The past year has been one of transition, learning and renewed focus for Resilient Point Roberts. Following last year’s successful SolarFest and a feasibility study by Cascadia Renewables, we were encouraged by the Washington Department of Commerce to apply for a $3 million grant to install solar and battery-backup systems on key public buildings. When the fire and parks districts chose not to move forward, we shifted our efforts to residential solar.
Under the leadership of volunteer Steven Work, we completed more than 60 free household solar assessments, prepared a draft Request for Proposals, and vetted three companies as potential contractors. However, changes in federal incentives prompted us to pause before issuing the RFP, and we determined it was not the right moment to advance residential solar.
This turning point opened the door for a broader reassessment of where our work could have the greatest impact. Since spring, volunteers conducted research, held discussions and gathered community feedback to better understand the foundations of a resilient local economy. Arts and culture, our natural environment, transportation and emergency preparedness emerged as key themes. Much of this insight helped inform Whatcom County’s recent economic development study, ensuring local perspectives were included.
One area with strong potential is the creative economy – reviving and building on sectors that have historical roots here. In July, volunteers supported the Strings & Things International Music Festival, and throughout the fall we convened artists, makers, and small cultural enterprises to explore forming a makers guild and cooperative retail space at the former National Real Estate office on Gulf Road, soon to open as 5 Mile Sq Studio.
As 2025 comes to a close, we find ourselves in a different place than where we began. While solar development is no longer our central focus, we remain committed to strengthening the conditions that help Point Roberts thrive – resilient, adaptable and stable amid changing circumstances.
Read more, contact us, and join us via: resilientpointroberts.com
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here