Whatcom County reduced its burn ban from Stage 2 to Stage 1 effective Friday, allowing recreational fires in designated areas. The change follows improved weather conditions and reduced fire risk, though a small craft advisory remains in effect for Sunday night due to expected rain.
Bellingham Public Schools will begin sending weekly reminders to families with negative meal balances over $5 starting September 16. The policy aims to address meal debt while ensuring students have access to food, with reminders sent to parents to avoid disruptions in school meal programs.
Multiple infrastructure updates affect daily commutes: The right lane of northbound I-5 will close overnight Saturday-Sunday (September 12-13) for maintenance, with detour signs posted. Alm Road will be closed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through September 18 for road repairs. Loomis Trail Road at Portal Way will close for railroad repairs on September 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bellingham City Council will consider a kratom ban at Monday's meeting, pending public input. The council also adopted new meeting procedures effective September 15, affecting public participation in city governance.
The city lifted its recreational fire ban effective immediately, aligning with the county's updated burn restrictions. Meanwhile, Whatcom County Health confirmed three local salmonella cases linked to Idaho-sourced broccoli sprouts, prompting a food safety alert.
What to watch next: The City Council's decision on the kratom ban could reshape local regulations for herbal products. Bellingham schools' meal debt reminders begin September 16, offering families a chance to address outstanding balances before the school year progresses. Infrastructure updates on I-5 and Alm Road will continue through the week, requiring commuter planning.