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Interstate Bridge Replacement Program Awarded $600 Million in DOT Funding

Washington, DC — On Friday,  it was announced that the Interstate Bridge Replacement program has been awarded $600 million in U.S. Department of Transportation Mega Program funding. Funds from this federal grant will help construct the multimodal program to replace the Interstate Bridge and associated corridor improvements. The Interstate Bridge over the Columbia River connects Oregon and Washington on Interstate 5, which is a critical connection that supports local jobs and families, and a vital trade route for regional, national and international economies. 

The Washington State Department of Transportation and Oregon Department of Transportation submitted a joint application Mega grant request in August 2023, with WSDOT leading the process. The Mega Program (known statutorily as the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program), was created through the national Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to support large, complex projects that are likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility or safety benefits.

Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), along with Senators Maria Cantwell (WA) and Patty Murray (WA) have also been working to make this grant happen.

Gluesenkamp Perez has spoken directly with Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and hosted White House Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu in September to underscore the need for this funding to help replace the I-5 Bridge. Additionally, Gluesenkamp Perez, Cantwell, and Murray co-led a bipartisan Washington delegation letter in August in support of the states’ Mega grant application.

The I-5 Bridge project received the highest amount of funding out of 11 awards nationwide. This year, the DOT sought applications for $1.8 billion in Mega program funding from Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 advance appropriations. This grant marks the second federal grant awarded to the current bridge replacement project; the first, a $1 million seismic study grant, was awarded in October 2022.

Today’s award will fund 8-12 percent of the estimated $5-7.5 billion total bridge replacement project cost. The bridge replacement project remains eligible for other sources of federal funding, including the DOT Bridge Investment Program and the Federal Transit Administration Capital Investment Grant Program.

“From day one, it’s been my mission to bring our federal tax dollars back to Southwest Washington to replace the deteriorating, functionally obsolete I-5 Bridge. It’s the only way we get this huge project done. I pushed for critical Mega program funding every time I spoke with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, and I brought White House Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu to tour the bridge and understand the project,”said Gluesenkamp Perez.“I’m excited these efforts have paid off. This Mega program award will be a major step forward toward strengthening the safety and efficiency of this vital interstate artery. I’ll continue working to bring every possible federal dollar home for this project so our local drivers, especially our commuters, and economy can feel the benefits.”

And, the Oregon side is also pleased. 

“This is a big moment for the Pacific Northwest and demonstrates the national significance of this effort,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “Replacing the Interstate Bridge is a critical infrastructure investment for our local communities, two states, and the entire West Coast. This project will help advance our goal of reducing emissions through a modern, multimodal bridge and will provide an infusion of federal funds to our region that will support local jobs and broader workforce opportunities.”  

This year, the Oregon State Legislature committed $1 billion to complete the program, matching Washington’s $1 billion commitment made during the 2022 legislative session. This year, Washington also authorized tolling on the Interstate Bridge, matching the existing tolling authorization in Oregon. When combined, the Mega grant award, other federal grant applications, the $1 billion commitment each from Oregon and Washington, and toll funding will help cover the likely $6 billion in estimated funding needed to construct the program investments.  

“I am thrilled to see the strong federal support that this grant funding demonstrates,” said ODOT Director Kris Strickler. “It speaks to the ongoing partnership and collaborative nature throughout the region and builds upon the momentum of the Oregon and Washington legislatures’ $1 billion commitments. This would not have been possible without the support from both our federal delegation and our local partners, which will ensure we have a safe, earthquake-resilient, and multimodal corridor that will benefit our region for decades into the future.” 

“The transportation options provided by the IBR program investments will improve access, connectivity, and reliability across the Columbia River and throughout the nearly 5-mile program area,” said WSDOT Secretary Roger Millar. “This is an exciting day that clearly demonstrates that investing in multimodal infrastructure that can provide safe, efficient and accessible transportation options is a national priority and a commitment shared by both states. An effort of this magnitude is a collective effort and would not have been possible without the steadfast collaboration and collective effort of regional partners and our state and federal elected leaders.”

“The importance of this federal investment cannot be overstated,” said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. “We appreciate the support of our congressional delegations to convey the critical need for strong support from the federal level, and to Sen. Cantwell for creating the Mega Grant program in support of projects like ours. Replacing this aging bridge with a crossing that can meet the needs of all travelers for generations to come is of the highest priority. We have been working tirelessly with our Oregon partners to make clear the importance of this project for the people of both states. This grant is a significant step forward.” 

The IBR program is actively seeking approximately $2.5 billion from federal grant sources. In addition to the Mega Grant program, IBR applied in November to the Federal Highway Administration Bridge Investment Program. IBR is also pursuing funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant program, which accepted the IBR program into the project development stage in September.

“This grant award marks an important milestone that shows replacing this bridge is a high priority at the regional, state and national levels,” said IBR program Administrator Greg Johnson. “This significant federal investment is critical to provide flexible multimodal funding and continues the strong momentum to get this work done. This infusion of federal dollars into the regional economy will help support tens of thousands of jobs through construction and provides a key piece of funding to successfully deliver a safe and modern multimodal corridor.”

About the bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement program

Replacing the aging Interstate Bridge across the Columbia River with a modern, seismically resilient, multimodal structure that provides improved mobility for people, goods and services is a high priority for Oregon and Washington. Governors and legislative leadership in both states directed the Oregon Department of Transportation and Washington State Department of Transportation to launch the bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement program to lead this work, recognizing that needed safety and transportation improvements to the existing Interstate Bridge remain unaddressed. Program development centers equity and follows a transparent, data-driven process that includes collaboration with local, state, federal and tribal partners. Visit the program website at www.interstatebridge.org. 

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New, Returning Washougal School Board Members Sworn Into Service

Washougal, WA — New and returning Washougal School District School Board members were sworn in to service at the December 12, 2023 board meeting after winning in the general election on November 7. Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton administered the oath of office.

Ida Royer was elected as the newest member to the WSD Board to represent District 4. Royer is a parent of a current Washougal student.  

“I’m honored to serve my fellow Washougal families, and am very grateful to the current board members who have welcomed me, volunteered to get me up to speed, and answer any questions I might have,” said Royer.

Board members Jim Cooper (District 1) and Angela Hancock (District 2) were also reelected to their seats in the November general election. Both will serve 4-year term that expires in 2027.  

During the same meeting, board members voted to elect their officers for the year.  Angela Hancock was elected as the board president. Jim Cooper was elected as the board vice-president.  Chuck Carpenter will continue to serve as the legislative representative, which is a two-year position.

Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed Royer: “We’re excited to welcome Ida to the board.  Her perspective as a parent will be important as the board establishes priorities for student learning and continuing the excellent academic progress made over the last year.”

Royer added that, “I ran for school director because as a parent I’d want someone balanced and practical to be at the table making decisions that could impact my child, and I feel I can be that for other families. At the end of the day I want all our kids to be prepared for life after school, in whatever form that takes.”

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Camas-Washougal Rotary Club Donating Books to Local Elementary Schools

The Camas-Washougal Rotary Club is donating books to third grade classrooms across both Camas and Washougal elementary schools. The Rotary Club believes that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world. Each classroom will receive a set of 25 books chosen to support a wide range of reading levels.  

Members gathered in early December to assemble the book baskets for the more than 30 classrooms which will receive the donations.  Each basket includes about $240 worth of reading materials along with a dictionary. Much of the funding for this project was raised through the annual Ducky Derby, but Rotarians are still welcoming additional donations to support the project through tax-deductible donations to the Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation.

Book baskets will be presented to teachers and students over the next month, with Rotary members speaking to students about literacy and the importance of reading.  

Project organizer Kathy Bussman shared excitement about the project, saying that “Rotary supports literacy as one way to help the world.” 

Rotary supports projects to provide access to quality education as a way of investing in local communities. 

“Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s readers,” said Bussman.

Washougal School District Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed the donation, noting that, “The generous donation by the Rotary will help cultivate a love of reading in our students. Having additional reading materials with a variety of subjects and reading levels will help make sure that every student finds something to read they’re excited about, which we know is important as they’re developing their literacy skills.”

Gause teacher Heather Hopkins said, “Our students are always thrilled for extra books in the classroom library, and as teachers we love when kids are excited about reading! Thank you so much to the Rotary for their generous donation  to ensure our students continue to be excited about reading!”

Books
Students receive new books from the CW Rotary Club.
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Volunteers Sought for Our Camas 2045 Community Advisory Committee

Camas, WA — The City of Camas is seeking volunteers to support the preparation of the Our Camas 2045 Comprehensive Plan and the Our Downtown Camas 2045 Subarea Plan. CAC members will review and comment on work products, guide public outreach and engagement efforts, act as liaisons to specific constituencies or interest groups, help host public events, encourage community members to participate in the process, and act as champions of the ultimate Our Camas 2045 Vision, Our Camas 2045 Comprehensive Plan and the Our Downtown Camas 2045 Subarea Plan that emerge from this process. 

Our Camas 2045 will establish a vision for growth and development and will articulate goals, objectives, policies, and actions to guide our future. The plan will also address recent changes to Washington’s Growth Management Act related to housing and climate change. In addition, Our Downtown Camas 2045 will provide a more detailed vision and action plan to catalyze public and private investment in our historic downtown that preserves and enhances its unique sense of place.

CAC members will represent a broad cross-section of community interests. CAC members should be residents of the City of Camas, own or operate a business in the City of Camas or represent a group or organization that operates within the City of Camas, or otherwise serves Camas’ residents or businesses.

The CAC will meet eight times from January 2024 through June 2025 to share their opinions and perspectives, study issues, and develop recommendations in a focused group setting.  The CAC will work with City Staff and consultants during the duration of the update process and will analyze, advise, and make recommendations that will be reflected in Our Camas 2045 and Our Downtown Camas policies and goals.

Those interested in serving on the CAC should submit an interest form at https://engagecamas.com/ourcamas2045 by Dec. 29, 2023. 

The City may also use this form to appoint interested individuals to the Climate Action Policy Team (CPAT) or Project Advisory Committee (PAC).

More information about Our Camas 2045 is available at www.engagecamas.com

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Camas City Council Member Lewallen Running For US Congress

Camas City Council member Leslie Lewallen, a Republican, is running for the United States Congress. She’s campaigning to give the public an alternative to Joe Kent, who lost his 2022 race against Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, now serving her first term representing Washington’s 3rd Congressional District.

Lewallen, a mother of four, former King County prosecutor, and a business entrepreneur, has created a campaign that focuses on these issues:

  • Economy
  • Crime
  • Homelessness
  • Mental health and drug addiction
  • Dams and salmon
  • A third Columbia River bridge crossing
  • Sustainable Forest and Watershed Management

“During COVID, I watched the people that I love and the values in our country fall apart,” said Lewallen. “I’ve been in politics before and thought enough is enough and that’s when I decided to run for Camas City Council. I knocked on 5,000 doors. I earned the opportunity to serve on the City Council and got a front row seat to all the problems in Camas and the region. I have a seat on the Regional Transportation Council (RTC) , which is a voting board position with members of the Clark County Council, Vancouver City Council, and others who prioritize federal and state grant transportation dollars.”

The politics of the I-5 replacement bridge opened her eyes, as well.

“We have repeatedly voted down light rail, but bureaucrats keep pushing it,” she said. “They keep trying to push it even though voters don’t want it. They don’t listen. Ninety-nine percent of all public transportation has traces of meth and fentanyl. Why are all these bureaucrats wanting to spend money on light rail that’s dangerous and unhealthy? It’s dangerous for all of us, especially our children.”

It’s not just public safety that concerns Lewallen about the I-5 proposal, it’s also the taxpayer dollars she says are at risk. 

“Beyond the public safety risks presented, light-rail makes no economic sense for Southwest Washingtonians,” Lewallen said. “The potential $2 billion light rail proposal is an expensive taxpayer solution looking for a non-existent public problem. C-TRAN ridership has decreased steadily for consecutive years and won’t improve as remote working gains a stronger foothold in our labor market. I’m on the RTC and key Camas City subcommittees to advocate for Camasonians and all citizens in Southwest Washington who don’t feel like they have an effective voice in the future of our city, the region or the state. My purpose in being an elected official is to speak for the people I represent by bringing a common-sense, practical and pragmatic perspective to the policy discussions impacting our communities. Southwest Washington deserves better, and I am working hard every day to deliver meaningful results for our citizens.”

Lewallen
Leslie meeting with voters.

Lewallen is concerned about local GOP party politics because a select few are deciding who should be the nominee instead of letting the voters decide. This is a major contributing factor to Republicans losing the seat in 2022, she said.

Kent defeated 12-year incumbent Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler in the 2022 primary. However, Kent’s views turned off many voters in Southwest Washington and he lost to Perez in the 2022 general election. Exit poll results show that the 3rd Congressional District remains a Republican district. Donald Trump won it by four points in 2020 and Tiffany Smiley won it by seven in 2022.

Fueled by the fact that former Washington state Senatorial candidate Tiffany Smiley, who has endorsed Leslie in her race, won this district in 2022, Lewallen makes calls every day for six hours to bolster her campaign. 

“I can’t tell you how many people who say ‘thank God there’s an alternative.’” And then some say, ‘I voted for Marie, but I like what

I am hearing, and then we have a longer, productive conversation.’ Perez has been designated by Roll Call as the most vulnerable member of Congress. I made the shift from Council to Congress by watching this last race. We need a pragmatic problem solver who is a lifetime Washingtonian and can relate to voters in Southwest Washington. .We win by addition, not subtraction. We need all Republicans, Independents and Democrats to win this race. I truly believe we all have more in common with one another than we disagree on.”

“Will this be easy? No. Nothing worth fighting for is ever easily gained. But, I see an opportunity, and am working hard every day to earn it. I looked at all the numbers and what they would look like with me in the race. I don’t get into anything unless I see a clear path for victory. I went through a thorough budget planning process with my team to get a very good understanding of what I need to do to win. It’s going to be an uphill battle.”

Despite the odds, Lewallen isn’t overly concerned and says it makes this race more challenging. 

“I believe democracy depends on choices,” said Lewallen. “Our Founding Fathers created a system of government where the entire electorate chooses its representatives, rather than having representatives chosen for them by a select few.” 

Lewallen has a positive outlook for her hard road ahead. And, past Washington State election results give her good reason to be optimistic in reaching the general election. 

“History oftentimes is unapologetically truthful, and history suggests Joe Kent can’t win in 2024. In the past 30 years, there hasn’t been one statewide re-match in Washington that has resulted in a flipped outcome. I knew this race would be challenging. It’s the number one watched Congressional race in the nation. This race could determine whether we keep the majority in the House of Representatives. Joe Kent is part of the reason why we have this razor thin majority.”

So, why not wait until 2026?

“If Marie gets another term under her belt, we could lose this seat forever. It’s essential to have alternative voices to bring balance to the state. I don’t want to leave our country in the state that it’s in for my kids and future grandchildren. If I didn’t think it was necessary to run right now, I wouldn’t have gotten in. Sometimes in life God comes knocking and I have to answer that door.”

Learn more about Lewallen’s campaign at her website: www.leslieforwashington.com

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Washougal Teacher Margaret Rice Earns YouScience Innovative Educator Award

In recognition of her exceptional contributions in guiding and inspiring students, Margaret Rice of Washougal School District is one of two educators nationwide to earn the YouScience Innovative Educator Award this year. Rice serves as the Career & Technical Education (CTE) director at Washougal School District.

Rice inspires students to build job readiness skills in elementary, middle, and high school. She develops innovative programs that equip students with tools to be successful in the world of work, and champions new ideas to adjust to the evolving workforce.

“Margaret connects students with business and industry leaders, and she supports all of our students in developing the job readiness skills they need to succeed in the skilled trades, business, military, or college,” said Mary Templeton, Washougal School District Superintendent. “She is a phenomenal asset to our district, and we are so proud of her and the amazing work she leads.”

The YouScience Innovative Educator Award celebrates educators who have implemented innovative approaches to empower the next generation of professionals through academic and career exploration. Rice is recognized alongside Kathy Peres of Blue Valley Schools in Kansas. This honor celebrates their outstanding contributions in leading students towards successful career exploration and readiness for the ever-evolving professional landscape.  

Rice

About YouScience

YouScience® is the leading technology provider dedicated to solving the skills and exposure gap crisis for students and employers. Its end-to-end platform, YouScience® Brightpath, connects education with career applications designed to help students unlock their potential for future pathways. YouScience leverages proven research, artificial intelligence, and industry input to help individuals identify their aptitudes, validate their skills and knowledge, and get matched with real-world educational and career pathways in high-demand occupations. YouScience is the preferred choice of individuals, parents, educators, and counselors to guide and support educational and career pathways, currently serving more than 7,000 educational institutions and millions of users nationwide. To learn more about YouScience, please visit youscience.com. 

About Washougal School District

Washougal School District is a public school district serving over 2,800 students in Washougal, Washington. Dedicated staff teams, supportive community and innovative job-readiness programs create an educational experience that prepares Washougal youth for success.

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Camas Cellars Opens in Downtown Camas; Ribbon Cutting Wednesday

Camas Cellars is a brand-new boutique wine bar and bottle shop located in downtown Camas that focuses on bringing Pacific NW wines into one place for customers to enjoy and appreciate. 

Located at 602 NE 3rd Avenue, Unit C, in the recently renovated building that also houses Subway, Camas Cellars also showcases unique imports and will be hosting events with winemakers and winery owners. Additionally, they will be hosting frequent tastings and classes.

Debi Dabasinskas, the proprietor of Camas Cellars, announced, “Our inaugural tasting event is set for Friday, December 1st, in collaboration with Santa Margherita USA. We’ll begin by sampling an array of white wines from Alto Adige, then journey to Lombardia to savor Franciacorte, and conclude in the Tuscany Hills with Lamole di Lamole. My goal is to create an intimate and engaging experience. I’m excited to present opportunities for tasting novel wines and to offer new sensory adventures. In January, we will be launching a wine club with a couple of membership levels including a Founders Club, which will include exclusive tastings and events. Additionally, the club plans to feature wine tastings and possibly dinners that incorporate produce from local farms. It promises to be an exciting and enjoyable venture!”

Most customers are coming in to try a new wine, so Camas Cellars offers wine flights — a red flight and a white flight — where wine lovers may taste four different wines. Additional flights are coming in the next few weeks. 

“For example, we can do a Washington reds flight, Red Mountain, Walla Walla Valley, Horse Heaven Hills and describe the nuances between them,” said Dabasinskas. “We also offer cheese and charcuterie plates and have fresh flowers for sale from a local master gardener. We also feature art from local artists which are offered for sale and the artists will rotate based on a set calendar.” 

If you would like special orders for the holidays, or any time, Camas Cellars can help with this. 

“Let Camas Cellars be your local wine concierge!,” she said.

On Sunday, November 19th, Dabasinskas is hosting a Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Class. Stop by the shop this week to sign up!

“If you’re looking for a specific wine, I can find it for you,” said Dabasinskas. “For specials we will have 10 percent off bottles “to go” on First Friday. On Holiday Sip N Shop, Camas Cellars will offer 20 percent off wine flights and 10 percent off bottles for 21 and over.”

Dabasinskas worked as a District Manager for a very well known Napa Valley winery with properties in Washington, and has 30 years experience in the industry.  She has many certifications including WSET Level 2. 

For customers who want to try something other than wine, Camas Cellars carries Grains of Wrath in cans,” she said. “Camas Cellars is also available for private parties day and evening.”

Please join Camas Cellars this Wednesday, November 15th for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting from 4-6pm! Camas Cellars is open Wednesday through Saturday from 3-9 pm, and will continue to expand its offerings and changes up the glass list frequently. So, if you’re looking for a quiet escape from the stress of daily life, pay them a visit. Visit www.camascellars.com (it’s under construction). Camas Cellars is a 21 and over establishment. 

Camas Cellars
Camas Cellars
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ELECTION 2023: Camas Mayor Hogan, Incumbents Win Re-Election Races

Camas Mayor Steve Hogan handily won re-election Tuesday night, and incumbents in Camas city government, as well as school board members had a good night.

Here are the results from the Clark County Elections Office, updated on November 8.

CITY OF CAMAS MAYOR

Randal Friedman1,32425.7%
Steven C. Hogan3,81173.99%

CITY OF CAMAS COUNCIL – AT-LARGE POSITION

John Svilarich2,93158.33%
Stephen R. Dabasinskas2,07841.35%

CITY OF CAMAS COUNCIL – WARD 1, POSITION NO. 1

John Nohr2,76255.03%
Gary Perman2,24844.79%

CITY OF CAMAS COUNCIL – WARD 2, POSITION NO. 1

Ry Luikens1,86937.02%
Bonnie Carter3,16562.69%

CITY OF CAMAS COUNCIL – WARD 3, POSITION NO. 1

Jennifer Senescu3,33093.88%
WRITE-IN2176.12%

CAMAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 117 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 3

Connie Hennessey4,21597.25%
WRITE-IN1192.75%

CAMAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 117 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 4

Bamini Pathmanathan3,99988.32%
WRITE-IN52911.68%

CAMAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 117 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 5

Tracey Malone4,04490.31%
WRITE-IN4349.69%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 1 (MAYOR)

David Stuebe2,45088.83%
Gabriel Stone28710.41%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 2

Tia Robertson1,90196.89%
WRITE-IN613.11%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 3

David M. Fritz1,92297.56%
WRITE-IN482.44%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 4

Michelle Wagner1,94997.89%
WRITE-IN422.11%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 5

Molly L. Coston1,96797.71%
WRITE-IN462.29%

CITY OF WASHOUGAL COUNCIL – POSITION NO. 7

Ernie Suggs1,90697.44%
WRITE-IN502.56%

WASHOUGAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 112-6 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 1

im Cooper2,13897.54%
WRITE-IN542.46%

WASHOUGAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 112-6 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 2

Angela Hancock2,13997.45%
WRITE-IN562.55%

WASHOUGAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 112-6 SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT NO. 4

Ida Royer2,10397.86%
WRITE-IN462.14%
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ELECTION 2023: Bamini Pathmanathan Running For Camas School Board, Dist. 4

Bamini Pathmanathan is running for Camas School Board, District 4 position. She was appointed by the School Board earlier this year to fill the vacancy of Doug Quinn, who resigned to work as Camas City Administrator. She is running for a full four-year term. Pathmanathan answered several Lacamas Magazine questions, and here are her answers.

Why are you running for school board? 

Quality education is the cornerstone of a strong community, and why many of us chose Camas as the place we call home. I am a dedicated advocate for high-quality education and am passionate about our Camas community, as demonstrated by my work on the Camas School Board, the Camas Educational Foundation, the Prune Hill PTA, and the hours I have spent in my children’s classrooms. I am committed to supporting positive impacts for students in our schools, ensuring an exceptional learning environment and enhancing the experience for all students. 

A positive, outstanding, and quality educational experience teaches our students to enjoy learning and empowers them to achieve their goals. It is said that “it takes a village” to raise and educate our children. I understand, first hand, the importance of education, experience of caring teachers and a system that wants every child to succeed. Excitement and apprehension intertwined as I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a young immigrant child, starting in a fifth grade classroom filled with children speaking a language I could not comprehend. I came to this country knowing “Hello, my name is Bamini” and the entire alphabet with the letter “Z” pronounced as “zat.” I was assigned a classmate to be my “guide,” to be my voice. Both my sister and I were provided an educator over the summer and extra help with reading and writing to get us to grade level. We required more and they saw our needs. We were also children of immigrant parents, who were trying to navigate life in this foreign land and provide for their children. The system did not fail us because of the dedicated teachers and the kindness of the community. I have experienced the struggles and isolation that children should not have to experience. In our household, we uphold the value of contributing to the community. When the community gives to you, paying it forward is not just a choice but a heartfelt obligation. It was due to the support from the school and the community that led to our success. 

I understand the importance of a collaboration between the citizens of our community, the school board and district is integral to every student’s success. I believe in being a part of collaborative decision-making processes, with input from our community, our teachers, our students, and outside experts, as needed, to support a positive and successful direction for our district. I want to be a part of a team that helps every student find their success. 

What are your priorities, should voters elect you, over the next four years? 

Adequate funding for our schools is required to ensure quality education and to ensure all students are successful and have their needs met. The goal is to have a sustainable financial foundation that supports the diverse needs of all students and educators. School districts and board members need to advocate for sufficient and equitable funding, particularly at the state level, where over 80 percent of our funding comes from. Working with our legislators is vital to the Camas district’s financial stability and success. The state funding formula aims to ensure a basic standard of education for all districts; however, it is not enough to provide the level of support and teaching on which Camas prides itself and desires for its students in the future. Overall health, including social, emotional, and mental health, of each student will always remain a priority. 

The school board is ultimately responsible for approving budgets. Why do we keep running deficits, and how would you approach the budget should you be re-elected? 

The last few years have been a perfect storm – a worldwide pandemic, slower enrollment growth, and a state funding model change, which negatively affected the money we receive per student compared to previous years and was inadequate to support the structure of the existing Camas educational system. While the school board is responsible for approving the final budget, the school budget goes through various phases before it lands in the hands of the board. As assessments of educational needs and priorities of the district are evaluated, revenue projections are established using state and federal funding, local taxes, and other sources of revenue. Transparency and effective communication with stakeholders are also established to ensure that the budget reflects the priorities of the school community. As a member of the Camas School Board, I intend to continue to work cooperatively with the Camas community, Superintendent, and staff to find creative solutions and commit to advocating on behalf of the District with state legislators. I will continue this important work with the support of this community. 

Many voters blame the school board for the tone of the recent labor negotiations. They say you set a negative tone and drove a wedge between teachers and parents. How do you respond to that? 

Negotiations can take a toll on the community and can cause disharmony. Finding a balance that satisfies both parties, with consideration of their respective needs and concerns can be emotionally taxing. However, through this arduous process, neither of the bargaining teams lost focus on what matters most to all of us, the students. There were lessons learned from this experience by both parties, particularly around proper communication with the community and each other. The district and CEA bargaining teams are currently engaging in an after-action review process, and I support their goal of reflecting on what went right and wrong in order to learn from this experience. It’s this collaboration that will help us return to a negotiating process in two years that more resembles the tone of previous rounds of bargaining. I believe continuing to have open communication, addressing concerns proactively, and analyzing the impact are essential to mending broken relationships and trust. Our community and our kids are watching, and we have shown we can learn and grow as one unified school district. 

Regarding school safety, would you support more School Resource Officers in our schools? If not, what other things should we do to protect our students? 

Schools must be safe and feel safe for students and teachers to achieve their full potential. Promoting school safety and protecting Camas’ schools is a priority. School Resource Officers can help prevent school-based violence, possibly identify and connect at-risk students to needed services, and create safe, secure, and peaceful school environments. Continuing a strong relationship between the schools, its students, and our local law enforcement agency is important to the school safety system. 

How do you address the growing mental health issues affecting students? 

Acknowledging the fact that we have these important issues affecting our students is a great start. Promoting awareness about mental health issues to reduce the stigma will create a safe space for this student community. Providing access to counseling services at each school, training educators and staff to recognize signs of mental health issues, and encouraging empathy and understanding among educators are a few steps to addressing the issues affecting our student’s mental health. In order to provide these services, advocating for funding for school mental health providers/counselors at each school would be the ideal place to start. 

The school board pushes for equity across the school district. How does equity differ from equality? 

Equity recognizes that each child is unique in their own way and students have different needs that may require an individualized approach. Treating everyone exactly the same may produce different results. Equity acknowledges there are differences and therefore aims to ensure that everyone has access to what they need to be successful. 

Equality ensures that everyone has the same resources, and opportunities and assumes the “one size fits all” approach. 

What three things do you want to fix in the Camas School District? 

Funding is crucial to all aspects of school. We have amazing educators, support staff, and administration who can produce a top-tier educational experience for each student with the proper resources. Unfortunately, changes to the state funding model in 2018 caused Camas to experience declining state revenue that outpaced our expenses. Financial constraints can limit resources and opportunities for students and teachers. Therefore, advocating for changes to how Camas receives state funding, which accounts for 80 percent of our budget, would make an impactful difference in our student’s lives and experiences. Continuous advocacy efforts are required in this area of securing funds for our schools that align with our expectations for a fair and excellent public education. 

Continuity of care: It is important to continue to focus on seeing and serving each student, from the time they enter our schools to the day they graduate. We need to continue to look at how students and families access learning, resources, and experiences in our district and ensure that a student’s circumstances in life are not a hindrance to their level of success in our schools. Early detection of concerns, timely interventions, and coordinated management become more feasible when there’s continuity in the care of the student. This proactive approach to a student’s educational journey can lead to better outcomes and greater success. Consistent and connected care, attention, and support can profoundly impact every child’s experience and growth in our schools. It is vital to continue our efforts in seeing and serving our students. 

Recent negotiations have shown us the importance of relationships and how easily trust can be eroded. It has shown us all that open communication is key. It is important to listen to the community’s concerns and work collaboratively to rebuild our connections and trust. So improving on transparency and willingness to work out differences for the greater good of the students and teachers is paramount. 

What three things is CSD doing correctly? 

Creating a community within a community: Camas School District’s staff and teachers aim to foster a sense of community within each of our schools. Organized events such as the Track Meet for all 5th graders and Twilight Meet for all middle schoolers, are examples of bringing schools together. DECA and robotics programs, for example, invite and encourage parent and community involvement in learning opportunities for the students. These examples are just a few of the many opportunities for the schools to come together as one. 

Opportunities to learn: Investing in modern teaching tools and technology, finding innovative ways to teach, and providing extraordinary experiences for their students, are all part of the educational experience at CSD. Camas Education Foundation grants opportunities for all schools to further enhance the educational experiences for their students and teachers. There are different school options, various academic program pathways, and the number of clubs and strong athletic programs are all made available here at CSD. 

Community Involvement: Strong community involvement and support also add to the success of this school district. Camas School District can provide a robust educational experience for students with the help of community members, businesses, and parents’ engagement with the school. Connections create a strong bond with a strong foundation for learning and growing. 

What are CSD’s strengths? 

In 2008, we embarked on a cross-country move for a job in Vancouver, WA. With three young kids in the family, where we would reside was solely based on schools. Education in Camas was described as “quality” and “extraordinary.” Camas School District is well known for its excellence in education with possibilities for all students. A key component is the highly qualified and dedicated teachers who provide a positive, impactful learning environment to their students. A place that aims to provide students with a well-rounded education. CSD has a successful system; a system that is intricately woven into the dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit of its people. It is the collective efforts, skills, and commitment of these individuals that breathe life into the school’s functionality and overall effectiveness. 

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ELECTION 2023: Tracey Malone Seeks Re-election to Camas School Board, Dist. 5

Tracey Malone joined the Camas School Board in 2017, and is seeking re-election this November in District 5. Lacamas Magazine asked her, along with the other incumbent school board members, several questions. Here are her answers.

Why are you running for school board?

I was born and raised in Camas and graduated from Camas High School along with my two sisters. My parents chose Camas for the schools, and I have chosen the same for my family. My daughter graduated from CHS in 2022 and my son is currently a Junior at CHS. I purposely chose to live here and have my own children attend Camas Schools to receive the same outstanding education that I did. I deeply care about Camas, the Camas School District and the education provided to all of our students. I am a champion for programs that prepare our graduates for whatever path they chose after high school.

What are your priorities, should voters elect you, over the next four years?

  • Financial stability 
  • State and local advocacy
  • Student well-being and mental health 

The School Board is ultimately responsible for approving budgets.  Why do we keep running deficits, and how would you approach the budget should you be re-elected?

With my background as a business owner, and positions on other boards including a local credit union, I am deep into the work of budgets and understanding complex funding models. Our current funding model is not sustainable, and we know we can’t keep running a deficit. We have been losing a portion of our regionalization funding from the State each year, while expenses and cost of living keep going up.  We have a plan to bring our expenditures and revenues in line and are committed to doing so. One of the many things that affect our funding is enrollment.  Although our enrollment has been increasing almost back to pre-pandemic numbers, birth rates in our area are projected to remain low. Top that off with the high cost of housing in our area making it not ideal for young families to move to our district.  We must maintain a balanced budget, without compromising student experiences, while being fiscally responsible with taxpayer money. 

Many voters blame the school board for the tone of the recent labor negotiations.  They say you set a negative tone and drove a wedge between teachers and parents.  How do you respond to that?

The district administration, teachers, and board share the same values and are committed to the same goal: putting students first. Neither side lost sight of that.  We learned many things from the recent negotiations, including the need to set some agreed upon guidelines as far as what and how we all are communicating with the community about what is being negotiated. The district and the bargaining groups have already planned meetings to help repair and build better relationships so that moving forward, we can work together on common ground.  Our next labor negotiations are only two years away, but the work to get there starts now.

Regarding school safety, would you support more School Resource Officers in our schools?  If not, what other things should we do to protect students?

School Safety is a top priority for the district, including our two SRO’s. When we were talking budget cuts last year, I heard loud and clear from many community members the importance of our SRO’s and the need to keep them in our schools.  Camas is unique in our relationship we have with the City of Camas.  They have stepped up to help ensure we were able to keep both of our SRO’s, understanding the value they bring to our students, staff, and community. SRO’s are certainly an important piece to school safety alongside the many other programs and efforts we currently have in place. One of those is a program called Zero Eyes, which is gun detection software.  We are the first district in our area to implement this software.  Recently Dr Anzalone shared this with other superintendents and districts in our area and we now have the attention of ESD, who is working on funding and grants to help all schools in our region have access to this type of security measure.  

How do you address the growing mental health issues affecting students?

Students across the state are experiencing increased social-emotional and mental health challenges.  We know that when students have their mental health and basic needs met, they are better equipped to grow and learn.  We must budget our resources and have adequate school counselors and psychologists to provide the mental health supports our students needs. 

The school board pushes for equity across the school district.  How does equity differ from equality?

Equality means providing the same to all.

Equity means recognizing that we all do not start from the same place and must acknowledge and make adjustments so that all students have what they need to succeed.

What three things do you want to fix in the Camas School District?

Because it is so important to all aspects of our district and affects all areas of our students education experience – State funding needs advocacy and fixing.  Camas was a winner in the pre-McCleary funding model.  The new prototypical school funding model has created many challenges for us and the supports and academic programs our community is used to having. In addition, the state caps the amount school districts can levy. One of the things we have done recently is create a Legislative Advocacy Committee made up of community members, staff and board members that will work alongside us as we continue to advocate for a funding model that works for Camas students.


What three things is CSD doing correctly?

Our students continue to test well above average compared to the Washington State average and are among the highest in our region.  

Attracting and retaining teachers and staff.  We are a destination district for employment, and our staff often stay with us for most of their career, which is a benefit to our students.

We work hard to provide ample opportunities and varying committees for our citizens and community members to actively engage in and participate in student experiences.   

What are CSD’s strengths?

Camas students, families and community are our biggest strengths.  We are a destination not only for our schools but for our community. We have robust education programs, athletics, music, arts, robotics, multiple clubs and three choice high schools for our students.  Our state test scores continue to be well ahead of the State averages as well as above our other local districts.  I attribute that directly to our teachers, staff, and systems we have in place.

To learn more, visit https://www.camas.wednet.edu/about-csd/school-board/board-members/

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