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Whatcom County awaits appellate rulings and disbursement orders before Trueblood settlement funds can finance housing plans
Summary
Committee heard an update on the Trueblood class-action settlement: a small sum (about $38,000) sits in the county registry pending orders, larger amounts remain in appeals, and a county grant application tied to diversion and housing was not awarded but officials were encouraged to reapply in 2025.
Committee members received a briefing on the county’s status with funds and grants tied to the Trueblood class-action litigation over delays and restoration for mentally ill defendants.
County staff reported there is about $38,000 currently in the county’s registry and trust from Trueblood-related payments, but those funds are held until judges issue disbursement orders. Staff also said larger sums are affected by appeals; until appellate courts resolve those cases the county cannot disburse additional settlement money.
The committee discussed a related grant application the county submitted for housing capital and diversion supports. County staff said the application was not awarded but that the executive’s office was encouraged to reapply in 2025; that reapplication remains an option. Staff emphasized the practical constraint: even if grant or settlement funds become available, the clerk’s office cannot release money without a court order directing disbursement.
Committee members asked for follow-up reporting when appellate decisions and grant opportunities become clearer; staff said they would provide updates at future meetings.
