County Seeks Public Comment On Changes To Plan Tied To CDBG And HOME Funding - 06/25/26

Vancouver, Wash. – All comments are welcomed and encouraged regarding a substantial amendment to the 2023 Annual Action Plan. The substantial amendment outlines how Clark County proposes to reallocate CDBG funds.

The 2023 Annual Action Plan outlines the proposed activities to support the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan and can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/cdbg-and-home-documents.

In accordance with Consolidated Plan requirements at 24 CFR Part 91 Subpart B and the county’s Citizen Participation Plan, changes to the Annual Action Plan through a Substantial Amendment are advertised to provide opportunity for public comment.

Comments about the proposed changes may be submitted by email to Nooreen.Ebraim@clark.wa.gov or by calling 564.397.7834.

Comments will be accepted through Monday, July 27, 2026.

Substantial Amendment to Program Year 2023 activities:

Canceled project: The City of Ridgefield has withdrawn its application for funding for the Sargent Street Improvements project in the amount of $202,500 of CDBG funds.

New funding: Proud Ground – Homebuyer Assistance. Homebuyer assistance for three first-time homebuyers using a community land trust model to keep the homes permanently affordable. $119,546 of PY2023 CDBG funds

New funding: Greater Vancouver Chamber – Business assistance. Business assistance and educational resources for low-income microenterprise owners. $76,000 of CDBG funds.

Increased funding: Clark County – Homeowner Rehabilitation Program. Provide essential housing repairs to low-income homeowners to maintain their existing housing safely and affordably. $6,954 of PY2023 CDBG funds.

Clark County Auto License Will Remain Closed Until July 7 For Renovation - 06/24/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Auto License office is closed to in-person services for renovations in the customer service area. The renovations will enhance the overall customer service experience and accessibility.

The office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. and will reopen on Tuesday, July 7. While in-person services are not available during the closure, the office will continue to remain open and fully available by phone and email: 564.397.2288, Auto.License@clark.wa.gov.

Nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County will remain open for in-person services during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available 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.

Road Closures Begin In July For Reconstruction Of Southeast Blair Road - 06/23/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is improving a 1.44-mile segment of Southeast Blair Road north of Washougal. Construction-related traffic impacts will begin in July.

The project includes:

• Repaving the roadway
• Removing and reconstructing approximately 200 feet of deteriorating roadway
• Improving the banking (tilt) at select curves to improve handling and safety
• Replacing existing guardrail at designated locations
• Upgrading bridge rail on the bridge carrying Southeast Blair Road over the Little Washougal River
• Replacing all roadway signage

To reconstruct a 200-foot section of the road between Southeast Krohn and Washougal River roads, the road must fully close to through traffic between early July and the end of August. Access will be maintained for properties located within the closure area. Through traffic will be directed onto a detour route. Emergency vehicle access will also be maintained during construction. Closure start and end dates are approximate and subject to change.

Project information and updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/southeast-blair-road.

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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Charter Review Commission To Hold Public Meeting On Proposed Charter Amendments - 06/23/26

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission has scheduled a public meeting to determine which proposed charter amendments will be placed on the 2026 general election ballot.

The meeting will be at 5 pm Wednesday, July 8. The commission holds hybrid meetings, and the public is encouraged to participate as follows:

• Virtually via WebEx:

Meeting Link

Join by phone: 1-408-418-9388

Webinar number: 2480 911 8777

Webinar password: CRC2026 (2722026 when dialing from a phone or video system)

• In person attendance in Suite 679 of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.
• Submit written comments to the County Manager’s Office, c/o Michelle Pfenning, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000; or email michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.
• The commission also will hear public comment at the public meeting.

The 15-member commission has been reviewing the county’s charter and has developed multiple proposed amendments. Any amendments to the county charter must go before Clark County voters in a general election.

More information on the Charter Review Commission including meeting recordings and a list of proposed amendments is available on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/charter/charter-review-commission-2026-2027.

Date Changes To The Planned County Council, Planning Commission Work Sessions On Comprehensive Plan Update - 06/23/26

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. The Clark County Council and Planning Commission have scheduled a series of work sessions on Comprehensive Plan Update materials in preparation for the adoption process.

There have been recent date changes for some of the planned work sessions. Updated meeting dates and topics are outlined on the county website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update.

Work sessions are intended as informational briefings to review draft comprehensive plan update text and development code amendments.

Work sessions are open to the public, however there is no verbal public comment as part of the event. Written testimony is welcome and may be submitted at any time.

Meetings will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex.

County Council work sessions are held on Wednesdays in the sixth-floor hearing room and typically begin at 9am. Please note that other county work sessions may take place before comprehensive plan sessions begin. Planning Commission work sessions are held on Thursdays in the sixth-floor training room and begin at 5:30 pm.

Materials will be posted at the following webpage in advance of each meeting: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update-meeting-and-event-information.

Information on how to attend council work sessions can be found on the council meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCCouncil.

Information on how to attend Planning Commission work sessions can be found on the commission’s meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCPlanComm.

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

Sale Of Fireworks Begins June 28, Use In Unincorporated Area Allowed Only On July 4 - 06/22/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Fireworks go on sale in Clark County beginning Sunday afternoon June 28. For the Independence Day holiday, residents can use fireworks in unincorporated Clark County from 9 am to midnight only on Friday, July 4.

Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county.  To learn more about permitted times in your area, types of illegal fireworks, and other important safety information, go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks.

Illegal use of fireworks such as using prohibited devices or using them after curfew is subject to a $500 civil fine for first time offenders.

Clark County provides an online chart, indicating when fireworks can be used in different areas of the county. There is also an interactive map that allows the public to quickly determine the rules for fireworks use based on an address anywhere in the county. Additionally, each sales location in the county is required to post signage outlining when fireworks can be used legally.

Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency has established this phone number for reporting nuisance fireworks complaints: 360.696.BANG (2264). The phone line will be in operation during the following times: 

• 7 pm to midnight Wednesday, July 1          
• 7 am to 1 pm Thursday, July 2
• 7 am to 1 pm Friday, July 3
• 7 am to 1 pm Saturday, July 4
• 7 pm to midnight Sunday, July 5

More information and an online reporting form can be found at cresa.wa.gov/fireworks. 

Residents are asked not to call 911 or 311 for the purpose of reporting nuisance fireworks. Only call 911 in an emergency when there is a fire, injury or lives are in danger.

Fire Marshal Donna Goddard states: “Don’t become a statistic. Each year, Clark County sees avoidable injuries and property loss due to fireworks use. If you choose to celebrate with fireworks this year, please do so safely and responsibly.”

Safety first
Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate the Fourth of July with extra caution because improper use of fireworks can lead to grass or structure fires. 

Only purchase fireworks locally from a stand inspected by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office. Fireworks purchased outside the county may not be legal locally.

A few important safety reminders:

• Always have a bucket of water to soak firework debris overnight before discarding in the trash. Firework debris can still be smoldering and start a fire if placed in your garbage can. Douse the danger!
• Have a water hose ready to extinguish any fire.
• Assign a responsible adult to supervise fireworks use. More children and young adults are injured each year from fireworks than any other age group.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and spectators.
• Avoid areas with dry grass or vegetation.
• Never aim fireworks at people or structures. Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
• Never attempt to alter fireworks or relight “duds” that fail to ignite.

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 06/18/26

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a shooting in Vancouver on June 15, 2026.

This individual died on 06/15/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Walker, London Jasiah   Age: 19 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple gunshot wounds of torso

Manner of death:  Homicide

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

Place of injury: City Street

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 Vancouver Police Department.

Media release issue date: 06/18/2026

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 06/18/26

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 that occurred on June 13, 2026, in Vancouver.

This individual died on 06/13/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Craig, Pamela J.   Age: 67 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

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 Vancouver Police Department.

Media release issue date: 06/18/2026

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Restoration Of Cougar Creek’s Headwater Wetlands More Than A Century After They Were Drained (Photo) - 06/15/26

When: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 17

Where: Clark County’s 78th Street Heritage Farm, 1919 NE 78th St., Vancouver

What: Clark County is celebrating the completion of the Heritage Farm wetland restoration project with a ribbon-cutting event and tour of the project.

At 5:30, the event begins with refreshments, remarks and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Starting at 6, attendees will rotate through stations to learn about various aspects of the project, including:

• How the project is expected to improve water quality and overall health of the Cougar Creek watershed
• How the project was designed and constructed to restore original wetland functions and improve water quality in Cougar Creek
• How the more than 3,000 native plants, trees and shrubs planted in the restored wetlands were selected and their benefits to local wildlife
• How the project fits with the historic farm’s past, present, and future, including the farm’s master plan

Why: This project restores the headwater wetlands of Cougar Creek after they were drained more than a century ago. Eight wetland cells were engineered to create a shallow floodplain and mimic natural wetland function. Restored wetland function will increase groundwater recharge, improve water quality and clarity, and cool water that flows into Salmon Creek. The project also provides an enhanced habitat with a 35-foot native plant buffer.

The project, funded through a grant and low-interest loan by the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Water Quality Combined Funding Program and the Clark County Clean Water program, marks a significant milestone in efforts to restore water quality in Cougar and Salmon creeks and the health of their watersheds. 

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 06/11/26

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to an incident in Battle Ground on June 5, 2026.

This individual died on 06/05/2026 in Battle Ground, WA.

The name of the decedent: Williams, Allen Ray   Age: 65 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple sharp force injuries

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Assaulted by other

Place of injury: Decedent’s home

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: 06/11/2026

Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 06/11/26

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This release provides updated information in the investigation related to a body recovered from the Columbia River in April. Cause and manner of death have been updated; this information was pending at the time of the previous media release.

This individual was found on 04/16/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Winters, Carrie Ann   Age: 61 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Drowning and cyclobenzaprine toxicity

Manner of death:  Suicide

Place of injury: Columbia River

How injury occurred: Drowned in river after ingestion of cyclobenzaprine

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 Vancouver Police Department.

Media release issue date: 06/11/26 (previous media release date: 04/21/2026)

As Summer Days Approach And More Construction Comes To Area Roadways, Local Agencies Remind Drivers To Slow Down, Pay Attention And Be Patient (Photo) - 06/10/26

Vancouver, Wash. – June, July and August are Washington’s deadliest consecutive 90 days for traffic fatalities. This is especially concerning for local road agencies, as it overlaps with the summer construction season. Clark County Public Works, Washington State Department of Transportation, Vancouver Public Works, Washington State Patrol and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office came together today to remind drivers that work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility.

It’s not a matter of “if” drivers will encounter work zones this summer, but when and where. Drivers should allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route before heading out, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel. Work zone safety starts with every driver. 

Ryan Lopossa, City of Vancouver transportation engineering manager, shared, “In 2024, 850 people were the victims of fatal work zone crashes. That equates to an average of two people who are killed every day in work zones. By the end of today, another two people will die in a work zone-related crash.”

Work zone collisions resulting in serious injury and even death occur locally. In the past year, injury incidents in Clark County work zones have been caused by drivers who were distracted, speeding or feeling angry and impatient about delays to their commute.

Sarah Bartol, a construction inspector with Clark County Public Works, told of a work zone incident that occurred last summer on Northwest 99th Street. “A young worker on the crew was moving a saw cutting machine to the other side of the road. He was standing on the sidewalk with the machine in the bike lane when a minivan with a driver on their cellphone struck the worker head-on, pinning him to the machine and tossing him down the road more than 20 feet… And standing there looking at the aftermath, it really hit me that this could have easily been his life lost,” she said.

“Most of us in this industry have experienced close calls. We’ve seen distracted drivers, speeding through work zones, or people ignoring traffic control completely. And those moments are scary, because behind every hard hat and safety vest is a real person just trying to do their job and make it home to their family.”

Clark County ranks fourth among Washington counties with the most work zone collisions, with about 80 incidents recorded each year. The leading causes are distracted driving, speeding, and actions of frustrated drivers.

“Avoid distractions. Unpredictable work zones require your full attention. In 2024, distracted drivers played a role in more than one in eight fatal work zone crashes,” noted Lopossa.

Reminding drivers to slow down, pay attention and be patient helps make roads safer for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and workers. Drivers need to allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route, and focus solely on driving.

Speakers at the event included: Trooper Dakota J. Russell, Washington State Patrol District 5 Public Information Officer; Devin Reck, WSDOT Interim Regional Administrator; Paul Lodholz, WSDOT highway maintenance supervisor; Brad Fisher, Clark County Public Works construction manager; Sarah Bartol, Clark County Public Works construction inspector; Ryan Lopossa, City of Vancouver transportation engineering manager; and Det. Patrick Spak, Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit.

Photos from the event, and video of county construction zones, are available online.

Clark County Public Works and WSDOT host webpages with additional information about driving safely in work zones, at wsdot.wa.gov/about/seasonal-events-programs/give-em-brake and clark.wa.gov/public-works/drive-safely-work-zones.

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.

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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Media Advisory: Tomorrow, Hear From Workers Involved In Work Zone Collisions, As Partners Gather To Promote Safe Driving In Work Zones - 06/09/26

When: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10

Where: Clark County Public Works 78th Street Operations Center at 4700 NE 78th St. in Vancouver.

What: As summer driving and road construction work increase in the coming weeks, Clark County Public Works, Washington State Department of Transportation, Vancouver Public Works, Washington State Patrol and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office are partnering to remind drivers that work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers can expect more work zones throughout the region and should know how to safely navigate them to protect themselves, their passengers, other road users, and workers.  

At 10:30 a.m., workers from partner road agencies will share personal stories about work zone injury collisions that have occurred in Clark County in the past year.

• Trooper Dakota J. Russell, Washington State Patrol District 5 Public Information Officer
• Paul Lodholz, WSDOT highway maintenance supervisor
• Brad Fisher, Clark County Public Works construction manager
• Sarah Bartol, Clark County Public Works construction inspector
• Ryan Lopossa, City of Vancouver transportation engineering manager
• Det. Patrick Spak, Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit

After the speakers, media partners are invited to interview speakers and agency partners.

Why: June, July and August are Washington’s deadliest consecutive 90 days for traffic fatalities. Since 2018, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives in collisions during the summer months, and many more have been injured. This is especially concerning for local road agencies, as it overlaps with the summer construction season when workers are on and alongside roads, completing critical construction, maintenance and repair work. Much of this work must be done during long periods of warm, dry weather.

Clark County ranks fourth for counties with the most work zone collisions in Washington, with about 80 recorded incidents each year. The leading causes are distracted driving, speeding, and actions of frustrated drivers.

It’s not a matter of “if” drivers will encounter work zones this summer, but when and where. Drivers should allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route before heading out, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel. Work zone safety starts with every driver.          

County Commission On Aging To Discuss Implementation Of ADA Transportation Standards In Smaller Cities - 06/09/26

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will continue their four-part series on transportation at its June meeting. The COA welcomes transportation engineers from the cities of Battle Ground and Ridgefield for a discussion about ADA compliance in smaller cities.

The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 15, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Hearing 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.

Community Attends Ribbon-cutting Event To Celebrate New Curtin Creek Community Park And County’s First Lighted Multi-sport/rugby Field (Photo) - 06/06/26

Work Begins This Month To Improve Intersection At Northeast 182nd Street And Risto Road - 06/05/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is beginning work to replace the existing intersection of Northeast 182nd Avenue and Risto Road with a single-lane roundabout. Other improvements include reducing the slope at Northeast 199th Street/Northeast Risto Road and Northeast 176th Avenue. Northeast 182nd Avenue will also be resurfaced from Northeast 167th Avenue to the north side of the Salmon Creek bridge on Northeast 182nd Avenue.

Road closures for project construction will begin this month. Starting June 22, Northeast Risto Road will be closed between Northeast 176th and Northeast 182nd avenues. Northeast 182nd Avenue will be closed between Northeast Risto Road and approximately a tenth of a mile south, where the road crosses Salmon Creek. Public Works is notifying local residents and working directly with those located in and near the project area to maintain access to their property during construction-related closures.

Project information and updates can be found at the project website at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-182nd-avenue/northeast-risto-road.

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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Media Partners Invited To Hear From Workers Involved In Work Zone Collisions, As Partners Gather To Promote Safe Driving In Work Zones - 06/04/26

When: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10

Where: Location in Vancouver will be shared when an RSVP is sent to Kaley McLachlan-Burton, PIO, Clark County Public Works: kaley.mclachlan-burton@clark.wa.gov

What: As summer driving and road construction work increase in the coming weeks, Clark County Public Works, Washington State Department of Transportation, Vancouver Public Works, Washington State Patrol and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office are partnering to remind drivers that work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers can expect more work zones throughout the region and should know how to safely navigate them to protect themselves, their passengers, other road users, and workers.  

At 10:30 a.m., workers from partner road agencies will share personal stories about work zone injury collisions that have occurred in Clark County in the past year.

After the speakers, media partners are invited to interview speakers and agency partners.

Why: June, July and August are Washington’s deadliest consecutive 90 days for traffic fatalities. Since 2018, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives in collisions during the summer months, and many more have been injured. This is especially concerning for local road agencies, as it overlaps with the summer construction season when workers are on and alongside roads, completing critical construction, maintenance and repair work. Much of this work must be done during long periods of warm, dry weather.

Clark County ranks fourth for counties with the most work zone collisions in Washington, with about 80 recorded incidents each year. The leading causes are distracted driving, speeding, and actions of frustrated drivers.

It’s not a matter of “if” drivers will encounter work zones this summer, but when and where. Drivers should allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route before heading out, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel. Work zone safety starts with every driver.          

County Council, Planning Commission To Hold Work Sessions On Comprehensive Plan Update - 06/03/26

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. The Clark County Council and Planning Commission have scheduled a series of work sessions on Comprehensive Plan Update materials in preparation for the adoption process.

Work sessions are intended as informational briefings to review draft comprehensive plan update text and development code amendments.

Work sessions are open to the public, however there is no verbal public comment as part of the event. Written testimony is welcome and may be submitted at any time.

Meetings will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex.

County Council work sessions are held on Wednesdays in the sixth-floor hearing room and typically begin at 9am. Please note that other county work sessions may take place before comprehensive plan sessions begin. Planning Commission work sessions are held on Thursdays in the sixth-floor training room and begin at 5:30pm.

Meeting dates and topics are scheduled as follows:

• County Council work sessions:
  • June 10: Community Framework Plan, Environment, Parks, Historic, Economic Development, Schools, Community Design, Annexation, Shoreline and Climate chapters
  • June 24: Transportation chapter, project list and evaluation criteria
  • July 1: Land Use, Housing, and Rural chapters and proposed changes to the mobile home code
  • July 15: Transportation appendix, Capital Facilities Plan chapter and appendix, and Capital Facilities Financial Plan
  • July 22: Proposed changes to housing and transportation development code, Introduction and Procedural chapters and additional appendices
  • July 29: School and fire district capital facility plan updates and associated impact fees
• Planning Commission work sessions:
  • June 18: Introduction, Land Use, Rural, and Procedural chapters
  • July 2: School and fire district capital facility plan updates and associated impact fees, Housing and Transportation chapters, transportation project list and evaluation criteria
  • July 16: Transportation appendix, Capital Facilities chapter and appendices
  • July 30: Additional appendices

Materials will be posted at the following webpage in advance of each meeting: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update-meeting-and-event-information.

Information on how to attend council work sessions can be found on the council meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCCouncil.

Information on how to attend Planning Commission work sessions can be found on the commission’s meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCPlanComm.

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

Media Advisory: Media Invited To Ribbon-cutting Event Celebrating New Curtin Creek Community Park And County’s First Lighted Multi-sport/rugby Field - 06/02/26

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6

Where: Curtin Creek Community Park, 12603 NE 72nd Avenue, Vancouver

What: The media is invited to join Clark County Public Works in celebrating the ribbon cutting of Clark County’s newest park, Curtin Creek Community Park.   

Event agenda

• 10:30 a.m. – Ceremony begins
• 11:10 a.m. – Ribbon cutting
• 11:15 a.m. – Activities begin

Clark County staff and local leaders will be available for interviews after the scheduled activities conclude at 11:15 a.m.

Why: The property was purchased in 1999 via a partnership between the City of Vancouver and Clark County. Part of the property became the site of Vancouver Fire Station 7, and another portion was earmarked for a park. Sixteen acres is being developed into a new community park, and the remainder will remain in a natural state as part of the Gaddis Wetlands Natural Area. The park’s development is funded through a combination of funds from the Metropolitan Park District Levy, REET II (Real Estate Excise Taxes) and a $850,000 grant for park development from Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office.

In 2019, an extensive public engagement process asked neighbors, community organizations and sports groups to help develop a park plan for this property. Clark County Council adopted the park plan in 2021. This first phase of development includes a large community play area with public art, a reservable picnic shelter, trails with viewpoints of the Gaddis Wetlands and Mount Hood, four lighted pickleball courts, a basketball/futsal court and the county’s first lighted multi-sport/rugby field.

Learn more about the park at clark.wa.gov/public-works/curtin-creek-community-park.            

David Kuhnhausen Selected As County’s Community Development Director - 05/28/26

Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto recently appointed David Kuhnhausen as Director of the county’s Community Development Department. His first day will be Monday, June 1.

Kuhnhausen most recently served as interim director of the City of Portland’s Permitting and Development bureau. He worked at the City of Portland for almost two decades serving in several positions including Permitting Services Division Manager and project coordinator.

Kuhnhausen holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in business administration, finance and management from the University of Oregon.

“We are excited to have David join our team,” says County Manager Kathleen Otto. “He takes to heart the importance of public service and the direct impact in our community. David has been successful in developing collaborative relationships with the public as well as internal and external stakeholders; enhancing the customer experience through streamlining processes and optimizing operational efficiencies.”

"I am honored by the opportunity to lead Clark County Community Development and am excited to get started!” says Kuhnhausen. “Clark County continues to grow at a rapid rate, and I am committed to working with both staff and the development community to ensure we continue to provide exceptional customer service, that we are evolving to meet industry needs, and that we are upholding safety requirements and service that our communities expect."

The county’s Community Development Department oversees many divisions including the Permit Center, Building Safety, Development Engineering, Animal Protection and Control and the Fire Marshal’s Office. More information is available on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-development.

County’s Charter Review Commissioners Available To Meet With Community Groups - 05/28/26

Groups can request a speaker on the county’s website

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commissioners are available to meet community members and visit neighborhood associations, religious groups, community organizations and others to discuss possible charter amendments.

Organizations interested in booking a Charter Review Commissioner to speak are asked to complete a form on the county’s website.

The Commission has scheduled a series of town hall meetings to get feedback from county residents. The town hall events will be held in each of the five county council districts.

The remaining town hall meetings are scheduled as follows:

• District 3: 2 to 4 pm Sunday, June 14, Community Room, Cascade Park Library, 600 NE 136^th Ave.
• District 4: 3 to 5 pm Saturday, June 6, second floor meeting room, Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4^th Ave.
• District 5: 1 to 3 pm Sunday, June 7, Moulton Falls Room, Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St.

Town halls were held previously for Districts 1 and 2.

Charter Review Commissioners will present information on proposed amendments to the county’s charter, seek feedback from town hall participants, and answer questions about the commission’s work. Anyone wishing to provide written comment to the commission may do so via the county’s website.

More information on the Commission’s events is available at https://clark.wa.gov/charter/events.

Any changes to the charter recommended by the Charter Review Commission must go to a countywide vote in a general election. The review commission has set a target of Aug. 4, for submitting any potential changes to the charter to the county Auditor for the November 2026 general election ballot.

Clark County’s home rule charter is the county’s rulebook for how its government is set up and how it operates. It defines roles, powers, elections and processes. It doesn’t set day-to-day policies and cannot override state and federal laws or constitutions.

Fifteen commissioners were elected in November 2025 to serve on the Charter Review Commission. The commission meets at 5 pm on Wednesdays in a hybrid format with both in person and online attendance options. The meetings are held on the sixth floor of the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. To learn how to join online and provide public comment during a meeting visit https://clark.wa.gov/charter/charter-review-commission-2026-2027. Meeting agendas and video recordings are available on the same web page.

Clark County Auto License Closing June 15-29 For Renovation - 05/28/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Auto License office will close for in-person services June 15-29 for renovations in the customer service area. The renovations will enhance the overall customer service experience and accessibility.

The office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. and will reopen on Tuesday, June 30. While in-person services will not be available during the closure, the office will continue to remain open and fully available by phone and email: 564.397.2288, Auto.License@clark.wa.gov.

Nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County will remain open for in-person services during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available 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.

Clark County Public Works Reminds Residents To Secure Loads Before Hauling, To Reduce Dangerous Roadside Debris And Litter (Photo) - 05/27/26

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Solid Waste, a division of Public Works, is participating in the Washington State Department of Ecology’s “Secure Your Loads for Safer Roads” campaign throughout June. The effort focuses on reducing unsecured vehicle loads, which are a major source of roadside litter and a serious safety risk for drivers.

National Secure Your Load Day, observed on June 6, honors those who have been killed or injured in collisions caused by unsecured loads. In Washington, unsecured loads contribute to more than 300 crashes each year.

Unsecured loads are also a significant contributor to litter in Clark County. In 2025, more than 150,000 pounds of roadside litter were collected through Ecology’s Litter Crew and Clark County Public Works Adopt‑A‑Road programs.

Residents can help reduce litter and support cleaner roadways by participating in the Adopt‑A‑Road program. Volunteers choose an eligible road segment, complete a brief orientation and training, and commit to three cleanup events per year with friends, neighbors, family, or coworkers. Public Works provides supplies and the disposal of collected litter.

Preventing litter is even more effective than cleaning it up. Throughout the month, Clark County Green Neighbors will share tips, information and resources on the program’s Facebook and Instagram profiles about securing vehicle loads.

Statewide, the Department of Ecology will promote Secure Your Load messaging. The Washington State Patrol will increase enforcement throughout June. Fines for unsecured loads can be as high as $5,000 and may include jail time.

To help ensure loads are fully secured before driving, Clark County Solid Waste encourages residents to consider the following:

• Would I feel safe if my family were driving behind me?
• Will my load stay secure if I brake suddenly, hit a bump, turn a corner, or drive uphill?
• Could anything fall or blow out of my vehicle?
• Will any items break down or disintegrate if it rains?
• Did I double-check that everything is secured?

Learn more about proper load securement at clark.wa.gov/public-works/self-haul-options.

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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Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office - MEDIA RELEASE - 05/27/26

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 release provides updated information in the investigation related to a death at ilani hotel in October 2025. Cause and manner of death have been updated; this information was pending at the time of the previous media release.

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:  Fentanyl toxicity

Manner of death:  Homicide

Place of injury: Hotel

How injury occurred: Fentanyl administered by other person(s)

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: 05/27/2026 (previous media release date: 11/06/2025)