The Bellingham City Council Committee of the Whole met Monday afternoon to advance a significant waterfront development project that will formalize an existing grassroots skate park under the Roeder Avenue Bridge. The committee unanimously approved a major modification to the 2013 Interlocal Agreement between the City and Port of Bellingham, clearing the path for the City to purchase 16,000 square feet of waterfront land for $8 per square foot using park impact fee credits. This action represents more than a simple land transaction — it demonstrates the City's commitment to supporting youth recreation and recognizing community-initiated projects. A grassroots group called the Skateboard Collective has been informally using the space under the bridge, and the City is now moving to legitimize and improve the facility with professional design and construction. The meeting also touched on broader themes of cross-border diplomacy, with Council Member Lilliquist proposing to draft a letter to Canadian cities to strengthen neighborly relationships during a period of federal tension. Council members celebrated the recent opening of the Little Squalicum Pier and discussed ongoing work to update the City's 2017 resolution affirming safety for all residents.
Committee of the Whole
Executive Summary
Key Decisions & Actions
& Actions **AB 24521 — Waterfront District Interlocal Agreement Modification** - **Vote:** 7-0 approval - **Motion:** Council Member Hammill moved approval, seconded by Council Member Williams - **Staff Recommendation:** Approval — aligned with Council action - **Key Details:** Authorizes City purchase of approximately 16,000 square feet under Roeder Avenue Bridge at $8/sq ft using park impact fee credits; adds 0.37 acres to downtown waterfront park inventory - **Practical Impact:** Enables formal skate park development, grant applications, and professional design/construction management
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- Port Commission will vote on the interlocal modification - City will pursue formal land acquisition after Port approval - Design work already underway, managed by Public Works Department - Professional skate park designers will be hired for facility design - Construction bidding process will follow design completion - Skateboard Collective finalizing nonprofit status for fundraising - Future maintenance agreement between Parks Department and Skateboard Collective - Next committee meeting: May 5, 2025 - Council Member Lilliquist will draft Canadian cities letter for next meeting consideration - Council Member Stone will bring updated Resolution 2017-10 to future committee meeting
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