Washougal City Council Meeting - Proclamations, TIP Adoption, and Community Reports (September 28, 2026)

The Washougal City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured two proclamations, the unanimous adoption of the 2027-2032 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and comprehensive reports from the City Manager, Mayor, and Councilmembers covering transportation, community events, and emerging local regulatory concerns.

Proclamations

• National Disability Employment Awareness Month: The Council formally proclaimed October 2026 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Bob Friedland, Chair of the Clark County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board, and Kristen Wade, Program Coordinator, accepted the proclamation. Friedland expressed gratitude for the Council's support and highlighted Clark County's 26th annual celebration, themed 'Celebrating Value and Talent,' inviting the community to attend.
• Stormwater Awareness Week: The Council proclaimed the week of November 16–21, 2026 as Stormwater Awareness Week. The Mayor and Council recognized the critical role stormwater infrastructure and pollution prevention play in protecting local waterways.

Consent Calendar

• The Council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda without discussion. Items included the September 14 workshop and council minutes, payroll claims, accounts payable, and Agenda Bill #47-2026 authorizing a transfer of funds for emergency utility assistance.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No members of the public provided testimony in person or via Zoom.

Discussion Items & Reports

• Adoption of the 6-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): The Council held a public hearing for Agenda Bill #48-2026 to adopt the 2027-2032 TIP as required by RCW 35.77.010. Staff noted the adoption occurred past the state's July 1st deadline. Councilmembers discussed whether adopting the TIP would amend the overall transportation capital facilities plan, with staff confirming it is part of the broader comprehensive plan update. No public testimony was received. A motion was made and seconded, and the Council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution.
• City Manager Report: City Manager Daniel reminded the Council of the November and December meeting schedule. All three November meetings (2nd, 9th, 16th) are required due to the comprehensive plan update and biennial budget work. The December 7th meeting is confirmed, with subsequent meetings likely canceled. Daniel will attend the ICMA conference; Assistant City Manager Daniel will serve as Acting City Manager from October 9–16.
• Mayor's Report: Mayor Stevie reported attending the celebration of life for community volunteer Lorney Accala, meeting with Representative Jake Fey (Chair of Transportation) to discuss the Slew Bridge and other infrastructure issues, and participating in Chamber and Washougal Business Association events.
• Councilmember Reports:
  • Councilmember Jake provided Washougal School District updates, including the tennis team's performance, the fall play 'Radium Girls', and the planned closure of Gause school. He raised a safety concern about drivers ignoring road closure signs on J Street and noted receiving an invitation to the Washington State School Directors Association (WASDA) conference.
  • Councilmember Ernie raised concerns about an unregulated substance being sold at local gas stations, which he described as highly addictive and linked to overdoses. He requested the City Attorney research the feasibility of a local ban or regulation, noting other cities have taken such action. The Council agreed to have the City Attorney and Police Chief investigate the substance and its prevalence in schools.
  • Councilmember Michelle reported on the successful 'Empty Bowls' fundraiser for the Interfaith Treasure House and the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) meeting, highlighting the 'Beaver Bash' event for drawing significant regional attendance and boosting local business revenue.
  • Councilmember Marty reported on the highly successful Fire Station open house, attendance at 'Hike the Dike', and the celebration of life for Lorney Accala. He also noted attending various committee and community partnership meetings.

Executive Session

• The Council took a brief recess to enter executive session for discussion of potential litigation (RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)). No action was taken. The Council returned to open session and immediately adjourned.

Key Outcomes

• Decision: Unanimously adopted the 2027-2032 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (Agenda Bill #48-2026).
• Directive: City staff and the City Attorney were directed to research the legal status of a specific unregulated substance and report back to the Council on potential local regulatory actions.
• Next Steps: The Council confirmed the November 2, 9, and 16 meeting dates for comprehensive plan and budget work. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM.