Washougal City Council Regular Meeting - April 27, 2026

The Washougal City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, April 27, 2026. Called to order at 7:04 PM and adjourned at 7:27 PM, the meeting had a light agenda with no public comments or new business. After an invocation by Mike Hansen, the pledge of allegiance was recited and roll call was taken. Councilmember Tia Robertson was excused with unanimous consent. The main focus was on council member reports covering community events, regional collaboration, and a significant concern regarding a local RV park.

Consent Calendar

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, as presented by Councilmember Suggs. This included minutes from the April 13 workshop and regular meetings, payroll claims ending April 24, accounts payable for April 9–23, and Agenda Bill #25-2026 regarding an Arts Commission funding request.

Public Comments & Testimony

There were no public comments made during the meeting.

Reports and Communications

• Mayor David Stuebe reported attending an Ending Community Homelessness Organization (ECHO) meeting with regional police chiefs, fire chiefs, and county officials to discuss respectful and effective homeless camp response strategies. He also announced plans to attend a conference in Fort Worth, Texas focused on infrastructure, affordable housing, and homelessness. The Mayor highlighted ongoing progress in the city, including downtown revitalization, the library project, Port of Camas-Washougal initiatives, and the wastewater treatment project. He noted his plans to host a small city mayor workshop to foster regional collaboration.
• Student Representative Jake Larzalere promoted upcoming Washougal High School drama productions and a band concert. He briefly discussed communication challenges regarding the school activity calendar and committed to raising the issue with the school board.
• Councilmember Michelle Wagner reported attending a branding consultant event and a Parks Advisory Board meeting. She noted that the America250 United States ground mural project at Hathaway School was coming together successfully and that multiple city volunteer board positions are open, including two on the Parks Board.
• Councilmember David Szyplinski discussed the strong community involvement in the Citizen's Academy and the Community Chest, expressing appreciation for the Hometown Heroes volunteer recognition event. He noted he would be traveling to Texas to assist his son with a Navy deployment move.
• Councilmember Marty Swofford issued a call for volunteer umpires for the East County Little League, noting that the league provides training and background checks. He also reported on upcoming Community Development and chamber charity golf tournament events.
• Councilmember Ernie Suggs reported that the first week of the Citizen's Academy had 27 attendees, indicating strong community interest. He shared a letter of thanks from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and noted community anticipation for the library project. He highlighted the upcoming Stride event, which raises about $30,000 to $34,000.
• Councilmember Suggs & Mayor Stuebe - RV Park Concern: Councilmember Suggs expressed significant concern over the potential sale of the RV park facility on Addy Street, which houses an estimated 300 residents. He noted the deep uncertainty and worry within the community regarding their future. Mayor Stuebe responded by acknowledging recent legislation that allows residents the right to purchase the park and expressed a desire to help facilitate a solution for the residents.

Key Outcomes

• Consent Agenda Approved: All listed items were approved unanimously.
• Councilmember Excused: Tia Robertson's absence was excused by unanimous consent.
• Upcoming Meeting: The council's Annual Planning Session is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 9:00 AM.