As 2025 comes to a close, the city of Blaine has made significant progress in several key initiatives that will shape its future. From urban planning to infrastructure improvements, here’s a look back at some of the most notable accomplishments from the year.
The Blaine Police Department made notable progress in 2025, with key developments in staffing, training and community engagement.
The department welcomed four new officers, all of whom have direct ties to the Blaine community. Two of the officers brought previous experience in criminal justice, with one having worked as a 911 dispatcher and the other as a former corrections deputy. One officer is also fluent in Russian, adding to the department’s diversity and capabilities.
There were also several internal promotions, including a new sergeant and a deputy chief. These promotions demonstrate the department’s commitment to professional growth and leadership development.
The department consolidated multiple computer systems into one unified platform, increasing efficiency and reducing costs to the city. This system handles everything from internal affairs to use-of-force reporting and training tracking.
Throughout the year, officers participated in numerous community events, school programs and other local initiatives. They also assisted in drone response operations across the county.
Last but not least, several officers were honored with life-saving awards and the Meritorious Service Award for their exceptional service.
In the Community Development Services Department, one of the year’s significant achievements was the ongoing update to the city’s periodic comprehensive plan.
The comprehensive planning process involved extensive public outreach, including meetings with Blaine Planning Commission, presentations to the Whatcom County Council, and discussions with the Birch Bay community. The city hosted open houses at City Hall and Semiahmoo and adopted a public engagement plan along with a comprehensive outreach survey. While more work remains, this progress underscores the city’s commitment to shaping its long-term future in collaboration with the community.
The past year also saw critical updates to Blaine’s zoning regulations. The creation of a new urban mixed-use zone will provide more opportunities for diverse development in urban areas. At the same time, amendments to the residential office and manufacturing zones were made to better meet the community’s needs.
Planning for Blaine’s future urban growth area took another step forward in 2025, with the Whatcom County Planning Commission recommending approval for the proposed area. This approval is essential for the city to plan for future growth and development.
A major 2025 success for the city was the passage of the de-annexation ballot measures in the November general election. The measures passed with overwhelming support, ensuring that Blaine can proceed with the de-annexation process, which is expected to be completed by early 2026.
Despite challenges related to border issues and construction projects, Blaine tourism had another successful year.
A highlight was the restoration of the historic M.V. Plover ferry. The ferry returned to Drayton Harbor this summer, bringing new excitement to local tourism. Special thanks to the crew of the Plover, who handled the restoration and operations, including the introduction of a new ticketing app.
There was also significant activity in land-use permitting, with several large and medium-sized projects being approved. These projects are expected to result in the creation of at least 629 new homes in the coming years. Additionally, the department processed commercial building permits for new homes and businesses such as Family Care Network, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Roadrunner Express Car Wash, and 67 single-family homes.
The Code Enforcement Program made significant strides in 2025, closing 55 cases, including several longstanding nuisance issues that had plagued the community for years. This success reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to maintaining Blaine’s safety, cleanliness and overall quality of life.
The Blaine Public Works Department had a busy year, completing several key projects and managing a high volume of customer service requests. The department handled 1,025 customer service requests, processed 50 right-of-way permits and completed 750 utility locates, demonstrating its commitment to service excellence.
Key projects included the paving of Jerome Street, the Lincoln Park trail and the cemetery approach. All projects were completed on budget, highlighting the department’s strong operational management. The department installed on-site hypochlorite generation equipment at the Wellfield, improving water treatment safety by eliminating the need for compressed chlorine gas.
The Downtown Revitalization Project was substantially completed, enhancing the city’s core infrastructure. Additionally, the Bell Road-BNSF Railway Grade Separation Project progressed with field investigations to advance design work, and the Boblett Channelization Project was finalized, enhancing roadway safety.
Lastly, the department secured grant funding for pedestrian safety improvements around school zones and phase 3 of the Peace Portal trail, which will extend the trail from Hughes Road to Bell Road.
The past year has been a year of growth and achievement for Blaine, and the city remains committed to continued progress. Looking ahead to 2026, the city will complete the de-annexation process, continue the comprehensive plan update and work on major infrastructure projects. These efforts will help ensure Blaine’s future as a vibrant and sustainable community.
