BELLINGHAM, Wash. — The Bellingham City Council voted Monday night, 3/23/20, to update an ordinance that gives the mayor emergency powers.
The measure, which was first enacted in 1977, says the city can create an Emergency Services Council composed of the mayor and City Council that could act outside of the usual government channels during a natural disaster or disease outbreak, such as the current coronavirus pandemic.Despite rumors that the ordinance would allow the mayor to restrict firearms and alcohol sales, City Attorney Peter Ruffatto said it would not add any power to the city as a whole or to the mayor.
Instead, he said it was a procedural process matter.
Republican governor candidate Tim Eyman attended the meeting to voice his concern regarding 2nd-amendment rights.