Bellingham Appoints New Public Works Leadership Amid Strategic City Growth

Bellingham's Mayor Kim Lund has appointed Joel Pfundt as public works director and Mike Olinger as deputy director, promoting internal leadership following a strategic shift aimed at improving team performance within the department. The city is also affirming its commitment to positive cross-border relations with Canadian communities amid declining visits from British Columbians, a drop attributed to U.S. tariffs and heightened border tensions. A letter from Bellingham's city council, initiated by Councillor Michael Lilliquist, was sent to several B.C. border communities expressing hopes for continued peaceful partnership and mutual respect despite current challenges. This outreach comes as cross-border travel has decreased significantly, with data showing a 51% reduction in vehicles from B.C. heading south and about a one-third drop at local crossings over the May long weekend. Additionally, Whatcom County, including Bellingham, is experiencing a brief heat wave with temperatures reaching the 80s, marking the warmest days of the season so far, though water bodies remain cold and caution is advised for recreational activities. These developments highlight both local administrative changes and broader community efforts to maintain strong international ties despite geopolitical and climatic shifts.