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News Release

Commission On Aging To Present Annual Silver Citizen Award - 11/10/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions, the Clark County Commission on Aging has established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award. The COA celebrates 2025 by presenting the 6th annual Silver Citizen Award at their final meeting of the year. This year’s award recognizes Sharon Wodtke.

 

Sharon is currently the President of the Board of Directors for Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc (BGSC). She has been involved with this group since 2018, and, under her leadership, the group has expanded their impact on the aging community. Since 2018, the BGSC has grown their roster from 90 to over 700 participants and serves up to 200 lunches to area seniors each week. Sharon actively spearheaded a revival of senior activities post-pandemic by recruiting volunteers and developing activities and cost saving programs and educational opportunities. The nomination for Sharon states, “Many seniors have even been moved to tears, expressing deep gratitude for the range of opportunities now available to them.”

 

The meeting will begin at 4:30 pm Wednesday, Nov. 19, and is open to the public.

 

Commission on Aging meetings are currently held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

 

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23/323 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

 

The Commission on Aging, supported by the of the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members.

Commission On Aging To Present Annual Silver Citizen Award - 11/10/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions, the Clark County Commission on Aging has established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award. The COA celebrates 2025 by presenting the 6th annual Silver Citizen Award at their final meeting of the year. This year’s award recognizes Sharon Wodtke.

 

Sharon is currently the President of the Board of Directors for Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc (BGSC). She has been involved with this group since 2018, and, under her leadership, the group has expanded their impact on the aging community. Since 2018, the BGSC has grown their roster from 90 to over 700 participants and serves up to 200 lunches to area seniors each week. Sharon actively spearheaded a revival of senior activities post-pandemic by recruiting volunteers and developing activities and cost saving programs and educational opportunities. The nomination for Sharon states, “Many seniors have even been moved to tears, expressing deep gratitude for the range of opportunities now available to them.”

 

The meeting will begin at 4:30 pm Wednesday, Nov. 19, and is open to the public.

 

Commission on Aging meetings are currently held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

 

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23/323 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

 

The Commission on Aging, supported by the of the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members.

Clark County Finance Committee Meeting Scheduled For Nov. 18 - 11/07/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The next Clark County Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am Tuesday, Nov.18, 2025, in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Room 243.

 

Pursuant to RCW 42.30.030(2), which encourages public agencies to provide for public access to meetings, this meeting can also be viewed via Teams or joined telephonically.

  • Dial-in number: 1-213-262-7043
  • Phone ID: 671 772 263#
  • Meeting ID: 227 411 207 256
  • Passcode: Vm9Un9VY
  • Join online here.

See the agenda for the meeting on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/treasurer/investment-reports-meetings.

Clark County Finance Committee Meeting Scheduled For Nov. 18 - 11/07/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The next Clark County Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am Tuesday, Nov.18, 2025, in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Room 243.

 

Pursuant to RCW 42.30.030(2), which encourages public agencies to provide for public access to meetings, this meeting can also be viewed via Teams or joined telephonically.

  • Dial-in number: 1-213-262-7043
  • Phone ID: 671 772 263#
  • Meeting ID: 227 411 207 256
  • Passcode: Vm9Un9VY
  • Join online here.

See the agenda for the meeting on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/treasurer/investment-reports-meetings.

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 11/06/25

The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office contracts with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe to provide medical examiner services. The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a death at ilani hotel.

 

This individual was found on 10/05/2025 in Ridgefield, WA.

The name of the decedent: Arslan   Age: 38 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Lynnwood, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

Place of injury: Hotel

 

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Cowlitz Indian Tribal Public Safety Department.

 

Media release issue date: 11/06/2025

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 11/06/25

The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office contracts with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe to provide medical examiner services. The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a death at ilani hotel.

 

This individual was found on 10/05/2025 in Ridgefield, WA.

The name of the decedent: Arslan   Age: 38 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Lynnwood, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

Place of injury: Hotel

 

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Cowlitz Indian Tribal Public Safety Department.

 

Media release issue date: 11/06/2025

County Releases Agricultural Lands Study As Part Of The Comprehensive Plan Update - 11/05/25

Study will be discussed at a County Council work session, Nov. 12

 

Vancouver, Wash. - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county hired a consultant, ECONorthwest, to conduct an agricultural resource lands study which was released this week.

 

The study focuses on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas, including areas that currently have agricultural and rural zoning. The study evaluates state and local criteria to help identify lands that are used or capable of being used for agricultural production. The county held two open houses in September and October to provide information on the study and gather feedback from community members.

 

The agricultural lands study does not include policy recommendations or recommend changes to land designations. The data within the report will be utilized to inform decision makers and the public in the selection of a preferred alternative that will be further analyzed as a part of the comprehensive plan update.

 

The consultant that produced it will give the Clark County Council an informational briefing as a part of a work session in November. The work session is open to the public, however there will be no public comment as part of the event. Public comment on the study will take place in early 2026 as a part of a discussion on the preferred alternative.

 

The work session will be held on Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor hearing room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex. Information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the council’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.

 

Clark County has not performed a countywide agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994.

 

Comments on the agricultural lands study and the comprehensive plan update can be submitted in the following ways:

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

 

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

County Releases Agricultural Lands Study As Part Of The Comprehensive Plan Update - 11/05/25

Study will be discussed at a County Council work session, Nov. 12

 

Vancouver, Wash. - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county hired a consultant, ECONorthwest, to conduct an agricultural resource lands study which was released this week.

 

The study focuses on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas, including areas that currently have agricultural and rural zoning. The study evaluates state and local criteria to help identify lands that are used or capable of being used for agricultural production. The county held two open houses in September and October to provide information on the study and gather feedback from community members.

 

The agricultural lands study does not include policy recommendations or recommend changes to land designations. The data within the report will be utilized to inform decision makers and the public in the selection of a preferred alternative that will be further analyzed as a part of the comprehensive plan update.

 

The consultant that produced it will give the Clark County Council an informational briefing as a part of a work session in November. The work session is open to the public, however there will be no public comment as part of the event. Public comment on the study will take place in early 2026 as a part of a discussion on the preferred alternative.

 

The work session will be held on Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor hearing room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex. Information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the council’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.

 

Clark County has not performed a countywide agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994.

 

Comments on the agricultural lands study and the comprehensive plan update can be submitted in the following ways:

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

 

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

Public Facilities District Board To Hold Online Meeting Monday, Nov. 17 - 11/04/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The board of the Clark County Public Facilities District will hold a public meeting 4-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, 2025.

 

The meeting will be on the Teams platform. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting can click here to join the meeting and use the meeting password 9uT7i3Dd  or call +1.213.262.7043 and use the access code 471959697#.

 

The Public Facilities District was formed in 2002 for the purpose of participating in the study, planning and development of one or more regional centers that would promote tourism, such as the convention center in downtown Vancouver and exhibition hall at the Clark County Fairgrounds.

 

The board is comprised of five-members and an alternate member.


The board typically tries to meet on the first Monday of February, May, August and November. 

Public Facilities District Board To Hold Online Meeting Monday, Nov. 17 - 11/04/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The board of the Clark County Public Facilities District will hold a public meeting 4-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, 2025.

 

The meeting will be on the Teams platform. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting can click here to join the meeting and use the meeting password 9uT7i3Dd  or call +1.213.262.7043 and use the access code 471959697#.

 

The Public Facilities District was formed in 2002 for the purpose of participating in the study, planning and development of one or more regional centers that would promote tourism, such as the convention center in downtown Vancouver and exhibition hall at the Clark County Fairgrounds.

 

The board is comprised of five-members and an alternate member.


The board typically tries to meet on the first Monday of February, May, August and November. 

General Election Results Availability; Ballots Due 8 Pm Tomorrow, Nov. 4 - 11/03/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Elections Office will publish initial election results for the Nov. 4, general election posted on its website after 8 pm on election day. The initial results will be available on clarkvotes.org at approximately 8:15 pm Tuesday, Nov. 4.

 

Ballots are due by 8 pm on election day, Nov. 4. Clark County has 22 ballot drop boxes that are open 24 hours a day throughout the county. A list of ballot box locations is available at https://clark.wa.gov/elections/ballot-deposit-locations.

General Election Results Availability; Ballots Due 8 Pm Tomorrow, Nov. 4 - 11/03/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Elections Office will publish initial election results for the Nov. 4, general election posted on its website after 8 pm on election day. The initial results will be available on clarkvotes.org at approximately 8:15 pm Tuesday, Nov. 4.

 

Ballots are due by 8 pm on election day, Nov. 4. Clark County has 22 ballot drop boxes that are open 24 hours a day throughout the county. A list of ballot box locations is available at https://clark.wa.gov/elections/ballot-deposit-locations.

County Seeks Applicants For Community Action Advisory Board - 10/30/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants for four positions on the volunteer Community Action Advisory Board. These positions include a low-income representative from the county’s fourth district, and community representatives from the county’s first, third, and fourth districts.

 

Term periods start Jan. 1, 2026, and are three years, ending Dec. 31, 2028. Incumbents have the opportunity for re-appointment to two additional three-year terms.

 

The fifteen-member board makes recommendations about local government funding for basic needs, self-sufficiency, and housing programs. Members also advocate for services supporting low-income communities, families and persons at local, state and federal levels.

 

Clark County is looking to diversify the board composition and encourages people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to apply, especially people of color and from historically oppressed or under-resourced communities.

 

Interested residents must submit an application and résumé to Abby Molloy, Clark County Community Services, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

 

Application information can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/caab-community-action-advisory-board or by calling Abby Molloy at 564.397.7832.

 

Deadline is Friday, Nov. 21.

County Seeks Applicants For Community Action Advisory Board - 10/30/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants for four positions on the volunteer Community Action Advisory Board. These positions include a low-income representative from the county’s fourth district, and community representatives from the county’s first, third, and fourth districts.

 

Term periods start Jan. 1, 2026, and are three years, ending Dec. 31, 2028. Incumbents have the opportunity for re-appointment to two additional three-year terms.

 

The fifteen-member board makes recommendations about local government funding for basic needs, self-sufficiency, and housing programs. Members also advocate for services supporting low-income communities, families and persons at local, state and federal levels.

 

Clark County is looking to diversify the board composition and encourages people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to apply, especially people of color and from historically oppressed or under-resourced communities.

 

Interested residents must submit an application and résumé to Abby Molloy, Clark County Community Services, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

 

Application information can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/caab-community-action-advisory-board or by calling Abby Molloy at 564.397.7832.

 

Deadline is Friday, Nov. 21.

County Auto License Office Closed 9 Am To 1 Pm Nov. 4 For In-service Training - 10/29/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Auto License office will be closed 9 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Normal operating hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday-Friday with closures from noon to 1 pm daily. 

 

The Auto License office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. There are nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County. A complete list of the locations and hours of operation is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview.

 

Many transactions can be completed online. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview for more information.

County Auto License Office Closed 9 Am To 1 Pm Nov. 4 For In-service Training - 10/29/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Auto License office will be closed 9 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Normal operating hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday-Friday with closures from noon to 1 pm daily. 

 

The Auto License office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. There are nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County. A complete list of the locations and hours of operation is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview.

 

Many transactions can be completed online. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview for more information.

County Manager Seeks Volunteer To Fill Opening On Ethics Commission - 10/27/25

Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto is seeking a volunteer to fill an opening for seat position number one on the county’s Ethics Review Commission.

 

The opening is to fill an unexpired three-year term which begins immediately and ends Aug. 1, 2026.

 

Commission members must be qualified in the area of ethical conduct in government. During their tenure, no member shall hold elected office or be an officer of any political party nor be a county employee.

 

The commission is responsible for hearing, investigating, and ruling on complaints of violations of the code of ethics in Clark County Code 2.07.01, Code of Ethical Conduct. The group has regular quarterly meetings and special meetings as needed. Meetings are hybrid with options to attend in-person or virtually.

 

The county’s Code of Ethical Conduct is the result of a voter-approved amendment to the county charter. It was approved by voters in November 2021 and stipulated a deadline of July 31, 2022, for the council to adopt the code and establish the commission.

 

The county council is required to confirm commission appointees recommended by the county manager.

 

Anyone interested in applying should send a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov. 

 

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.

 

Learn more about the Ethics Review Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/ethics-review-commission.

County Manager Seeks Volunteer To Fill Opening On Ethics Commission - 10/27/25

Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto is seeking a volunteer to fill an opening for seat position number one on the county’s Ethics Review Commission.

 

The opening is to fill an unexpired three-year term which begins immediately and ends Aug. 1, 2026.

 

Commission members must be qualified in the area of ethical conduct in government. During their tenure, no member shall hold elected office or be an officer of any political party nor be a county employee.

 

The commission is responsible for hearing, investigating, and ruling on complaints of violations of the code of ethics in Clark County Code 2.07.01, Code of Ethical Conduct. The group has regular quarterly meetings and special meetings as needed. Meetings are hybrid with options to attend in-person or virtually.

 

The county’s Code of Ethical Conduct is the result of a voter-approved amendment to the county charter. It was approved by voters in November 2021 and stipulated a deadline of July 31, 2022, for the council to adopt the code and establish the commission.

 

The county council is required to confirm commission appointees recommended by the county manager.

 

Anyone interested in applying should send a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov. 

 

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.

 

Learn more about the Ethics Review Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/ethics-review-commission.

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 10/23/25

The following information is in reference to two deaths investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. These investigations are related to a shooting at a Hazel Dell convenience store on Oct. 17, 2025.

 

Decedent 1:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Kumar, Pardeep   Age: 37 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Penetrating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other person(s) with handgun

Place of injury: 7-11 convenience store

 

Decedent 2:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Taylor, Ryan   Age: 26 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Perforating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Suicide

How the injury occurred: Shot self with handgun

Place of injury: convenience store

 

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

 

Media release issue date: 10/23/2025

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 10/23/25

The following information is in reference to two deaths investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. These investigations are related to a shooting at a Hazel Dell convenience store on Oct. 17, 2025.

 

Decedent 1:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Kumar, Pardeep   Age: 37 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Penetrating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other person(s) with handgun

Place of injury: 7-11 convenience store

 

Decedent 2:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Taylor, Ryan   Age: 26 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Perforating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Suicide

How the injury occurred: Shot self with handgun

Place of injury: convenience store

 

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

 

Media release issue date: 10/23/2025

County Treasurer Alishia Topper Concludes Eight-year Term On Washington State Housing Finance Commission (Photo) - 10/23/25

Vancouver, Wash. — Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will conclude her service on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) this month after completing the maximum terms allowed by law. Treasurer Topper was appointed to the Commission in July 2017 by Governor Jay Inslee to serve as the elected official representative on the 11-member board.

 

During her tenure, Treasurer Topper served as Chair of the Commission’s Audit Committee and represented Washington nationally as a member of the National Conference of State Housing Boards (NCSHB) for three years, ending her service as First Vice President. In these roles, she helped guide programs that expanded access to affordable housing and homeownership opportunities across Clark County and Washington State. Among her local achievements was partnering Clark County with the Commission to create and administer a $2 million down payment assistance program for moderate- and low-income first-time homebuyers. Through this partnership, the Commission matched up to $15,000 per loan, providing a total of $60,000 in support to qualified homebuyers.

 

Under her leadership and collaboration with local partners, 2,355 affordable homes were built in Clark County using the Commission’s federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, contributing significantly to the region’s supply of quality, affordable housing.

 

“Serving on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission has been a true honor,” said Treasurer Topper. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the progress we’ve made to make housing more accessible for families across Clark County and throughout Washington. The need for affordable housing continues to grow, and it’s critical that we keep investing in solutions that help working families, seniors, and individuals find stable, affordable homes. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as the local elected official representative and to contribute to meaningful solutions that support our residents and communities.”

 

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission works to increase housing access and affordability through innovative financing programs that support homebuyers, renters, and community development projects statewide.

 

For more information about the Commission’s work, visit https://www.wshfc.org.

Attached Media Files: Alishia Topper.jpg,

County Treasurer Alishia Topper Concludes Eight-year Term On Washington State Housing Finance Commission (Photo) - 10/23/25

Vancouver, Wash. — Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will conclude her service on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) this month after completing the maximum terms allowed by law. Treasurer Topper was appointed to the Commission in July 2017 by Governor Jay Inslee to serve as the elected official representative on the 11-member board.

 

During her tenure, Treasurer Topper served as Chair of the Commission’s Audit Committee and represented Washington nationally as a member of the National Conference of State Housing Boards (NCSHB) for three years, ending her service as First Vice President. In these roles, she helped guide programs that expanded access to affordable housing and homeownership opportunities across Clark County and Washington State. Among her local achievements was partnering Clark County with the Commission to create and administer a $2 million down payment assistance program for moderate- and low-income first-time homebuyers. Through this partnership, the Commission matched up to $15,000 per loan, providing a total of $60,000 in support to qualified homebuyers.

 

Under her leadership and collaboration with local partners, 2,355 affordable homes were built in Clark County using the Commission’s federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, contributing significantly to the region’s supply of quality, affordable housing.

 

“Serving on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission has been a true honor,” said Treasurer Topper. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the progress we’ve made to make housing more accessible for families across Clark County and throughout Washington. The need for affordable housing continues to grow, and it’s critical that we keep investing in solutions that help working families, seniors, and individuals find stable, affordable homes. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as the local elected official representative and to contribute to meaningful solutions that support our residents and communities.”

 

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission works to increase housing access and affordability through innovative financing programs that support homebuyers, renters, and community development projects statewide.

 

For more information about the Commission’s work, visit https://www.wshfc.org.

Attached Media Files: Alishia Topper.jpg,

Clark County Council Proclamation, Community Events Mark 40th Anniversary Of Legacy Lands Program (Photo) - 10/21/25

Vancouver, Wash. – In 2025, Clark County’s Legacy Lands program celebrates its 40th anniversary. Since 1985, the program has protected, preserved and restored 5,500 acres of natural space. Protecting these valuable natural resources protects air, water and wildlife habitat, and provides recreational opportunities at some of the area’s most scenic locations. Popular sites that are part of the Legacy Lands portfolio include Fallen Leaf Lake, Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park and trail, Green Mountain, La Center Bottoms Wetlands, the Lacamas Heritage Trail, Lucia Falls, Mable Kerr Park, Moulton Falls, Salmon Creek Greenway, Schmid Family Park, areas on the shores of Vancouver Lake, and portions of Whipple Creek Regional Park.

 

Clark County Council has proclaimed October to be “Legacy Lands Month”. To celebrate the occasion, Clark County Public Works is hosting three community events.

  • Oct. 22: Salmon Creek Greenway Trail guided walk. Participants will embark on a one-hour guided walk at one of the most beloved Legacy Lands locations, learning about the greenway’s history and efforts to restore water quality in Salmon Creek. Participants should meet at the west entrance to Salmon Creek Regional Park, located at 800 NE 117th St., at 5 p.m.
  • Oct. 29: Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area Project Open House. Clark County and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe are partnering on a project to restore habitat along Salmon Creek and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at this former golf course, acquired through the Legacy Lands program. At the open house, project staff will share the final draft project plans and solicit feedback. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more about the open house on the project webpage.
  • Nov. 8: Bird walk with Vancouver Audubon. Participants will join the Vancouver Audubon to view and learn about migrating birds, including sandhill cranes. The walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Additional details can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

 

More information about these events and the Legacy Lands program can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: Bridge at Moulton Falls Regional Park.jpg, Legacy Lands 40th anniversary events flyer.png,

Clark County Council Proclamation, Community Events Mark 40th Anniversary Of Legacy Lands Program (Photo) - 10/21/25

Vancouver, Wash. – In 2025, Clark County’s Legacy Lands program celebrates its 40th anniversary. Since 1985, the program has protected, preserved and restored 5,500 acres of natural space. Protecting these valuable natural resources protects air, water and wildlife habitat, and provides recreational opportunities at some of the area’s most scenic locations. Popular sites that are part of the Legacy Lands portfolio include Fallen Leaf Lake, Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park and trail, Green Mountain, La Center Bottoms Wetlands, the Lacamas Heritage Trail, Lucia Falls, Mable Kerr Park, Moulton Falls, Salmon Creek Greenway, Schmid Family Park, areas on the shores of Vancouver Lake, and portions of Whipple Creek Regional Park.

 

Clark County Council has proclaimed October to be “Legacy Lands Month”. To celebrate the occasion, Clark County Public Works is hosting three community events.

  • Oct. 22: Salmon Creek Greenway Trail guided walk. Participants will embark on a one-hour guided walk at one of the most beloved Legacy Lands locations, learning about the greenway’s history and efforts to restore water quality in Salmon Creek. Participants should meet at the west entrance to Salmon Creek Regional Park, located at 800 NE 117th St., at 5 p.m.
  • Oct. 29: Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area Project Open House. Clark County and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe are partnering on a project to restore habitat along Salmon Creek and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at this former golf course, acquired through the Legacy Lands program. At the open house, project staff will share the final draft project plans and solicit feedback. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more about the open house on the project webpage.
  • Nov. 8: Bird walk with Vancouver Audubon. Participants will join the Vancouver Audubon to view and learn about migrating birds, including sandhill cranes. The walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Additional details can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

 

More information about these events and the Legacy Lands program can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: Bridge at Moulton Falls Regional Park.jpg, Legacy Lands 40th anniversary events flyer.png,

UPDATE: County Manager Seeks Volunteer For Open Seat On Arts Commission - 10/21/25

 

UPDATE, Oct. 21: A previous version of this release had an incorrect website for the Arts Commission. The correct website is https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill an open position on the Clark County Arts Commission.

 

The opening is for an at-large representative living in unincorporated Clark County. The term is for two years and begins immediately.

 

The Arts Commission is made up of 11 volunteers. Each participating city appoints one member, and the county manager appoints three members representing the arts, arts education and business communities. The commission meets at 5 pm on the first Tuesday of each month.

 

The commission advises and collaborates with the county council and city councils and reports accomplishments to the community. Members advocate for the arts in the community, at public hearings, budget hearings and other public forums.

 

Anyone wishing to apply should submit a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applications also can be emailed to jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

 

Application deadline is 5 pm, Friday, Nov. 14.

 

Learn more about the Clark County Arts Commission at https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

UPDATE: County Manager Seeks Volunteer For Open Seat On Arts Commission - 10/21/25

 

UPDATE, Oct. 21: A previous version of this release had an incorrect website for the Arts Commission. The correct website is https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill an open position on the Clark County Arts Commission.

 

The opening is for an at-large representative living in unincorporated Clark County. The term is for two years and begins immediately.

 

The Arts Commission is made up of 11 volunteers. Each participating city appoints one member, and the county manager appoints three members representing the arts, arts education and business communities. The commission meets at 5 pm on the first Tuesday of each month.

 

The commission advises and collaborates with the county council and city councils and reports accomplishments to the community. Members advocate for the arts in the community, at public hearings, budget hearings and other public forums.

 

Anyone wishing to apply should submit a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applications also can be emailed to jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

 

Application deadline is 5 pm, Friday, Nov. 14.

 

Learn more about the Clark County Arts Commission at https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

County Seeks Volunteers For Railroad Advisory Board - 10/20/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants to fill up to five seats on a fifteen-person board that advises the county on matters related to the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

 

Applicants with railroad or railroad-related experience, or business experience using freight-rail service, are desired.

 

Board members serve three-year terms. Terms are anticipated to begin after Jan. 1, 2026.

 

Those interested should submit a letter of interest and/or resume to PWRailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov or by mail to 4700 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665.

 

More information about the Railroad Advisory Board is available on the county’s website.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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County Seeks Volunteers For Railroad Advisory Board - 10/20/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants to fill up to five seats on a fifteen-person board that advises the county on matters related to the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

 

Applicants with railroad or railroad-related experience, or business experience using freight-rail service, are desired.

 

Board members serve three-year terms. Terms are anticipated to begin after Jan. 1, 2026.

 

Those interested should submit a letter of interest and/or resume to PWRailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov or by mail to 4700 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665.

 

More information about the Railroad Advisory Board is available on the county’s website.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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County Council To Hold Hearing On Local Homeless Plan - 10/17/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council will hold a public hearing to consider adoption of the county’s five-year Local Homeless Housing Plan. The hearing is scheduled for 6 pm Tuesday, Nov. 18.

 

County Council hearings are held in a hybrid format with both in person and online viewing options. Hearings are held in the sixth-floor hearing room in the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. Online participation is via the WebEx platform. A link for the hearing and online participation instructions will be available several days prior to the hearing on the council’s website.

 

Public testimony will be accepted at the public hearing.

 

The county has been working with Council for the Homeless as the lead entity that engages in LHHP development. ECOnorthwest is the consultant group that will assist in executing the LHHP.

 

The LHHP Steering Committee is a collaborative body responsible for guiding the implementation and oversight of the Local Homeless Housing Plan in Clark County. Comprised of key stakeholders, including local government representatives, service providers, individuals with lived experience, and community partners, the committee ensures strategic alignment, monitors progress, and advises on policy and funding priorities to address homelessness effectively.

 

LHHP guidelines are available on the Washington State Department of Commerce website. 

 

More information on development of the county’s LHHP including a timeline and list of steering committee members is available on the county website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/local-homeless-housing-plan.

 

For questions, contact kayla-renee.williams@clark.wa.gov.

County Council To Hold Hearing On Local Homeless Plan - 10/17/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council will hold a public hearing to consider adoption of the county’s five-year Local Homeless Housing Plan. The hearing is scheduled for 6 pm Tuesday, Nov. 18.

 

County Council hearings are held in a hybrid format with both in person and online viewing options. Hearings are held in the sixth-floor hearing room in the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. Online participation is via the WebEx platform. A link for the hearing and online participation instructions will be available several days prior to the hearing on the council’s website.

 

Public testimony will be accepted at the public hearing.

 

The county has been working with Council for the Homeless as the lead entity that engages in LHHP development. ECOnorthwest is the consultant group that will assist in executing the LHHP.

 

The LHHP Steering Committee is a collaborative body responsible for guiding the implementation and oversight of the Local Homeless Housing Plan in Clark County. Comprised of key stakeholders, including local government representatives, service providers, individuals with lived experience, and community partners, the committee ensures strategic alignment, monitors progress, and advises on policy and funding priorities to address homelessness effectively.

 

LHHP guidelines are available on the Washington State Department of Commerce website. 

 

More information on development of the county’s LHHP including a timeline and list of steering committee members is available on the county website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/local-homeless-housing-plan.

 

For questions, contact kayla-renee.williams@clark.wa.gov.

When Halloween Tricks Are Over, Residents Can Treat The Earth By Composting Pumpkins (Photo) - 10/16/25

Vancouver, Wash. – When Halloween celebrations are over, residents can compost their pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns to give them new life.

 

Each year, millions of Halloween pumpkins are sent to landfills throughout the United States. In landfills, pumpkins and other organic wastes produce methane, a greenhouse gas at least 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By composting pumpkins instead of disposing of them in the garbage, residents can return the nutrient-rich material to the earth instead of letting it waste away in the landfill. To further reduce waste before composting, residents should consider saving and toasting pumpkin seeds for a healthy snack, and pureeing the pumpkin to use in fall recipes.

 

Clark County residents have several options for composting their pumpkins:

  • Free drop off: Pumpkins can be taken to a We Compost Community Hub for free composting. Community hubs are open to all residents year-round and accept all food scraps. Locations can be found on the We Compost webpage at clarkgreenneighbors.org/we-compost.
  • Curbside yard debris service: Clark County residents who subscribe to curbside yard debris service can dispose of pumpkins in their yard debris carts in October and November. Residents in the cities of Vancouver and Ridgefield who subscribe to curbside organics service can dispose of pumpkins in their carts any time during the year. Residents in Camas and Washougal cannot dispose of pumpkins in their yard debris carts at any time of the year.
  • Backyard compost: Pumpkins can be chopped into smaller pieces and added to backyard compost bins or piles. Residents can learn how to backyard compost at the Clark County Composter Recycler program’s fall workshops. Workshop information can be found at clarkcountycomposts.org/.

Before composting carved or decorated pumpkins via any of the methods above, all paint, glitter, decorations, wax and candles must be removed. Residents planning ahead to compost their pumpkins are encouraged to use water-based paint that can be easily washed off. Less washable paint and decorations can be removed prior to composting using a peeler to remove decorated skin. If paint or other decorations can’t be removed, the pumpkin should be disposed of in the garbage.

 

Residents can learn more about sustainable pumpkin disposal at clarkgreenneighbors.org/pumpkins.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Attached Media Files: Pumpkins in compost cart .jpg,

When Halloween Tricks Are Over, Residents Can Treat The Earth By Composting Pumpkins (Photo) - 10/16/25

Vancouver, Wash. – When Halloween celebrations are over, residents can compost their pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns to give them new life.

 

Each year, millions of Halloween pumpkins are sent to landfills throughout the United States. In landfills, pumpkins and other organic wastes produce methane, a greenhouse gas at least 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By composting pumpkins instead of disposing of them in the garbage, residents can return the nutrient-rich material to the earth instead of letting it waste away in the landfill. To further reduce waste before composting, residents should consider saving and toasting pumpkin seeds for a healthy snack, and pureeing the pumpkin to use in fall recipes.

 

Clark County residents have several options for composting their pumpkins:

  • Free drop off: Pumpkins can be taken to a We Compost Community Hub for free composting. Community hubs are open to all residents year-round and accept all food scraps. Locations can be found on the We Compost webpage at clarkgreenneighbors.org/we-compost.
  • Curbside yard debris service: Clark County residents who subscribe to curbside yard debris service can dispose of pumpkins in their yard debris carts in October and November. Residents in the cities of Vancouver and Ridgefield who subscribe to curbside organics service can dispose of pumpkins in their carts any time during the year. Residents in Camas and Washougal cannot dispose of pumpkins in their yard debris carts at any time of the year.
  • Backyard compost: Pumpkins can be chopped into smaller pieces and added to backyard compost bins or piles. Residents can learn how to backyard compost at the Clark County Composter Recycler program’s fall workshops. Workshop information can be found at clarkcountycomposts.org/.

Before composting carved or decorated pumpkins via any of the methods above, all paint, glitter, decorations, wax and candles must be removed. Residents planning ahead to compost their pumpkins are encouraged to use water-based paint that can be easily washed off. Less washable paint and decorations can be removed prior to composting using a peeler to remove decorated skin. If paint or other decorations can’t be removed, the pumpkin should be disposed of in the garbage.

 

Residents can learn more about sustainable pumpkin disposal at clarkgreenneighbors.org/pumpkins.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Attached Media Files: Pumpkins in compost cart .jpg,

Clark County Hosting Open House On Oct. 29 To Present Updates To The Restoration Concept And Trail Plans For The Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area (Photo) - 10/15/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County and The Cowlitz Indian Tribe are working to restore habitat and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at the Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area in Battle Ground. The property, a former golf course, was purchased in 2022 by the county’s Legacy Lands program. Preliminary planning is underway to improve this public open space by restoring fish habitat in Salmon Creek and improving nature-based recreational opportunities like walking, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking and cultural and environmental education.

 

The Tribe has prepared preliminary designs for restoring salmon and steelhead habitat and removing fish passage barriers along the two miles of Salmon Creek running through the property. Salmon Creek provides critical spawning and rearing habitat for populations of fall chinook, coho, and chum salmon, and winter steelhead. The Tribe secured grant funding from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board to complete this preliminary design work. The county worked closely with the Tribe to incorporate restoration into the county’s long-term plan for developing Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area.

 

In April, Clark County and the Tribe presented draft concepts to the community and collected feedback. A preferred concept has been developed, incorporating community feedback, elements to restore the creek to a more natural state, and features to improve public access, trails, and wildlife viewing. Community members are invited to view and learn more at the upcoming open house on Oct. 29.

 

Community members can attend the open house in person at the Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for attendees to view displays and meet with staff. Coffee and cookies will be provided.

 

County staff will give a presentation at 6:30 with a Q&A (question-and-answer) session immediately following. The presentation and Q&A session will also be streamed online via Webex. Online attendees can ask questions during the Q&A via the chat feature. Information about participating via Webex can be found on the project webpage.

 

Presentation slides, visuals, and a recording of the presentation and Q&A session will be posted on the project webpage within five to ten business days after the open house. Materials are available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian, and additional languages upon request. To request interpretation, translation or accommodations to participate in the open house, please contact the project manager, Evelyn Ives, at evelyn.ives@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5885.

 

Project information and updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/gordy-jolma-family-natural-area.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: People walking at the Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area.jpg,

Clark County Hosting Open House On Oct. 29 To Present Updates To The Restoration Concept And Trail Plans For The Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area (Photo) - 10/15/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County and The Cowlitz Indian Tribe are working to restore habitat and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at the Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area in Battle Ground. The property, a former golf course, was purchased in 2022 by the county’s Legacy Lands program. Preliminary planning is underway to improve this public open space by restoring fish habitat in Salmon Creek and improving nature-based recreational opportunities like walking, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking and cultural and environmental education.

 

The Tribe has prepared preliminary designs for restoring salmon and steelhead habitat and removing fish passage barriers along the two miles of Salmon Creek running through the property. Salmon Creek provides critical spawning and rearing habitat for populations of fall chinook, coho, and chum salmon, and winter steelhead. The Tribe secured grant funding from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board to complete this preliminary design work. The county worked closely with the Tribe to incorporate restoration into the county’s long-term plan for developing Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area.

 

In April, Clark County and the Tribe presented draft concepts to the community and collected feedback. A preferred concept has been developed, incorporating community feedback, elements to restore the creek to a more natural state, and features to improve public access, trails, and wildlife viewing. Community members are invited to view and learn more at the upcoming open house on Oct. 29.

 

Community members can attend the open house in person at the Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for attendees to view displays and meet with staff. Coffee and cookies will be provided.

 

County staff will give a presentation at 6:30 with a Q&A (question-and-answer) session immediately following. The presentation and Q&A session will also be streamed online via Webex. Online attendees can ask questions during the Q&A via the chat feature. Information about participating via Webex can be found on the project webpage.

 

Presentation slides, visuals, and a recording of the presentation and Q&A session will be posted on the project webpage within five to ten business days after the open house. Materials are available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian, and additional languages upon request. To request interpretation, translation or accommodations to participate in the open house, please contact the project manager, Evelyn Ives, at evelyn.ives@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5885.

 

Project information and updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/gordy-jolma-family-natural-area.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: People walking at the Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area.jpg,

Oct. 28 Symposium To Bring Community Together To Discuss Nonpoint Source Pollution Impacts On Water Quality (Photo) - 10/15/25

Vancouver, Wash. – As water quality in our lakes, rivers and streams becomes an increasingly visible issue, the community is continuing to come together to collaborate on solutions to protect clean water. To this end, the Clark County Clean Water Commission is hosting the Nonpoint Source Pollution Symposium from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

 

Nonpoint source pollution significantly contributes to poor water quality in many watersheds in Clark County. Unlike point source pollution from a single location, nonpoint source pollution originates from many different sources, such as agricultural runoff, reduction in tree canopy, erosion, and faulty septic systems. Stormwater that runs off of streets, parking lots, and buildings when it rains is the number one way that nonpoint source pollution enters local waterways. The symposium will include multiple presentations to foster a shared understanding of water quality challenges and to foster discussion of actions needed to reduce this type of pollution.

 

“Addressing the impacts of stormwater runoff is the last frontier to protect and restore our urban streams,” said Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall.

 

Speakers include representatives from:

  • City of Vancouver
  • Clark Conservation District
  • Clark County Community Planning
  • Clark County Public Health
  • Clark County Public Works
  • Clark Regional Wastewater District
  • Cowlitz Indian Tribe
  • Friends of Trees
  • Kailash Ecovillage
  • King County
  • Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership
  • Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board
  • Washington State Conservation Commission
  • Washington State Department of Ecology
  • Washington State University

 

“Improving water quality in Clark County takes all of us working together,” said Clark Conservation District’s Executive Director, Zorah Oppenheimer. “With resources and support, residents can make meaningful progress in reducing nonpoint source pollution through actions such as planting streamside areas, maintaining their septic systems, and managing their livestock. Even picking up dog poop at home and on walks can improve the health of our streams, particularly in high-traffic recreational areas such as Lacamas and Vancouver Lakes.”

 

Residents interested in learning about resources for implementing water quality solutions at home are encouraged to attend the symposium. “When people think of the Pacific Northwest, they think of stunning nature and abundant waters, but it takes intention and deep commitment for us to keep those waters clean for future generations,” said Clean Water Commissioner Tracy Ceravolo.

 

Those interested in attending in person must register by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21, via web form posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage. The event will also be streamed live via Webex. Registration is not required to view the livestream. Information and instructions on viewing the livestream will be posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage prior to the event.

 

Meeting interpretation, additional translation and other accommodations can be requested by contacting the Clean Water division at cleanwater@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.4345. 

 

The Clean Water Commission is a nine-member volunteer advisory board comprised of Clark County residents. The commission reports to the Clark County Council and county manager on program opportunities and priorities for the Clean Water division of Public Works. Previous symposiums hosted by the commission focused on Lacamas and Vancouver lakes. Past symposium presentations are available on the Clean Water Commission webpage.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: storm drain.jpg,

Oct. 28 Symposium To Bring Community Together To Discuss Nonpoint Source Pollution Impacts On Water Quality (Photo) - 10/15/25

Vancouver, Wash. – As water quality in our lakes, rivers and streams becomes an increasingly visible issue, the community is continuing to come together to collaborate on solutions to protect clean water. To this end, the Clark County Clean Water Commission is hosting the Nonpoint Source Pollution Symposium from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

 

Nonpoint source pollution significantly contributes to poor water quality in many watersheds in Clark County. Unlike point source pollution from a single location, nonpoint source pollution originates from many different sources, such as agricultural runoff, reduction in tree canopy, erosion, and faulty septic systems. Stormwater that runs off of streets, parking lots, and buildings when it rains is the number one way that nonpoint source pollution enters local waterways. The symposium will include multiple presentations to foster a shared understanding of water quality challenges and to foster discussion of actions needed to reduce this type of pollution.

 

“Addressing the impacts of stormwater runoff is the last frontier to protect and restore our urban streams,” said Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall.

 

Speakers include representatives from:

  • City of Vancouver
  • Clark Conservation District
  • Clark County Community Planning
  • Clark County Public Health
  • Clark County Public Works
  • Clark Regional Wastewater District
  • Cowlitz Indian Tribe
  • Friends of Trees
  • Kailash Ecovillage
  • King County
  • Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership
  • Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board
  • Washington State Conservation Commission
  • Washington State Department of Ecology
  • Washington State University

 

“Improving water quality in Clark County takes all of us working together,” said Clark Conservation District’s Executive Director, Zorah Oppenheimer. “With resources and support, residents can make meaningful progress in reducing nonpoint source pollution through actions such as planting streamside areas, maintaining their septic systems, and managing their livestock. Even picking up dog poop at home and on walks can improve the health of our streams, particularly in high-traffic recreational areas such as Lacamas and Vancouver Lakes.”

 

Residents interested in learning about resources for implementing water quality solutions at home are encouraged to attend the symposium. “When people think of the Pacific Northwest, they think of stunning nature and abundant waters, but it takes intention and deep commitment for us to keep those waters clean for future generations,” said Clean Water Commissioner Tracy Ceravolo.

 

Those interested in attending in person must register by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21, via web form posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage. The event will also be streamed live via Webex. Registration is not required to view the livestream. Information and instructions on viewing the livestream will be posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage prior to the event.

 

Meeting interpretation, additional translation and other accommodations can be requested by contacting the Clean Water division at cleanwater@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.4345. 

 

The Clean Water Commission is a nine-member volunteer advisory board comprised of Clark County residents. The commission reports to the Clark County Council and county manager on program opportunities and priorities for the Clean Water division of Public Works. Previous symposiums hosted by the commission focused on Lacamas and Vancouver lakes. Past symposium presentations are available on the Clean Water Commission webpage.

 

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

 

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

 

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

 

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Attached Media Files: storm drain.jpg,

County Hosts Second Open House Regarding Agricultural Lands Study - 10/14/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county is conducting an agricultural resource lands study.

 

Following the first open house in September, this second event will provide information on the methodology used for the study. Some high-level initial findings will also be discussed. The upcoming open house is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 pm Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Battle Ground Community Center, 912 E Main St. Registration for the open house is encouraged at bit.ly/2025CPAgReg2.

 

Clark County has not performed a comprehensive agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994. The general purpose of the study is to help inform the county’s decisions regarding the 2025 comprehensive plan update and ensure that the county’s agricultural resource lands designations comply with applicable county code and state statutes. 

 

The study will focus on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas. It will include currently designated agricultural resource lands and rural zoned lands.

 

Translation services may be available upon request. Request must be sent to comp.plan@clark.wa.gov by 10-22-25.

 

Los servicios de traducción pueden estar disponibles si los solicita. Se debe enviar la solicitud a comp.plan@clark.wa.gov antes del 10-22-25.

 

Услуга письменного перевода может быть предоставлена по запросу. Запрос необходимо направить на адрес comp.plan@clark.wa.gov до 25.10.22.

 

可应要求提供翻译服务。 请求必须在 2025 年 10 月 22 日之前发送至 comp.plan@clark.wa.gov

 

Comments can be submitted in the following ways: 

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

 

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

County Hosts Second Open House Regarding Agricultural Lands Study - 10/14/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county is conducting an agricultural resource lands study.

 

Following the first open house in September, this second event will provide information on the methodology used for the study. Some high-level initial findings will also be discussed. The upcoming open house is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 pm Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Battle Ground Community Center, 912 E Main St. Registration for the open house is encouraged at bit.ly/2025CPAgReg2.

 

Clark County has not performed a comprehensive agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994. The general purpose of the study is to help inform the county’s decisions regarding the 2025 comprehensive plan update and ensure that the county’s agricultural resource lands designations comply with applicable county code and state statutes. 

 

The study will focus on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas. It will include currently designated agricultural resource lands and rural zoned lands.

 

Translation services may be available upon request. Request must be sent to comp.plan@clark.wa.gov by 10-22-25.

 

Los servicios de traducción pueden estar disponibles si los solicita. Se debe enviar la solicitud a comp.plan@clark.wa.gov antes del 10-22-25.

 

Услуга письменного перевода может быть предоставлена по запросу. Запрос необходимо направить на адрес comp.plan@clark.wa.gov до 25.10.22.

 

可应要求提供翻译服务。 请求必须在 2025 年 10 月 22 日之前发送至 comp.plan@clark.wa.gov

 

Comments can be submitted in the following ways: 

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

 

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

Clark County Celebrates Local Businesses And Individuals For Disability Employment Awareness Awards - 10/14/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County celebrated individuals and employers for their contributions to inclusive workplaces at the 25th Annual Clark County Disability Employment Awareness Month Awards event on Oct. 8. The event honored the role people with developmental disabilities have in supporting a dynamic, productive workforce and recognized the leadership of the business community.

 

The event, which also celebrated October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, included a keynote video highlighting both the historical and current perspectives on the value of work, advocacy, and community in Clark County.

 

Here are the award winners for each category:

 

Trader Joe’s, Salmon Creek

Large Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(50 or more local employees)

 

Little Lights Learning Center

Small Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(49 or less local employees)

 

Doug McPherson

Employee of the year

 

Maradee Potter

Dennis Campbell Outstanding Service Award for outstanding service to improve the lives of individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities

 

Adrienne Hollister

David Hanawalt Service Award for an employment specialist who demonstrates service to their clients above and beyond clients’ expectations, exceeds the contractual expectations, and promotes client success and growth.

 

Zach Worthy

Spotlight on Innovation Award honored an individual who saw a community need and partnered with a local organization to meet that need, creating a paid job for themself in the process.

Clark County Celebrates Local Businesses And Individuals For Disability Employment Awareness Awards - 10/14/25

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County celebrated individuals and employers for their contributions to inclusive workplaces at the 25th Annual Clark County Disability Employment Awareness Month Awards event on Oct. 8. The event honored the role people with developmental disabilities have in supporting a dynamic, productive workforce and recognized the leadership of the business community.

 

The event, which also celebrated October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, included a keynote video highlighting both the historical and current perspectives on the value of work, advocacy, and community in Clark County.

 

Here are the award winners for each category:

 

Trader Joe’s, Salmon Creek

Large Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(50 or more local employees)

 

Little Lights Learning Center

Small Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(49 or less local employees)

 

Doug McPherson

Employee of the year

 

Maradee Potter

Dennis Campbell Outstanding Service Award for outstanding service to improve the lives of individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities

 

Adrienne Hollister

David Hanawalt Service Award for an employment specialist who demonstrates service to their clients above and beyond clients’ expectations, exceeds the contractual expectations, and promotes client success and growth.

 

Zach Worthy

Spotlight on Innovation Award honored an individual who saw a community need and partnered with a local organization to meet that need, creating a paid job for themself in the process.