Aerial surveys show the Nakia Creek Fire near Larch Mountain, which started Sunday afternoon, is burning approximately 156 acres, and is smaller than fire fighters previously thought, according to Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA). Officials also confirmed the fire was human caused, and the investigation continues.
CRESA said firefighter teams are making good progress on control lines around the fire. Firefighters strengthened control lines south of the fire, which CRESA spokesman Eric Frank said is good news for people in evacuation zones.
Approximately 220 homes in the area (near the Skamania County line) were issued evacuation notices Tuesday. Most notices were Level 1 — Be Ready. About 14 addresses fell under a Level 2 notice — Be Set. No residents were under a Level 3 notice — Go Now, according to Frank. CRESA said evacuation notices didn’t change Wednesday.
As of today, the fire was 10 percent contained. Anyone with information about the cause should contact the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office at 564-397-3320.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/12153146/IMG_8652-e1665614663222.jpg13632521Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-12 15:45:162022-10-12 15:50:37CRESA Says Nakia Creek Fire Human Caused, Burning 156 Acres
Camas, WA — The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported this morning that the Nakia Creek fire on Larch Mountain, which was first reported to CRESA at 4:30 pm Sunday, has grown to 150 acres.
The DNR said that crews will continue to engage the fire throughout the day utilizing both ground and air resources. An acreage update will be provided after aerial survey.
No evacuation orders are in place at this time. The public is asked to remain clear of the area.
One of these images shows satellite hot spots this morning from NOAA’s smoke map for the #NakiaCreekFire on Larch Mountain area of Clark County, WA. 8 am, Oct 10, 2022.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/10120835/IMG_6851-scaled-e1665429076595.jpeg13561920Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-10 12:28:432022-10-10 12:28:51Nakia Creek Fire on Larch Mountain Grows to 150 Acres
David Stuebe was sworn in as Mayor of Washougal Monday, September 26, 2022, after a unanimous vote by Washougal City Council. He will serve in Council Position #1 until late November 2023. Rochelle Ramos stepped down from the role on September 17 to pursue a career growth opportunity in Utah.
“I’m honored and humbled to accept the Council’s vote of confidence to fill the role of mayor,” commented Stuebe. “I’ll continue providing leadership and sound judgement as we help grow and serve our community.”
As a resident of Washougal since 2007, he was appointed to the City Council March 29, 2021. Stuebe is committed to helping Washougal provide intelligent and responsible growth, resident safety and youth/adult resources and activities. He serves on many city and county boards and commissions and is also a VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) lifetime member, Back a Hero committee member and sits on the All-Service Academy Interview Committee for Congressional Appointments.
“I think this decision makes sense,” said Councilmember Molly Coston. “As Mayor Pro Tem, Councilmember Stuebe has become very adept at understanding the role as extending beyond the chair of the council. He is very engaged in almost all of our activities.”
Stuebe served over 30 years in the United States Marine Corps (active duty and reserves), retiring as a Colonel in 2016. As a Marine, he managed multiple humanitarian projects, coalition trainings and combat operations around the world, in addition to leading several large commands. Stuebe has also held senior management positions in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries for over 20 years. Stuebe is a graduate of the University of Redlands with a degree in Political Science.
“I have served around the world in many different roles and have made Washougal my home,” remarked Stuebe. “I’m committed to making this a great place for all.”
Council Position #1 will be on the ballot in November 2023, with the elected individual serving the remainder of the four-year term through the end of 2025.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/28121331/Stuebe-Headshot-e1664392493852.jpg345480Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-09-28 12:21:242022-09-28 12:21:32City of Washougal Appoints New Mayor, David Stuebe
Washougal, WA — Rochelle Ramos is resigning as Washougal Mayor (City Council Position #1) effective at midnight on September 17. She is pursuing a career growth opportunity in another state. Mayor Pro Tem David Stuebe will fulfill the Mayoral function until the Council appoints someone to fill the vacant Council Position #1 seat.
“It has been an honor to serve as Mayor. It was not my plan when I ran for office to only serve 10 months. I was also not actively seeking a new position. I was approached with an opportunity that is very positive for my family, and although it was a very difficult decision, I just couldn’t turn it down,” said Mayor Ramos.
In November of 2021 Mayor Ramos was elected to a four-year term to Council Position #1, which is designated as Mayor, taking office on November 23 of that year. Her election as Mayor was the culmination of years of volunteerism, service and support in the Washougal community.
“We are grateful for Rochelle’s long history of service in our community. We as a City have been very fortunate to have had such a passionate and engaged community member who has done an outstanding job in all her roles, including her current position as Mayor. She will be greatly missed,” said Mayor Pro Tem Stuebe.
The Council will be discussing the vacancy and appointment process during its September 12, 2022 worksession. The appointed individual will serve as Mayor until late November 2023. Council Position #1 will then be on the ballot in November 2023, with the elected individual serving the remainder of the four-year term through the end of 2025.
“I am excited for Washougal’s future. We are in the middle of updating our Strategic Plan, which will guide the community into the future, and there are several exciting projects in the works. I encourage Washougal citizens to get involved by volunteering to serve the community through the many opportunities available,” said Ramos. “It is with mixed emotions that I move into this next phase in life and I will miss Washougal.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/29180914/IMG_5560.jpeg343514Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-29 18:11:242022-08-29 18:11:30Washougal Mayor Resigns, Will Relocate For New Career Opportunity
Tucked away from the road and away from congestion but close to all amenities is this stunning 5-acre property with expansive lawns and old growth fir, oak and maple trees. It’s located in the top-rated Camas School District, and is offered by John Fitzgerald, of Sotheby’s.
Key Features:
5 bedrooms, 4 baths
4,200 square feet
Airport only 20 minutes away
Close to downtown Camas charm for shopping and dining
Kitchen: Fully remodeled open kitchen and living room area. Brazilian mahogany drawers and cabinets, huge granite island with sink, professional grade DCS double oven and five burner stove and flat grill. Built in refrigerator/freezer and separate wine cooler. Private kitchen nook lined with huge windows overlooking the expansive yard.
Master: Vaulted ceilings and spacious living space. Large master bath includes walk-in closet, jetted sauna tub, radiant heated tile floor and spacious glass and tile shower. Brazilian mahogany cabinetry with double sink and mirrors. Large windows provide the area in natural light.
In-laws suite: Generous sized room has a small full bathroom with shower, enclosed closet and storage space. Beautiful view of front yard and circle drive.
Library and downstairs office: Just off the main entry is a large space perfect for a library, office and game room. French doors open to enough space for a group to congregate and close to the kitchen and other living areas on the main floor.
Office: Well equipped office space with large half round fan window to view the evening sun. Large enough space for large desk, computers, peripherals and filing drawers. Plenty of enclosed closet space for storage and supplies.
A gorgeous kitchen!
Kids Bedrooms: Two similar sized rooms with built-in desks and lights. Generous enclosed closets and large windows with views of the property.
Garage: Three car garage with full bathroom and overhead storage selves. The single bay is very deep and allows for a nice space for a work bench and tools. Plenty of room to store all the toys and equipment required for a property this size.
Landscape: Private paved road leads to house with elegant circle drive for easy entrance and exit. Fully landscaped yard including manicured lawn, hedges, maple and birch trees, seasonal bulbs and rysomes. Computerized irrigation system.
Backyard: Large wrap around decking with separate outdoor spaces for dinning, gather around fire pit, sun bathing & lounging, hot tub and bbqing. Opens up to beautiful large lawn area with oak trees, purple tulip magnolia tree, lilac and garden beds loaded with shrubs and bulbs for color throughout all seasons. Complete with kids play structure.
Food garden: Enclosed 2,500 square feet raised bed garden. Designed with four zoned computerized watering system. Pea gravel paths make a perfect environment to spend an evening nurturing plants and flowers that will fulfill your family.
Orchard and berry crops: Orchard trees include: red apple, yellow apple, 2 Asian pear, Bartlet pear and two varieties of plums. Berries include: two large blue berries, full stand of thornless marrian berries, raspberries and goose berries. Mature grapes include seedless Champaign and Concord grapes.
A mini-farm: This property has the infrastructure to run your own farm: barn, chicken coop, pig pen, pasture, and three acres of native land.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/25152641/image0-scaled.jpeg16062560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-25 15:43:542022-08-25 15:44:03Five Acre Property in Camas School District Offers Tranquility, Beauty
Camas, WA —In response to the July 26 resignation of Camas City Council Member Shannon Roberts, the City of Camas will begin accepting applications to fill the vacant Ward 1 seat.
Interested applicants can apply for the remainder of Roberts’ term beginning upon swearing in and ending Nov. 28, 2023. Applicants must be a resident of the City of Camas, Ward I, and must be a registered voter. The deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 2, 2022.
At the Aug. 15, 2022, Camas City Council meeting, Mayor Steve Hogan will appoint Council Members to work with the City Administrator as the ad-hoc committee to oversee the appointment process, with the goal of having the position filled by the Oct. 3, Council meeting, well in advance of the Oct. 24, 2022, deadline, which per statute would require the appointment to be then made by the Clark County Council.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/11154636/IMG_4622.jpg9341284Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-11 15:55:552022-08-11 15:56:02City of Camas to Begin Application Process to Fill Vacant Council Seat
VANCOUVER, WA – Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-3rd District) issued the following statement today after finishing outside of the top two in Washington’s primary election:
“Thank you, Southwest Washington, for entrusting me six times with the privilege of representing you in Congress. Ever since I was first elected to this seat I have done my very best to serve my home region and our country. Though my campaign came up short this time, I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished together for the place where I was raised and still call home.
“Many are things I set out to do: help folks who want to earn a living find good jobs right here, keep our rivers healthy and fishable for years to come, make our health system work better for those who really need care, allow the people here to manage and enjoy their land, and be a voice for those who have slipped between the cracks of government bureaucracy. When I took office, I said we could improve how health care works for Southwest Washington residents. I’m incredibly proud of getting the ACE Kids Act signed into law that helps more low-income kids get life-saving specialty medical care in this country, as well as legislation to tackle the maternal mortality crisis plaguing moms in America. And I’ll always enjoy my conversations in the grocery store with folks who want to chat about the landmark salmon preservation law I fought so hard for.
“Some were pleasant surprises, like growing my family by three wonderful children and in doing so, providing an example for other women that you can serve your country in elected office while raising a young family.
“And some were unexpected and difficult. But I’m proud that I always told the truth, stuck to my principles, and did what I knew to be best for our country.
“I’m incredibly grateful to you for this opportunity, and to my husband Dan for being a rock to me and our family through it all. Serving you in the United States Congress these past twelve years has been the honor of my lifetime.”
Herrera Beutler will complete her term in Congress, which will end on January 3, 2023.
Her concession now opens the door for a two-way race between two political newcomers: Joe Kent, a Republican, and Marie Perez, a Democrat.
When you run a construction company or work as a contractor, you’ve probably had your fair share of construction projects where the client wants to use greener practices. Sustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s minds, and there are steps you can take to make your construction projects environmentally friendly. Read on to learn how you can be more sustainable with your construction.
Change Equipment
One way many businesses are transitioning to sustainability is through equipment. People and businesses are transitioning to electric-powered items instead of gas-powered and LED lights instead of conventional lighting. Small changes make significant differences, and those changes can also happen on your construction site. Using electric heaters instead of gas can significantly lower emissions, as can electric-powered tools. In addition to lowering emissions, electrical equipment is easily rechargeable and lasts much longer than its gas-powered counterparts.
Think of Your Materials
One of the most significant ways you can be more sustainable in your construction is through your material selection.
Construction sites are like many other businesses in today’s world, and there is a lot of waste. However, if you are thoughtful with your material selection and choose renewable products or ones from local vendors, your project will have few negative impacts on the environment.
Consider using stainless steel for your larger projects, as it supports sustainability and the circular economy. Steel is clean, durable, and one of the most recyclable materials you can use because it stays clean without the need for hazardous cleaning products.
Prefabricate Materials
Many construction businesses are transitioning from doing all their projects onsite to prefabricating pieces to bring in later. This practice reduces onsite waste and avoids potentially disruptive environmental factors. For example, if you’re working with sheet metal, the cold and hot weather can change the metal’s shape, making it look much different than the final product.
Prefabrication increases construction efficiency because you’ll experience fewer roadblocks and spend much less time creating waste at the job site.
Be more sustainable with your construction by following these tips and incorporating these techniques into your future construction projects. It will help your construction business leave a smaller footprint, and you’ll rest easy knowing you built environmentally friendly projects well.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/08182859/Construction.png6101106Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-08 18:49:292022-08-08 18:49:36Tips for Being More Sustainable With Your Construction Projects
Vancouver, WA — Beginning as soon as August 3, contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will work to construct a roundabout in east Vancouver, between the intersection of Fourth Plain Boulevard, also known as SR 500, and Northeast 182nd Avenue. Crash data collected over a five-year timeframe between 2013 to 2017 showed that this intersection had a significant amount of crashes, most of which were rear-end or T-bone crashes. Installing a compact roundabout at this intersection will improve safety by reducing the potential for these severe types of collisions, while keeping traffic flowing through the intersection.
What to expect
Once construction begins, travelers can expect construction noise and nighttime single lane closures throughout the duration of the project. Beginning as soon as Wednesday, Aug. 3, the intersection of Fourth Plain and NE 182nd Avenue will be fully closed for 10 days, for the installation of the roundabout.
During the full closure, a temporary traffic signal will be used at NE 88th Street and Ward Road to help keep the traffic moving safely throughout the area. Travelers will need to use an alternate route and should plan ahead for delays.
Why roundabouts?
A roundabout at this location offers the greatest safety benefit by reducing the potential for severe collisions, while keeping connectivity and improving travel efficiency through the intersection.
Studies have shown that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop sign or signal-controlled intersections. The Federal Highway Administration determined that roundabouts can increase traffic capacity by 30 percent to 50 percent compared to traditional intersections.
Camas School District (CSD) Superintendent Dr. John Anzalone announced today the hiring of Kelly O’Rourke as the next principal at Camas High School.
O’Rourke joins Camas from Clark County School District in Nevada, where she served as principal at elementary, middle, and high school levels. In 2019, she supported schools at the district level and oversaw assessment, accountability, research, and school improvement.
“Kelly O’Rourke’s values and experiences are a wonderful match for the Camas community. She will bring a spirit of collaboration and rich experience leading inclusive, welcoming school environments,” said CSD Board member Tracey Malone.
Superintendent Anzalone stated, “We are excited to welcome Kelly to Camas and have staff, families, and students learn more about this engaging leader known for her leadership that promotes organization, discipline, focus, and flexibility.”
O’Rourke is adept in many diverse areas of leadership. Specifically, areas of administrative collaboration that lead to increased student achievement, school improvement, data analysis, professional development and instruction, and designing systems and structures that build effective professional learning communities. She also has a proven track record of unifying diverse school communities through genuine collaboration with students, staff, and parents.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Camas High school alongside a dedicated staff, spirited student body, and supportive parent community. I look forward to learning about the rich traditions that have proven to build excellence in education and work to increase the trajectory of success,” stated O’Rourke. “I advocate for hard work, accountability, transparency, and clear communication.”
Anzalone’s previous position was Assistant Superintendent of Clark County School District in Nevada. He started his new role leading CSD on July 1, 2022.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/18174043/ORourke.jpg225200Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-07-18 17:55:272022-07-18 17:55:32Kelly O’Rourke Hired as New Camas High School Principal
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