BELLINGHAM, Wash. -- Bellingham coal opponents are going to appeal a judge's decision to block a citizen initiative that would have banned coal trains from the city.

Stoney Bird with coal-free Bellingham says Friday's Court decision favored the City and the railway over the citizens’ right to decide.



Whatcom County Superior Court ruled that the so-called "Bellingham Community Bill of Rights" initiative was legally invalid and would not appear on the November ballot.

Coal-Free Bellingham yesterday appealed the decision to the state court of appeals.

The group is asking that a decision be made before August 28, which is the last day the county auditor can decide to put the measure on the ballot.