Developers are exploring a full redevelopment of the former Burlington Coat Factory building at 4131 Meridian Street, according to newly completed pre-application documents with the City of Bellingham. The proposal, led by Bellis Meridian LLC and Cole Valley Partners, would divide the large retail anchor space into multiple new suites suitable for soft-goods retail, a grocery tenant, or a fitness operator. The project remains in early planning stages, with no formal permit application yet filed.
Breaking News
Bellingham to Open Temporary Daytime Severe Weather Shelter on Dec. 1
The City of Bellingham will open a temporary Severe Weather Day Shelter starting December 1 at the former Lighthouse Mission Drop-In Center on Holly Street. The space will operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on days when the County activates its overnight severe-weather shelter, providing a warm daytime option for people experiencing homelessness. Supported by local outreach teams and service providers, the site can accommodate about 60 guests and will offer transportation from the overnight shelter. Real-time activation updates will be available at shelterstatus.com.
Whatcom County’s Housing Crisis: A Council Perspective on Density, Costs, and Finding Middle Ground
Whatcom County’s housing debate continues to highlight rising costs, infrastructure challenges, and differing views on growth. In this installment, Council Chair Kaylee Galloway discusses the need for denser development in urban areas, the high price of expanding infrastructure, and ongoing efforts to improve permitting and expand shelter options. She emphasizes finding middle ground between increasing land supply and encouraging smart density so families of all income levels can continue living in Whatcom County.
Nearly 2,000 Bellingham Customers Lose Power on Thanksgiving Day
Nearly 2,000 Puget Sound Energy customers in Bellingham lost power this afternoon after an outage that began around 3:33 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. PSE’s outage map shows roughly 1,952 customers affected as crews continue assessing the issue. No cause has been identified, and restoration is currently estimated for 7:00 p.m. as the utility works to determine the extent of the damage.
Bellingham Resident Tied to D.C. Attack; National Guard Member Not Expected to Survive
Federal officials have confirmed that 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in Wednesday’s shooting near the White House, had been living in Bellingham prior to the attack. One of the two National Guard members critically wounded, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, is not expected to survive, according to her family. FBI agents executed an overnight search warrant at a North State Street residence as the multi-state investigation continues.
Dutch Bros Coffee Plans New Cordata Parkway Location After Months of Inactivity in Bellingham’s Development Records
After months without public updates, new documents confirm that Dutch Bros Coffee is moving forward again with plans to open in Bellingham.
Turning Point USA Chapter Launches at Lynden High School
A new student-led chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) has been formed at Lynden High School
Bond Would Flip Lynden High School’s Footprint and Add Modern Labs and Arts Center
Lynden voters will decide this fall whether to approve a $129 million bond to replace Lynden High School with a reoriented north–south campus, modern career and technical labs, and a new performing arts center. Superintendent David Vanderyacht says the design will emphasize “function over fancy” and include opportunities for students to gain “pre-apprentice experience” in trades such as electrical, plumbing, and framing.
Lynden School Board Tables Resolution on Establishing “Charlie Kirk Day”
The Lynden School Board voted 3–2 Thursday to table a proposal that would have created an annual “Charlie Kirk Day.” The resolution, introduced after Kirk’s assassination on September 10, called for a yearly observance against political violence and support for student debate clubs. Board President Verburg acknowledged the decision, saying, “The buck stops here,” and committed to allowing more community input. The proposal may return for discussion at the October 2 meeting.
Massive Turnout at Lynden Candlelight Vigil Honoring Charlie Kirk
Thousands filled Bender Fields in Lynden on Sunday evening for a candlelight vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, drawing one of the largest community gatherings in recent memory. More than 3,000 people stood shoulder-to-shoulder in prayer, song, and reflection, creating a striking display of faith and unity.