Bellingham Scoop: Monday Morning

Good morning, Bellingham! It’s January 13th, 2025. Today we’re talking wildfires, local resilience, and changes that hit close to home. From what the Palisades Fire in LA teaches us to rallying around Fairhaven’s beloved Paws for a Beer, plus in-person comments returning to City Hall—it’s a lot to unpack. Let’s jump in!

Before diving into this week’s events and updates, let’s give a big shoutout to one of the local teams that helps keep this newsletter (and your homes) sparkling—Cascade Home Cleaning (4.9/5.0 stars on Google)!

Whether you’re tackling post-holiday messes or gearing up for a fresh start to 2025, they’re your go-to pros for spotless spaces. Say goodbye to stubborn glitter and mystery stains—check them out here.

Today’s Events:

• Bellingham City Council: Parking vs. Housing Public Hearing: Should housing trump parking? Find out Monday, January 13th, at 7 PM as Bellingham City Council debates an interim ordinance to drop parking minimums and prioritize housing development. Details (though not specifically listing this one..)

• Blaine City Council: 6PM @ Blaine’s Counsil Chambers. Agenda highlights: Blaine revitalization, Semiahmoo PUD amendment, and updates on public safety and community development. Public comments welcome—submit by 3 PM. Details.

• Full Moon Coin Sale: 12PM-9PM @ Fairhaven Stones Throw Brewery. Family friendly // pet friendly // outside food friendly. Details.

This Week’s Must-Dos:

• Arrested Development Trivia @ Mallard Ice Cream: It’s the final countdown! This Thursday, January 16th, at 7 PM, Mallard Ice Cream is throwing their last-ever "Arrested Development" trivia night. Grab your Blue Man Group, brush up on your Bluth-isms, and head to 1323 Railroad Avenue for a night of laughs, ice cream, and maybe a little light treason. Details

• [FREE} Aslan Depot Jazz Night: Tuesday 14th @ 8PM (21+). Details.

• [SOLD OUT] Ski Tuning Workshop – Wednesday the 15th @ 7PM $20. This one is FULL, so here is your reminder to get the next slot. Feb 19th @7PM - Link for February’s session here.

• [FREE] Movie Night @ Backcountry Essential (1417 N State St.): Thursday 16th @ 6:15pm. Two documentaries: Ivy Eyes: A short documentary by Whatcom Million Trees Project and Common Ground: how sustainable farming can heal both our planet and our communities.

Palisades Fire: What It Means for Bellingham

The recent Palisades Fire in Los Angeles serves as a sobering reminder of how devastating wildfires can be. As of January 12, 2025, the fire is only 13% contained scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed homes, and forced tens of thousands to evacuate (details). While Bellingham isn’t exactly a wildfire hotspot, this kind of disaster reminds us that preparedness is key—yes, even here in the rainy Pacific Northwest. I’m more visual and It got me thinking, what would that look spread over Bellingham?

Did you know Washington firefighters were part of the response? A team of 35 firefighters and 10 fire engines from our state headed south to help combat the flames. It's a great example of communities banding together in a time of crisis, and we’re proud of the role Washington plays in wildfire response.

So, what about us in Bellingham? Sure, we’re blessed with a cooler, wetter climate (hello, endless drizzle), but wildfires can still happen here. Hot, dry weather and lightning strikes—or even a spark from a backyard fire pit—could lead to trouble.

Here’s how to make sure we’re all a little more ready, just in case:

• Clear Your Space: Create a “defensible space” around your home by trimming back bushes, clearing out dry leaves, and removing flammable materials. Your lawnmower is your friend here.

• Have a Plan: Sit down with your family, grab a cup of coffee, and map out a wildfire evacuation plan. Where will you go? What will you take? (Don’t forget snacks for the kids.)

• Stay Informed: Follow local news, check weather reports, and sign up for emergency alerts from the city. Knowledge is power!

• Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Connect with your neighbors about fire preparedness. You know that group text you already have for block party planning? Add fire safety tips to the mix.

In-Person Public Comments Are Back! Here’s What You Need to Know

Big news, Bellingham! Starting Monday, January 13th, you can once again step up to the mic at City Council meetings. After a pause on public comments since November 2024, the Council is bringing back this important tradition—but with some new safety measures to keep everyone feeling secure and welcome.

What’s Changing?

To kick things off, anyone attending an evening Council meeting will now go through a quick weapons screening before heading into Council Chambers. Don’t worry—it’s pretty standard stuff. The process includes a metal detector wand and is managed by two uniformed, armed guards from Homeland Security Operations (no relation to the federal agency). This Blaine-based company already handles security for Bellingham Municipal Court, so they know the drill.

For now, this setup is temporary while the City waits for a permanent walk-through metal detector to arrive later this month. If you’re planning to attend the January 13th meeting, heads up: screening starts at 5:30 PM, and with a public hearing also on the agenda, you might want to show up early to beat the rush.

Why the Extra Security?

“Security needs have substantially changed since City Hall was built in 1939,” said Council President Hollie Huthman. “We’re excited to welcome public comments back, but we also want to make sure everyone feels safe and supported while sharing their views.”

Mayor Kim Lund echoed the sentiment: “Security screenings are becoming more common everywhere we go. Adding this layer of protection is a smart way to enhance safety for community members, staff, and Councilmembers alike.”

How to Join the Conversation

Got something to say? Here’s how you can make your voice heard:

• In-Person Comments:

  • Show up 30 minutes before the meeting to sign up for a three-minute speaking slot.

  • Speak during the general public comment period or on specific topics during public hearings.

• Written Comments:

  • Email your thoughts to [email protected].

  • Submit public hearing testimony online via cob.org/meetings.

All details on this change here.

Paws for a Beer Burglarized Twice AGAIN

Fairhaven’s beloved dog-friendly taproom, Paws for a Beer, has been hit hard by two recent burglaries, including one on Thanksgiving morning. The first theft saw cash stolen, while the second caused significant damage—broken windows, destroyed shelves, and hours of cleanup.

The owners expressed heartbreak over the incidents, saying, “Fairhaven is built on hard, honest work. Our money is not your money.” The break-ins have shaken the sense of safety the neighborhood is known for, but the community is stepping up to help.

Here’s how you can support:

• Stop by the shop to purchase dog toys, treats, or supplies.

• Buy a gift card to help them recover. (link to their Facebook)

• Spread the word or drop by to show solidarity.

Permanent speed limit reduction in Skagit

For all those southbound snowbirds.. you should know: permanent speed limit reduction in Skagit!

From WSDOT:

Permanent speed reduction coming to I-5 beginning, Wednesday, 1/15.

8:30AM-10:30PM, 1/15, crews will close the left lane of southbound I-5 in Burlington between SR 20 & Cook Rd to install new speed limit signs.

The speed limit will change permanently from 70 mph to 60 mph.