City Hall Sweep Winter 2021

City of Bellingham, Whatcom County

Re: January 28, 2021

City Hall protestors and campers seeking refuge for the winter were forcefully removed by  SWAT and miltarized law enforcement one day prior to scheduled notice to vacate. Local civilian outreach perplexed by the early decree and action hastily attempted to assist campers off City property for relocation.

In formal address from the Mayor, the public was informed that City Hall received threats of violence which prompted security increase. Camp area was evacuated and bulldozed. Some activists were arrested.

Campers were directed to use the local shelter operated by Lighthouse Mission Ministries called Base Camp located at the old Public Market center. The building was leased to expand the emergency shelter setting previously located on Holly Street. 

Prior to camp dispersal, 25 units of temporary shelter were purchased by Whatcom County and erected at Frank Geri lot behind the Civic Stadium. The site, Swift Haven, is an emergency winter  camp hosted by Homes Now in partnership with City of Bellingham who is providing property access and waste management to the new residents.