Bellingham City Council Regular Meeting: April 13th, 2026

The City of Bellingham held its regular City Council meeting on April 13, 2026, where several procurement and budget-related matters were discussed and approved. Key procurement actions included the approval of an interlocal agreement for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, allocating approximately $32,000 for police equipment, specifically outfitting a third police motorcycle. The council also authorized a surplus timber sale contract with Janicki Logging and Construction Company for ecological thinning on city-owned watershed parcels. Additionally, the council approved accepting a $1.68 million state grant for a $3.5 million downtown signalized intersection accessibility and safety improvement project focused on ADA upgrades. Budget discussions highlighted the city's financial status with multi-year capital projects and the need for budget adjustments due to expenses exceeding revenues. Other notable actions included amendments to transportation impact fees to account for inflation and discounts for early learning facilities, and the sale of a surplus fire station property for $590,000. The council also approved ordinances related to rental registration fees and temporary alley closures. These decisions reflect ongoing capital improvement projects, grant-funded initiatives, and strategic financial management by the city.