We've Moved!

We've Moved!!

2006-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Our blog address has changed! Come visit us at our new blog!

http://www.johnsonteamrealestate.com/blog

See you there!

Reversing the Trend - Back to the City

2006-01-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

In the 1950s, people moved out of the cities in pursuit of the ideal suburban life. Fast forward 50 years and we are starting to do the opposite, although the motives remain similar.

Family and leisure activities are two driving forces bringing people back to the cities. It's hard to have quality family time and leisure time when you are spending 3 hours a day commuting. Enter the downtown condo.

Previously marketed as an affordable alternative to single family homes, condos are getting bigger and more luxurious in order to attract families. The hour and a half morning commute is traded for a ten minute walk down the street (15 minutes if they stop at the coffee shop). That extra time is then funneled into people's priorities.

However, with increased demand for in town condos and limited land, prices for condos are on the rise. In 2005, Miami, Florida ranked 10th highest in the country for condo prices. The average price: $443,750.

In Bellingham, we have seen a dramatic rise in condo development. We have also seen the city's attempts to be very intentional about where those condos go in order to foster community and the urban village concept. Downtown condos are great, but if they are not within walking distance to the necessary amenities, they really don't help that much with the commute and traffic problems.

New Kind of Housing for Baby Boomers

2006-01-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

Baby boomers are starting to retire and their housing needs are changing. With an empty nest, many want to downsize to a more manageable size home, preferably where they don't have to mow the lawn!

Across the nation, but particularly in the south, there is a dramatic rise in 50+ housing developments. Sales in resort-style subdivisions (as seen in Whatcom County at Sudden Valley, Lynden's Homestead, and Birch Bay), luxury condos (Fairhaven) and mountain or beach vacation retreats are skyrocketing. Many boomers are even becoming "splitters" - a smaller primary residence and a vacation home.

This new batch of retirees is being labeled as more mobile & healthy and less frugal than previous generations. They have saved their money, received their inheritances and now they are spending it.

Pursuing hobbies and interests is an integral part of the new retired life. Many put their passions on hold due to family and work and are now making up for it. Golf, tennis, biking, hiking - they are all a part of a typical day for many retirees.

So what does all this mean for real estate?

1. Increased resort style communities with built in recreation and maintenance.
2. Increased luxury condos. All of the finishing touches that used to be found only in large homes, are now present in 2 bedroom condos.
3. Changes in designs of homes - many new homes now feature master suites on the main floor and larger kitchens that are more ergonomic.
4. Baby boomers have the money and they are spending it!

County Councilmen Propose Limiting Rural Homes

2006-01-18T10:02:00.000-08:00

Two Whatcom County Councilmen are proposing limiting homes in rural areas in order to preserve farmlands. In spite of the County Council declining to even consider their proposals last year, council members Dan McShane and Seth Fleetwood are trying again. Here are the highlights of their proposal:

Change some rural zones to agricultural zones, thereby limiting homes to one per 40 acres.
Allowing fewer homes in current rural zones.

Fleetwood states concerns over the service demands that development in rural areas would create. He also said that rural homes also go against plans to steer development into the cities.

Another proposal is from Trillium Corp - they are proposing that 2,400 acres around Galbraith mountain be designated an urban growth study area meaning that it would be a possible expansion area for Bellingham's growth. Trillium is also petitioning to have the land changed from forestry zoning (which allows just one home per 20 acres) to allow one home per 10 acres.

County officials want to limit development in areas slated for long term growth in order to ensure that there is land to develop in the future for growth.

Anyone can propose changes to the Comprehensive Plan, but it is the County Council who decides which ones will be considered.

Proposed Block on Sudden Valley Cityhood

2006-01-18T09:42:00.000-08:00

Whatcom County Councilman Seth Fleetwood wants to block Sudden Valley from becoming a city. In December 2001, the county council made Sudden Valley a provisional urban growth area and gave it 5 years to incorporate into a city. Fleetwood, who was not on the council in 2001, wants to rescind the urban growth area in the 2006 comprehensive plan changes.

The two main issues at stake with Sudden Valley cityhood are money and water.

If the community on the shores of Lake Whatcom becomes a city, they would start to collect taxes to pay for certain services which are now covered by community dues. Currently, the county receives the taxes paid by Sudden Valley residents. Furthermore, Sudden Valley would likely have to increase their density in order to support urban level services if they were to become a city. This would go against the 2001 county council's call for reduced density in Sudden Valley. However, as a city, Sudden Valley would not be bound to the county council's decision.

The other major issue is water. Lake Whatcom provides drinking water to 86,000 people in our area and some fear that further development in Sudden Valley would harm that drinking water source.

Whatcom County Council code allows for proposals to be brought forward and passed immediately as an "emergency" if it will resolve legal challenges (among other things). The Clean Water Alliance currently is appealing the growth area to the state Supreme Court. If Fleetwood's proposal passes, the Clean Water Alliance will likely be content and drop the case.

Lynden Real Estate Development

2006-01-18T09:28:00.000-08:00

COMMENT

About: Application to develop home lots.
Lots: 11
Location: 8720 Vinup Road
Applicant: Millennium Engineering Group

About: Application to develop lots.
Lots: 5
Location: 8640 Bradley Meadows Lane
Applicants: Group Foresome & Northwest Gold

About: Application to develop multi-family lots.
Lots: 6
Location: 201 S. Seventh St.
Applicant: Seventh Heaven LLC

Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 25

PUBLIC HEARING

A public hearing has been scheduled by the Lynden Planning Commission for the above applications.
When: 7:30pm, Thursday February 9
Where: Lynden City Hall Annex, 204 Fourth St.

More info: 354-5532

The Future of GP in Bellingham

2006-01-17T18:01:00.000-08:00

Many people may be confused by the title - isn't GP already gone? The answer is no. Although their pulp mill shut down, the GP tissue manufacturing plant is still up and running. They currently have a lease agreement with the Port of Bellingham that extends to June 2007, but extentions and various options could lengthen that to as late as 2010.

Many people are quite happy that GP is still here because they make use of the land while redevelopment is being planned and they provide 240 jobs. In addition to those jobs are all the "ripple effect" jobs from various contractors and services that they use in town, and the money that the 240 employees spend.

GP is producing 3 kinds of tissue at the Bellingham plant right now, one of which is very popular at Wal-Mart.

Homes Outpace Population

2006-01-17T17:29:00.000-08:00

In the past 5 years, Whatcom County gained more new homes than it did population (in terms of percentages). Several factors have contributed to this:

Less people living in each home - This trend has been happening for years and is particularly accelerated here due to the large number of condos being built. In the past five years, 64% of new homes in Whatcom County have been condos - an increase from 43% of total homes in 2000.

Investment Properties - Many people, particularly baby boomers, have been buying investment properties in the area. Some will reside in the home when they retire and for others it is solely an investment. An estimated 35-40% of owners in the new Harris Square condos in Fairhaven are second home or investment purchases.

Low Interest Rates - Many developers started new projects and even completed projects that had benn abandoned long ago, due to the low rates.

So is there an excess of rental housing in Bellingham? Maybe. Some property owners are saying that it is taking longer to rent some of their properties and some are even lowering the rent. But, consider this - from March 2000 to March 2005 rent went up approximately 10% while the median house price in the county rose 70%. So for some people in Bellingham, renting is still the way to go.

Ferndale Real Estate Development

2006-01-17T17:10:00.000-08:00

HEARING

About: Application to build a conference centre
Location: 1415 Sunset Ave
Size: 80,000 square feet
Developers: Emerald Bay Events & Faber Brothers Construction
Comment Deadline: 5pm, Thursday January 19
Scheduled by: Ferndale Hearing Examiner
When: 7pm, Thursday January 19
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

MEETING

About: Land use and transportation in the comprehensive Plan update.
Scheduled by: The Planning Committee
When: 7pm, Wednesday January 25
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

More info: 384-4006 or click here.

Everson Real Estate Developments

2006-01-17T16:59:00.000-08:00

NOT APPROVED

About: Request to change land from industrial to residential use as part of it's 2005 comprehensive plan changes.
Land: 20 acres
Location: West of Mission Road
Applicant: Wilder Construction
Note: The council may consider this change later in the year.
More info: 966-3411

Blaine Real Estate Development

2006-01-17T16:52:00.000-08:00

HEARING

About: Seagrass II
Location: Semiahmoo Spit
Units: 68
Developer: Gepetto Properties LLC
Scheduled by: Blaine Planning Commission
Comment Deadline: close of the hearing
When: 7pm, Thursday February 9
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

About: Extending a building moratorium.
Details: The moratorium is on duplexes and multi-family buildings in a medium density zone and single/duplex zones.
Scheduled by: Blaine City Council
When: 7pm, Monday January 23
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

More info: 332-8311 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Developments

2006-01-17T15:56:00.000-08:00

PUBLIC HEARING

About: Application to designate a property as a local landmark.
Applicant: David Ebenal
Location: 12th St. & McKenzie Ave - The Waldron Building
Scheduled by: The Historic Preservation Commission
When: 7pm, Tuesday, January 24
Where: Council Chambers, Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie St.
More info: 676-6982

NEIGHBORHOOD PRE-APPLICATION MEETING

About: Proposal to develop
Location: 950 Lincoln St.
Land: 1 acre
Type: Commercial & Residential
Details: Street level commercial on first two floors, with condos above on Lincoln St, and approximately 50 more condos on the rest of the site.
When: 7pm, Tuesday, January 17
Where: 950 Lincoln St. (in the former Mongolian Restaurant)

COMMENT
About: Application to build two story duplexes
Location: 2413 Sunset Drive
Units: 16 (8 buildings)
Land: 1.69 acres
Developer: Northshore Corp
Comment Deadline: Thursday, January 19

About: Application for wetland & stream works
Project: Fairhaven Highlands
Location: Chuckanut Drive
Homes: 739 (proposed)
Developer: Greenbriar Northwest Associates
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, January 18

About: Application to build homes
Location: 4048 Deemer Road
Homes: 18
Land: 3.4 acres
Developer: D. Scott Wesley
Details: Application also includes variances from subdivision requirements
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, January 18

APPROVED
What: Request to vacate a portion of a Road
Location: Waldron Road in the Cordata development
Applicant: D.R. Horton
Approved by: Bellingham City Council

More info: 676-6985 or click here.

Bellingham Construction Update

2006-01-17T15:33:00.000-08:00

Project: Bakerview Square
Location: West Bakerview & Eliza Avenue (near the T-Mobile calling center)
Space: 50,000 square feet
Type: retail
Tenants: There is room for 15-20
Developer: Morgan Bartlett
General Contractor: Faber Brothers
Completion: End of 2006 or early 2007
Cost: $6.5 million
Phase 2: To the east of the current project, it would include 120,000 square feet of retail space and would be developed after the first phase.
Website: www.bakerviewsquare.com

Jobs Key to Waterfront Redevelopment

2006-01-13T17:26:00.000-08:00

Jobs are being discussed as an important aspect to the new waterfront area. Particularly, the Waterfront Futures Group would like to see traditional waterfront jobs such as commercial fishing. The current plans call for a lot of shops and restaurants, which is great - but they are low wage jobs. Rebuilding the GP site to include marine jobs will help ensure a strong economy for Bellingham.

Rain Rain Go Away!

2006-01-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

Bellingham has now received 26 consecutive days of rain!!!! I didn't think that it was possible for the sky to hold that much water, but apparently it is. The good news is that rain down here means snow up at Mt. Baker. The problem is that it was even too much snow for them!!! They had to close and do avalanche control today. Hopefully they will reopen tomorrow.

Now for the out of towners that are looking at this and considering relocating to Bellingham, we promise it is not always like this!!!

So, here's to hoping for a little bit of sun this weekend!

Our 200th Post!

2006-01-13T17:11:00.000-08:00

The Bellingham Blog has been up for 3.5 months and we have just hit 200 posts! It's hard to believe that we have that many already. I'm enjoying writing for this blog a lot, although I think that I'd like it better if we had a few more comments! Dialogue is what really makes blogs fun, so come on people....COMMENT!!! At least let me know that you stopped by!

Bellingham Library Seeks Land For Expansion

2006-01-12T17:43:00.000-08:00

The Bellingham Public Library wants to expand. Their current building was last expanded in 1983 when the population was 43,000. Bellingham's population has increased to 72,000 and our library can boast some of the highest circulation levels in the US for a community our size!

The problem? No land. The board of trustees has searched through downtown Bellingham for available land (they are seeking 65,000 square feet), but with no luck they are now turning to the public. They hope that a downtown Bellingham land owner will come forward and be willing to either sell or donate the land to the library.

Obviously, they would prefer the later as a new facility will be costly. A new library will likely require a new tax and with voters deciding on the Bellingham School District bond in March, they may not want yet another tax.

So, if you have land or know of land available in downtown Bellingham let us or the library know!

Condos approved for Birch Bay!

2006-01-12T16:05:00.000-08:00

Terrell Creek Villas, a 90 unit condo project, has been approved by Michael Bobbink, Whatcom County Hearing Examiner. The 10.5 acre project was proposed by Pacific Land Development Company LLC and will include 2 town-house style buildings and a seven story building.

Public concern was raised about the seven story height, however Birch Bay does not have any design standards preventing it. Whatcom County officials say the plan to work on design standards this year.

Threat or Truly Trying to Help?

2006-01-12T14:01:00.000-08:00

The following is a letter from Whatcom County Fire District No. 17 commissioners that was sent out to voters in the area. Pretty interesting - would love to hear some thoughts about this.

Board of Fire Commissioners
Whatcom County Fire District No. 17
4332 Sucia Dr.
Ferndale, WA 98248

December 30, 2005

Dear Sandy Point Shores, Heights & Neptune Beach Residents/Property Owners:

The Sandy Point Fire District #17 Fire Commissioners want to thank the voters who supported our Fire Protection #1 in November. Unfortunately it did not pass. We believe we did not effectively communicate to a majority of voters that the fire department cannot continue to serve you as an all-volunteer organization. Compliance with State regulations and our strong commitment to safety has placed overwhelming demands on our volunteer fire Chief and other key volunteers.

There are two key issues:

The Fire District cannot continue to operate as an all-volunteer Department. The volunteer Fire Chief and other key volunteers are no longer able to keep up the requirements to run the Department.

There are serious financial considerations. The Washington State Department of Ratings evaluates fire districts and assigns an insurance rating based on the quality and readiness of the district's fire department. The lower the rating, the higher the quality of the district. Our district has a 6 rating which has a positive effect on your property insurance premiums.

Our Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Medical Officer and other key volunteers have agreed to continue to serve our community, as volunteers, until April 30th, 2006. Without their service, we cannot continue to safely serve you and will be forced to close both the Sandy Point Heights and Sandy Point Shores Stations.

EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2006, THE SANDY POINT FIRE STATIONS WILL CLOSE.

When the department closes, ANY response to fire or aid will be over five miles from the district. Beyond the health and safety issues of this situation, this distance will trigger a jump in our insurance rating from a 6 to a 10. Our research indicates that a 10 rating will double or even triple property insurance premiums. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE PROVIDER TO DETERMINE HOW THIS EVENT WILL AFFECT YOU. (See attached letter from Kelly & Associates.)

As your elected Commissioners we have worked hard to keep the Fire Department operating. To that end, we will make one last attempt to pass a special levy early next year. Passage of the levy will keep our Fire Department open. We strongly encourage you to become informed on this issue. It is extremely important to the Fire District and to all property owners.

A public meeting will be held at the beginning of the January 17, 2006 Fire Commissioner's Meeting. The meeting will be at the Sandy Point Fire Station and will begin at 7:00 p.m. After the public session, the Commissioners will go into executive session.

If you have any questions, please contact the Fire Commissioners at the numbers and e-mail address below:
Michael Burnett - 384-6168 - wcfd17comm_mb@hotmail.com
Anthony Cannizzaro - 384-8994 - wcfd17comm_ac@hotmail.com
Ralph Peterson - 384-6101 - wcfd17comm_rp@hotmail.com
{Signed by Michael Burnett, Anthony Cannizzaro and Ralph Peterson]

Development Expert to Speak Against Fairhaven Highlands

2006-01-12T13:44:00.000-08:00

Responsible Development, a group that opposes the new Fairhaven Highlands 739 home project, has hired development expert Eben Fodor to speak on Thursday night. Fodor has reviewed the Chuckanut Drive plan and will speak about the public cost of development.

When: 7pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Ave.

Bellingham Subdivision Approved

2006-01-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

James Street Road will soon see 36 new homes. The Meadow Ridge Park project won approval from Bellingham hearing examiner Dawn Sturwold, including approval for variances from lot pipestem requirements and set variance conditions. Edegwater Park LLC are developing the 43 acre project, west of James Street between McLeod Rd. and Orchard Dr.

$6.9 million Athletic Complex

2006-01-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

Bellingham's Civic Athletic Complex was awarded $6.9 million in upgrades by the Bellingham City Council. Colacurcio Brothers Construction of Blaine won the bid and will begin work next month. The complex hosts Western Washington University games as well as local high school events.

The project has been delayed for nearly a year due to budgeting constraints. Certain aspects of the project have been reworked in order to bring down the costs.

Bellingham to grow north

2006-01-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

Last week, the Bellingham Planning Commission voted and officially decided to add growth areas to the north of Bellingham.

The new areas will average 14 homes per acre (that means .07 acre lots, or 3111 square feet). The new growth areas will include:

480 acres west of Meridian and Northwest Road, up to Aldrich Road
671 acres west of Meridian to Smith Road
365 acres around King & Queen Mountain
656 acres east of Guide Meridian from Horton Rd. to Smith Rd. for commercial and industrial use

The city council will meet on Monday, January 23 to make the recommendation to the Whatcom County Council regarding the new growth areas. Ultimately, the additions are up to the county council.

Trouble with the Water in Kendall

2006-01-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Don't worry - the water is safe to drink! But it may be going bankrupt soon! The Evergreen Water-Sewer District No. 19 which represents the Kendall area has been riddled with controversy and problems since a state audit in March criticized the lack of a formal budget and over $400,000 spent on contracts without formal approval.

In addition, one of the commissioners recently became the district manager and another commissioner's spouse negotiated with lawyers on behalf of the district. Hmm....can we say conflict of interest?!

On top of all this, commissioners Gordon Travis and Jutta Ahmed passed a plan that will lower water bills by $20. I like saving $20 as much as the next person, but I also like to know that the service will be around a year from now! Under the new plan, the district will lose approximately $10,000 per month! I guess they forgot to hire an accountant!

Not enough controversy for you yet? How about this: the district was granted a $4 million loan to complete some desperately needed repairs. The commissioners are considering delaying the project, which could cause them to lose that loan. Seems to me that the $10,000 they started giving back to residents each month could work as a loan payment.

The drama continued on December 20 at a district meeting that dissolved into shouting and insults. The commissioners (yes, the same two as before!) voted to make the crowd be silent. I guess they didn't like having opposition.

If there are any Kendall residents out there, we would love to hear your thoughts and perspectives on this. Are we missing something?

Lynden's Growth Issues for 2006

2006-01-10T17:46:00.000-08:00

The traditional small town of Lynden, population 9,000, is starting to face some "city" type issues. Some of these have been going on for a while, and some are new in 2006.

1. Lack of water - From 1999-2004 the city had a moratorium on new subdivisions due to a lack of water (the city was already overdrawing on the Nooksack River). A plan to obtain unused portions of the Nooksack River in Bellingham fell through and they are now working with the Whatcom County Public Utility District No. 1 to come up with a solution.

2. Space - As the town grows, so does the government, resulting in the 2500 square foot office that houses the Lynden City Council office for years becoming too small. A proposed tax to pay for a new building was denied by voters last November leaving the town council searching for alternatives.

3. Diversity - Not wanting to turn into a bedroom community for Bellingham, Lynden rezoned 104 acres west of the city from agricultural to industrial and incorporated it into the city. Their hope is to attract small industrial businesses, thereby creating tax revenue for the city and jobs for its residents.

4. Density - Lynden still has a small town feel. Many families have lived there for generations resulting in a tight knit community. Combine that with low crime rates, high church attendance, and the "cute/quaint" feel that the town has, and it becomes a desirable place to live. In order to fit more people into the city, developers are planning higher density projects - including the Blanker family project which features 225 condos, some of those in 7 story buildings. (Lynden currently has nothing over 3 stories). Many residents do not like the idea of higher density housing because it doesn't fit with the character of the community.

Over the next year we will be watching Lynden and how these issues unfold. We would love to hear your perspective, particularly from Lynden residents - how do you feel about the growth?

Whatcom County Real Estate Development - Hearing

2006-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

About: Changing land from long-term to short-term planning area for Ferndale, and allowing possible urban development and annexation.
Land: 57 acres
Location: West side of Vista Drive
When: 6:30pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Northwest Annex Conference Room, 5280 Northwest Drive

The Planning Commission has also scheduled a work session.
About: updates to county Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan.
When: 3pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Northwest Annex Conference Room, 5280 Northwest Drive

More info: 676-6907 or click here.

Sumas Real Estate Development - Comment

2006-01-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

Application: to build a 830 foot heavy haul road.
Location: 601 West Front St.
Why: As part of a kiln-drying facility.
Applicant: Socco Inc.
Comment Deadline: Monday, January 16

Lynden Real Estate Development - Public Hearing

2006-01-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

About: 90 day extension of a moratorium on planned residential developments
*Note: This extension is while the city of Lynden reviews its rules governing developments.
Comment Deadline: Tuesday, January 17
When: 7pm, Tuesday January 17
Where: Lynden City Hall Annex, 205 Fourth St.
More info: 354-5532

Ferndale Real Estate Development - Comment

2006-01-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

About: Application to build a conference center.
Location: 1415 Sunset Ave
Size: 80,000 square feet
Applicants: Emerald Bay Events & Faber Brothers Construction
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 19
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.
More info: 684-4006 or click here.

Ferndale Real Estate Development - Hearing

2006-01-10T11:02:00.000-08:00

About: Comprehensive Plan Update
Scheduled by: The Planning Commission
When: 7pm, Wednesday, January 11
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave
More info: 384-4006 or click here.

Everson Real Estate Development - Meeting

2006-01-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

About: Request to change 20 acres from industrial to residential use.
Location: West of Mission Road
Applicant: Wilder Construction
When: 7:30pm, Tuesday, January 10
Where: Everson City Hall, 111 W. Main St.
More info: 966-3411

Blaine Real Estate Development - Hearings

2006-01-10T10:45:00.000-08:00

The following hearings have been scheduled by the Blaine Planning Commission.

About: Seagrass II development proposal
Location: Semiahmoo Spit
Units: 68
Developer: Gepetto Properties LLC
Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 25 (formally, however written comments will be accepted until the close of the hearing)
When: 7pm, Thursday, February 9
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

About: Application to build cottages
Location: 1168 Hughes Ave
Units: 14 single family cottages
Developer: Stonewood Construction LLC
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

For more info call 966-3411.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Public Hearings

2006-01-10T10:30:00.000-08:00

Application: to designate the Waldron Building as a local landmark and change it's exterior.
Location: 23th Street & McKenzie Avenue
Applicant: David Ebenal
Hearing Called by: The Historic Preservation Commission
Hearing Date: 7pm, Tuesday, January 24
Where: Council Chambers at Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie St.

The following hearings were called by Dawn Sturwold, Bellingham Hearing Examiner

About: Proposed Padden Trails Development
Lots: 210
Land: 115 acres
Location: South end of 33rd St., Between I-5 and Lake Padden
Developer: Padden Trails LLC

About: Reconsideration of lot-coverage variance to cover 67& of a lot for mixed use building with underground parking, street level offices and residential units.
Location: 1203 & 1211 W. Holly St.
Developer: Next Faze LLC
Current Lot Coverage Limit: 35%

Hearing Details
Time: 6pm
Date: Wednesday, January 11
Where: Council Chambers of Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie St.

For more info call 676-6982 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Comments

2006-01-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

Application: Wetland and stream work
Project: Fairhaven Highlands
Location: Chuckanut Drive
Homes: 739
Developer: Greenbriar Northwest Associates
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, January 18

Application: to build homes
Location: 4048 Deemer Road
Homes: 18
Land: 3.4 acres
Extras: Requesting density bonus and variance from subdivision requirements.
Developer: D. Scott Wesley
Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 18

Bellingham Construction Update

2006-01-10T09:58:00.000-08:00

Location: 3863 Hannegan Rd. (near Bellingham Millwork Supply)
Project: Henifin Business Plaza
Size: 20,000 square feet
Use: retail, office & commercial
Owners: Jaime & Lynne Henifin
Site Work: Henifin Construction
General Contractor: Impero Contracting
Architect: Doug Landsem
Completion: May
Cost: $1.2 million
Details: Will have roll up doors for warehousing convenience
Tenants: Bellingham Millwork will take 50% of the new building.
Phase II: 22,000 square foot building nearby sometime in the future.

Economy Strong!!

2006-01-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

Whatcom County has seen growth and a very strong economy for the past two years. In 2004, 4,800 jobs were created - in 2005 this number went up to 4,900. Boasting one of the lowest unemployment rates (4.4% in October), Whatcom County has one of the strongest economies in Washington and it's drawing national notice.

Large national retailers are considering Bellingham, particularly as it nears the 100,000 mark. The strength of the Canadian dollar is also adding greatly to our economy, but in a different way than before. While some Canadian shoppers are starting to come back, it is certainly not the frenzy that it was in the early 90s. Perhaps the emergence of online shopping has had an effect on that.

What we are seeing is Canadian companies (who are also enjoying a strong economy right now) opening up offices in the US to expand further into the American market. Whatcom County is perfectly situated for this as it is right next to the third largest city in Canada!

So will 2006 continue the upward swing in the economy? Some experts feel that it won't. The economy will remain strong - there are enough indicators of that (construction projects in process, new companies moving to Bellingham, current companies expanding and receiving large contracts). However, the rise in interest rates will probably slow down construction, and therefore the economy, at least a bit.

Want to send your kids to private school?

2006-01-09T17:07:00.000-08:00

St. Paul's Episcopal School is considering opening a high school. Parents are invited to a meeting to discuss the feasibility of a new private school in Bellingham.

7:00pm, Thursday, January 12
St. Paul's Episcopal School
3000 Northwest Ave
Bellingham, WA 98225

State St. Towers Draws Mixed Reviews

2006-01-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

About 50 people came out to the Bay View Tower public meeting last Thursday to voice their thoughts. Some people opposed the project saying that it will destroy the city because it will invite other projects of this kind.

Others, praised the project saying they preferred to have 124 condos there, than 124 houses sprawling out into the county.

The issue of parking was also raised with some residents complaining of the problems we already have with parking downtown. However, supporters feel that the project will help because people will live closer to many amenities and therefore will not have to drive there.

The meeting was held prior to the formal application for the Bay View Tower. The project's proposed location is 1217 N. State St. and would feature two ground level floors of commercial space, a total of 6 floors of parking and 18 floors of condos.

The building has been designed using principles from Vancouver, BC's building guidelines which require buildings not be too wide and that they have reflective glass on the outside to bring the view of the mountains and trees into the city.

Sumas Real Estate Development - Comment

2006-01-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

About: Application to expand loading and unloading facilities
Location: 300 Bob Mitchell Ave
Who: Desticon Transportation Inc.
Comment Deadline: Monday, January 9

About: Application to build a 830 foot heavy haul road
Why: As part of a kiln drying facility
Location: 601 W. Front St.
Who: Socco Inc
Comment Deadline: Monday, January 16

More info: 988-5711

Ferndale Real Estate Development

2006-01-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

About: Application to build a conference center
Size: 80,000 square feet
Location: 1415 Sunset Ave
Developers: Emerald Bay Events & Faber Brothers Construction
Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 11
Hearing info: 7pm, Thursday, January 19, Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave

The Ferndale Planning Commission will have a meeting about the Comprehensive Plan Update on Wednesday, January 11 at 7pm in the Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

For more info, call 384-4006 or click here.

Everson Real Estate Development - Council Meeting

2006-01-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

About: Request to change 20 acres for industrial to residential use
Location: West of Mission Rd.
Who: Wilder Construction
When: 7:30 pm, Tuesday January 10
Where: Bellingham City Hall, 111 W. Main St.
More info: 966-3411

Blaine Real Estate Development - Hearings

2006-01-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

The following hearings have been scheduled by the Blaine Planning Commission

About: Seagrass II proposal
Units: 68 condos
Location: Semiahmoo Spit
Developer: Gepeto Properties LLC
When: 7pm, Thursday, February 9
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.
Comment Deadline: Formally, Wednesday January 25, although people can submit written comments until the time of the hearing.

About: Application to build cottages
Units: 14 single-family cottages
Location: 1168 Hughes Ave
Developer: Stonewood Construction LLC
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

For more info, call 332-8311 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Approved!

2006-01-05T12:39:00.000-08:00

What: Application for a Montessori School
Location: 3301 Meridian St.
Applicant: Alexandra Sands
Approved by: Dawn Sturwold, Hearing Examiner
THIS APPLICATION WAS APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Hearing

2006-01-05T12:33:00.000-08:00

Topic 1: Street names in the new part of Barkley Village
Topic 2: Work session on Bellingham growth area
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 5
Where: Bellingham Council Chambers at City Hall, 210 Lottie St.

For more info call 676-9882 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Comments

2006-01-05T12:24:00.000-08:00

Application: for wetland and stream work for the Fairhaven Highlands Development
Units: 739 homes
Developer: Greenbriar Northwest Associates
Location: Chuckanut Drive
Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 18

Proposal: for cluster residence and variances from wetlands impact and subdivision requirements
Project: Samish Glenn
Location: between 34th & 36th St and South and Harrison Avenues
Units: 13 single-family homes
Land: 3.5 acres
Developer: Cribbs & VanWinkle LLC
Comment Deadline: Friday, January 6

Application: to build homes with a density bonus and subdivision requirements variances
Location: 4048 Deemer Road
Homes: 18
Land: 3.4 acres
Developer: D. Scott Wesley
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, January 18

For more info, call 676-6982 or click here.

Bellingham Construction Update

2006-01-05T12:16:00.000-08:00

Project: Laurel Village
Location: Railroad Ave & Laurel St.
Developer: Bellingham Housing Authority
Completion: October 2006
Cost: $6.2 million
Details: 51 affordable rental housing units

Everson Council Members get a 50% Raise!

2006-01-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

That's right - come January 2008 Everson City Council members will get a monthly salary of $150 instead of $100.

So really not that much of a raise (but it did make a fun headline!).

New Bellingham Subdivision not an Environmental Threat

2006-01-03T12:30:00.000-08:00

A proposed 210 home subdivision on 115 acres near Lake Padden has been deemed to not be a significant environmental impact (with some conditions) according to Bellingham officials.

The Padden Trails development will have to include the following in their project:

A new street to the project from 34th Street and Connelly Ave
A left turn lane on Connelly Ave to access the new street
A new access to the 34th Street neighborhood

Comment Deadline on the environmental determination: Friday, January 6
Appeal Deadline: Monday, January 9

For more info call 676-6982.

Large Event Center Proposed for Ferndale!

2006-01-03T11:10:00.000-08:00

As Bellingham grows, the local tourism/hospitality industry would love to promote it as an ideal location for conferences and conventions. The beautiful scenery, proximity to major airports (Sea-Tac or Vancouver), excellent recreation (including golf and skiing) and of course the fantastic residents all make it an ideal place. The major drawback - there isn't a facility large enough to hold these events.

Enter Emerald Bay Events and Faber Brothers Construction. They are proposing a 80,000 square foot center in Ferndale. The project would be on 11 acres on Rural and Sunset Avenues and would feature:

40,000 square feet of exhibit space
Wedding Chapel
Kitchen
Retail space (ideally for a tux shop, florist, jeweler and bakery)

The closest event space is currently the Everett Events Center (excluding Canadian event centers) with 57,000 square feet of space. The largest facility that Bellingham offers is 11,000 square feet of meeting space at the Lakeway Inn.

Ferndale city council will be considering the proposal.
Comment Deadline: Wednesday January 11
Public Hearing
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 19
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

For more info, call 384-4006 or click here.

Ferndale's Big Growth Issue of 2005

2005-12-30T11:53:00.000-08:00

Growth. It was (and is) on the minds of residents and the city council this year as Ferndale, situated very close to Bellingham, and conveniently (due to the I-5) saw one of the biggest years of development with 175 building permits for new homes issued.

Key issues/moments this past year:

The overburdened sewage system and the need for a new one.
New sewage connection moratorium (originally a new permit moratorium - see previous post)
Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza was perhaps the biggest issue as it was somewhat symbolic of growth trends and issues throughout the county. The big question is: do we prevent development in order to preserve our communities as they are right now, or do we deal with the fact that people will move here (whether we like it or not) and be prepared for it? Many proponents of the latter argument feel that it is better to plan ahead and be prepared in order to ensure that when the "inevitable" growth does come, it will happen in a way consistent with the communities present values. A major part of this is the new buzz word "urban village" which are high density communities with all of the necessities within walking distance. The main benefit of this grow up rather than out strategy is that it will preserve more natural land and areas.

Back to Pioneer Plaza - the proposed project is 100 acres of retail space (687,626 square feet), office space (234,361 square feet), 160 condos and parks. The most common concerns with this project are the increased traffic and that it will negatively affect downtown Ferndale businesses.

On the flip side, developers say that Ferndale has the lowest sales tax revenue in the county and this project would generate a lot of money in the city coffers. Furthermore, they feel that the project would draw more people to Ferndale for shopping who would in turn also shop in downtown Ferndale. Going back to the "growth is inevitable" argument, some supporters of Pioneer Plaza feel that it would be better to have one big development in the area that could adequately plan (and pay for) infrastructure such as streets, than to have multiple smaller projects on small plots over more time.

So there are the two sides. If I missed any arguments, on either side, please let me know.

Modified Plan Filed in Blaine

2005-12-30T11:23:00.000-08:00

Their first plan was rejected by the Blaine City Council. Now, Gepetto Properties LLC has filed a new plan that incorporates changes to address concerns stated by the city and community. The changes include removing 2 units and moving other things around in order to preserve views and address environmental impacts.

The Planning Commission will hold a hearing regarding the new proposal (the Blaine City Council agreed to review the new plan as soon as possible) on Thursday, February 9 at 7pm, at Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

For more info, call 332-8311 or click here.

Bay View Tower Meeting

2005-12-30T10:37:00.000-08:00

Want to know more about the proposed 23 story building in downtown Bellingham? Here is the Bay View Tower LLC website.

It has general info, photos, FAQ and discussion forums where you can leave your opinion.

Here is a digital rendering of what the the surrounding area will look like with the proposed new building.

Proposed Fairhaven Project Sketches

2005-12-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

Here are some sketches of the proposed new 3-10 story condo building that would have commercial and residential space.

Click on the image for a larger view.

9th & Harris

North Elevation

South Elevation

Whatcom County Real Estate Development - Hearings

2005-12-29T11:33:00.000-08:00

Hearings have been called by Michael Bobbink, Whatcom County Hearing Examiner.
Hearing Date: Wednesday, January 4
Where: Council Chambers, Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Ave.

About: Application to build an addition to Alderwood Elementary
Location: 3400 Hollywood Ave
Who: Bellingham School District
Time: 1:30pm

About: Application to use a private grass area as a 625 square foot helicopter landing pad.
Location: 9531 Garrison Road
Who: Jerry Hunter
Time: 1:40pm

About: Application for a single-family subdivision.
Lots: 5
Land: 14.2 acres
Location: 3421 Noah's Way
Who: Pat Wheat
Time: 1:50pm

Nooksack Real Estate Development - Some Approved

2005-12-29T11:13:00.000-08:00

APPROVED

Critical Areas Ordinance

Request to change 15 acres from agricultural to residential use.
Location: 607 W. Third St.
Who: Kip Dunlap

Request to change 39 acres from agricultural to residential use.
Location: 501 Gillies Rd.
Who: Gerrit DeHoog

NOT APPROVED

Request to change 37 acres from future residential to future residential cluster use.
Location: 3382 Breckenridge Rd.
Who: Michael & Elena Gonser

Request to change 37 acres from future light industrial to residential cluster use.
Location: 3379 Breckenridge Road
Who: Nova Company Ltd.

Plan to annex 64 acres into the city.
Location: East of Breckenridge Road.

Other council decisions: Send the cluster-housing rules to a new planning commission or committee.

More info: 966-2531

Ferndale Real Estate Development - Meeting

2005-12-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

About: Intent to annex land into Ferndale
Location: 6141, 6159, 6175 Church Road
Who: Ferndale School District
When: 6pm, Tuesday, January 3
Where: School District Administration Building, 6041 Vista Drive, Ferndale
More info: 384-4006

Everson Real Estate Development - Meeting

2005-12-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

About: Request to change 20 acres from industrial to residential use.
Location: West of Mission Road
Who: Wilder Construction
When: 7:30pm, Tuesday, January 10
Where: Everson City Hall, 111 W. Main St.

For more info call 966-3411

Blaine Real Estate Development - Hearings

2005-12-29T10:57:00.000-08:00

About: Application to build
Units: 14 single family cottages
Location: 1168 Hughes Ave
Developer: Stonewood Construction LLC
When: 7pm, Thursday, January 12
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

For more info, call 332-8311 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Approved!

2005-12-29T10:31:00.000-08:00

Approved: Application to expand the Wellspring School
Location: 914 24th St
Who: Laurie Riskin
Approved by: Dawn Sturwold - Hearing Examiner

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Comment

2005-12-28T16:46:00.000-08:00

About: Application for wetland and stream work
Project: Fairhaven Highlands
Location: Chuckanut Drive
Homes: 739
Developer: Greenbriar Northwest Associate
Comment Deadline: Friday, January 6

About: Application for design review
Project: 3-10 story building
Location: 800 Harris Ave
Commercial Space: 14,000 square feet
Residential Units: 80
Parking Spaces: 235
COMMENT DEADLINE EXTENDED TO: Wednesday, December 28

About: Proposed Transportation concurrency management ordinance
Who: City of Bellingham
Comment Deadline: Saturday, December 31

About: Application for design review
Project: Dental Office
Location: 1301 J St.
Size: 3,200 square feet
Who: Darrell Turner
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, December 28

About: Application to change a building site plan
Location: 412 E. McLeod Road
Who: Rod & Sharon Graber
Details: They want to have access to Telegraph Road so they can put in an RV storage park.
Comment Deadline: Wednesday, December 28

About: Proposal for Houses
Project: Samish Glen
Homes: 13 cluster single-family
Location: South and Harrison Avenues, between 34th and 36th
Land: 3.5 acres
Details: Requesting variances from subdivision requirements and wetland impacts
Developer: Cribbs & VanWinkle LLC
Comment Deadline: Friday, January 6

For more info call 676-6982 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Construction Update

2005-12-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

What: Chestnut Street Housing
Location: Next to Kulshan Cycles
Developer: Archdiocesan Housing Authority
Contractor: Synergy Construction Inc.
Architect: Environmental Works
Completion: June 2006
Cost: $6.9 million
Special: 40 studio and one bedroom condos for low income families and homeless people.
Funding: Homestead Capital (non profit org), City of Bellingham HOME funds, Washington State Bank, Banner Bank

What You Can Get For $300,000 Across The Nation

2005-12-23T09:56:00.000-08:00

MSN and Kiplinger did an article about what you can get for your money across the nation.

What you can get for $300,000

What you can get for $650,000

What you can get for $1 million

Pretty interesting.

New Mapping Feature

2005-12-22T10:47:00.000-08:00

In reviewing some site data, I realized that we are getting hits from all over the US and the rest of the world! So, I installed a ClustrMap so that you can view where our visitors come from too! To view it, scroll down - it will be at the end of the right side bar. Enjoy!

Could Bellingham be on the Sierra Club list?

2005-12-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

Taking what you have and working with it. This is essentially what the Sierra Club is looking for when they give out their annual best new development awards. Bellingham's redevelopment of the GP site could end up on this list one day as it satisfies many of their requirements.

An environmentally friendly organization, the Sierra Club advocates smarter growth. Some of their main ideas are:

Redevelop areas
Make better use of space
Don't sprawl out into farmlands
Create urban villages
Have multiple transportation options

Among the winners this year are some very innovative projects such as trasnforming an old school into loft apartments and offices; converting old warehouses into a university campus; turning a factory into commercial space and transforming a large parking lot into a mixed use area.

Tips on Home Owners Insurance

2005-12-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

The Motley Fool had a good article about tips for home owners insurance and how to keep your costs down. Click on the link below.

Bellingham Gains Manufacturing Jobs

2005-12-20T17:50:00.000-08:00

Whatcom County has gained 300 manufacturing jobs in the past year, while the rest of the country on average saw a decrease. This is good news for our county, particularly after the recently released federal study, in which Whatcom County ranked second lowest (in the counties over 100,000) for average wages in Washington. One of the primary reasons is the high percentage of agricultural, retail and hospitality jobs in the county which typically have lower pay.

However, in areas where wages are typically higher, such as construction, Whatcom County ranks higher than most other counties with the average wage being $39,052 per year.

Here is the numbers breakdown:

County - Average Weekly wage
Whatcom - $ 578 ($30,056/year)
King - $ 948 ($49,296/year)
Snohomish - $761 ($39,572/year)
Pierce - $683 ($35,516/year)
Thurston - $676 ($35,152)

National Average - $775 ($40,300)

Bakerview Development - What's Coming Up

2005-12-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

Bakerview Square
420,434 & 540 W. Bakerview Rd (corner of W. Bakerview & Eliza Ave)
Type: Commercial
Building: 10
Land: 9.89 acres
Developer: Faber Brothers Construction
Owner: Madrona Bay, LLC
Currently: In application

730 & 736 W. Bakerview
Type: Residential & parking
Units: 126
Building: 3
Developer & Owner: Tertiary Investments
Currently: In application

4055 Meridian St.
Type: Residential & Commercial
Land: 1.96 acres
Details: Multi-family residential & 2 commercial units at plaza level
Developer & Owner: Blossom Management
Currently: In Application

Palasade Park
680 W. Bakerview Rd.
Type: Commercial
Buildings: 3
Total square footage: 19,500
Land: 2 acres
Developer: Palasade Investments LLC
Currently: In application

E. Bakerview & Deemer Rd.
Type: Residential
Units: 30
Buildings: 7 (5 four-plexes, 2 5-plexes)
Developer & Owner: Mike Kohl & BAS Construction
Currently: In application

Admiralty Plaza
4000 block of Northwest Ave.
Type: Commercial & Residential
Units: 180 condos plus retail & office space
Land: 3.82 acres
Developer: Intergroup Development
Owner: Charter Builders, Meridian ID

256 Prince Ave
Type: Residential
Units: 44 (35 single family homes, 1 duplex, 1 7-unit townhouse building)
Developer & Owner: Gene Bouma Development Inc.

Bakerview Development - Approved

2005-12-20T16:39:00.001-08:00

Bakerview has become a hot area for development of commercial and residential units. Here's a list of projects that have already been approved.

Spring Creek Assisted Living & Retirement Community
333 W. Bakerview Rd.
Developer: Mountain West Senior Housing LLC (Salem, OR)
Owner: Susanna Owens
Units: 162
Land: 6.32 acres
Under Construction

Homestead NW
4035-4055 Eliza Ave
Developer & Owner: Homestead NW
Units: 24
Buildings: 6
Under Construction

Espresso Connections
Corner of W. Bakerview & Eliza Ave
Developer & Owner: Harold & Irene Walton
What: Drive through espresso stand
Approved, but not building yet.

Meadow Wood Townhomes
4176 Aldrich Rd.
Developer: Bellingham Housing Authority & Meadow Wood Associates LLC
Owner: Bellingham Housing Authority
Units: 81
Building: 6
Land: 4.5 acres
Approved, but not building yet.

Everson Real Estate Development - Meeting

2005-12-20T16:39:00.000-08:00

About: Park impact fees
When: 7:30pm, Tuesday, December 27
Where: Everson City Hall, 111 W. Main St.
More info: 966-3411

Blaine Real Estate Development - Public Hearing

2005-12-20T13:30:00.000-08:00

About: Proposal to build 3 condo buildings
Units: 54
Land: 3.7 acres
Location: Adjacent to Resort Semiahmoo
Scheduled by: The Blaine Planning Commission
When: 7pm, Thursday December 22
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

About: Application to build
Units: 14 single family cottages
Location: 1168 Hughes Ave
When: 7pm, Thursday Jan. 12
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

More info: 332-8311 or click here.

Ferndale Real Estate Development - Meeting

2005-12-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

Who: Ferndale School District
About: Intent to annex land into Ferndale
Location: 6141, 6159, 6175 Church Road
When: 6pm, Tuesday January 3
Where: School District Administrative Building, 6041 Vista Drive
More info: 384-4006

Christmas Lights in Bellingham!

2005-12-19T17:37:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for lights! The following addresses have some amazing displays! Use Mapquest to find them!

Bellingham:

2525 Lincoln St.
2337 Morre St.
2209 Ontario St.
2001 Erie St.
1734 North Shore Drive
Lahti Drive
Tweed Twenty Neighborhood
704 Racine St.
3330 Chandler Parkway
2715 Patton St.
2605 W maplewood, Apt. 217
815 38th St.
Fairhaven

North Bellingham

5570 Starry Road
5400-5500 - this one is a competition between neighbors featuring over 100,000 lights!
4357 King Mountain Road
1114 E. Kelly Road

Birch Bay

4607 Sunburst Drive - this one is done by a senior woman

Custer

8960 Stein Rd.

Ferndale/Neptune Beach

6052 Malloy Ave
4149 Georgian Drive

Kendall/Maple Falls

142 Sprague Valley Drive
6153 Shamrock Road

Lynden

712 Sunrise Drive

Pont Roberts

317 Madrona Place

Whatcom County Real Estate Development - Hearings

2005-12-19T15:44:00.000-08:00

Michael Bobbink, Whatcom County Hearing Examiner has scheduled public hearings on Wednesday January 4 for the following:

Application: Build an addition
Location: Alderwood Elementary School, 3400 Hollywood Ave
Who: Bellingham School District
Time: 1:30pm

Application: use a 625 square foot grass area as a helicopter landing pad.
Location: 9531 Garrison Road
Who: Jerry Hunter
Time: 1:40pm

Application: 5 lot, single family sub division.
Location: 3421 Noah's Way.
Who: Pat Wheat
Time: 1:50pm

More info: 676-6907 or click here.

Sumas Real Estate Development - Comment

2005-12-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

About: Application to expand loading & unloading operations
Location: 300 Bob Mitchell Ave
Requested by: Desticon Transportation Inc.
Details: The project would clear vegetation and put fill in .049 acres of wetlands and buffers by Johnson Creek.
Comment Deadline: Monday January 9

About: Application to build a road
Details: 830 foot heavy-haul road as part of an expansion
Location: 601 W. Front St.
Requested by: Socco Inc.
Comment Deadline: Tuesday, January 16

More info: 988-5711

Nooksack Real Estate Development - Public Hearing

2005-12-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

About requests to change

15 acres at 607 W. Third St from agricultural to residential use (Kip Dunlap)
39 acres at 501 Gillies Road from agricultural to residential use (Gerrit DeHoog)
37 acres on Breckenridge Road from future light industrial to future cluster residential use (Michael & Elena Gonser)
37 acres at 3379 Breckenridge Road from future light industrial to residential cluster use (Nova Development Co)

Also about: Annexing 64 acres of the city into the Nooksack Elementary School
Location: Brenckenridge Road

Also about: Cluster housing rules

When: 7pm, Monday December 19
Where: Nooksack City Hall, 103 W. Madison St.
More info: 966-2531

Ferndale Real Estate Development - Hearing

2005-12-19T13:41:00.000-08:00

About: Long term design plans
For: Pioneer Park
When: 7pm, Monday, December 19
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Neighborhood Meeting

2005-12-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

About: Rezoning 2.18 acres from 20,000 square foot lots to 7,201 square foot lots
Location: Along Samish Way, between Lindsay and Connelly Aves
Of note: The rezoning would increase the amount of houses allowed in that space from 6 to 11.
Who: Alliance Properties 2000 LLC
When: 7:30pm, Tuesday December 20
Where: Fairhaven Library, 1117 12th St.
More info: Call 676-6982 or click here.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Comments

2005-12-19T13:21:00.000-08:00

EXTENDED COMMENTS
What: Design review for a 3-10 story condo & commercial building in Fairhaven
Location: 800 Harris Ave
Units: 80 residential, 200 parking spaces
Developer: Ted Mischaikov
Comment Deadline Extended to: Wednesday December 28

What: City of Bellingham's transportation concurrency management ordinance
Purpose: To maintain standards with new developments
Comment Deadline: Saturday December 31

Bellingham Real Estate - Construction Update

2005-12-19T13:14:00.000-08:00

What: 3 condo buildings
Units: 144
Unit size: 500-850 square feet
Location: 700 block of 32nd Street (3 blocks south of Sehome Village)
Project name: The Belmont
Developer: Big Sky Construction & Derek Stebner
Completion: First building summer 2006, remaining two to follow
Cost: $11 million
Target Audience: People who want to live near Western Washington University and the South Side district.

View From 20 Stories Up

2005-12-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

It's not built yet, but this is what the view will be like from the top floor, 225 feet above the ground. Seattle photographers Steve Keating, Jay Dotson and Jason Stiffey used helium blimp and remote controls to take the photos. Bay View Tower LLC, the developer of the new condos, hired the Seattle team to come and do the work.

Below is a sketch of of what the building will look like.

Bellingham Road & Shoreline Rules Hearing

2005-12-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

Road & shoreline rules will be discussed by the Bellingham Planning Commission. The Growth Management Act requires rules to be set up for transportation to ensure that it doesn't get too congested.

They will also look at the shoreline rules which regulate development within 200 feet of Bellingham Bay, Lake Whatcom, Lake Padden and Chuckanut, Whatcom & Squalicum creeks.

When: 7pm, Thursday December 15
Where: Council Chambers, Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie St.

For more info call 676-6982.

Bellingham Waterfront Meeting

2005-12-15T09:11:00.000-08:00

The Bellingham Bay Demonstration Pilot Work Group has postponed their next meeting until the new year due to illness and family reasons. The group was scheduled to meet tonight (Thursday). The group is comprised of 14 federal, state, tribal and local agencies.

Green Light for Growth!

2005-12-15T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Bellingham city council has agreed in principle to expand the growth area into the county. In spite of having plans for joint sessions with the Whatcom County council, the city council had their own meeting where they made this decision. They claim that they did tell the Whatcom County council about the meeting.

In the end, the decision to expand Bellingham's city limits and growth area will be up to the Whatcom County council. Whatcom County planner Troy Holbrook feels that the city and county should first decide how many people can fit within the current city limits and growth area and then look to expand.

The proposed addition to the growth area and city limits are west of Meridian and Northwest Road, and around King and Queen mountains.

Bellingham Gets 211 Service

2005-12-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

In February, Whatcom county residents will be able to start using a government hotline to find information. By dialing 211, they will access an array of state run programs and services.

Many states already have 211 hotlines and have found them to be very useful. Residents can simply call the number, ask their questions and be forwarded on to the appropriate area.

The number is particularly helpful in disasters such as Hurricane Katrina or the 9/11 attacks because all of the information is centralized making it easier for people to get what they need, as opposed to calling and being put on hold on several toll free numbers.

Hospital Traffic Plan Meeting

2005-12-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

Where: St Joseph Hospital Health Education Center, 3333 Squalicum Parkway
When: Open house from 5-9pm. There will be a presentation at 7pm.
For more info click on "Facility Expansion".

New Tax on New Homes

2005-12-14T16:58:00.000-08:00

The Bellingham City Planning Commission voted to recommend a new tax for new construction homes. For single homes, it will be approximately $4000 and for multi-family units it will be approximately $3000. The tax is to pay for park areas.

While many support the idea of more money for parks, many people are concerned that it will make houses even more unaffordable in Bellingham. Bill Quehrn, VP for the Building Industry Association says that "Eventually, it's the customer, not the builder, who pays for it."

The next step in this process is Bellingham City Council consideration. Let them know your thoughts by emailing citycouncil@cob.org

Parking Fees Go Up!

2005-12-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Come January 1, make sure that you put change into the parking meters in Bellingham - fines are going up to $10.

Sumas Real Estate Development - Comment

2005-12-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

Blaine Real Estate Development - Public Hearing

2005-12-13T16:15:00.000-08:00

Project: Condos
Units: 54
Location: Beside Resort at Semiahmoo
Size: 3.7 acres
Developer: Shaw Holdings LLC
Scheduled by: Planning Commission
When: 7pm, Thursday December 22
Where: Blaine City Hall, 344 H St.

Nooksack Real Estate Development - Public Hearing

2005-12-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

About: Annexing land into the city.
Location: Along Breckenridge Road
Size: 64 acres
When: 7pm, Monday December 19
Where: Nooksack City Hall, 103 W. Madison St.

Whatcom County Real Estate Development - Hearing

2005-12-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

Project: Terrell Creek Villas - condos, spa, parking garage and pedestrian bridge
Units: 90 condos
Special: One of the buildings would be 7 stories high.
Location: Birch Bay Drive, north of Alderson
Developer: Pacific Land & Development Co.
Hearing called by: Michael Bobbink, Hearing Examiner
When: 2pm, Wednesday December 14
Where: Council Chambers, Whatcom County Courthouse.

Nooksack Real Estate Development - Comment

2005-12-12T12:24:00.000-08:00

People can comments on the environmental impacts of changing:

15 acres at 607 W. Third St from agricultural to residential use (Kip Dunlap)
39 acres at 501 Gillies Road from agricultural to residential use (Gerrit DeHoog)
37 acres on Breckenridge Road from future light industrial to future cluster residential use (Michael & Elena Gonser)
37 acres at 3379 Breckenridge Road from future light industrial to residential cluster use (Nova Development Co)

Comment Deadline: Friday December 16

Ferndale Real Estate Development

2005-12-12T12:06:00.000-08:00

City of Ferndale
About: long term design for Pioneer Park
Meeting Time: 7pm, Monday, December 12
Hearing Time: 7pm, Monday December 19
Where: Both are at Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

Ferndale Planning Commission Hearing
About: Comprehensive Plan update
When: 7pm, Wednesday December 14
Where: Ferndale City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave.

Everson Real Estate Development - Meeting

2005-12-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

About: Request to change an area from industrial to residential.
Location: West of Mission Road
Size: 20 acres
Who: Wilder Construction
When: 7:30pm, Tuesday, December 13
Where: Everson City Hall, 111 W. Main St.

Park impact and police mitigation fees will also be discussed at this meeting.

Bellingham Real Estate Development - APPROVED!

2005-12-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

Approved: Design Review
Project: 30 space parking garage
Location: 1100 block of McKenzie Ave
Developer: Waldron Development LLC

Approved: Shoreline Permit
Project: Concrete pier for Coast guard boats
Size: 10 X 120 foot
Location: 400 Harris Ave

Approved with conditions: Request to build
Project: house
Size: 7,307 square feet
Location: 4302 Samish Crest
Who: Jack Cox

Approved with conditions: Request to build
Project: house
Size: 6,500 square feet
Location: 415 Bayside Road
Who: Parvin Shetabi

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Hearings

2005-12-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

Project: Meadow Ridge Park
Units: 36 single family homes, 3 future development parcels
Location: West of James Street Road
Size: 43 acres
Developer: Edgewater Park LLC
When: 6pm, Wednesday, December 14
Where: Council Chambers, Bellingham City Hall

Bellingham Real Estate Development - Work Sessions

2005-12-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Who: Bellingham & Whatcom County Planning Commissions
About: City infilling and changes to Bellingham's growth area
When: 7pm, Wednesday December 14
Where: Bellingham Municipal Court, Courtroom No. 1, 2014 C St.

Who: Landmark Review Board
About: City center design rules
When: 4pm Tuesday, December 13
Where: Council Chambers, Bellingham City Hall.

Bellingham Real Estate Development- Comments

2005-12-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

Application: Design review
Project: 3-10 story building in Fairhaven
Location: 800 Harris Ave
Size: 14,000 square feet - commercial and residential space
Units: 80 residential units, 235 parking spots
Developer: Ted Mischaikov
Comment Deadline: Monday, December 12

Proposed: Transportation concurrency management ordinance
Details: The ordinance is to ensure standards are maintained with new development
Comment Deadline: Saturday, December 31
Public Hearing: schedule by the Planning Commission
When: 7pm Thursday, December 15
Where: Council Chambers, Bellingham City Hall, 210 Lottie St.

Application: Planned development & design review approval
Project: Retail, office and residential space
Location: 4034 Northwest Ave
Size: 8,000 square foot retail/office, 174,000 square foot retail/office/residential, 102,000 square foot office/residential
Parking: 435 stall structure
Lot size: 3.8 Acres
Developer: Intergroup Development
Comment Deadline: Thursday, December 15

Application: Planned development & design review approval
Units: Residential - 5 fourplexes, 2 fiveplexes
Lot size: 2 acres
Location: 4100 & 4101 Deemer Rd.
Developer: BAS Construction & Development Services Inc.
Special: They have applied for a variance on the rear and side setbacks.
Comment Deadline: Thursday, December 15

Application: General binding site plan & wetland permit
Project: Specific details will come later
Location: 4243 Hannegan Road
Size: 10 acres
Developer: Eric & Robin Hitz
Comment Deadline: Friday, December 16

Bellingham Construction Update

2005-12-12T10:41:00.000-08:00

What: New Rite Aid store
Location: 222 Telegraph Road (Meridian Village shopping center where the Sizzler used to be)
Size: 15,000 square foot stand alone store
Builder: Exxel Pacific
Owner: Bromont Pavilion Bellingham LLC
Cost: $2,075,000
Completion: August 2006
Details: The new store will have a drive-through window.

Bellingham Company Wins 2 Architecture Awards!

2005-12-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

Zervas Group Architects won the People's choice award for their design of a private residence in north Whatcom County (pictured below) and a citation award for their work on the old Fairhaven firestation which was transformed to include a performing arts area, cafe and residences. The awards were given by the Northwest Chapter of the American Institute of Architecture.