The Editor:
It seems that the city of Blaine has a hard time developing urban growth areas to satisfy its ambitions for growth (and tax revenue).
Some years ago, the west Blaine UGA was revoked because of failure to make progress in developing within the time allotted. Then, it annexed east Blaine and began to develop that area. Now, it wants to de-annex the Grandis Pond area in order to re-annex west Blaine. We can only surmise that the city’s leadership envisions large increases in tax revenue as the Avista at Birch Point PUD is developed.
That development, as councilor Richard May has suggested in the August 7 issue of The Northern Light, might be developed regardless of whether Blaine annexes the area or not. It might continue to be part of Whatcom County or part of the proposed city of Birch Bay. In any case, the environmental protections, including additional stormwater mitigation, are already included in the plan, and does not need Blaine’s “guidance” as asserted by May.
Then there is the question: Given the current economic conditions, if they build it, will they come to the Avista Point development? Who can recall the fate of the Bovencamp Horizon development during the recession?
Is Blaine once again biting off more than it can chew?
Keats Garman
Birch Point
(Editor’s note: After the Growth Management Act was passed in 1990, the state required the city of Blaine remove some urban growth areas during its next comprehensive plan update. To follow the state’s requirement, the city removed part of its west Blaine UGA. Around the same time, the city annexed east Blaine, though it’s not immediately clear if east Blaine’s annexation was related to the state’s updates.)
The Editor:
I support Dr. Sandhya Gelou’s op-ed on the urgent need to prioritize diabetes prevention and education in Whatcom County.
Articles like hers are especially vital now, with federal and state budget cuts threatening institutions that have long delivered reliable, factual information to the public. In these uncertain times, trusted local journalism like The Northern Light plays an essential role in ensuring that communities stay informed and empowered. Thank you for shining a spotlight on issues that might otherwise be overlooked.
The rise of Type 2 diabetes among young people is a public health emergency and has serious economic consequences for our local workforce and businesses. Prevention and education, through the health department, schools and coordinated community efforts, is the smartest investment we can make, both medically and economically.
As our county council moves closer to choosing the next Whatcom County Health and Community Services director, I hope they consider the interest and wisdom of Dr. Gelou’s op-ed as one factor in their decision. Evidence-based strategies must be coupled with widespread, accessible education if we are to protect the well-being and prosperity of Whatcom County.
Let’s continue to champion public health, support reliable journalism and work together for a healthier future for all. It starts right here, where we live.
Delores Davies
Ferndale
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