Government

The legal victory frees up nearly $137 million in funding for Washington schools and more than $13 million for the state’s adult education system.

The area in question, known as the Northern Heights neighborhood, houses roughly 700 people and Whatcom Fire Station 12.

Whoever steps into Personius’s shoes would need to oversee long-term planning in the county and land use permitting among other roles.

According to her obituary, Van Zanten was key in preserving public land across the county such as Teddy Bear Cove and Canyon Lake Community Forest.

Other changes that come with the unanimous passing include removing the 24-hour operational requirements and updating measures surrounding minors and heating elements in tiny homes.

It comes as Bellingham is currently facing a $10 million budget deficit, which the city says would fall to $6 million if the new tax is approved.

The department is proposing a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) to set targets for pollution reduction and eventually bring it up to the state’s standard for water quality.

That includes removing limitations on how many guests a temporary shelter can host at any given time.

Applicants need to have at least ten years of law enforcement experience, with at least five years in senior or executive-level management.

The new director is expected to take over at the end of October, pending confirmation from the county council.