Senior Project Advisor
Cathy Wineinger
Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Fall 2025
Keywords
Policing, Alternative Policing, LEAD, Diversion, Public Comments, Civic Politics
Abstract
This study examines community perceptions of public safety in Bellingham, Washington, through analysis of 137 city council public comments from 2023-2025 and corresponding police call data. Analysis reveals what issues receive the most public attention, visible street-level disorder, drug use, encampments, and theft. Comments reflecting growing exhaustion with implementation failures of harm reduction approaches prompting a return to ineffective traditional policing methods. Last, I propose policy recommendations emphasizing transparent performance metrics, strengthened service infrastructure before program expansion, coordinated facility responses, enhanced case management, and comprehensive officer training, arguing that procedural justice depends on systemic capacity to demonstrate tangible improvements in community safety and order.
Recommended Citation
Lugo-Vina, Eduardo, "Community Perceptions of Alternative Policing Strategies in Bellingham, Washington" (2025). WWU Honors College Senior Projects. 1039.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/wwu_honors/1039
Type
Text
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Included in
Law and Politics Commons, Law Enforcement and Corrections Commons, Public Administration Commons, Public Policy Commons, Urban Studies Commons