Editor’s note: This article has been updated with information from Whatcom County Health and Community Services on March 30, 2026.
BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Whatcom County’s severe weather shelter is one step closer to getting a lease extension.
The Whatcom County Council voted on Tuesday, March 24, to extend their lease at 925 N. Forest Street through the end of October.
The original lease for the space was due to expire on Tuesday. But the council decided to amend the lease agreement earlier this month so that the space can serve as a respite during extreme heat or poor air quality conditions.
According to Marie Junek with Whatcom County Health and Community Services, this lease extension would provide the county with being able to store equipment used during the winter season at the shelter.
The former church can hold up to 60 residents per night when the facility is open.
Whatcom County will pay $1,000 per month to continue leasing the space and will pay $2,500 for every night the shelter is in operation.
