BBBPRD2 funds community programs

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) is funding a variety of community programs in 2019.

BBBPRD2 considered five community program support requests at its regular January 8 meeting and a budget workshop held January 29. The organizations seeking money were the Whatcom Conservation District, Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, Blaine Barracudas Wrestling, Cub Scout Pack 4025 and the Healthy Youth Coalition/Blue Beat Bike Program.

All the requests were approved unanimously.

For 2019, five requests were discussed at BBBPRD2’s January 8 and January 29 meetings. There was a $4,000 request from Whatcom Conservation District to help with its 2019 Run with the Chums 5k Fun Run and Walk event, scheduled for September 14. The funding would be used to assist with materials and supplies, advertising and refreshments.

The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce requested $20,000 to support summer recreation programs that are sponsored by the chamber. Chamber vice president Billy Brown told parks commissioners that the cost of the programs was increasing and the chamber had combined some of the programs to help defer costs.

The Blaine Barracudas Wrestling club requested $5,650 to help Blaine and Birch Bay youth participate in the wrestling program by providing money for scholarships, uniforms, supplies and tournament entry fees. There are about 45 kids on the team, ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade.

Cub Scout Pack 4025 requested $4,000 to provide scholarships for dues and activities for children. The money will also help purchase uniforms, patches, camping outings and other materials required for earning badges.

Finally, $3,000 was requested by the Healthy Youth Coalition to purchase bikes and supplies for local youth.