Explore how the City can support more access to methadone and other opioid treatments. Create an internal task force to coordinate weekly operations to enhance downtown safety and well-being. Prioritize enforcement of laws that prohibit the sale and distribution of illegal drugs within the city.
Increase police presence downtown, through additional emphasis patrols and community engagement. Increase the frequency of cleaning, litter control and other sanitation services downtown. Support public education efforts about substance use disorder. Develop a comprehensive downtown plan to foster safety, economic vitality and sense of community downtown.
Leverage existing resources and seek additional funding and staffing to support these and related efforts. RSU has been highly regarded for their extensive training in de-escalation, non-violent and trauma-informed communications, and commitment to relationship-building and community service. They act as a supportive resource for the downtown business community, residents and visitors; respond to behavioral needs and minor crimes, such a graffiti, littering, public inebriation and trespassing on non-private property; and serve as a connection to downtown resources, including Bellingham Police.
Provide downtown stakeholders with support to respond to behavioral health needs, minor criminal activity and public disturbances by providing a visible presence, de-escalation, reporting and referrals within the Downtown Safety Area see map. One additional security guard patrolling the City-owned parking garages. You may print this guide or request a copy by contacting RSU at The RSU security staff will be clearly identified and uniformed see above.
The RSU security staff are unarmed. RSU has a hands-off policy and is focused on building relationships with all Downtown stakeholders. There is only one security patrol guard on duty at any given time, so response times may vary depending on the amount of activity. The role of police is not affected by downtown safety patrols, and the downtown safety patrols do not replace police officers. If security personnel witness a crime in progress, they will call Yes, the downtown security patrols are trained in de-escalation and can connect individuals with other services, such as the Homeless Outreach Team.
