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Camas City Council Member Svilarich Arrested, Faces Felony, Misdemeanor Charges

Camas, WA — Camas Police records reveal the details that led to the September 13th arrest of Camas City Council member, John Svilarich. The City of Camas is directing questions on the incident to the police report and county prosector’s office.

Svilarich, 66, according to the police records, was charged with two crimes (reckless endangerment and aiming/discharging a firearm) following a verbal altercation with a fisherman and a pedestrian that occurred on August 31 along the Washougal River Greenway trail in Camas.

The Camas Police Department said the charges against Svilarich stem from a disturbance that “began as a verbal argument between a fisherman along the river, and a pedestrian who was walking along the greenway trail and over the pedestrian footbridge.”

In a document filed by Camas Police detective Gary Manning, Camas Police were dispatched to the scene at the trail just before 8 am on Saturday, August 31 following a 911 call. Daniel Beaudoin, 46, of Portland, reported that a man — allegedly Svilarich — threw a rock at him from a pedestrian bridge and “pointed a firearm at him soon after.”

Police say Beaudoin was fishing when Svilarich, who was walking the trail with John Neumann, allegedly confronted Beaudoin because he threw a cigarette butt on the ground.

“They both yelled and cussed at each other,” police said, adding that Svilarich and Neumann “continued on the trail, north of the bridge” following the verbal altercation . The police report said that when Svilarich and Neumann returned heading south over the pedestrian bridge, Beaudoin told police that Svilarich threw a rock in his direction.

“During this pass (over the bridge), Svilarich was observed, by another witness, looking over the bridge railing two times,” the police report said. “A rock, approximately 5 to 8 inches was thrown or dropped by Svilarich off the bridge, which is at a height of approximately 50 feet above the river” and landed “in close proximity to Beaudoin.”

Beaudoin walked to the trail and “verbally confronted Svilarich for throwing the rock.”

And the arguing continued with both men standing at least 40 feet from one another. The police report said Svilarich allegedly “pulled out a black firearm pistol and pointed it in the direction of Beaudoin.”

The fisherman told police he ran back to the river’s edge and that “Svilarich moved down the main trail path in the direction towards where Beaudoin had been standing, shifting the firearm between having the firearm pointed at Beaudoin and pointing at the ground.”

Camas Police confirmed that Svilarich was carrying a black Walther 9mm semi-automatic handgun “concealed in his back right waistband of his pants.” 

Svilarich does have a concealed-carry license.

In the report, Camas police said “originally [Svilarich] denied having a firearm, then stated he had one but did not display it.”  Svilarich later told police he had pulled his firearm but had not pointed it at Beaudoin but, instead, “had it at ‘low ready’ to protect himself.”

Svilarich also admitted to throwing the rock off the pedestrian bridge “but stated he did not know Beaudoin was in the vicinity of where it landed.”

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ELECTION 2024: Rep. Paul Harris Explains Why He’s Running For Senate Seat

Vancouver, WA — Lacamas Magazine recently interviewed Rep. Paul Harris (R-17th LD) about his current run for the Washington Senate. He’s been in the State House for 14 years.

Question: What are the top reasons you’re running for the State Senate?

Balance of government is super important. Checks and balances are essential to good legislation. In the Senate, we are one vote away from the Democrats having a super majority.

Public safety is a major concern. Homelessness is a big issue. When you go to Fred Meyer, you see guards in their stores.

Fentanyl is a real problem. It ties into homelessness, along with drugs and theft. I sponsored the bill to build a big tent in Vancouver that will house 150 people. It would get them off the street immediately. It would stabilize them, and then move them into another facility. We need that. The city will get it done.  We need to be tough on crime. 

Electrical power is a significant issue. For example, the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is harming our economy. Affordable power has always been an incentive for big businesses to come to Washington, but this legislation is going to increase the cost of power. Businesses say they came here because Washington has clean, cheap, and affordable power. Businesses are wondering if they can afford to come here now; some are afraid to come here. We are flipping the scale and we are very close to harming businesses. Natural gas is needed to fill the void for a while. 

I really believe the CCA won’t make a significant dent in reducing climate issues. 

Because of the CCA, auto fuel costs Washingtonians about 60 cents to 70 cents more per gallon than in Utah. Locally, it’s really impacting us a lot. It brings up the cost of groceries. 

Question: What are the biggest challenges facing SW Washington voters?

Cost of living. My opponent is a mayor and the mayors belong to the Washington Association of Cities. They want to give the cities the authority to raise property taxes up to 3 percent instead of 1 percent. Property taxes are fairly high in Washington, so I don’t want cities to be able to do that. I will oppose that. It would be disastrous for our taxpayers.

The affordability of a home is outrageous, I don’t want to make it worse for people trying to buy their first home.

Inflation. There are initiatives on the ballot that are trying to repeal bad legislation. 

There are initiatives on the ballot that fix or reverse legislation.  Several of these initiatives will lower costs to consumers.  The main one is the CCA or climate commitment act.  This initiative will roll back prices on natural gas and on gasoline and also help stabilize electrical costs in the future.

We are one of three west coast states that are taxing carbon. Washington State is taxing petroleum/ carbon greater than any other state.  We are paying 41% more for natural gas and about 50 cents to 60 cents more per gallon for gasoline than Idaho or other states not taxing carbon. These added costs affect cost of goods in many ways from shipping to manufacturing to filling your gas tank in car or heating your home. It impacts the poor the most as they can least afford it. Voting yes on the initiative will repeal these taxes on carbon.

I believe this is a Federal issue and needs to be addressed by federal rules and regulations.  The idea that Utah is still burning coal for the next 10 years for 30% of its electricity and we are restricting natural gas highlights that this is a National or global problem and not just ours.

Question: Why should voters elect you?

I think we need balance of government. We do not need another Democrat to be elected. Democrats have controlled this state for 30 years, and I believe we need other minds at the table. Not one party has all the solutions. In 2018, Washington had 48 Republicans, and now we have 40. As a result, we are passing legislation that really isn’t helping people. All the money raised from CCA money is being distributed to government agencies. 

When a Republican loses a seat it doesn’t go to a moderate Democrat, it goes to the fringes. Because of that the worst legislation happens. The CCA is terrible legislation. We need moderate legislators who sincerely tackle issues that impact people the most.

Question: What should voters know about you?

I’m an effective legislator representing this district for 14 years. I seek policies that will help people. I’ve lived in the district for 45 years. I’ve raised my children here. I’ve served on the Evergreen School Board. 

To learn more about the Harris candidacy, visit www.electharris.com

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Washougal SD Welcomes Jane Long as Newest School Board Member

Washougal School District’s newest school board member, Jane Long, was sworn into service at the September 10, 2024 board work session.  WSD Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen administered the oath of office. 

Long was selected to represent Director District #2 through the end of 2025 when she may run for election to a four-year term if she chooses.

“I’m excited to be part of the board and to serve the community,” said Long. “Washougal has amazing teachers and excellent schools, and I want to use this position to continue to make sure our teachers and schools help every student succeed.”

Long has served as a class volunteer, ReadNW mentor, and been an active member of the boosters at the school her children attend. She has also served as a volunteer with local organizations serving youth. She brings professional experience working in human resources and budgeting.  

“We are excited to welcome Jane to the WSD Board of Directors,” said Hansen. “Her perspective as a current parent and volunteer with experience in our schools will be an incredible asset in serving the community as part of our school board.” 

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ELECTION 2024: Terri Niles Campaigns For Open LD 17 Pos. 2 Seat

Lacamas Magazine interviewed Terri Niles, a critical care nurse, who is running for Legislative District 17, Position 2, as a Democrat. She answered several questions as she prepares for the General 2024 election.

What are the three top reasons you’re running for the State House?

My lifelong commitment to serving others led me to a 25-year career as a critical care nurse. Now, I’m pursuing public office to extend that service on a broader scale for the people of Southwest Washington. Our region faces complex challenges that demand serious candidates with real-world experience. As a single working mother, I understand the struggles that working families face, including the lack of affordable housing and childcare. I will bring this unique perspective to Olympia, advocating for policies that help people get ahead. Additionally, I will focus on bringing resources to our district, investing in infrastructure, and creating jobs to ensure long-term prosperity for our community.

Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on our community. This crisis significantly contributes to the rise in crime and homelessness, and I understand the urgent need to address these issues with compassion and effective policy. We need legislators with real healthcare experience to work on healthcare legislation. We are facing a crisis in healthcare access, particularly in our rural communities, and a shortage of healthcare workers. I know how to fix these issues, and I’m ready to get to work.

I am committed to supporting businesses and opening the door to good-paying jobs in our district, especially for our small business owners who are the lifeblood of our rural communities. I’ve worked hard during this campaign to listen to their concerns, and I will continue to do so as a legislator. When elected, I will collaborate with business leaders to find ways to increase prosperity for everyone in our district. Every decision and vote I make will be with the best interests of those I represent. I will evaluate every piece of legislation through a non-partisan lens, ensuring that it’s practical and effective for the people in my district.

As a State Representative, I will approach this role by reaching across the aisle, not as an adversary, but as a collaborator. State representative elections are crucial because they directly impact our daily lives, determining how our tax dollars are spent and shaping our community’s priorities. I am committed to putting Southwest Washington first and being our voice in Olympia.

What are the biggest challenges facing Southwest Washington voters?

One of the biggest challenges and concerns I hear from constituents is hyper-partisanship and political polarization. Partisan divisions can make it difficult to find common ground on important issues, leading to gridlock or compromised legislation that may not fully address the needs of our community. Building coalitions and fostering collaboration across party lines is essential but can be challenging in today’s political climate. I bring experience in working across the aisle, having negotiated contracts for my union with people who have very different ideas and desired outcomes. Additionally, I’ve spent 16 years finding common ground with my husband, who is a Republican. I know how to make it work.

Affordability is another major challenge—whether it’s healthcare, housing, or childcare, everything is increasingly out of reach for working families. As a single working mother, I’ve lived these struggles, raising a child while working multiple jobs and often having to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table. These are the same struggles that people across our district face every day, and I’m running to find real, long-term solutions. I want to work to lower costs for working families so they don’t have to experience the hardships I went through, and so life can be better for those struggling to get ahead. That’s why I’m running for office, and why I believe my unique experience and voice are needed in Olympia.

Why should voters elect you?

My platform and priorities focus on issues that resonate deeply with the people in my district, both rural and urban. These are the “kitchen table” concerns that working-class families discuss daily, and they’re the same issues that have come up time and time again in my conversations at the doors. Throughout my career as a nursing leader, I’ve been dedicated to addressing these challenges, such as the lack of accessible childcare, the need for safe working conditions and adequate compensation, and the critical shortage of affordable housing. Additionally, I believe everyone should have the opportunity to retire with dignity and live comfortably in their later years. These are not just priorities for my campaign; they are the core values that have guided my work and will continue to do so as I fight for our community

Please tell us about your background and what should voters know about you.

Growing up with a surgical nurse mother and an aerospace engineer father, I learned the value of hard work, problem-solving, and the belief that nothing is impossible. If my father could put a man on the moon, I believe we can tackle today’s challenges together.

With over 25 years as an ICU nurse and a deep commitment to community service, I’ve dedicated my life to saving lives and supporting families. Being a nurse and making a difference in people’s lives daily has been an honor and has shaped who I am. Now, I’m ready to bring that same caring compassion, commitment, and accountability to Olympia to serve you and our community.

Living in Hawaii as a young adult, I faced high living costs and a lack of affordable housing, which eventually brought me back to the mainland. I never expected to see similar challenges here in Washington. We must work together to make our state affordable and livable for families. My goal is to ensure that everyone can thrive without the burden of excessive costs. I will support policies that address our current affordability crisis, crushing inflationary impacts, lack of affordable housing, and the critical need for childcare and healthcare.

Skyrocketing rent increases are making it difficult for many in our community to afford housing. No one should be forced to live in their cars or on the streets while we remain gridlocked. This isn’t a partisan issue; we must work together to solve it. Rural families face unique challenges, including limited employment opportunities and low-quality housing. We must find solutions to rebuild rural opportunities and support rural communities in our district. Southwest Washington faces a significant shortage of affordable housing, and we need innovative policies to protect and expand affordable housing opportunities for all.

Too many families are working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. We need to build a strong economy by investing in family-wage jobs, affordable childcare, paid sick leave, and family leave. Supporting small and medium-sized businesses through tax cuts and incentives is crucial, especially in rural communities where they are the lifeblood of the economy. We must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive in today’s economy.

We need legislators in Olympia who truly understand our healthcare systems and the changes that need to be made. With over 25 years in healthcare, I am that legislator. We are facing a nationwide nursing shortage, and Washington is no exception. As a nurse, I understand what needs to be done and how to implement the changes needed to avert this crisis. Access to healthcare, including reproductive care, will always be among my top priorities. Healthcare needs to be affordable, accessible, and available to all, regardless of zip code or financial status. I will be your healthcare advocate in Olympia, and I am proud to say that I am the only pro-choice candidate in this race.

To learn more about the Niles campaign, visit voteterriniles.com

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Camas Plans New Roundabout at Lake Road/Sierra Street Intersection

Camas, WA — The City of Camas announced today that after reviewing public input and an engineering analysis, city leaders are moving forward with plans to construct a roundabout at the Lake Road/Sierra Street intersection.

City leaders say a new roundabout will do the following:

  • Improve safety and mobility by reducing the likelihood of high-speed collisions.
  • Reduce traffic backups, mainly for northbound motorists on NW Sierra Street trying to enter onto Lake Road.
  • Upgrade sidewalks and bicycle lanes.

The project is funded for design but not for construction. The City is currently moving forward with designing the roundabout and pursuing construction funding. 

The City will continue to share information during the design process. More information is available at https://engagecamas.com/nw-lake-rd-and-nw-sierra-st-intersection-improvements

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Election 2024: Primary Preliminary Results in; Gluesenkamp Perez, Kent Win

Vancouver, WA — The Clark County Elections Office released the preliminary results of the August 6, 2024 primary election, and here are the results:

U.S. Representative, District 3

Leslie Lewallen (R): 8,984 12.00%

Joe Kent (R): 25,587 34.18%

John Saulie-Rohman (I): 1,813 2.42%

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D): 38,482 51.40%

Legislative Candidates, District 17

State Senator:

Paul Harris (R): 10,508 49.36%

Marla Keethler (D): 10,782 50.64%

State Representative, Position 1

Kevin Waters (R): 12,890 100.00%

State Representative, Position 2

Hannah Joy (R): 5,080 23.94%

David Stuebe (R): 5,593 26.36%

Terri Niles:(D): 10,548 49.71%

Legislative Candidates, District 18

State Senator:

Greg Cheney (R): 5,505 22.40%

Brad Benton (R): 7,554 30.74%

Adrian Cortes (D): 11,517 46.86%

State Representative, Position 1

Stephanie McClintock (R): 13,317 54.74%

Deken Letinich (D): 11,009 45.26%

State Representative, Position 2

John Ley (R): 9,362 38.28%

Phillip L. Johnson (R): 3,269 13.37%

John Zingale (D): 11,824 48.35%

City of Camas, Prop 4: 

Approved: 3,020 67.71%

Rejected: 1,440 32.29%

This proposition would authorize the City to acquire land and construct and equip a new fire station, renovate an existing fire station and acquire a new fire engine to improve fire safety throughout the City.

Elections Office Audit

The Clark County Elections Office said “Beginning at 10 am Wednesday, Aug. 7, elections officials will perform a hand count of approximately 600 ballots randomly selected as part of a manual comparison against machine results.”

For this comparison, approximately 600 ballots from the 3rd Congressional District race will be counted by hand, to check the accuracy of the ballot tabulation equipment. The selected ballots will be counted in the total returns on Election Day. 

All active registered voters are eligible to vote in this election. If a voter has not received their ballot, they should contact the Elections Office at 564.397.2345 or [email protected]. 

A voter may download a replacement ballot at VoteWA.gov. Sign in using your name and date of birth. Click “Your Ballot and Voting Materials” and then click “Get a Replacement Ballot.” The voter must print the declaration sheet and ballot and return it by following the instructions.

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3rd Congressional District Candidate Lewallen Responds to Endorsement

Camas, WA — Third District Congressional candidate and Camas City Councilor, Leslie Lewallen, a Republican, was recently endorsed by The Columbian.

Lewallen answered Lacamas Magazine questions about the endorsement.

1) What are your thoughts about this op-ed?

I am honored to have the endorsement of The Columbian. This is proof that the more people learn about my campaign, the more they support us! 

2) The Columbian says your GOP opponent flip flops on his views. Do you agree with that assessment? If so, can you point out some of this flip flops?

Southwest Washington families can’t trust Joe Kent. His views change with the breeze and he is more concerned about getting to Congress for his own personal gain. Don’t forget that he has said he wants to defund the police and supports Medicare for All. 

I’m different – I saw a problem in my community and I got to work fixing it on the Camas City Council and will continue that fight in Congress. 

3) The Columbian says you’re delivering for Washington. Please elaborate on that.

As a sitting Camas City Councilor, I’ve worked tirelessly to balance the needs of the city with the desires of its citizens. People are worried by rising prices, our wide-open southern border, and the homelessness crisis impacting our communities. On the City Council, I’ve fought for Southwest Washington to stop our out-of-control spending, put more money into families pockets, and stop the fentanyl epidemic destroying our community. 

4) Why are you the better poised to face Congresswoman Marie Glusenkamp Perez in the general election?

Marie Glusenkamp Perez is anti-parent, anti-small business, anti-police and pro-Antifa. She even said that no one is worried about our southern border crisis. But people are worried. I heard first-hand at my town hall on Washington’s fentanyl crisis from families that have lost children and loved one’s from drugs crossing our southern border. In November, we have to elect a fighter with a proven track record of success and I know I’m the right woman for the job. I love Southwest Washington and our community deserves better. 

Unfortunately, my opponent lost in 2022 and he will lose again in November. History is not on Joe’s side. There has been no federal rematches with a flipped outcome in the past 30 years. Lots of Republicans don’t believe him and don’t trust him. They think he is too extreme and don’t understand his values. I’m the only conservative in this race. 

5) What issues are your top priorities?

I am running for Congress in Washington’s third congressional district to bring sanity back to our crime-ridden streets, our schools, and our economy. When I’m elected, I will focus on securing the border and restoring law and order, putting parents in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, getting our country back on track, and making America affordable again.

You can learn more about Lewallen’s campaign at www.leslieforwashington.com

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Three Washougal Schools Receive State Recognition for Outstanding Achievement

Washougal, WA — In June 2024, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) announced that three Washougal schools are being recognized for academic growth and closing opportunity gaps in the 2022-23 and 2021-22 school years. Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy are recognized for the 2022-23 school year. Canyon Creek Middle School is also being honored for fostering student academic growth in the 2021-22 school year.

All three schools were recognized for academic growth. The Washington School Recognition Program measures growth based on outstanding year-to-year improvement in Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) standardized test proficiency, graduation rates, attendance rates, and other student success measurements. Across all Washougal schools in 2022-23, Washougal School District saw year-to-year improvement in 70% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC.

Canyon Creek Middle School (CCMS) is one of just 104 schools recognized for both the 2022-23 and 2021-22 academic years. CCMS was honored for demonstrating substantial improvements for student groups most in need of support. 

In the 2022-23 school year, Washougal students outperformed the state average in 82% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC. CCMS outperformed the Washington State average in 2022-23 in all three subjects tested: 31.5% points in science, 16% points in English Language Arts, and 7.2% points in math.

“This recognition shows how dedicated our teachers, students, and community are to making academic progress and closing opportunity gaps. We’re determined to continue this positive trajectory into the new school year,” said Aaron Hansen, Interim Superintendent at Washougal School District for the 2024-25 school year.

Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy will each receive a recognition banner to display in their buildings. 

OSPI has partnered with the State Board of Education (SBE) and Educational Opportunity Gap Oversight and Accountability Committee (EOGOAC) for years to identify and recognize schools for the Washington School Recognition Program. For the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years, 571 public schools in 178 school districts across Washington state have earned this honor. Learn more about the Washington School Recognition Program and view a full list of schools receiving recognition on the SBE website.

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Washougal Police Department Announces Leadership Transition

Chief Wendi Steinbronn To Retire December 2024; Captain Zane Freschette Assumes Leadership Role in January 2025

After 31 years of dedicated service to the community as a law enforcement professional, including 5 years in Washougal, Chief Wendi Steinbronn has announced her retirement from the Washougal Police Department, effective December 31, 2024. Chief Steinbronn has been an integral part of the department’s growth and success, leaving a lasting legacy of commitment and professionalism.

“I have decided to retire after many fulfilling years in law enforcement. I have cherished my time here and will deeply miss our incredible team, and I am immensely proud of our achievements,” commented Chief Steinbronn.

In her tenure as chief, Steinbronn has overseen numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and community relations in Washougal. Specifically, these achievements include departmental accreditation, the successful implementation of body-worn camera and drone programs, establishing National Night Out as an annual event, and the recent strategic operational review that has charted the department’s path forward.

“We are grateful for Chief Steinbronn’s outstanding service and leadership throughout her tenure,” said City Manager David Scott. “Her contributions have made a significant impact on the safety and well-being of our community, and we wish her and her husband the best as they enter this new phase of life.”

Chief Steinbronn and her husband, a retired Portland Police officer, plan to embark on a new chapter as empty nesters. They are eagerly anticipating more time for travel, golf, and house projects.

Captain Zane Freschette to Take On Role of Chief

City Manager David Scott announced today that he is promoting Captain Zane Freschette to assume leadership upon Chief Steinbronn’s retirement.

“I am pleased to promote Captain Freschette. He is ready to assume the chief role, and I have every confidence that he will successfully lead the team at Washougal Police as they serve our community into the future,” said Scott. “He has strong support from City leadership and the entire police department.”

Captain Freschette brings nearly two decades of experience within the department, having excelled in roles such as detective, patrol sergeant, administrative sergeant and captain. His tenure has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of community policing. He also recently graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy. He is the first officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

In endorsing Captain Freschette to lead the department, Steinbronn emphasized, “Throughout my career, leadership development has been my passion, and I have prioritized succession planning from day one. I am delighted that Captain Freschette will be at the helm of the department. He is a remarkable leader with an unwavering commitment to our mission. I have learned as much from him as I hope he has learned from me, and I am forever grateful for the trust placed in me by the city and community to guide the Washougal Police Department toward a secure and vibrant future.”

Captain Freschette expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Washougal Police Department, saying “I am deeply honored to step into the role of Washougal’s next Chief of Police. I am eager to collaborate with Chief Steinbronn during our remaining time together and build upon her legacy as we move the department forward. Our team is exceptional, and it is a privilege to serve alongside them. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to uphold safety and trust in Washougal, working closely with our community and the dedicated members of the Washougal Police Department.”

The transition from Chief Steinbronn to Chief Freschette will be smooth, ensuring consistent service and dedication to the people of Washougal. The department remains committed to public safety, community engagement, and maintaining professional excellence.

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City of Washougal Acts on PFAS Detection in Drinking Water

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal has detected trace amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its drinking water supply. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products and industrial applications since the 1940s, known for their inability to breakdown easily in the environment. PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

Between February and May 2024, routine testing conducted by the City identified PFAS levels slightly above the newly established Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) at least one time, on at least one PFAS substance at each of the 6 city wellheads. Testing results can be found at https://cityofwashougal.us/PFAS. Despite being below the State Action Level (SAL) set by the Washington State Department of Health, these levels prompted public notification. 

On April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS. The new limit from the EPA for levels of PFAS in drinking water is set at 4 parts per trillion. For perspective, 1 part per trillion translates to 1 second in approximately 32,000 years or a single drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The recommended limits are based on long-term exposure to PFAS throughout a person’s life and represent a conservative level at which no adverse impacts are expected over a lifetime of drinking the water, even in health-sensitive populations.

“The health and safety of our residents are our top priorities,” commented Public Works Director Trevor Evers. “Upon detecting these low levels of PFAS, we have taken immediate steps to ensure our drinking water remains safe and compliant with regulatory standards.”

The City of Washougal currently operates six wells across its service area and continues to thoroughly monitor water quality in accordance with federal and state requirements. The discovery of PFAS has prompted the City to act by investigating interim measures to safeguard the community’s water supply.

Work underway includes:

  • Testing the water supply: Operations staff continue to test and monitor water quality in compliance with state and federal requirements to ensure a safe water supply.
  • Evaluating treatment options: Water quality engineers are evaluating treatment technologies to remove PFAS from the water supply.
  • Finding long-term solutions: Expert scientists are investigating potential sources of PFAS and the extent of PFAS in the local groundwater supply.
  • Planning for the future: Future costs for PFAS treatment are included in the City’s long-range capital plans.

PFAS can accumulate in the environment and persist for extended periods. The new EPA regulations underscore the urgency of monitoring and managing these contaminants, with public water systems required to conduct initial monitoring by 2027 and implement corrective actions, if necessary, by 2029.

“We are committed to transparency and proactive communication with our residents,” said David Scott, City Manager. “Regular updates on PFAS testing results and our ongoing efforts to address this issue will be readily available to ensure our community remains informed.”

Residents are encouraged to visit the City’s website at cityofwashougal.us/PFAS for the latest information on PFAS testing, mitigation efforts, and educational material. Additionally, statewide PFAS testing results can be accessed through the Washington State Department of Health’s PFAS Dashboard at https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/washington-tracking-network-wtn/pfas/dashboard. 

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