BELLINGHAM, Wash. — The City of Bellingham is facing a budget shortfall as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Finance Department expects a significant blow to the City’s General Fund, which heavily relies on the economic activity that has been curtailed to prevent the spread of the disease, like retail, hotels, restaurants, and construction.
The department also projects a $2.4 million combined sales tax revenue shortfall in the Street and Transportation Benefit District Funds, which could limit the City’s ability to engage in future transportation-related capital projects.
Mayor Seth Fleetwood says the city does have a hefty rainy day fund.