Bellingham Officials Proposed 2027 Budget
The $543 million plan relies on a potential new fire authority to maintain city service levels.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in City Hall
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Mayor Kim Lund and city staff have introduced a $543 million preliminary budget for Bellingham. The proposal seeks to maintain current service levels through the creation of a Regional Fire Authority.
Why it matters
The city currently finds its service levels unsustainable without new revenue sources. A Regional Fire Authority is required to prevent future staff and service reductions.
The proposed Regional Fire Authority would serve 105,000 people across 50 square miles, with an estimated $60 million in annual revenue. A $600,000 home could see a monthly property tax increase of $50.
The players
Kim Lund
Kim Lund is the Mayor of Bellingham who oversaw the introduction of the 2027 city budget.
Whatcom County Fire District 8
Whatcom County Fire District 8 is the proposed partner organization for the regional fire authority.
The details
The budget allocates funds for Salish Landing Park, Post Point upgrades, and Bellingham Public Library renovations. Officials plan to use financial reserves to bridge the gap while pursuing the independent taxing district to sustain the fire department.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The mayor and staff introduced the preliminary budget.
October 5, 2026: City staff will present the draft Regional Fire Authority plan and hold a public hearing.
February 2027: Voters could decide on the new fire tax.
Political Context
Opponents or taxpayers concerned about rising costs may challenge the proposed property tax increase. Advocacy groups often push back against the formation of independent taxing districts, arguing that they add layers of bureaucracy and increase the overall tax burden on residents.
Residents may see their property taxes rise by $50 per month if the fire authority is approved. The city is currently utilizing financial reserves to prevent immediate cuts to public services that families rely on.
The takeaway
The budget highlights the city's reliance on new taxing districts to maintain existing public infrastructure. Residents should monitor upcoming hearings to understand how these proposed tax changes may impact their household finances.
What happens next
Voters will have the opportunity to decide on the proposed Regional Fire Authority fire tax in February 2027.
Further reading
For more information on local government fiscal planning, visit City Hall.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My Bellingham Now -.
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