Public Meetings - Washougal, Washington

The Washougal City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, beginning at 7:02 PM and adjourning at 9:01 PM. The meeting featured tributes to late Councilmember Molly Coston and outgoing Councilmember Julie Russell, recognition of community partners and retiring Reserve Officer Phillip Cianni, oaths of office for elected and police officials, approval of three tax and budget ordinances, and year-end administrative actions. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Ernie Suggs moved to approve the consent agenda as read; no objections were heard. - Approved items included Nov. 17 workshop and council minutes, Nov. 25 payroll claims, accounts payable for Nov. 20-25 totaling $1,558,800.45, Agenda Bill 56-2025 authorizing a fund transfer for emergency utility assistance, and Agenda Bill 57-2025 adopting the 2026 City Manager goals. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered at the start of the meeting. - During the public hearing for the mid-biennium budget review, no testimony was received; Mayor David Stuebe closed the hearing. Accolades, Recognitions & Oaths - The council honored Councilmember Molly Coston, who had recently passed away. Councilmember Suggs requested unanimous consent to excuse her, and Mayor Stuebe said she was forever excused from council meetings. Speakers including Mayor Stuebe, Councilmembers Suggs and Wagner, Rose Jewell, City Manager David Scott, and Brett Tarnet remembered her mentorship, her service as mayor in 2009 and 2017-18, and her community impact. - Councilmember Julie Russell was recognized for her eight years of service, from 2018 through December 2025; councilmembers praised her advocacy and said she would be missed. - The Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and project partners were recognized for their work on Mable Kerr Park. City staff noted the project was approximately $1 million and funded through five grants. Partnership Executive Director Elaine Placido thanked the city and invited residents to a Dec. 6 native planting event, with nearly 50 people signed up. - Reserve Officer Phillip Cianni was recognized upon his retirement after about 13 years as a reserve; Police Chief Zane Freschette described him as the department's longest-tenured reserve. - Mayor Stuebe administered oaths of office to Police Captain Jim Quackenbush and Animal Control Officer Kyra Stoiantschewsky. - Employee service awards were presented to multiple city employees, including 15-, 20-, and 25-year service recognitions. - Dennis and Kooky Helland received a community recognition for serving as Santa and Mrs. Claus for 20 years and for being named 2024 Camas Days King and Queen. Oaths of Office for Elected Officials - Mayor David Stuebe took the oath of office, administered by City Clerk/Finance Director Daniel Layer. - David Fritz took the oath for Council Position 3, and Marty Swofford took the oath for Council Position 6; both were administered by Mayor Stuebe. New Business: Ordinances - Agenda Bill 58-2025 / Ordinance No. 1998 (Public Safety Sales and Use Tax): City Manager David Scott presented the ordinance as a new state-authorized sales tax providing dedicated funding for public safety. Councilmember Michelle Wagner noted it would support police vehicle replacement, enhance code enforcement, and open additional grant opportunities. Motion by Suggs, second by Wagner; passed on voice vote. - Agenda Bill 59-2025 / Ordinance No. 1999 (Transportation Benefit District Sales and Use Tax): The council approved a 0.1% sales tax dedicated to transportation. City Manager Scott said revenue would support the pavement management program and major projects, including a rail separation at 32nd Street involving the railroad and 37th Street/Evergreen. Council discussion noted the city chose not to increase license tab fees and that Washougal remained in the middle of the county sales tax range. Motion by Suggs, second by Wagner; passed on voice vote. - Agenda Bill 60-2025 / Ordinance No. 2000 (2025-2026 Mid-Biennium Budget Review and Modification): Finance Director Daniel Layer presented the required mid-biennium budget review, summarizing 2026 revenue and expenditure changes by fund, and including lodging tax advisory committee-approved tourism reimbursements. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony. Motion by Suggs, second by Wagner; passed on voice vote. Reports and Communications - City Manager Scott announced Molly Coston's Celebration of Life will be held Jan. 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Washburn Center Auditorium at Washougal High School. He also said that because of the council vacancy, applications will be accepted for a three-week window and interviews will be held Jan. 26, 2026. - Mayor Stuebe canceled the remaining December Council meetings and congratulated staff on another strong year and a clean state audit. He also reported the Salvation Army Kettle Kick-Off, noting Washougal won the competition, and encouraged residents to visit Mable Kerr Park. - Student Representative Jake Larzalere thanked the council, encouraged donations to local drives, and announced a Feb. 4, 2026 trip to the Capitol with the career technical education class. - Councilmembers offered final remarks, including tributes to Molly Coston and Julie Russell, announcements about the Black Pearl Nativity display, the Christmas Parade on Thursday, a Dec. 6 planting event at Mable Kerr Park, and a Dec. 13 Parks Passport Second Saturday ornament craft event. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Ordinance Nos. 1998, 1999, and 2000 each passed unanimously by voice vote. - Mayor and Council canceled the December 8 and December 15 meetings; the next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026 (workshop at 5:00 PM, council at 7:00 PM). - Council appointed Councilmember Tia Robertson as interim representative to C-TRAN and the Board Composition Review Committee for the remainder of 2025 and early January, with Councilmember Michelle Wagner as alternate; motion by Suggs, second by Fritz, passed unanimously. - An executive session on property acquisition under RCW 42.30.110(1)(b) was held from 8:50 PM to 9:00 PM, with no action to follow. - Meeting adjourned at 9:01 PM.

The Washougal City Council held a workshop on Monday, December 1, 2025, starting at 5:00 PM. Mayor David Stuebe called the meeting to order with roll call present: Councilmembers David Fritz, Michelle Wagner, Tia Robertson (via Zoom), Ernie Suggs (via Zoom), and Student Representative Jake Larzalere. Councilmember Julie Russell was absent. The workshop covered workforce development, economic development, comprehensive plan updates, and mid-biennium budget modifications. The meeting adjourned at 6:16 PM, with the regular council meeting scheduled for 7:00 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - William Carter praised the Citizens' Academy as informative and well-organized. He inquired about the timeline for light rail arrival in Washougal and encouraged long-term planning for its routing, noting Washougal's progressive growth. Discussion Items A. Workforce as Economic Infrastructure (Workforce Southwest Washington) - Lynn Love (Program Manager) and Sean Moore (Business Representative) presented. Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) is one of 12 local workforce boards, business-led, coordinating investments with education, labor, and community organizations. - Key points: - Washougal's economic vision includes supporting local businesses with scaled talent, connecting employers to job-ready workers, partnering with Washougal High School CTE programs, and building workforce for capital projects (construction, civil engineering, tech). - Economic Security for All (ESA) program: average cost $6,000 per participant over five months; median wage increased from less than $10,000 to $50,000; 88% of participants reached self-sufficiency. Return on investment: $4.25 per $1 invested in Southwest Washington (statewide: $2.34). - Next steps: WSW seeks ongoing partnership, advisory board participation, and co-hosted events. - Councilmember Michelle Wagner asked about funding sources (majority federal) and requested specific examples. Presenters cited a medical assistant apprenticeship with PeaceHealth, contributing $140,000 to their bottom line over eight years. - Mayor Stuebe expressed 100% support, noting the importance of keeping youth with prevailing wages. B. Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC) - Eric Holmes (Interim President) and Abby Russell (Board Member) presented, joined by several board members. - CREDC is a public-private nonprofit, funded 25% from state, 37.5% each from local public and private investors. - 2021-2024 return on investment: $34 per $1 invested. 2024 wins: 249 recruitments and expansions, $340 million capital investment, 445 new and retained jobs, 350,000 square feet of commercial/industrial space leased. Four-year totals: $1.68 billion capital, 4,000 jobs, 42 wins. - Apex Accelerator program (formerly PTAC): provides one-on-one advising for small and disadvantaged businesses to compete for public contracts. In 2024: served 1,053 new clients, 300+ hours of guidance, resulting in 460 contract awards worth $24 million. - Councilmember Ernie Suggs asked for clarification on what constitutes a "win" – a combination of capital investment and new jobs, with each project counted individually. - Mayor Stuebe commended CREDC's role in regional growth, referencing UPC (a high-tech manufacturer) as a local example. C. Comprehensive Plan Update (Mitch Kneipp) - Mitch Kneipp (Community Development Director) reported delays due to the county's agricultural study, which found that land northwest of Washougal is not prime agricultural land – beneficial for future expansion. However, the county council's decision may restrict expansion plans for Ridgefield and La Center, potentially requiring Washougal to accommodate more housing units. - The county's draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) comment period closed November 30. Further delays could increase consultant costs and rework. - State mandates for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and middle housing will take effect January 1, 2026, preempting local codes. Washougal will need to adopt compliant codes likely within six months after the county finalizes its EIS (expected March 2025). - Council discussed implications: limited ability to require parking beyond state maximums, but no immediate surge in ADU applications expected due to high water/sewer connection fees. - Councilmember Suggs (via Zoom) asked whether the county expects Washougal to build houses for Ridgefield's displaced population; Mitch confirmed that possibility exists but is not final. D. 2025-2026 Mid-Biennium Budget Review and Modification Update (Daniel Layer) - Daniel Layer (Finance Director) presented an update to the two-week-old presentation, adding funds based on council feedback. - Key modifications: - Public Safety Sales Tax (effective April 1, 2025): assuming 7/12 of annual revenue; associated expenditures for police facilities, fleet, and IT equipment. - Transportation Benefit District (TBD): $178,000 in sales tax revenue for pavement management (removed TBD fees from earlier proposal). - Hotel/Motel Tax: no changes; expenditures remain within budget and approved by lodging tax advisory committee. - Transportation Development Fund: $1,315,460 transfer to Transportation Capital Fund from transportation impact fees. - Fire Station Bond Fund: additional $95,000 needed for 2026 debt service due to earlier bond closing date (September instead of April). Original budget underestimated payment. No change to total bond amount. - Transportation Capital Fund: includes 39th Street Sidewalks project ($2.6 million total, $2.0 million from Safe Routes to School grant, remainder from TIF transfer). - Equipment Rental & Revolving Funds: $40,000 for police vehicles and $34,000 for police IT equipment, funded by public safety sales tax. - Summary: Total revenue increase $7,299,300; expenditure increase $8,899,271; fund balance decreases slightly. Public hearing on the budget modification ordinance will be held at the regular council meeting (immediately following workshop). Key Outcomes - Council Appointment Committee: Council agreed to maintain the current two-member committee (Mayor Stuebe and Councilmember Wagner) to develop the slate of committee assignments for 2026. Appointments will be made at the January 12, 2026 regular meeting. Councilmember Ernie Suggs offered to serve as a third member if needed, but no action was taken. - C-Tran Representation: Councilmember Tia Robertson volunteered to serve as Washougal's primary representative for the December C-Tran board meeting (December 9, 2025) and potentially the Board Composition Review Committee. Councilmember David Fritz remains as alternate. Appointment will be formalized at the regular meeting. - Budget Modification: The council will hold a public hearing and vote on the budget modification ordinance at the regular meeting (7:00 PM same day).

The Washougal City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Mayor David Stuebe presided over the meeting, which began with an invocation by Mike Hanson and the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilmember Molly Coston was excused unanimously. The agenda was amended to add the Third Quarter 2025 Financial Update as the first item under New Business. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously by the council. It included the Workshop and Council minutes from November 3, payroll claims, accounts payable totaling $1,601,262.71, authorization for an Emergency Utility Assistance fund transfer (Agenda Bill 51-2025), and a resolution to set a public hearing for December 1 on the Mid-Biennium Budget Modification (Agenda Bill 52-2025). Public Comments & Testimony - Brett Tarnet (Addy Street resident) addressed the council. He commended the city council on the Campen Creek improvements. However, he strongly criticized the management of Mabel Kerr Park. Tarnet stated that the "Kirk Park 2024 group" contributed over 250 hours of volunteer labor, which the city referred to as "encroaching" and, in his view, constituted "squatting." He claimed the group was ejected from the park and urged the council to take action to "rescue the park from neglect." Discussion Items - Third Quarter 2025 Financial Update: Finance Director Daniel Layer presented the Q3 update. General Fund revenues are at 71.2% of the adopted budget. Overall revenues are up 20% from Q3 2024, or 12.9% excluding a one-time $910,000 transfer for a fire truck. Retail sales tax revenue increased 7%, utility taxes grew 8.2%, and licenses and permits surged 90.3%, largely attributed to HighPoint permits. Expenditures are at 69.8% of the budget. Director Layer detailed the city's investment portfolio, which includes $12 million in the Local Government Investment Pool (LGIP) earning $534,000 in interest year-to-date, $2.3 million at Riverview ICS, and $23.6 million in bonds and treasury notes. The $1.14 million Downtown Bond fund is projected to become fully unrestricted, one-time general fund revenue in 2027. - Parking Code Updates (Agenda Bill 53-2025): Police Chief Zane Freschette presented an ordinance amending parking regulations. The update clarifies what constitutes a violation of the 24-hour on-street parking limit, adding a provision to prevent vehicles from circumventing the rule by moving only a short distance. Councilmember Suggs made a motion to pass, post, and publish Ordinance 1997 in the usual manner, seconded by Councilmember Wagner. The motion was approved. - 2026 Property Tax Levy (Agenda Bill 54-2025): Mayor Stuebe opened and then closed the public hearing after receiving no testimony. The resolution sets the property tax levy for 2026 at a 1% increase, as the Implicit Price Deflator (IPD) was 2.44%. Councilmember Suggs moved to pass and post the resolution, seconded by Councilmember Wagner. The motion carried. - 2026 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy (Agenda Bill 55-2025): A public hearing was held and closed with no public testimony. The resolution sets the levy at a 1% increase. Council discussion clarified that the levy is set annually and that funds will be directed to the Regional Fire Authority (RFA) upon transition in 2027. The existing voter-approved levy will remain with the city for its remaining duration. Councilmember Suggs moved to pass and post the resolution, seconded by Councilmember Wagner. The motion carried. Reports and Communications - City Manager David Scott: Announced the December 1 meeting is expected to be the final meeting of the year. He requested flexibility to present the remaining 2025 supplemental budget items and workshop an ordinance during the same meeting. He reported a meeting with the Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB) was highly productive, with efforts underway to pull the $7.5 million for the 32nd Street underpass from the 29-31 biennium into the 27-29 biennium. - Mayor David Stuebe: Discussed maintaining momentum for the Sister City program, noting volunteer Kate Anstett has stepped forward to coordinate. Reported on a complementary feasibility study for a symbiosis project (converting wastewater waste into potential revenue). Noted his attendance at the Veterans Parade in Vancouver and efforts regarding fireworks at Cottonwood. - Student Representative Jake Larzalere: Reported the football team's season ended with a playoff loss. Inquired about city plans for improvements on J Street near the high school. Raised concerns about a rise in student vaping, asking if police could initiate an awareness campaign. Council members directed him to the UNITE coalition meeting for further discussion. - Councilmember Michelle Wagner: Recapped the November 8 "Second Saturday in the Parks" event featuring a worn flag retirement ceremony. Announced the next event on December 13 at Dick Beaver Park with a winter holiday theme. Visited Mabel Kerr Park and Hartwood (memorial mural for Suzanne Grover). Attended the Refuel 10-year anniversary celebration and thanked its founders and volunteers. - Councilmember Ernie Suggs: Reported on the Washougal Schools Foundation meeting, highlighting a new $4,000 four-year grant program. Attended the school district's multicultural family event. - Councilmember Tia Robertson: Commended Jake Larzalere for his presentation at the school board meeting. Announced a free Festival of the Nativity event at the Black Pearl from December 7-10. - Councilmember Julie Russell: Expressed that it has been an honor serving on the council and with the community, looking forward to her final meeting in December. - Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz: Commended the mayor's push on the Sister City program. Praised the memorial mural at Hartwood Park. Attended a Prayer Breakfast, the Washougal Studio Artists event, and the Refuel appreciation dinner, where the city received a plaque. Encouraged participation in a volunteer planting event at Mabel Kerr Park on December 6 hosted by the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership. Key Outcomes - The Consent Agenda was approved unanimously. - Ordinance 1997 (Parking Code Updates) was passed, providing clearer definitions for 24-hour parking violations. - Resolutions for the 2026 Property Tax Levy and the 2026 EMS Levy were both approved with a 1% increase. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 1, 2025, intended to be the final council meeting of the year.

The Washougal City Council held a workshop on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 5:01 PM to 6:52 PM, to discuss the 2026 legislative agenda, the Clark County Transportation Alliance policy statement, and a mid-biennium budget review including proposed new revenue sources for transportation and public safety. Council members present included Mayor David Stuebe, Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz, Councilmember Michelle Wagner, and via Zoom Councilmembers Julie Russell, Ernie Suggs, and Tia Robertson. Student Representative Jake Larzalere also attended. Councilmember Molly Coston was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Port Commissioner Lary Keister emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Port and City, stating the Port supports the 32nd Street Corridor Improvement and the Slough Bridge projects. He expressed that both projects would be advocated for inclusion in the 2026 legislative funding cycle. Discussion Items - 2026 Legislative Agenda & Clark County Transportation Alliance (CCTA) Policy Statement: Strategic Initiatives Manager Joe Walsh and Jordan Evich (Monument Advocacy) presented the legislative priorities. Key items included continued funding for the Slough Bridge (now estimated at $130 million, up from $125 million), the 32nd Street Rail Crossing ($7.5 million from SIB to be reallocated), Washougal River Road safety improvements (cost decreased to $6 million), and a new request for a veterans memorial at the city cemetery. The CCTA policy statement supports a unified regional voice for transportation projects, with Washougal's listed projects as tier D and E. Walsh noted a change to the legislative agenda regarding RCW 52.02.160, which allows cities to create fire protection districts; the city found it too restrictive and will advocate for more flexibility, though it does not affect current regional partnership with Camas. Councilmember Russell raised concerns about trash removal on state highways and asked how to advocate for more funding. - 2025-2026 Mid-Biennium Budget Review & Modification: Finance Director Daniel Layer, City Manager David Scott, and Police Chief Zane Freschette presented revenue proposals and budget modifications. Layer highlighted community survey results showing low satisfaction with street maintenance (less than half satisfied) and high priority for streets, parks, and police. The pavement management program currently has a PCI of 1.1 (high), but a funding increase of $300,000 per year is needed to avoid backlog and maintain condition. An ADA transition plan requires $750,000 annually. Layer presented three potential transportation revenue tools: a 0.1% transportation benefit district (TBD) sales tax ($305,000/year for 10 years), increasing the license tab fee from $20 to $40 ($275,000/year), and a new 0.1% public safety sales tax ($305,000/year) authorized by HB 2015. The public safety tax also unlocks a state grant (up to $125,000 per position for 3 years at 75% cost) for law enforcement hiring, training, and equipment. - Public Safety Sales Tax Discussion: Chief Freschette explained that the public safety sales tax revenue would fund park restroom crime prevention (cameras, hardening, increased janitorial), police vehicle/equipment replacement, community engagement, and professional staff for public records. Multiple council members expressed strong support for addressing park vandalism (especially at Sandy Swimm Hole) and discussed ideas such as paid parking for non-residents, security cameras, and park rangers. Councilmember Russell and others noted the need for a comprehensive plan. - Budget Modification Details: Layer outlined specific changes including: $104,000 for public safety facility upgrades and janitorial services (funded by partial-year public safety sales tax), $178,000 transferred to the REET 2nd Quarter Fund for pavement management (from TBD sales tax), $25,000 for Schmidt Park conceptual design, $3.9 million for Shepherd Road pedestrian connection (using TIFS and TIP funds), $119,000 for a DOT grant for systemic stop-controlled intersections, and an additional $164,200 for a new street sweeper replacement (stormwater fund). Key Outcomes - Council Direction on Revenue: After discussion, council members reached consensus to move forward with two of the three proposed revenue sources: the 0.1% transportation benefit district sales tax and the 0.1% public safety sales tax. The increase in the license tab fee from $20 to $40 was not supported by the majority; some members cited equity concerns, enforcement difficulties, and preference for a smaller incremental increase. Council directed staff to prepare ordinances for the two sales taxes for first reading at the December 1, 2025 council meeting. - Public Hearing Set: Council set a public hearing for December 1, 2025 to adopt the mid-biennium budget modification ordinance, which will incorporate the revenue changes once adopted. - Next Steps: Staff will bring ordinances for the two sales taxes on December 1, 2025. The Third Quarter 2025 update was moved to the subsequent council meeting for time reasons.

The Washougal City Council met in regular session on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 7:02 PM via Zoom webinar. Mayor David Stuebe presided. Present were Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz and Councilmembers Molly Coston, Julie Russell, Ernie Suggs, Michelle Wagner, and Tia Robertson (by Zoom); Student Representative Jake Larzalere was absent. The meeting opened with an invocation by Sonia Freeman, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Council approved the consent agenda, adopted the 2025 Supplemental Budget 1, issued a Veterans Remembrance Month proclamation, and later entered executive session before adjourning at 7:55 PM. Proclamations - Councilmember Michelle Wagner, an Air Force veteran, read the proclamation designating November 2025 as “Veterans Remembrance Month.” Although the agenda listed the item as "Veteran's Day," the proclamation recognized all veterans and honored the community's debt to those who served. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Suggs moved for unanimous consent to approve the consent agenda as read; no objections were raised. - Approved items included: Workshop Minutes of October 27, 2025; Council Minutes of October 27, 2025; Payroll Claims of October 31, 2025 totaling $630,640.42; Accounts Payable for August EFT and October 23-30 totaling $3,959,222.73; Agenda Bill 48-2025 setting a public hearing for the 2026 Property Tax Levy (ad valorem); and Agenda Bill 49-2025 setting a public hearing for the 2026 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy. New Business - Agenda Bill 50-2025: Finance Director Daniel Layer reviewed Ordinance 2025 Supplemental Budget 1, which had been presented at workshop. The supplemental budget increased revenues by $4,020,134 and expenditures by $5,877,439. Councilmember Suggs moved to pass, post, and publish the ordinance in the usual manner; Councilmember Coston seconded. The motion passed by voice vote with no opposition. Reports and Communications - City Manager David Scott said he had given his report during the Workshop meeting. - Mayor Stuebe reported on attending the Hyas Point “Top Out” tour on October 31, where he presented a Marine Corps flag; noted November 10 marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps; described the Downtown Halloween-Fest Main Street Trick-or-Treat event as a great success; and attended the Clark County Mayors and City Managers meeting on November 2. - Councilmember Suggs attended a Camas-Washougal Port meeting. - Councilmember Wagner announced a Flag Retirement Ceremony at Reflection Plaza with the Girl Scouts on November 8, requested an update from the recent Regional Parks meeting, and thanked organizations that participated in the Main Street Trick-or-Treat event. - Councilmember Russell said the ReFuel Appreciation Event will take place Saturday and noted the Ending Community Homelessness Organization (ECHO) meeting was canceled. - Councilmember Coston highlighted the United Methodist Church bazaar on Friday and Saturday and the Studio Artists Tour on November 7-8, sponsored by the city’s hotel/motel tax funds. - Mayor Pro Tem Fritz attended the Camas-Washougal Local Connections meeting, noted the Salvation Army sock drive, participated in the Hyas Point “Top Out” event and Main Street Trick-or-Treat, and listed upcoming activities including the Sister City meeting on November 4, Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council (RTC) meeting, Ivy League cleanup at Sandy Swimming Hole from 9 AM to noon Saturday, ReFuel dinner, and volunteering at Gateway Church’s Run for the Hungry on Thanksgiving. - Councilmember Robertson reported completing her certifications, planned to attend the church Christmas bazaar and the Washougal High School football playoff game Friday night. Executive Session - After a five-minute break, Mayor Stuebe called an executive session at 7:25 PM to review the performance of a public employee under RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) and to discuss agency enforcement and potential litigation under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). No action was to follow. The regular meeting resumed at 7:55 PM. Key Outcomes - The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda and adopted the 2025 Supplemental Budget 1. - Public hearings were set for the 2026 property tax levy and the 2026 EMS levy. - November 2025 was proclaimed Veterans Remembrance Month. - Executive session was held with no action taken, and the meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM. - The next regular meeting was announced as Monday, November 17, 2025, with a workshop at 5:00 PM and council at 7:00 PM. Note: the printed agenda listed "Upcoming Meetings" as November 3, 2025 (the same day), conflicting with the minutes and adjournment statement; the November 17 date is used here.

The Washougal City Council held a workshop on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:17 PM via Zoom. Mayor David Stuebe presided, with Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz and Councilmembers Molly Coston, Julie Russell, Michelle Wagner, Tia Robertson (Zoom), and Ernie Suggs (Zoom) present; Student Representative Jake Larzalere was absent. Staff included City Manager David Scott, Community Development Director Mitch Kneipp, Finance Director/City Clerk Daniel Layer, Human Resources Director Teresa Stedman, and consultants Jessica Herceg and Mariah Mitchell of DOWL. The agenda covered Comprehensive Plan Minor Element Revisions, the 2025 Supplemental Budget 1 Update and 2026 Property Tax Levies, and reports including the city's Shared Leave Policy. No public comments were offered. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Minor Element Revisions (Natural Resources, Parks & Open Space, Procedural Element) — presented by Mitch Kneipp with Jessica Herceg and Mariah Mitchell of DOWL: - Project schedule: Clark County issued its draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on October 1; the countywide agricultural land study is due November 4; the draft EIS comment period ends in late November; a countywide preferred alternative is expected by the end of February 2026, with final EIS and local adoption targeted for mid-July 2026. Presenters noted all dates are tentative and dependent on the agricultural land study and EIS outcomes. - Natural Resources & Critical Areas: The city has no designated agricultural, forest, or mineral resource lands inside its limits or UGA, so the update is described as a 'soft' refresh — adding a shoreline master program coordination section, updating goals and policies, and adding new goals on Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife coordination, best available science, and native plant stewardship. The Planning Commission recommended consolidating two critical-areas policies; DOWL is taking that suggestion under advisement. - Parks & Open Space: The draft proposes replacing the current level-of-service standard of 5 acres per 1,000 residents with a 10-minute walkability/access standard, building on the 2021 Parks & Recreation Plan and the forthcoming 2026 park plan. A new Policy 5L addresses climate resilience of parks per House Bill 1181. - Procedural Criteria Element: Draft updates clarify emergency amendment provisions, the shoreline master program amendment process, public participation procedures, and add new five-year GMA implementation reporting requirements. - Councilmember Julie Russell asked whether park capacity is measured by site area or parking, citing neighbor concerns about summer crowds and parking in the Sandy/Hamlet area, and suggested limiting future parking to resident-only passes. Another councilmember expressed support for a paid parking lot with resident/non-resident rate differentiation. City Manager David Scott said parks rental and cost-recovery policies are on the work plan for 2026 and that resident vs. non-resident fee questions would be part of that broader conversation. - Next steps: Council and Planning Commission feedback will be folded into a combined comp plan packet in Q1/Q2 2026; the Planning Commission will review development code updates on November 12, with development code updates coming to council in January 2026. - Finance: 2025 Supplemental Budget 1 Update and 2026 Property Tax Levies — presented by Daniel Layer: - Hotel/motel tax fund: Two additions — year-end advertising deals for 2026 tourism promotion and about $2,550 in 2025 Civic Plus website hosting fees — bring the supplemental total to $102,970; with $47,303 available in the adopted budget, the proposed budget amendment is $55,667. Council and staff noted the city saved roughly $4,000 because the LTAC granted partial rather than full reimbursement on the project discussed. - Stormwater fund: The Q Street infiltration pond project was added, requiring an additional $70,000 and bringing the stormwater expenditure increase to $606,510. - Citywide totals: Revenue increases of $4,020,134 and expenditure increases of $5,877,439 across funds, including a $550,000 credit back to the general fund from the capital facilities project fund reallocation and an increase in the wastewater treatment plant budget from about $16.5 million to $20 million (the total project is estimated at a little north of $40 million; the community saved $11 million, with the remainder funded by debt via clean water loans). - 2026 property tax levies: The adopted budget assumed a 1% levy increase and 2.02% new-construction growth; the actual new-construction figure came in at 2.01%. The implicit price deflator is 2.44%, so the council is capped at a 1% increase absent an emergency declaration. Two items on that evening's regular meeting consent agenda set public hearings (to be advertised twice) for the property tax and EMS levies on November 17. Layer explained levy mechanics using a two-year example; Mayor Pro Tem Fritz noted that previous councils had declined the increase during the Great Recession and that the increase was banked, adding that with the city's growth and obligations, 'we have to keep up.' Layer also noted employee health insurance costs are rising 7% to nearly 10%. Reports and Communications - City Manager David Scott: Encouraged everyone to vote, noting Election Day is November 4; reported on the ICMA Annual Conference in Florida, which drew about 5,000 participants from around the world; and requested a future discussion on expanding the Shared Leave Policy to allow employees to donate accrued sick leave in addition to vacation leave. He cited roughly 18 donations over the last five years and noted safeguards such as a proposed 480-hour minimum sick leave balance. Councilmembers raised concerns about unexpected illness and favoritism and asked HR Director Teresa Stedman to research whether targeted employee-to-employee donations are legal; the city previously moved away from that model on advice of a former HR director. - Mayor David Stuebe: Proposed canceling the November 10 workshop and regular meeting; councilmembers agreed. - City Council: Councilmembers Wagner, Coston, Russell, Suggs, and Robertson deferred; Mayor Pro Tem Fritz deferred. Key Outcomes - Council agreed to cancel the November 10, 2025 workshop and regular meeting; next meetings are Monday, November 17, 2025 — workshop at 5:00 PM and council at 7:00 PM. Note: the printed agenda listed November 10 as the upcoming meeting, but council voted to cancel it. - The 2025 Supplemental Budget 1 ordinance was placed on the regular meeting agenda immediately following the workshop; a possible Supplemental Budget 2 was flagged for late November or early December. - Public hearings for the 2026 property tax levy and EMS levy were set for November 17 via the regular meeting consent agenda. - Staff will bring a revised Shared Leave Policy proposal to the next meeting, and HR will research the legality of targeted donations. - Mitch Kneipp will brief the council on the county agricultural land study and EIS process on December 1, with development code updates expected in January 2026.

The Washougal City Council met in regular session on Monday, October 27, 2025, beginning at 7:01 PM. Mayor David Stuebe presided, with Mayor Pro Tem David Fritz, Councilmembers Molly Coston, Julie Russell, Ernie Suggs, and Michelle Wagner, and Student Representative Jake Larzalere present; Councilmember Tia Robertson was absent and excused by unanimous consent. No public comments were offered. The Council approved the consent calendar and a personnel policies update, heard reports from city staff and councilmembers, and held an executive session before adjourning at 7:45 PM. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Suggs requested unanimous consent to approve the consent calendar as read, with no objections. - Approved items: Workshop Minutes of October 13, 2025; Council Minutes of October 13, 2025; Payroll Claims of October 15 totaling $388,240.84; Accounts Payable of October 9 and 16 totaling $420,609.82; and Agenda Bill 46-2025, Authorization to Transfer of Funds for Emergency Utility Assistance. Discussion Items - Agenda Bill 47-2025 - Personnel Policies Update: Human Resources Director Teresa Stedman presented the resolution, revisiting the update originally discussed at the October 13, 2025 Workshop. Councilmember Suggs moved to pass and post the resolution in the usual manner; Councilmember Coston seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote with no opposition. City Manager Report - Acting City Manager Trevor Evers reported significant rainfall over the weekend, resulting in extensive cleanup of stormwater systems and streets because of downed tree limbs and debris. Mayor's Report - Mayor Stuebe commended street sweepers for their quick response to wind and rainfall and praised the Pumpkin Harvest Festival as a growing, successful event. - He attended ribbon cuttings for Washougal Yoga and Wellness Studio and Kascadia Brewery Public House, saying new businesses are bringing visibility to Washougal. - He reported attending two Symbiosis meetings related to the wastewater treatment project, exploring ways to enhance existing systems and potentially reduce energy and water rates, and said he will continue working with Symbiosis and the Port. - The House Minority Leader, who serves on the House Transportation Committee, toured the Slough, and the House Majority Leader is scheduled to tour the Slough Bridge. Mayor Stuebe emphasized the importance of state leaders understanding Washougal's traffic, commerce, safety concerns, and the critical need to repair and upgrade the Slough Bridge. Council and Student Representative Reports - Student Representative Jake Larzalere reported that Washougal High School's football team won on Friday and advanced to state; the Pumpkin Harvest Festival was successful; the high school haunted house was well done; a band concert was scheduled that evening; a winter concert is planned; and FBLA will attend its fall conference on November 7 at Lower Columbia College. He also attended his first school board meeting, where cell phone use at the high school was the main topic. - Councilmember Russell reported that the Ending Community Homelessness Organization (ECHO) meeting was canceled. - Councilmember Wagner thanked donors, staff, and volunteers for the Harvest Festival; praised the Campanile unveiling and an original song written for it; and attended Arts Commission and Parks Board meetings. She noted that the Second Saturdays in the Park program is growing. - Councilmember Coston said the Campanile dedication was very well received and praised the Citizens Academy as a sign of community engagement. She announced a native plant sale on November 2 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the Excelsior High School parking lot, Main Street trick-or-treating on Friday, October 31, and Election Day on Tuesday, November 4. - Councilmember Suggs suggested displaying children's artwork in city and library buildings. He attended a Camas-Washougal Port meeting where a proposal to extend Port Commissioners' terms from four to six years was discussed, and he commended community volunteers. - Mayor Pro Tem Fritz attended the AWC Federal Legislative Priorities Committee meeting on October 15, where there was discussion about Washington cities potentially losing federal funding for projects and possible delays from the federal government shutdown. He also attended the Campanile celebration and a chamber luncheon, helped plan the Drug Take Back event held October 25, plans to attend the Hyas Point event this Friday and Main Street trick-or-treat on October 31, and noted a Washougal Ivy League work party at Sandy Swimming Hole on November 8 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. He signed up to volunteer with the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership to plant native vegetation at Mabel Kerr Park; the minutes list December 6, while the transcript says Saturday, December 5. Executive Session - At 7:35 PM, after a short break, the Council entered executive session under RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) to review the performance of a public employee, with no action to follow. The open meeting resumed at 7:45 PM and was adjourned immediately afterward. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved as read, including the emergency utility assistance fund transfer authorization. - Agenda Bill 47-2025, the Personnel Policies Update resolution, was passed and ordered posted in the usual manner. - The executive session on employee performance was held with no action taken. - The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2025, with a workshop at 5:00 PM and the regular meeting at 7:00 PM.