Whatcom County Council Public Works & Health Committee

**Ferry Fare Increases:** Motion goes to full Council for evening consideration. Executive office will conduct additional analysis and prepare executive order for immediate fare implementation to achieve 55% fare box recovery. **New Ferry Financing:** Public Works will present updated financing plan to Council in June before July federal deadline, exploring loan options and potential countywide taxing districts. **Five-Year Homeless Housing Plan:** Draft plan presentation to Council scheduled for summer 2025, with final review and resolution targeted for November 18. **Year-Round Shelter Expansion:** Chair Scanlon will schedule additional committee time to review Housing Advisory Committee recommendations and consider potential Council action. **Solid Waste Plan:** Following Council approval, plan goes to Planning Department for comprehensive plan integration, then submission to Department of Ecology. **Organic Waste Management:** 2027 deadline for curbside organic service availability in Bellingham urban growth area; 2030 mandatory service requirement begins. #