirmed the identity of the bodies nor any connection to the missing kayakers. STORY: Bellingham looking toward community center, expanded indoor swimming and recreation City officials are developing plans for a multi-use center at the northeast corner of Lakeway Drive and Lincoln Street. The site is part of a proposed land swap with the Bellingham school district announced in February, and could expand the city’s Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. According to Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund, the expansion would include space for community gatherings, activities, and classes. The most recent state budget includes $200,000 to help the city define the project’s goals. City officials say they are in the process of developing a business plan and also say that the project will likely take years to complete. STORY: Washington State Digital Equity …
April 23, 2024 News Transcript
Authorities arrest Ferndale man as part of multi-agency human trafficking investigation, Blown stop sign leads to two-hour standoff in Peaceful Valley; driver faces theft, drug charges, Blaine School Board delays vote on proposed staffing cuts, Whatcom County Libraries launching sensory kits in honor of Autism Acceptance Month, Van Zandt Dike will close to target shooting after public safety concerns, Haggen brand to be sold off in proposed merge, Social Security expands rental subsidy ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, April 23rd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Authorities arrest Ferndale man as part of multi-agency human trafficking investigation Seven victims of human trafficking were rescued recently during a joint law enforcement operation that led to the arrest of a Ferndale man. Noone (NOON) Marshall, 43, was arrested on suspicion of attempted commercial sex abuse of a minor, felony communicating with a minor, and attempted distribution to persons under the age of 18. The sting operation was conducted on Friday with participation from the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force, Bellingham Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, King County Sheriff’s Office, Bellevue Police Department, Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations. According to records, after the arrest, officers worked with organizations on site to ensure the victims received support and resources. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation remains ongoing. To report any information about human trafficking, child sexual abuse, or trafficking in child sexual abuse material, call the Homeland Security Tipline. STORY: Blown stop sign leads to two-hour standoff in Peaceful Valley; driver faces theft, drug charges A two-hour standoff with police led to a drug seizure and an arrest in Peaceful Valley. According to police reports, on Saturday at 10 am, authorities noticed a van driving erratically on Deep Valley Drive, off Kendall Road. After attempting to ticket the driver for running a stop sign, they followed the van until it stopped. The driver, later identified as 32-year-old Drew Michael Neilan (NEE-lan), fled to a nearby residence. Neilan was eventually taken into custody after a two-hour standoff. A search of the van and residence revealed drugs, multiple cell phones, and drug paraphernalia. Neilan was charged with numerous violations including resisting arrest, obstructing a police officer, and two counts of attempting to elude a police vehicle. He currently remains in custody at the Whatcom County jail. STORY: Blaine School Board delays vote on proposed staffing cuts The Blaine School Board has decided to delay a vote on proposed staffing cuts. During the Monday board meeting, the decision was pushed to next week, after staff, teachers, and community members expressed concerns about increased workloads, and class sizes. Superintendent Christopher Granger said at the meeting that administrators would rather not cut staff, but they must balance the budget. The proposed reductions would eliminate over 30 positions, but would help the district overcome an expected deficit of $2.5 million dollars. The cuts would include one grade K–5 principal, and two library tech support positions, among other reductions. The plan has been tabled until Monday, giving the board more time to answer questions, and community members an opportunity to propose alternatives. STORY: Whatcom County Libraries launching sensory kits in honor of Autism Acceptance Month Whatcom County Library System announced it will celebrate Autism Acceptance month by providing sensory kits for visitors. According to a recent release by the library system, Youth Services Assistant, Angelina Kuchar, proposed the idea of providing kits for those with autism to create a more inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. Noise reduction headphones, glare reducing sunglasses, a tangle fidget toy, and visual communication cards for non or minimally speaking children are included in each kit. All Whatcom County libraries, outside of Bellingham, are equipped with one kit for children and adults to use while visiting. The sensory reduction kits can be located at the library information centers. STORY: Van Zandt Dike will close to target shooting after public safety concerns Two of Whatcom County’s unofficial recreational shooting areas are being closed. Starting in May, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources will close the Van Zandt Dike area and Middle Fork System to target shooting. Road access to Van Zandt Dike will also close on that date. The closure comes after reports of public safety concerns and vandalism. According to the DNR, neighbors and law enforcement reported unsafe shooting practices within Van Zandt Dike, such as using targets without backstops, leading to bullets ending up in nearby residential areas. Reports of trash dumping, timber theft, and illegal camping have also been made. Officials hope to have target shooting reinstated ahead of hunting season this fall. Both Van Zandt Dike and the Middle Fork System will remain open for other recreational activities. STORY: Haggen brand to be sold off in proposed merger C&S Wholesale Grocers may become the new owner of Haggen stores. Under a revised divestiture plan resulting from Kroger’s proposed purchase of Albertsons Companies, C&S would acquire a total of 124 stores in Washington state, including those under the Haggen banner, along with the QFC brand. The divestiture aims to address antitrust concerns and enhance competition in overlapping areas. According to a recent release from Kroger and Albertsons, the merger seeks to keep all stores open and maintain employment for frontline workers at existing benefit levels. However, earlier this year, Washington state sued to block the proposed merger, alleging it would harm consumers and raise prices. The Federal Trade Commission followed suit in February. Concerns have also been raised by a coalition of United Food and Commercial Workers Union locals regarding C&S’s lack of experience in retail operations and the potential repercussions on real estate. Haggen was originally founded in Bellingham on Bay Street in 1933 and was the largest independent grocery retailer in the Pacific Northwest for many years, with locations in Washington and Oregon. The chain faced bankruptcy in 2014 and was subsequently acquired by Albertsons in 2016. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – Today will be partly …
April 22, 2024 News Transcript
Whatcom County paid $225K to settle sexual harassment complaints, BPD arrest drug trafficker in downtown Bellingham, BPD arrest drug trafficker in downtown Bellingham, Millworks now leasing units, Former Bellingham police officer sues city over vaccine mandate, alleges discrimination, DNR dealing with Skagit wildfire off North Cascades Highway, State audit says WA police seizures require more transparency, Social Security expands rental subsidy, SPARK Museum announces new plans for accessible learning space, Van Zandt Dike will close to target shooting after public safety concerns ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, April 22nd. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Whatcom County paid $225K to settle sexual harassment complaints An exposé by Cascade PBS revealed that Whatcom County paid $225,000 last November to settle sexual harassment complaints regarding a former Public Works director. Director Jon Hutchings resigned in lieu of termination in late 2022, a day before three female employees reported he had, quote, “made sexual comments to them or touched them inappropriately while at work” end-quote. Accusations ranged from unwelcome physical contact to Hutchings asking a female colleague to see pictures of her in a swimsuit. Hutchings, however, was never formally disciplined, and county officials helped him find a new job by writing a favorable letter of introduction. He is currently in charge of Lynden’s Public Works department. Hutchings and other Whatcom County officials have not commented on the matter. STORY: BPD arrest drug trafficker in downtown Bellingham On Thursday, Bellingham police made an arrest in the downtown commercial district of a member of a major drug trafficking ring. Whatcom County Sheriff’s spokesperson, Deb Slater, says 58 year old Alvin Godette was arrested after two officers caught him attempting to deal fentanyl. This was Godette’s second arrest in just over three weeks. His last arrest, on March 27th, was connected to a larger investigation into a drug trafficking ring in Whatcom County, in which five others were also arrested. The Whatcom Gang and Drug Trafficking Force alongside the DEA began conducting surveillance on downtown Bellingham drug use earlier this year. In their investigation, they found connections linking Godette to a large Mexican drug trafficking operation. Investigators are still searching for one more co-conspirator. Godette has pleaded not guilty and remains at the Whatcom County Jail without bail. STORY: Millworks now leasing units The first phase of the Millworks project, overseen by the Whatcom Community Foundation and developed by Mercy Housing Northwest, has started leasing units. Located near Bellingham’s waterfront, the building features 83 affordable homes catering to households earning 30-60 percent of the area’s median income, with 20 percent of units reserved for families lacking permanent housing. It also houses a YMCA child care center that can accommodate up to 100 children. The City contributed almost $5 million towards the project from the American Rescue Plan Act as well as local housing funds. Various entities including Mercy Housing Northwest, the Whatcom Community Foundation, the Port of Bellingham, are collaborators on the development. The building’s second phase entails a food campus aimed at boosting the local food economy. STORY: Former Bellingham police officer sues city over vaccine mandate, alleges discrimination A former Bellingham Police Department officer, Joshua D. Wilson, has filed a civil employment lawsuit against the city of Bellingham. Wilson alleges discrimination based on religious beliefs after being fired for not complying with former mayor Seth Fleetwood’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Fleetwood’s mandate followed Gov. Jay Inslee’s proclamation issued in August of 2021, which required all government employees and service providers to also be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. Wilson claims the city violated Washington state’s anti-discrimination law by not accommodating his religious beliefs against vaccination and subsequently terminating him. He seeks damages, attorney’s fees, and declaratory relief. Wilson is one of four Bellingham police officers who have sued the city over the vaccine mandate, and one of five total city workers who have sued in county court, according to court documents. The city denies discrimination, stating it acted lawfully and provided accommodations when reasonable. Other lawsuits against the city similarly allege discrimination and wrongful termination due to vaccine mandates. STORY: DNR dealing with Skagit wildfire off North Cascades Highway On Saturday, a brush fire near Lyman in Skagit County prompted a response from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. The fire is estimated at 20-30 acres, and over the weekend DNR utilized air assets and ground crews to help fight the blaze despite challenging winds. By yesterday evening, the fire stretched to 20 acres and was 60% contained as firefighters were assisted by overnight rains and cooler temperatures. In other wildfire news, a vegetation fire has started in Whatcom County near the border north of Visser and Bender Roads in Lynden. The fire reached 30 acres yesterday, but has been revised to about 24 acres this morning. STORY: State audit says WA police seizures require more transparency A new audit finds that while Washington law enforcement agencies are in compliance with civil forfeiture laws, but could do more to help people trying to reclaim property. When police believe property like a car or cash is tied to a crime, they can seize it and in many instances sell it and keep the proceeds. A conflict of interest brought to light by the recent audit is that Washington law allows the same police agency that seized the property to decide the forfeiture case. The report suggests a neutral party outside of law enforcement should instead be designated to oversee forfeiture decisions. The audit also recommended more transparency around the process in order to determine if certain groups are being disproportionately targeted. The audited agencies expressed concern about the tone of the report, but agreed with the proposed changes. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – Today will be sunny with a high of 60 degrees. Clouds will roll in later tonight, with a low of 43. The sun is projected to return tomorrow with even warmer temperatures. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two …
April 19, 2024 News Transcript
No cause determined in Harris Avenue fire after four-month investigation, Outside fire near Ferndale apartments draws large response, Multi-vehicle crash impacted Bellingham evening commute, Swipe Out Hunger Program will not be returning to Western’s dining halls, WA high-capacity magazine ban in court once more, with ruling to come, Free and Cheap ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Friday, April 19. Good afternoon, I’m _David Korb_____. STORY: No cause determined in Harris Avenue fire after four-month investigation No cause has been determined in the fatal December 16th fire that took the life of 39-year old Nathaniel Breaux (BRO) and destroyed the Terminal Building in Fairhaven. The final report on the investigation into the cause of the blaze was released yesterday by the Bellingham Fire Department. It was determined that the fire started on the cafe side of the building near the kitchen and serving area. Breaux, who owned two businesses located in the building, hosted a party that night and stayed late to clean up. Bellingham Fire Chief Bill Hewett said that due to the amount of damage from the fire they were not able to determine the point of origin or cause. The 135 year old building had no fire alarm, sprinkler, or smoke detector systems. It was equipped with a compliant fire suppression system in the kitchen; however, investigators found it had not been used. The fire caused $1.5 million in property damage and $200 thousand in content loss. The Terminal Building, built in 1888, was the third historic building in Whatcom County lost to fire in the last four years. Breaux’s family created a GoFundMe to name a mountain bike trail at Galbraith Mountain in Breaux’s honor. To date, the fund has raised $25 thousand dollars. STORY: Outside fire near Ferndale apartments draws large response An outside fire in Ferndale prompted a large response from first responders on Wednesday. Fire crews were dispatched to the west end of Cherry Street at around 6:30pm to find a 300-square-foot fire. In a recent release, Whatcom County Fire District 7 Assistant Chief Ben Boyko said first responders found high flames coming from bushes that were threatening nearby trees, with winds pushing the fire close to some apartment buildings. No damage to buildings was found. Ferndale Police have not determined the cause and no charges or citations were issued. STORY: Multi-vehicle crash impacted Bellingham evening commute A multi-vehicle crash caused a three-and-a-half-mile traffic jam on Interstate 5 last night. The crash occurred at around 4:30pm in the northbound lanes, near the Iowa-State Street exit. Within ten minutes, the State Patrol was at the scene, with the Bellingham Fire Department arriving not long after. By 5pm, traffic was backed up south of the Old Fairhaven Parkway exit. All lanes were reopened by 6:45pm. Initial reports are that five vehicles were involved in the collision, with one having left the scene. STORY: Swipe Out Hunger Program will not be returning to Western’s dining halls A program at Western Washington University aimed at addressing food insecurity among students is being discontinued. Swipe Out Hunger was started by Western’s previous dining hall provider, Aramark and allowed students to donate unused meal vouchers for those who were hungry. Reporting from the Western Front says that under Aramark, over 2,000 vouchers were donated. However, the current provider, Chartwells, has opted to discontinue the program, instead offering 150 vouchers to Western’s Basic Needs department. Chartwells says it is exploring other options. STORY: WA high-capacity magazine ban in court once more, with ruling to come Washington State Supreme Court commissioner, Michael Johnston, will decide whether to uphold the state’s ban on high-capacity magazines while the Court considers an appeal. The ban, passed in 2022, was deemed unconstitutional by a Cowlitz county judge last week, citing a lack of historical precedent. However, the ban was temporarily reinstated after a stay was issued by the Commissioner. He will now decide whether to allow the case to come before the highest court in Washington. During oral arguments, Johnston challenged statements from both sides, and questioned the necessity of high-capacity magazines for self-defense. The decision to maintain the stay seems likely, with the commissioner expressing skepticism about the lower court ruling and emphasizing the importance of firearm regulation consistent with historical tradition. Johnston, who identifies himself as a gun enthusiast, explained his decision was influenced by the chaotic aftermath of a similar ruling in California. The decision is expected soon. STORY: Free and Cheap Here are some free or cheap events happening around the county this weekend: Tomorrow, Lynden Christian High School is hosting an Artisan & Vendor Market from 8 to 3pm. The market features over 60 local artisans, crafters, and other vendors. From 8:30 to 10:30am on Saturday, there is a free birding event at Whatcom Falls Park. The walk will follow paths and trails at the park, guided by a trip leader. Admission is free and registration is available on the North Cascades Audubon Society website. For something indoors, the Whatcom Museum is hosting a Family Activity Day in celebration of Earth Day. From noon to 4 pm on Saturday, the event will host crafts, animal photography exhibitions, and the Reptile Lady. Admission is reduced to 3 dollars. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – the forecast is sun! Today’s high will be 67 degrees, with clear skies overnight and a low of 43. Unfortunately, the sun will be replaced with clouds and rain this weekend… showers coming late tomorrow. Enjoy it while you can. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman, Kye Salinas (KEY suh-LEE-nus) and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. Check out our Patreon page or visit kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ___ David Korb …
April 18, 2024
Body found on State Route 20 identified, Man suspected in threatening workers arriving at Bellingham business arrested, New art installation at Cordata intersection, Irrigation Improvements coming at Hovander Park Demonstration Gardens, Researchers conducting focus group on pandemic cross-border travel, Highway 20 reopens tomorrow, WA extends emergency graduation waiver, WA fishing season opens April 27, with a redesigned app, Social Security expands rental subsidy ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Thursday, April 18. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Body found on State Route 20 identified A body found on Highway 20 during seasonal cleaning late last month has been identified. The Skagit County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 52-year-old William Summer. His cause of death remains under investigation. STORY: Man suspected in threatening workers arriving at Bellingham business arrested A man was arrested last week on suspicion of threatening employees in a downtown Bellingham business. 34-year-old Kolya Daughs (COAL-ya DAWS) confronted store employees as they arrived for work on the morning of April 11th. According to an affidavit filed by prosecutors in the Whatcom County Superior Court, Daughs brandished a large pocketknife and threatened to attack the workers. Bellingham Police used force to subdue the suspect as he refused to comply with the officers’ instructions. Daughs was arrested on a multitude of charges, including first-degree burglary. According to police records, Daughs’ has a history of arrests and convictions for felony assault and other charges, including resisting arrest. Daughs is currently in custody at the Whatcom County jail. STORY: New art installation at Cordata intersection There’s a new art installation at the intersection of Horton Road and Cordata. Local artists Lin McJunkin and Milo White completed a new, mushroom-inspired sculpture that uses solar panels to power LED lights. The neighborhood wanted artwork that would fit in with the natural beauty of the area, and the new installation is inspired by mushrooms found nearby under adjacent trees. The City of Bellingham says the work is made possible by Bellingham’s “One Percent For Art” program–– a part of the Municipal Code that requires one percent of capital improvement projects over $2 million dollars be allocated for artwork. STORY: Irrigation Improvements coming at Hovander Park Demonstration Gardens Whatcom County Parks and Recreation has announced new improvements to the Hovander Demonstration Gardens. The announcement includes a new landscaping plan for the gardens, connecting them with universally accessible pathways, developing climate resilience, and installing upgraded water lines. During construction, certain areas of the gardens may be off limits, but otherwise, the gardens will be open as normal. The project will begin in the fourth week of April and is expected to take approximately four weeks to complete. STORY: Researchers conducting focus group on pandemic cross-border travel WWU has announced it will team up with Simon Fraser University to study pandemic cross-border travel. Researchers are looking for participants who are willing to take part in focus groups and can share their experiences and perceptions of travel measures from 2020 to 2023. Both in person and virtual groups will be held at select locations in the US and Canada. Volunteers who are eligible to participate will receive a $50 Canadian gift card. For those who wish to participate in the study, search for the WWU Border Policy Research Institute online. STORY: Highway 20 reopens tomorrow The Washington State Department of Transportation announced the reopening of the North Cascades Highway–State Route 20– starting tomorrow. Crews have been busy the last several weeks clearing snow and avalanche debris, and making repairs. Travelers are warned to remain cautious of potential snow and ice, especially in the mornings and evenings. STORY: WA extends emergency graduation waiver Washington school districts can waive certain graduation requirements for high school students for 2024 due to the lingering impacts of COVID-19. The waiver allows districts to bypass the state’s “graduation pathways” established in 2019, which offer alternative routes to graduation such as demonstrating technical skills. Initially set to expire in the 2022-23 school year, the waiver has been extended with new limitations aimed at balancing academic excellence and student well-being. However, students are still required to demonstrate competency in math and English. School officials and the State Board of Education say the adjustment aims to ensure that students maintain proficiency in essential subjects while accommodating the challenges brought about by the pandemic. STORY: WA fishing season opens April 27, with a redesigned app The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will open fishing season this year with its annual trout fishing derby on April 27th. In a recent press release, the department announced that fish will be tagged for the event in over 100 lakes statewide. The derby runs until October 31st, and anglers need a valid license to participate–which can be obtained online, at various locations, or by phone. The department regularly stocks lakes with trout and kokanee (KO-kuh-nee) salmon, with over 14.5 million planted in the past year, including jumbo trout. They’ve also released an updated Fish Washington app with improved features and access to real-time fishing regulations as well as tidal predictions from NOAA for coastal waters and parts of the Columbia River. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – The forecast is sun! Today’s high will reach 65 degrees, with clear skies overnight and a low of 41. Expect more sun tomorrow, with an expected high of 67 degrees. Get out there and enjoy it while you can. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman, Kye (KEY suh-LEE-nus) Salinas and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. Check out our Patreon page or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ________________, and thanks for listening. ## STORY: Social Security expands rental subsidy The Social Security Administration announced they will expand …
April 17, 2024 News Transcript
Murder victim identified, Motorcycle crash, Washington declares state-wide drought, Apartment fire caused by ceiling fan, Lummi announce salmon restoration plan, Old Town to receive revitalization money, More details of proposed border crossing expansion emerge, WA extends emergency graduation waiver, Free Transportation Camp ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, April 17th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Murder victim identified The man found shot in the North Bellingham woods on Monday has been identified as Zachariah Janusiewicz (yawn-uh-SEE-vitz) of Everson, WA. According to a recent report, the medical examiner ruled the death a homicide as a result of a shooting. The next of kin has been notified and detectives encourage anyone with knowledge surrounding the events to contact local law enforcement. No other victims or suspects were found as a result of the search efforts yesterday. The investigation is ongoing. STORY: Motorcycle crash A car accident on Portal Way has left a motorcyclist with serious injuries. On Sunday at about 6:45 pm, first responders were dispatched to the scene of the 6100 block of Portal Way. According to Ferndale Police, the crash occurred when a car, turning northbound onto the street from eastbound New Kirk Road, encountered a southbound motorcycle. The motorcyclist was transported to PeaceHealth Saint Joseph Medical Center for treatment. Ferndale police say that no citations or charges were given following the accident. STORY: Washington declares state-wide drought The Washington State Department of Ecology has declared a statewide drought emergency, anticipating a dry summer ahead. Exacerbated by both an El Niño pattern and the effects of global warming, snowpack levels were significantly below normal. Some areas received only about half their usual levels, and overall precipitation was at just 87% of normal. Rising temperatures were cited as a key factor, causing precipitation to melt early or fall as rain, leaving insufficient water stored as snow. The declaration of drought excluded certain cities with adequate water reserves, but does include Whatcom County. The drought declaration would unlock funds to assist affected communities, especially those facing significant financial challenges maintaining water supply for crops like blueberries, apples, and hops. STORY: Apartment fire caused by ceiling fan Bellingham apartment residents were forced to evacuate their homes due to a faulty ceiling fan. On Monday morning at about 9:45 a.m., fire crews were called to an apartment building at 1422 Alabama Street. Visible smoke was seen coming from the second floor when crews arrived. Most of the fire was contained in the attic, and was quickly brought under control. After investigating, Bellingham Fire Department Captain Dustin Michaelis (mi-KAY-liss) says the fire was the result of a faulty ceiling fan. No injuries were reported. STORY: Lummi announce salmon restoration plan The Lummi Indian Business Council has announced their plan to use a recent almost-$10 million dollar grant to support salmon populations. Despite previous successes, the heat dome of 2021 caused significant losses in salmon hatchlings. The new plan involves: using fallen trees to create habitat structures, the installation of a flood fence, and finding more ways to create cold environments as climate change increases temperatures. The current project, spanning five locations in the South Fork Valley, will take at least five years to complete and relies on conducting restoration efforts when salmon populations are low. While the tribe sees the project as a victory, obtaining permits for the work remains a challenge. However, according to a spokesperson for the Tribe, maintaining salmon populations is crucial for Lummi cultural practices and the well-being of future generations. STORY: Old Town to receive revitalization money On Monday, Bellingham City Council approved 3 million dollars in funding for the Bellingham Old Town Revitalization project. The plan is meant to revitalize the 18-block area northeast of Roeder Avenue and Chestnut Street. Developers say they envision 500 units of housing, as well as a parking district and a commercial district. The area will also house the new 300-bed Lighthouse Mission Ministries homeless shelter. In addition, the city is also investing more than 2 million dollars on infrastructure improvements for almost six blocks of the area, and 3 million dollars from the county will cover the remaining three blocks. Construction on street infrastructure should start in 2025 – according to the development manager from the City of Bellingham. The entire redevelopment project is expected to take up to 10 years. STORY: More details of proposed border crossing expansion emerge More details about the planned expansions of the Sumas and Lynden border crossings are being shared by the federal government. The projects aim to increase capacity at both ports of entry, and include: expanding lanes for personal and commercial vehicles as well as modernizing infrastructure. However, according to the draft plans, the expansions will require purchasing land from several businesses and landowners. The federal General Services Administration recently held an open house providing minor updates, with the final project plan expected by the end of this year. Concerns have been raised about the impact on local economies and potential border closures, however, the GSA says it is in contact with affected landowners to outline the process of land acquisition. Construction is set to begin in September 2026 and is expected to be completed by November 2028. STORY: WA extends emergency graduation waiver Washington school districts can waive certain graduation requirements for high school students for 2024 due to the lingering impacts of COVID-19. The waiver allows districts to bypass the state’s “graduation pathways” established in 2019, which offer alternative routes to graduation such as demonstrating technical skills. Initially set to expire in the 2022-23 school year, the waiver has been extended with new limitations aimed at balancing academic excellence and student well-being. However, students are still required to demonstrate competency in math and English. School officials and the State Board of Education say the adjustment aims to ensure that students maintain proficiency in essential subjects while accommodating the challenges brought about by the pandemic. STORY: Free Transportation Camp The Washington State Department of Transportation is looking …
April 16, 2024 News Transcript
Murder under investigation in Bellingham, Bellingham school district plans to sell Dupont building, Urban forest plan aims for 45% coverage, Cordata Park expands, City holds public meeting to explore housing affordability H.S. juniors allowed to enroll in college summer courses, Foam containers banned in WA starting June 1, New ballot curing law goes into effect ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, April 16th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Murder under investigation in Bellingham Bellingham Police are investigating a homicide that occurred in the woods near Tull Road off Kellogg Road in north Bellingham early Monday morning. Multiple 911 calls reported shots heard just after 3 a.m. Officers found a man with gunshot wounds to the upper body upon arrival. Despite aid and hospitalization, he passed away. Search warrants were obtained for nearby private property, and K9 units and drones were deployed for further investigation. The SWAT team provided security during the process. Currently, the victim’s identity remains unknown. The incident is being treated as a homicide, with no arrests made yet but the investigation is ongoing. Witnesses are urged to contact the police with any information. STORY: Bellingham school district plans to sell Dupont building Bellingham Public Schools announced it plans to sell their historic district office building located on Dupont Street. The building, originally Roeder Elementary School, has served as administrative offices since the 1970s, but was vacated in January due to flooding. With the district’s recent move to a new office on Barkley Boulevard, the old building lacks ADA accessibility and seismic retrofitting is now only used for storage. Despite initial plans for renovation, the district opted to purchase the Barkley property instead. The Bellingham School District estimates that by purchasing the new property they saved about $1 million dollars. The school board will vote on the resolution at tomorrow’s meeting. STORY: Urban forest plan aims for 45% coverage The City of Bellingham announced the first draft of its first-ever Urban Forest Plan is ready for public review. Work on the 3-phase plan started in 2022 after a survey of residents indicated that 80% of those responding wanted to see more trees in the City. The plan establishes an overall target of 45% canopy coverage in Bellingham by 2050. Last Fall, the City Council approved $100,000 dollars for the project, and last night at the Council meeting, Habitat and Restoration Manager Analiese (ann-uh-LEES-uh) Burns presented four initial programs–– neighborhood tree grants, community partnerships, tree giveaways, and a tree coupon program. Burns estimates the first five years of Urban Forest Plan actions will cost the city between $5 and $6 million a year. To meet the target coverage, an average of 9,000 trees will need to be planted each year. The complete plan is available for review and public comment at cob.org. STORY: Cordata Park expands The new Cordata (core-DOT-uh) Park expansion had its grand opening on Friday. Cordata Park now features amenities such as a covered picnic area, 50 more parking spaces, basketball and pickleball courts, and a community center for Northside neighborhood meetings. “Phase 2” of the park, which started last year, will add a covered stage and new trail connections linking the neighborhoods north and south of the park. Funding for the facility is expected to be $13 million dollars and came from park fees paid by developers as well as the Greenways 4 tax levy. STORY: City holds public meeting to explore housing affordability A meeting scheduled tonight will focus on improving the Bellingham housing market by addressing affordability concerns. Housing affordability has been identified as a key issue by the community, and the meeting aims to explore both gaps in the market as well as potential solutions such as new housing types and government programs. The event is part of a series of meetings for the Bellingham Plan, a two-year project that will update the city’s long term growth plan. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at Sehome High School from 5 to 7 p.m. STORY: H.S. juniors allowed to enroll in college summer courses Washington state is expanding its Running Start program, allowing high school juniors to earn college credits over the summer. Incoming 11th graders can now attend college early, and proponents hope early access will help students ease into college and reduce debt at graduation. School districts are required to inform students about summer enrollment opportunities, and tuition is covered by the home school district, although students may incur additional costs. The expansion builds on a successful pilot program from 2021, which showed high completion and retention rates. STORY: Foam containers banned in WA starting June 1 Say goodbye to those clamshell take-out boxes– starting June 1st, a state ban on products made from expanded polystyrene goes into effect. Passed in 2021, the ban aims to address the environmental impact of single-use plastics. The material can take centuries to decompose. Research has also shown that when the foam breaks into small bits, it can harm wildlife and end up in the food chain. Recycling polystyrene is possible, but challenging and costly, and isn’t accepted by most recycling programs. Last year, the state prohibited the sale and distribution of foam packing peanuts under the same law. Alternatives to foam containers are available, and the government officials say they plan to offer support and resources to businesses transitioning away from foam products. STORY: New ballot curing law goes into effect Legislation passed during this year’s session will make it easier for Washingtonians to correct issues with their ballots. The law goes into effect ahead of the November election. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – Expect clear skies for the next several days. Sun and clouds mixed today, with a high of 51 degrees. Overnight, skies will clear with the low will be around 36. Tomorrow, we’ll be headed into a sunny stretch, with clear skies and sunshine expected until Friday and a possible high in the mid-60’s. OUTRO: Today’s newscast …
April 15, 2024 News Transcript
Ferndale man placed in federal custody, Lynden woman dies after wrong-way crash on I-5, Tax day, Underreporting of sexual harassment in school districts, WCC President announces retirement, City of Bellingham addresses Post Point issues, Record EV sales in Washington, WSU invents new apple ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, April 15th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Ferndale man placed in federal custody A Ferndale man was arrested on suspicion of receiving child pornography. 28-year-old Eduardo Orduna-Botello (or-DOO-nah bow-TAY-oh) was booked by Homeland Security into Whatcom County Jail last Wednesday, and subsequently transferred to federal custody. The case was filed with the District Court after a witness reported Orduna-Botello’s inappropriate online comments. Even after being blocked, the suspect continued to contact the witness through alternate online accounts. A search warrant also uncovered an occurrence from around three years ago, where questionable photos were found. Orduna-Botello is scheduled to appear in court in Seattle on the 25th. STORY: Lynden woman dies after wrong-way crash on I-5 A Lynden woman has died in the aftermath of a car crash in Arlington. 70-year-old Sharon Heeringa (her-ING-uh) was a passenger in a car hit by a wrong-way driver on northbound I-5 two weeks ago. Harborview Medical Center in Seattle released a statement on Saturday confirming that Heeringa passed away. Two cars in total were hit by the wrong-way driver, a 43-year-old man from Arlington. The driver died from his injuries at Providence Medical Center in Everett, while three other people were hospitalized. The crash is still under investigation by the State Patrol. STORY: Tax day It’s tax day and federal taxes are due by 11:59PM tonight. To support taxpayers, the IRS has extended hours in Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide and offers online help for filers, like the Where’s My Refund? tool. Extensions are available if you need extra time to file the paperwork, but to avoid penalties, any tax owed is due before midnight tonight. Refunds are typically issued within 21 days but may take longer if returns are mailed. STORY: Underreporting of sexual harassment in school districts Recent reporting by Cascadia Daily News reveals that many school districts in Whatcom and Skagit counties have not adequately followed their rules for reviewing sexual harassment policies. According to the report, despite documented complaints, some districts including Bellingham and Burlington-Edison have failed to convene stakeholder committees to assess policy effectiveness. Parents are concerned that the failure leaves students vulnerable and are advocating for increased transparency. Instances of non-compliance, such as Burlington-Edison’s failure to convene annual committees, have prompted community pressure and even state-level scrutiny. Moreover, deficiencies in providing policy translations, especially to non-English-speaking families, makes things worse, particularly among girls of color, who are statistically more at risk of harassment and assault. STORY: WCC President announces retirement Dr. Kathi Hiyane-Brown (hee-AWN-ee BROWN), current president of Whatcom Community College, has announced her retirement after leading the institution for 17 years. In that time, the community college significantly expanded its curriculum to include fields like cybersecurity, health professions, engineering, and social work. Dr. Hiyane-Brown also oversaw the development of new facilities to accommodate these programs, including student housing and an intercultural center. The change in leadership will be effective March 1st, 2025. STORY: WWU gets $2.5M in federal funding Western Washington University has secured nearly $2.5 million dollars in federal funding for its latest building, Kaiser Borsari Hall. The funding, secured by U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, will be used to develop research and instructional labs within the facility, focusing on subjects such as robotics, autonomous transportation, and energy courses. The building, currently under construction on the south end of WWU’s campus, is set to become Washington’s first publicly funded zero-energy academic building on a university campus upon completion in early 2025. STORY: City of Bellingham addresses Post Point issues The City of Bellingham is actively addressing challenges at the Post Point wastewater treatment facility in Fairhaven. Northwest Clean Air Agency, which monitors and regulates the City’s air quality, recently served the City of Bellingham with a notice of violation regarding the plant’s incinerators. In a recent announcement, the City said it is working with experts to understand the allegations and determine the best course of action. In recent years, various options have been explored to modernize the plant away from incineration toward cleaner waste processing. When those solutions proved too expensive, the city scrapped the plan and has yet to present a new one. Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund said upgrading Post Point is a complex challenge, but that the city is committed to finding a solution that balances priorities for environment protection, public health, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars. STORY: Record EV sales in Washington It’s been a record year for electric and hybrid vehicle sales in Washington state. Electric and plug-in hybrid cars comprised 20% of all car sales– that’s double the national average, and new registrations saw a 43% increase compared to last year. Washington now ranks second in the West Coast for EV adoption, with California leading and Oregon coming third. 40% of the state’s carbon emissions stem from transportation, and there’s hope that Washington’s quick adoption of zero-emissions vehicles will directly contribute to improved air quality. STORY: WSU invents new apple Washington State University has developed a new hybrid apple. A blend of Honeycrisp and Cripps Pink varieties, the new apple known as “W.A. 64” is less hard but more crisp and juicy than Pink Lady. The new fruit is the culmination of a 30-year research effort and is slated to be available in stores by 2029. The university is looking for a name, and is asking for suggestions from the public that avoid profanity, existing trademarks, and references to illegal substances. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – It’s going to be Intervals of clouds and sunshine today with a high of 51. Into the evening, mostly clear skies with a low of 36F. But starting tomorrow, we’re headed into three days of …
April 10, 2024 News Transcript
More crosswalks coming to Bellingham, Meridian Townhouses get green light, Meridian Townhouses get green light, Funky’s Hot Sauce Promo (today and Friday after the news), Willows Inn back on the market, Whatcom Museum announces low-sensory hours, State GOP files three new initiatives ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Wednesday, April 10. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: More crosswalks coming to BellinghamThe City Council of Bellingham unanimously approved a plan to enhance bike lanes and pedestrian safety along Holly Street. The plan entails removing one of three traffic lanes from Ellis to Bay Street in the commercial core. No parking spaces will be lost in the process. Eric Johnston, Director of Public Works, explained that the aim is to make downtown more accessible for cyclists and pedestrians by slowing down traffic on downtown’s busiest street. Johnston says buffered bike lanes will be added from Ellis to State streets and a parking-protected bike lane from State to Bay streets. Additionally, crosswalk signals will be timed to give pedestrians a head start before vehicles receive a green light, reducing the risk of pedestrian-vehicle accidents. Despite concerns about the length of the protected bike lanes, proponents believe the initiative will improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians alike. The estimated cost of the project is $55,000. Construction is scheduled to commence early next month. STORY: Meridian Townhouses get green light A controversial development in the Birchwood neighborhood has been approved with conditions, after extensive public comment from residents. The project, located at 3509 Meridian St., is on land owned by Bellingham Golf & Country Club. A proposal to build 67 townhouses on a forested plot requires the developer to remove 335 mature trees and replant 477 saplings. Whatcom Million Trees Project spearheaded opposition to the plan. More than 1,700 people signed the petition against the development, and dozens of community members attended the public hearing and sent email comments. On Monday, Bellingham Hearing Examiner Sharon Rice approved the preliminary plat and variance for the subdivision, with several conditions. A tree planting plan will be required as well as compliance with best management practices to ensure the roots of the mature trees still left on the property are protected. Native trees will also be incorporated into the subdivision’s landscaping, and developers must also take steps to ensure long-term survival and retention of the replacement trees. Later this year, the city council will review a draft of the city’s new Urban Forestry Management Plan which sets a canopy cover target of 45%. STORY: Funky’s Hot Sauce Promo (today and Friday after the news) Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory initially began as a passion project for peppers and spices. Founded by Matt Mini in 2006, the Funky’s line of hot sauce is currently on fire with their latest guest spot on an internet show that focuses on spicy chicken wings. KMRE reporter, AnThu Nguyen, got the chance to sit down with Matt and find out more about his winning recipe. FUNKY’S AUDIO Listen to the entire interview today and Friday after the 5pm news. STORY: Willows Inn back on the market The old Willows Inn property on Lummi Island is up for sale again. The vacant property was originally donated to Lighthouse Ministries in late 2022. The organization tried to sell it a year ago with the intention of using the money to help fund the Lighthouse Mission’s redevelopment project on Holly Street, but the potential deal fell through. Offers for the new listing will be taken until Friday, and evaluated by April 26th. The Lighthouse Mission says it hopes that the new owners will be local. STORY: Whatcom Museum announces low-sensory hours Whatcom Museum has announced new programs aimed at reducing barriers to art for the local community. The Low Sensory Sundays event creates a calm environment for families and children 12 and younger with sensory processing issues or those who are on the autism spectrum. These free events feature reduced light and sound, activity cue cards, movable walls, gloves, and headphones. Additionally, Free First Fridays offer free admission to patrons of all ages on the first Friday of each month, with extended operating hours until 9 p.m. The first Low Sensory Sundays event will be held on May 26th at 10AM and 11:30AM at the Lightcatcher & Family Interactive Gallery, although the museum hopes to secure funding to make it a permanent monthly program. These initiatives aim to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in experiencing art at Whatcom Museum. STORY: State GOP files three new initiatives The chair of Washington State’s Republican Party, Jim Walsh, is pushing for three new initiatives to be included on the November ballot. The proposed new initiatives are part of a broader effort by the GOP, which already has three other initiatives on the ballot that would repeal the state’s capital gains tax, carbon market, and a long-term care insurance program. One of the new initiatives targets “squatters’ rights,” potentially rolling back tenant protections enacted in 2021. Another seeks to compel law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, reversing Washington’s sanctuary state status. The third initiative aims to repeal a recently passed measure meant to assist Puget Sound Energy in meeting emissions requirements. Supporters of these initiatives have roughly three months to collect the necessary signatures to qualify for the ballot. Critics, including the chair of the Washington State Democrats, Shasti Conrad, view these initiatives as a cynical attempt by Republicans to boost voter turnout rather than focusing on substantive policy issues. Multiple versions of each initiative have been filed to test their viability before finalizing the petition for signature gathering. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – Enjoy the sun while you can, and expect increasing clouds later this afternoon and into the evening. Today’s high is in the mid-50’s with an overnight low of 44. Increasing chance early tomorrow morning, with rain likely throughout the day, continuing into the evening with a high in the mid-50’s. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers …
April 9, 2024 News Transcript
Meridian High School athlete accused of rape, COB purchases land for affordable housing, tiny homes, Bellingham wastewater plant violated air quality last month, WA state gun sales rise, then fall as new laws come on line, WA state gun sales rise, then fall as new laws come on line, Ballot curing legislation ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Tuesday, April 9th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: Meridian High School athlete accused of rapeAn 18-year-old star athlete at Meridian High School has been charged with sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in December. Jase Kristopher Klinkhammer has been charged with one count of second-degree rape and one count of second-degree perjury. Klinkhammer’s alleged assault involved an incident where he reportedly raped the girl at a friend’s house, despite her repeated objections. He has denied the accusations, but evidence from Snapchat location data contradicts his statements to law enforcement. Despite the charges, Klinkhammer has continued to compete in school sporting events. The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association responsible for governing high school sports in the state, does not have specific guidelines for suspensions related to off-the-field behavior, leaving the decision to the schools. Meridian High School, where Klinkhammer is a student, has its own code of conduct for student-athletes but has not publicly disclosed how the decision to allow him to compete was made. Klinkhammer was released from jail after posting a $1,000 bond following his arrest. STORY: COB purchases land for affordable housing, tiny homes Last night the Bellingham City Council approved the purchase of property for affordable housing development. The site is located at 3300 Northwest Avenue near the former Northwood Hall at Northwest and Maplewood avenues. The property will cost the city $1.2 million dollars and will be used to relocate two existing tiny home villages. Both Swift Haven and Unity Village are currently located on city property and face pending relocation deadlines. In a presentation at the Council meeting, Mayor Kim Lund highlighted the effectiveness of tiny homes in addressing the housing crisis and emphasized the importance of diverse solutions. She said the purchase not only addresses immediate housing needs but also prepares for future affordable housing initiatives. The new village, named North Haven, is expected to be operational by late 2024 pending permit approval. STORY: Bellingham wastewater plant violated air quality last month Incinerators that burn sewage at Bellingham’s wastewater treatment plant are violating air quality standards, according to a notice from the Northwest Clean Air Agency. Sewage from Bellingham residents and other parts of Whatcom County goes to the city’s Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant near the Fairhaven waterfront. Treated water is pumped into Bellingham Bay and the solid material that’s left is burned in incinerators that were installed in the 1970s. The air quality violation notice was issued on March 27th, but the city must meet emissions limits and standards within a 180-day window. City Council members voted unanimously last night to hire a law firm to help with the situation, and Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund promised full cooperation. STORY: WA state gun sales rise, then fall as new laws come on line Gun sales in Washington have dropped this year following the implementation of new state gun regulations. According to the FBI’s national criminal background check data, there were more than 77,000 background checks for gun purchases in the state last March, which dropped to just over 22,000 in March of this year. The decline comes after a surge in sales last year that experts say was driven by anticipation of a ban on AR-15-style weapons. The new laws in Washington include a 10-day waiting period and mandatory safety training for gun purchases. While it’s unclear if these policies directly impacted sales, circumstantial evidence suggests they may have. Additionally, Washington has enacted various other gun control measures in recent years, ranking it now among the strictest states in the nation for gun laws. State officials view the decrease in sales positively, but critics argue it’s a hindrance to gun manufacturers and dealers. STORY: Ballot curing legislation Legislation passed during this year’s session will make it easier for Washingtonians to correct issues with their ballots. The law goes into effect ahead of the November election. BALLOT AUDIO WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – Today, expect a mix of clouds and sun with a high near 55 degrees. Clouds will start rolling in this evening– expect an overnight low of 38. Tomorrow, partly cloudy skies in the morning will give way to cloudy skies throughout the afternoon. The high tomorrow should be about 56 degrees. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. Check out our Patreon page or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ________________, and thanks for listening. ##
April 8, 2024 News Transcript
First confirmed death due to ‘tranq’, Ferndale Farmstead wins cheese award, Ferndale Farmstead wins cheese award, City announces collaboration with local solar nonprofit, New City minimum wage goes into effect May 1st, Cost of Plantation Rifle Range cleanup could rise, Ferndale Farmstead wins cheese award, WA state announces changes in highway construction due to deaths, EPA denies request for stricter standards ______________________________ Independent, nonprofit community radio. KMRE brings you local news for Monday, April 8th. Good afternoon, I’m ______. STORY: First confirmed death due to ‘tranq’Officials from the Whatcom County Health Department have announced the county’s first tranq-related death (TRANK). Tranq, a slang term for xylazine (ZY-luh-zeen), is described by the Center for Disease Control as “a nonopioid sedative”. The drug has been increasingly detected in illegal fentanyl drug products and overdose deaths. As xylazine is not an opioid, life-saving medications such as Narcan do not reverse its effects. A statement by Whatcom County said that toxicology results found multiple drugs were present, including fentanyl and methamphetamines. The identity of the deceased person has not been released. STORY: Ferndale Farmstead wins cheese award Ferndale Farmstead, announced that their cheese has won several awards at the World Champion Cheese contest. The Contest, organized by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, is a prestigious global competition for cheese, butter, and yogurt. Ferndale Farmstead was started by the Wavrin family in 2015 and is considered a seed-to-cheese farm– they feed the cows that give the milk to make the cheese. The farm was recognized for four cheeses in the contest, and won first place for their smoked provolone – beating out Wisconsin and South Dakota. STORY: City announces collaboration with local solar nonprofit The City of Bellingham has announced efforts to promote adoption of solar panels as part of its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. To help homeowners interested in installing the technology on their homes, the city is collaborating with Solarize Whatcom, a non-profit group purchasing program. The aim is to simplify the process of going solar and make it more accessible. Residents can receive a free home assessment, access discounted prices on solar equipment, and choose from vetted local installers. STORY: New City minimum wage goes into effect May 1st Starting May 1st, employers within Bellingham city limits must pay their employees the new city minimum wage of $17.28. The change comes after Bellingham voters passed an initiative last November to establish a city minimum wage. Additional increases will be linked to increases in the Washington State minimum wage. Additional information can be found on the city’s website. STORY: Cost of Plantation Rifle Range cleanup could rise Cleanup of lead at the Plantation Rifle Range could cost taxpayers more than the County originally thought. The original estimate for lead removal at the range was $1 million dollars. The current estimate has risen to between $6.5 and $13.8 million dollars, according to recent information from Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Operations Manager Christ Thomsen. Besides the lead mitigation, some of the additional cost will come from a redesign of the range, intended to limit future accumulations in the soil and in wetlands on the site. Final estimates won’t be known until Kane Environmental consulting completes a site characterization study. Last Thursday, Thomsen (who is also the Cleanup Project Manager) said the numbers should be available by early summer. The Plantation Rifle Range has been closed since November 2022. The range has been operated by Whatcom County Parks since the early 1970s. STORY: WA state announces changes in highway construction due to deaths The Washington State Department of Transportation announced it will be changing its construction procedures to help alleviate the number of fatalities in road crews. According to WSDOT (WASH-dot) 61 workers have been killed while working on the roads since 1950. Despite an average of more than 1,200 crashes in highway work zones annually, the severity of these incidents has escalated due to increased reckless driving, particularly speeding and distractions. Governor Jay Inslee addressed the issue at a recent memorial event, and has signed a bill to expand speed camera usage in work zones. In addition, the Department of Transportation will adjust work schedules and lane closures to enhance worker safety. STORY: EPA denies request for stricter standards The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has rejected a request from the Washington State Department of Ecology to tighten limits on harmful chemicals. Washington state lawmakers previously mandated the department of Ecology petition the EPA for stricter federal PCB limits. Despite Washington’s efforts to lower polychlorinated biphenyls– also known as PCBs– that enter the state’s waterways, the EPA deemed the change unnecessary at this time, citing insufficient evidence. This decision comes despite bipartisan support in Washington to address PCB pollution, which poses risks to salmon and other aquatic life as well as human health. Despite the setback, both the Ecology department and supporters of the legislation remain committed to reducing PCBs, encouraging voluntary measures from manufacturers and retailers. WX: Sun Your Whatcom County weather – We’ll have rain for the rest of the day, continuing on into the evening. The high today is 48 degrees, winds 10-20 mph, with an overnight low near 45. Tomorrow, expect more rain, with some scattered sun breaks. OUTRO: Today’s newscast was produced by volunteers AnThu Nguyen (ANNE-two new-WIN), Carlos Braga, Connor O’Boyle, Jayne Kuhlman and Tristan Trudell. Tune in to local news on KMRE weekdays at 3, 4 and 5 p-m. For news tips and feedback, send us an email at news@kmre.org or call 360-398-6150. KMRE is a nonprofit community radio station, powered by listener donations. If you would like to help keep local news accessible, check out our new Patreon page at patreon.com/kmrenews or go to kmre.org and click on the banner. I’m ________________, and thanks for listening. ##