Committee of the Whole

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.