Tag Archive for: Camas

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Sunshine Forecasted for Sunday’s Autumn Flower Festival at Shangri-La Farm

Lizzy Jane’s Flower Market, located at Shangri-La Farm, is hosting its first ever Autumn Flower Festival on Sunday, October 22 from 11 am to 4 pm in Fern Prairie. The event is free to the public and Mother Nature promises mild temperatures without rain in the forecast! 

Attendees will park at the rented Grove Field Airport parking lot, located around the corner from Shangri-La at 632 NE 267th Avenue, Camas. From the airport parking lot, follow the meandering trail 1/4 mile through the woods to Shangri-La Farm or take a fun ride on the free Electric Sunflower Mobile shuttle to the farm.

Shangri-La Farm is currently growing about 350 dahlias, encompassing about 70 different varieties. 

“This year’s warm temperatures and mild autumn weather has made for one of the most brilliant dahlia seasons on record,” said Liz Pike, owner of the farm. “I’m thrilled to share the beauty of these flowers with our community. Be sure and bring the kids to this family friendly event!” 

Children will have an opportunity to feed the free-ranging chickens of Shangri-La Farm during the flower festival.

Flower arranging demonstrations will be provided hourly by Pike, who is also a local artist, Clark County Master Gardener and beekeeper. 

“Arranging flowers is a lot like painting in oils on a canvas,” said Pike. “Dahlias offer so many textures and colors in which to work with. One of my favorite times of the day is when I get to design beautiful bouquets of dahlias for my farm stand customers.”

In addition to hourly floral arranging demonstrations between 11 am and 4 pm, Shangri-La Farm is also hosting guided tours throughout the gardens. The public is invited to see organic flower gardens, vegetable beds, a fruit orchard, berry patches, herb gardens, and a brand new 50 plant rose garden and 50 plant English Lavender garden. View the farm’s apiaries and see busy honeybees in action.

Liz’s son, Richard Pike, will also be leading an apple cider press demonstration throughout the day at the Autumn Flower Festival. 

The public is invited to see Shangri-La Farm’s organic apples turned into fresh and delicious apple cider on a turn-of-the-century cider press. 

“We want to share our knowledge about the age-old tradition of pressing apples into cider,” said Richard. 

Free samples of apple cider will be offered to the public.

Several Plein-air artists from the Northwest Oil Painters Guild will also be making art in real time at the Autumn Flower Festival. The public is invited to see artists painting what they see, in and among the lush organic gardens at Shangri-La Farm.

Lizzy Jane’s Flower Market offers custom order dahlia bouquets in season for wedding flowers, all occasion celebrations or bouquets for your home or office. 

“All our flowers are 100% organic. Bouquets of roses, peonies, lilies and hundreds of perennials are also available in season,” added Pike. 

A country style farm stand is open every day of the year. Local residents stop in to purchase farm fresh eggs, flowers, farm-house pastries, raw honey from Shangri-La Farm honeybees, jams made from organic berries grown on-site and seasonal produce. Liz, together with her husband Neil Cahoon, established Shangri-La Farm in 2010, transforming a derelict property into a garden oasis for birds, bees and people. 

For more information, contact Liz Pike at 360-281-8720 or email pikeadvertising@comcast.net.

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9 Simple Tips for Caring for Your Washington State Lawn During the Fall

As the gorgeous colors of summer begin to fade and crisp autumn air starts to arrive, you will need to alter your lawn care routine to prepare for the changing seasons. Washington State has a unique climate that requires you to take specific steps during the fall season to maintain a beautiful and fruitful lawn. In this article, we will learn tips for caring for your lawn in the state of Washington. By utilizing these nine tips during autumn, you can cultivate an attractive green space for the entire year.

1. Aerate Your Lawn

You must aerate your lawn during the fall if you want it to remain healthy and lush. As time goes by, Washington soil can compact, which can prevent water absorption and root growth. You can aerate your soil by perforating it with numerous small holes, which will allow nutrients, air, and water to penetrate the ground. Purchase or rent a lawn aerator and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure effective aeration.

2. Rake Leaves

The foliage of fall can be beautiful to look at, but fallen leaves can quickly take over your law by blocking sunlight and preventing essential air circulation. Thick layers of leaves can also create an environment in which pests and mold can thrive. Regularly removing and raking fallen leaves on your lawn can reduce the likelihood of these issues occurring. You may want to invest in a mulching mower that can chop up leaves into smaller pieces, which can then be dispersed on your lawn to act as a natural mulch.

3. Kill Weeds

No one wants weeds to take over their lawn, and unfortunately for many Washington homeowners, they can be persistent during the fall months. To hinder their growth, apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the early fall months. This can prevent weed seeds from taking hold and germinating. Follow the specific instructions on your herbicide’s label, and choose the right herbicide for your grass type.

4. Fertilize

Many homeowners prefer to focus on fertilizing their lawns during the spring months, but you must do so during fall as well if you want your lawn to get the nutrients it needs to thrive. In Washington, you may want to use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer that contains a ratio of phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium suited to your grass type. Apply a layer of fertilizer in early to mid-fall, using the recommended application rates. This will promote hardiness during the winter as well as steady root growth.

Gary Perman

5. Change Your Lawn Care Routine

As the temperature starts to drop during the fall months, you will need to alter your lawn care routine accordingly. Once your grass ceases to grow, you can reduce the frequency of mowing and focus on other tasks, such as preparing your lawn for the winter and winterizing your lawn care equipment.

6. Water Your Lawn

Washington’s rainy season usually starts in the fall, so you will want to keep a close eye on the moisture level of your lawn. Lawns always require adequate hydration, especially in the weeks prior to winter. Strive for infrequent, deep, watering sessions instead of shallow, frequent ones. Watering in the early morning hours will allow for your grass to dry before nighttime – this reduces the chance of disease.

7. Overseed

The process of sowing grass seeds over your current lawn to fill in bare patches and thicken it is known as overseeding. As a Washington State homeowner, you can do this in the fall since the soil will still be warm and there is still adequate moisture. Select a high-quality grass seed that is appropriate for your lawn and be sure to keep any areas you seed consistently moist until the new grass emerges.

8. Adjust Your Mowing Height

Grass tends to grow more slowly during the fall, so you may need to adjust your mowing height. Adjust your mower to a higher cutting height to ensure the grass remains longer. Longer grass blades offer superior protection for roots and help retain moisture. Avoid cutting your grass down to more than one-third of the grass blade at the time to avoid stressing the grass.

9. Call a Professional

If you are struggling to maintain a healthy lawn year-round, you may want to consider calling in a professional. This may be necessary if you aren’t sure how to perform certain lawn care tasks or you need assistance with more extensive tasks, such as overseeding or aerating.

Maintain Your Lawn’s Beauty and Health

As a resident of Washington State, caring for your lawn during the fall is crucial if you want to maintain its beauty and health. By keeping the essential tips above in mind, you can keep your lawn looking stunning during autumn and ready for the colder winter months.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Bradley Mowers

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ELECTION 2023: John Svilarich Running for Camas City Council At-Large Seat

Lacamas Magazine interviewed John Svilarich, who is running for the open Camas City Council At-Large seat, which is being vacated by Don Chaney, who is retiring. Here are the questions we asked, and his answers.

Why do you want to be on Camas City Council?

Camas is at a critical juncture in its history with many big decisions facing it. These decisions will shape the success of our future and it’s important we get it right as best we can. I believe I have the knowledge, experience, and background to help the Council do its best.

Top Issues

While the City faces many challenges, I believe that infrastructure and revenue sources are two of the most significant. As for infrastructure, we must prioritize what is needed and act on it. Delayed or deferred decision making has cost us time and money. The decisions are not easy but must be made. As for revenue sources, we need to do more work in economic development. This is not easy either, but success is needed here for our long-term financial health.

What is the City of Camas doing right?

Public safety is a huge success story for Camas. Police, Fire and Public works combine to make us all comfortable in our homes and our travels. Collaboration and partnerships such as with the Downtown Camas Association, The Port and the school district have been very successful and beneficial for the community. We have a large and vibrant Parks system that is known throughout the region for its many attractions. We have been stable financially, earning a AAA Bond rating.

In what areas can Camas improve?

Communication is something that needs to be improved. Information is not easy to find, and the city is not consistent with how they get out the message. We need to “push” it out to the citizens, not make them “pull” it out of the city.

Stability is another thing that affects us all. We’ve had five mayors in five years. Three City Administrators and numerous department heads turnover. It’s time to revisit our strong mayor form of government.

We need more success with economic development as we need additional revenue sources.

We also need to start addressing our challenges, not kicking them down the road. We have two fire stations that need to be replaced. We need lots of road repairs. We have aging buildings and systems. We have a fire department partnership that is not sustainable financially. We need to prioritize our issues and then take action.

Vision

My vision is one of Camas being a vibrant place to live and work. A place that is healthy both environmentally and economically. And safe and welcoming for all. This will take vision and leadership. It will take thoughtful planning, solid communication, and hard work. If I am fortunate enough to be elected, I will help lead the community by hard work alongside my fellow councilors, open and clear communication, and consistent dedication towards our success.

About John Svilarich

I’m a widower who lives near Prune Hill with my Labrador Retriever, “Frankie the Girl.” I have two grown sons who went to school here and live nearby. I have been in Camas for over 21 years, the PNW for almost 40. Since I first arrived here, I have been active throughout the community including schools, the city and the Port. I’m the head of a large homeowners association which is like a mini city at times. I have a solid historical perspective and knowledge that would be a valuable resource for the Council. In my many decades of life, I have become an effective communicator. I have learned to collaborate with others. I am solution oriented, helping me to be a proven problem solver. I have faced a diversity of challenges both personally and professionally. This allows me to be pragmatic and empathetic, yet productive.

I’ve held management roles in the automotive, environmental and food industries. I have extensive experience with group dynamics and individual motivation. I understand finances, communication systems, marketing and logistics. Lastly, I’m proficient in both planning and regulatory matters. My work is diversified across local, regional, national, and even international channels.

To learn more, visit www.johnforcamas.com

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Camas-Washougal Community Chest Launches 2024 Fundraising Campaign

The Camas-Washougal Community Chest launched its annual fundraising drive October 1, 2023 with a goal of raising $120,000 for 2024 grants. In a continuing partnership with CWCC, the Camas – Washougal Rotary Foundation plans to provide additional grant funds. The combined monies are used to fund grants to local non-profit organizations that serve Camas and Washougal residents in need, at-risk youth programs, address natural resource conservation, foster education and strive to enhance diversity, equity and inclusivity in Camas and Washougal. Since 1946 the CWCC has been all about helping local charities thrive. 

The CWCC, CWRF and Camas Lions Club just wrapped up a successful 2023 campaign which saw them fund 30 grants for a total of $135,500. Programs and projects funded in 2023 included support of the local food bank run by Inter-Faith Treasure House, funding for family support programs run by Children’s Home Society of Washington, funding a portion of Family Promise’s Cares prevention program to help low income families avoid losing their home, funding habitat improvements in the Gibbons Creek watershed conducted by the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and funding for food and food service supplies for the local Meals on Wheels People program. 

Other grants provided funding for cancer treatment costs and living expenses not covered by insurance; funding for several local reading programs; funding registration fees, transportation costs, and food and housing costs for local low- income robotics team members; and for temporarily housing at-risk youth in a secure facility. A full list of the grants awarded in 2023 is attached. 

Major support for the 2023 fundraising campaign came from Georgia Pacific employees and the Georgia Pacific Foundation. 

Other major donors in 2023 included HP employees and the HP Corporation, Camas and Washougal School District employees, City of Camas and Washougal employees, Port of Camas-Washougal employees, Watercare Industrial Services, Columbia Rock Products (Sauer Holdings LLC) and Waste Connections. The following foundations provided major support: Windermere Foundation, the Tidland Christian Development Fund, and the Hinds Charitable Fund. 

To reach its $120,000 goal for the 2024 campaign, the CWCC needs donations from individuals and businesses in Camas and Washougal. More information and donation forms can be found on the CWCC’s website at: www.CamasWashougalCommunityChest.org 

Dabasinskas
Visit www.stephen4council.com

The CWCC is a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization for federal charitable tax deduction purposes. Says CWCC President Mindy Schmidt, “giving to the Community Chest is an easy and efficient way to help people in need in our hometown.” 

Local non-profit organizations planning to apply for a grant can download the 2024 application form from CWCC’s website after October 15, 2023. Applications for 2024 grants are due by no later than December 15, 2023. Applicants will be informed during March 2024 as to whether their project or program is funded and at what level. Grant payments are made quarterly beginning with initial payments in March 2024. 

To be eligible for a grant, applicants must provide services in Camas and/or Washougal, be a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and provide service in one or more of the following areas: education, youth activities, aid to people with special needs, natural resource conservation, health and welfare programs, crisis and emergency services and diversity, equity and inclusivity. 

2023 Grant Program Summary 

Total number of grants awarded – 30
Total value of grants awarded – $135,500
Estimated number of individual services funded by grants – more than 19,500 

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Perfect Harmony Music Academy Organizes ‘We Love The ’90s’ Halloween Event

Camas, WA — Perfect Harmony is a music academy in Camas, Washington, with youth and adult rockstar programs where students are taught music, how to play instruments, how to play in bands, and then play live concerts. They will be performing hits of the nineties, such as the Goo Goo Dolls, No Doubt, Sublime, etc., at the Fern Prairie Grange on October 28th for a Halloween spooktacular where costumes are encouraged.

About Perfect Harmony Academy of Music


Perfect Harmony Academy of Music has been teaching students for close to 10 years. It is located in Camas, Washington and serves students in Camas, Washougal, and Vancouver. Three time Best of Camas award winning music education. We also have programs where instruments are donated and scholarships are given.

You may learn more at https://camasmusiclessons.com

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Camas to Pay Tribute to Marquita Call at 2 Saturday Events

Camas, WA — Friends and family are paying tribute to Marquita Call, longtime Camas Gallery owner, resident, and friend to many, who passed away in late August, at two Saturday events.

Call, known for her infectious smile, listening ear, honest advice, and love of family and friends will be honored Saturday, October 7 at a 2 pm memorial at Journey Church in downtown Camas. The public is also invited to a celebration afterwards at Shangri-La Farm in Fern Prairie (details below).

Call was born on April 23, 1943, in Vancouver, WA to Art and Lenora Gaiani (Bennett). She graduated from Camas High School in 1962, and forever be a Papermaker. She frequently spoke of her love for Camas, and never hesitated to share that love to anyone who entered the gallery. Family and friends often referred to the talk as the “Camas Wellness Talk.”

“Camas has a sense of wellness,” she always said. “People here care for each other, and support one another. My heart will always be here. I will forever be a Papermaker.”

And, she loved to sing the Camas High School Fight song.

Call owned the Camas Gallery for the past 14 years. She welcomed visitors to her gallery, located on 4th Avenue, with warmth and enthusiasm and freely shared her historical knowledge of Camas. One visitor claimed Marquita is to Camas what Dolly Parton is to Pigeon Forge, TN.

Call’s first job was at the Ideal Corner Cafe at the age of 15. She also worked at Dairy Queen with classmate Denis Hayes, the International Chairman of Earth Day. She and her friends started the first recycling center in Camas in the late 60s. She taught Sunday School at Zion Lutheran Church for 20 years, where her mother Lenora Gaiani served as superintendent. Her dad, Art Gaiani, built more than 50 homes in Camas. Her grandmother Marie Eymer played piano at the Liberty Theatre when it opened in 1927.

This reporter will always hold a special place in his heart for the great friend that Marquita is. Although she has left mortality, she is not gone, but simply ahead in the journey. She taught people to be strong, resilient, and brave. She was honest and forthright, and I loved giving her the scoop on breaking stories. We will miss her greatly.

She is survived in death by her husband of 28 years, Dennis, her two children, Tom Johnston (Tracy), Jennifer Senescu (Jim), 2 stepchildren Darren Call (Tekla), Denise Hibbard (Joe), sister MelodyGood, and brother Art Gaiani (Karen), and several grandchildren.

Immediately following Call’s service at Journey Church, guests are invited to Shangri-La Farm to celebrate her life. Park at rented Grove Field Airport parking lot in Fern Prairie, 632 NE 267th Ave., Camas, WA. Walk or take a ride on the Sunflower Mobile on a short trail through the woods to Shangri-La.

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Lifetime Camas Resident Gary Perman Running For City Council, Ward 1 Seat

Lacamas Magazine asked businessman, Gary Perman, about his campaign to win the Camas City Council seat, Ward 1.

Why do you want to be on council?

I grew up here in Camas, and things have changed over the years. I have several issues I’m addressing in this campaign, like open communication, taxes, attracting new businesses and jobs to Camas, a common sense business approach, addressing budget issues, and preserving our city’s character and livability.

Taxes going up and nothing seems to stop it, and I think the current and previous councils haven’t paid enough attention to the taxpayer. We don’t pay enough attention to the people with limited incomes. Taxes on utilities keep going up. That’s very concerning to me.

I have the experience and skill sets to do this job, and can bring a strong business perspective to Camas City Council.

What are the top issues of your campaign?

Open Communication

Open communication channels and regular updates on City initiatives and decisions are crucial to rebuilding trust. Residents should have access to information about City government operations, budget allocations, and development plans. Additionally, City officials must ensure that their decisions are fair, unbiased, and align with the best interests of the community.

Taxes

Taxes are a big issue, and it is vital to make Camas an affordable place to live. City officials need to prioritize responsible budgeting and spending to minimize the tax burden on residents, especially those on fixed incomes. Fiscal responsibility and prudent financial management should be the norm to ensure that tax dollars are utilized efficiently and effectively.

Attracting new businesses and jobs to Camas 

It is crucial for economic growth and sustainability that we attract new businesses and jobs to Camas. City officials should actively engage with local businesses and create an environment that is conducive to attracting and retaining businesses. Streamlining regulations, providing incentives, and fostering partnerships with local stakeholders can facilitate business growth and job creation.

Commonsense business approach 

Good business approaches should guide city growth and infrastructure management. Development plans should be balanced, considering the needs of the community, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable growth. City officials should work collaboratively with developers, residents, and other stakeholders to ensure that growth is managed responsibly and in line with the community’s vision.

Budget

Adherence to the city budget is paramount to maintain financial stability. City officials must prioritize accountability in budgeting and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Transparent reporting of budget allocations and expenditures should be readily available to residents to ensure that the City’s financial resources are managed responsibly and in line with community needs.

Preserving Camas’ character and livability 

Preserving our city’s character and livability is crucial for maintaining the unique charm of the city. City officials should take steps to protect natural resources, preserve historical landmarks, and promote sustainable practices. Inclusivity and community engagement should be fostered to ensure that the needs and aspirations of all residents are considered in decision-making.

What is the city doing correctly?

The Parks and Rec department is a good thing. We have an excellent parks system here, and the city has worked hard to lower the homeless issues, like the one we had at Good Park, where we had a lot of homeless people and needles laying around, which became a danger to children, and really everyone. The city’s work eliminated a big mess. 

Now, our neighbors can have picnics there again. We’ve had two this year already.

Who is Gary Perman?

I’m a life-long Camas resident, I graduated Camas High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Washington University. I’ve been married to Becky for 39 years, and we raised our two sons in Camas. I’ve owned and operated PermanTech Search Group, a successful Camas based recruitment business specializing in finding critical talent for the U.S. electric and alternative vehicle industry.

I’ve been a recruiter for 27 years, and it’s taught me how to talk to people, and I feel all people deserve respect.

I’m a member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran here in Washougal, and I work on the civil service commission.

If elected, I will prioritize open and transparent communication with citizens, ensuring that important information is shared in a timely and accessible manner. I will work towards increasing citizen participation in public meetings, allowing for meaningful engagement and input on decisions that impact the community. I will also be diligent in managing the city’s budget, prioritizing spending, and opposing unnecessary tax increases.

Furthermore, I will leverage my experience in business and economic development to attract living wage jobs to Camas, promoting economic growth and prosperity for the community. I will also work towards protecting the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods by supporting our law enforcement officers and public safety personnel.

I recognize that the $78 million pool bond and the approval of a rehab center near an elementary school are contentious issues that have raised concerns among citizens. If elected, I will ensure that decisions are made with careful consideration of their impact on the community and with a strong focus on listening to and representing the needs and priorities of the citizens of Camas.

To learn more about Perman’s campaign, visit www.votegaryperman.com

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Stephen Dabasinskas Running For Camas City Council At-Large Seat

Lacamas Magazine interviewed Stephen Dabasinskas, who is running for the Camas City Council At-Large seat being vacated by long-term Camas City Council Member, Don Chaney. 

Why do you want to be on council?

When the pandemic started I had lots of time to study council and what has been happening with the city. I’ve been looking at the mistakes the city is making. I have a lot to bring to city council.

I graduated from UC San Diego with an Economics degree, had a 10-year law enforcement career (two jobs). During that final job I ran a narcotics task force in Orange County that comprised 20 agencies, and it allowed me to work with many jurisdictions. I did a lot of grant writing, and worked on some great legislation. 

I did consulting for the Department of Defense (DOD), and we worked on legislative budgeting while the DOD put on trainings on budgeting all over the country.

Over time, I increased my consulting, and I got involved with a tech company doing CFO consulting services, and have been a CFO and CEO consultant with my company, Innovative Business Resources, for 25 years. 

I’m 58 years old, and our family has lived in Camas since 2018. 

Dabasinskas
From left: Stephen Dabasinskas, Camas Police Chief Tina Jones, and Camas City Council member, Jennifer Senescu at a Coffee With a Cop event.

What are the top issues of your campaign?

Growth and development. We grow for growth’s sake, we don’t do it responsibly. We need to update roads, sewers and electrical, and make infrastructure improvements. 

Environmental. We have the Lacamas Lake cleanup that’s been pending for years. We’ve spent money, we have done consulting, we’ve done more testing. It’s been toxic for many years. All the warnings are there with the algae blooms. With growth comes management of natural resources. The tree canopies, the trails, the things we all like. We need to be hard and fast and hold developers accountable to maintain open spaces. We need to make sure trees are saved and not just replaced.

Financial stewardship. Our city budget is in the hundreds of millions. We need to ensure we use taxpayer money properly. We must make sure we use consultants properly.

Examples: For the Lacamas Lake Roundabout project we spent $2 million on consultants alone. The city administrator was paid $600,000 for 18 months. We spent $390,000 for the Crown Park consultancy. We just need to be better at using them and also review the contracts better. We shouldn’t have open-ended contracts. Sometimes the scope of work isn’t as defined as it should be. We need to do reviews before the bill is paid.

Public Safety. This makes our community great. People are very pleased with the fire and police departments. Our fire department is currently renegotiating with Washougal to ensure everyone is paying their fair share. We need to make sure those departments are funded properly as we grow.

Citizen engagement. People feel like they’re not being heard. It’s supposed to be run by what the citizens want. People’s voices need to be heard. Right now, they use directional surveys to do what they want. The pool bond, the Crown Park splash pad. And, so many people are against North Shore plans. 

We send out surveys and they don’t get a good response. It’s our job to get out and meet with people. It’s been great meeting people and hearing what they have to say.

What three things is the city doing correctly?

  • Police and fire. We have great public safety services. 
  • Camas is doing a better job at fixing smaller issues like the downtown tree plan. 
  • They are re-writing the down sub area plan. This is good. At the heart of it everyone wants to keep Camas like it is. We are trying to make ourselves better. 

Vision

I want Camas to be a better version of ourselves. Focus on downtown, improve our infrastructure, draw more big business for a better tax base for our city. We have high property taxes. We need to find other sources of income is to bring more businesses into Camas. 

To learn more visit: www.stephen4council.com

Dabasinskas
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Camas Mayor Steve Hogan Makes Case For His Re-Election This Fall

Lacamas Magazine interviewed Camas Mayor, Steve Hogan, who is running for re-election this Fall. Here are the questions we asked, and his responses:

What have been your successes as Mayor of Camas?

  • Filled five strategically-important positions left vacant by my predecessor (police chief, fire chief, city administrator, IT director, community development director).
  • Finalized the North Shore Subarea Plan to ensure the area is developed responsibly.
  • Initiated the Downtown Camas Subarea Plan to develop a template for how our downtown will remain the heart of Camas for the next 50 years.
  • Established the Lake Management Plan for Lacamas, Round, and Fallen Leaf Lakes to develop a long-term strategy for lake cleanup.  
  • Overseeing Lacamas Lake Water Quality three-year study
  • Supported the Camas Library with legislative lobbying that secured significant funding for future plans and upgrades.
  • Championed the Riverside Bowl Skatepark renovations and modernization. 
  • Camas was the first city in Clark County to supply police officers with body-worn cameras.
  • AAA gold bond rating awarded by Standard & Poor’s, reflecting our strong economy and management. This improved rating also saves taxpayer money by reducing borrowing costs.
  • GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for clarity and transparency for the city’s $100 million budget. Reestablished partnership relationships with key groups: Camas Schools, Clark      County, Washington State Legislature, U.S. House, Senate, and Commerce Department, Port of Camas-Washougal, Columbia River Economic Development Council, Washougal and other area cities, Private and non-profit sectors.
  • Camas rated #1 safest suburb city in Washington State.
  • Camas rated#18 most affordable safe suburb city in the U.S. Learn more here. 
  • Rated best city to raise a family and retire in Washington State.
  • Camas rated #2 safest city in Washington State (2022).

Why are you running for a full second term?

Camas is a safe, beautiful, and welcoming place to live, work, and play. There’s a sense of community, as small town feel, and a closer connection to nature. Top-ranked schools, a charming downtown, year-round community events, and easy access to trails, lakes, and green spaces are among the many reasons we have chosen to make Camas our home.  I am running for mayor to help make sure that we continue to make this City great for our grandkids in the future.

What are your priorities for the next four years?

Why should the voters re-elect Steve Hogan?

The past two years have proven that my 40 years of business experience have both stabilized and made significant improvements to our City.  In our Strong Mayor form of government, experience handling complex government organizations can mean the difference between effective government and chaotic operations.  It is important to elect people who have experience on day one.  In the past 5 years, we have seen how easy it is to create chaos when Mayors are not prepared for the job.  I am prepared for the job and the past two years clearly show how experience matters for good governance.

What are you most proud of in the city of Camas?

The things that make me proud of our City include:

  • Our smart growth
  • Our financial management
  • Our school district
  • The national and international companies who have made their home here
  • The access to nature throughout the City for all of our citizens.
  • Our downtown restoration and flourishing over the past 20 years.

What is your vision of Camas over the next 20 years?

My vision for Camas includes retaining its charm and safety while restoring and protecting natural resources for future generations. Among the priorities:

  • Ensure Camas remains an open, inclusive community with a “home-town” feel.
  • Keep Camas a safe placefor all citizens.
  • Attract and retain companies that provide living wage jobs for our citizens.  If you live in Camas, you will have the opportunity to work in Camas.
  • Provide housing options that are affordable to citizens.
  • Restore Lacamas Lake to enable a full range of recreational uses. 
  • Implementation of sensible land use plans with smart development rules.
  • Provide and protect our trails and greenspaces, ensuring a sustainable balance of land use that supports healthy outdoor experiences that Camasonians cherish.
  • Provide public parks and facilities that meet the needs and budgets of a family-based community.
  • Maintain high standards for environmental cleanup of abandoned industrial land in compliance with state and federal law.
  • Support the Camas Library literacy program and facility upgrades, and the maximization of funding from legislative lobbying, including:
    • Plans for a Children’s Learning Hive in the Children’s Library with an Early Learning Center, STEM lab, and outdoor creative space.
    • Upgrades to the library facility including roofing, life safety, and accessibility. 

What are you doing to help clean up Lacamas Lake?

  • The first algae blooms appeared on Lacamas Lake in 2020.  Since no other government agency was reacting to the blooms, I proposed to the City Council that our government agency should become the first responder to the safety issues within the lakes.  The Council agreed that our City should take the lead to try to eliminate the algae issue.
  • We began by working with Clark County since they technically were in charge of the lake.  The County made their staff available to help us understand the history of the lake.
  • The County also helped us to bring in other agencies that could help us try to understand potential ways to improve the lake water quality.  These groups the County brought in to discuss the issues included:
    • Clark County water quality staff
    • Clark County Health Department
    • Washington State Department of Ecology
    • Washington State Department of Natural Resources
    • Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife
    • The Army Corps of Engineers
  • Our City staff met several times with these agencies.  They were very helpful.  But, at the beginning, they did not have money available to help us.
  • We attempted to get Clark County to form an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Camas.  The County offered to help but, when they put together the Interlocal Agreement, they declined to offer any funding.  As a result, the Mayor at that time decided we might as well work with the State legislature and the Department of Ecology to get funding to help our efforts.
  • I personally got involved with lobbying the State Legislators to seek money to help us deal with the algae issues within the lake.
  • The legislators came through and secured money from the Department of Ecology.  It was the Department of Ecology who defined how we would move forward to clean up the Lacamas Lake system.
  • The Department of Ecology decided that the City of Camas would test the water in the Lake system and that the Department of Ecology would examine the 67 square mile watershed leading into Lacamas Lake.
  • The City of Camas has just completed the water quality assessment using the testing techniques defined by the Department of Ecology.  Unfortunately, the Department of Ecology did not complete their portion of the study of the watershed.  We are awaiting their completion and presentation of their report.
  • The City is in the process of explaining to the City Council and the community what our portion of the study has revealed.  Unfortunately, we need the testing reports from the Department of Ecology to complete the actual plan on how to address the restoration of the Lake.
  • We are hoping to partner with multiple agencies to address the restoration and improvement of the Lacamas Lake system.  Here is a partial list of who we would like to partner with us on restoration of the lake:
    • Clark County
      • Health Department
      • Water Quality Department
      • Stormwater Department
    • Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
    • Washington Department of Natural Resources
    • Washington Department of Agriculture
    • Army Corps of Engineers
    • Conservation organizations
    • Nonprofits associated with preservation wetland, critical areas and improvement of water 
    • Camas school district
    • WSU Vancouver
    • Clark College

So, we are beginning to seek better understanding of the root causes of the lake problems as well as both short-term and long-term steps we can implement to restore of lake system for future recreational uses.

Are taxes too high in Camas?

For some Camas citizens, the taxes are too high.

Learn more at https://www.electstevehogan.com/#

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Randal Friedman Explains Why He’s Running For Camas Mayor

Randal Friedman answered Lacamas Magazine questions about his candidacy. He’s presently in a race to be Camas Mayor against incumbent Steve Hogan.

Why do you want to be mayor? 

I want to be Camas Mayor to bring our government back to our community and neighborhoods, and not serve special interests. I want to bring a new and needed vision to our city’s future. This vision is not the four-year term of a mayor, but a four-decade view on the Camas we leave behind for the future. I have a lifetime of problem solving, connecting and creating common ground on issues, and the passion to solve problems instead of kicking them down the road. One of my duties as the Navy’s advocate in California was looking four decades out at how California’s direction could impact military training and operations vital to our nation’s defense. I was successful in doing so, and bring those skills to Camas. 

What are the top three issues of your campaign?

  1. A safer and livable community. Ensuring that every resident, regardless of their background, can find a safe, secure and reasonably priced place to call home is crucial to a thriving community.
  2. Thriving Camas Lake and Forests. The restoration, preservation and enhancement of our natural gems into clean, vibrant, sources of pride for Camas is essential.
  3. Mill cleanup and future planning. We must plan for the Camas Mill’s future use in a way that aligns with our city’s needs and aspirations.

What three things is the city doing correctly? 

  1. Our own independent library. It took some work, but we reap the benefits of hard work by citizens to build and maintain our independent library. I’m a huge believer in libraries as sacred and neutral ground where a city comes together to learn, discuss, and have aspirations for the future. Our library has done special programing on issues in the past, and I will bring them back. We need to be looking four decades out for our future, and thank goodness we have our library to be part of that process.
  2. Consistent with looking four decades out, Camas has done a good job acquiring open space for our future. The Legacy Lands, open spaces in Forest Home, Ostenson Canyon, and Green Mountain are part of our future now. I would continue to look for opportunities, and start a conversation on how best to use them to serve our needs.
  3. The Lacamas Lodge is a gem in an incredible setting. It’s a gathering place for city and community events. It is there for classes. It embodies what we need as a city and is a model for the future as our population grows. 

What three things is the city not doing correctly? 

  1. Understanding the difference between listening and hearing. More and more I hear people fed up with making the effort to do surveys, attend workshops, and speak out only to see nothing happen beyond what the city/and our consultants recommend. A community pool is the prime example. Why does it feel like the community is being punished for stating unequivocally that while they want a pool, they do not want one that will place the city in debt, and will require fees out of reach to many of our most challenged households. The public sentiment is clear. Why four years after the 90 percent rejection of the pool bonds is a simple pool ten years out? 
  2. Growth management. Developers run the table and the city doesn’t negotiate. Even when something right was done to save trees, for example, the developer threatened litigation and we folded. On the other hand, when the community rose and actually litigated an issue, the city spent our money to fight the community. The City’s survey made clear the city is on the wrong track with growth management. 
  3. Respecting our newer residents. Half of Camas is made of people living here 10 years or less. They are constantly reminded that they haven’t lived here long enough to earn an opinion. This is wrong. People who moved here made a decision to uproot their lives and start a new one. They bring with them a new set of experiences, and an appreciation of problems that seem headed for Camas. Their opinions and ideas must count the same as any other resident but they don’t. New residents are not just an ATM machine for getting building impact fees and a variety of other revenue. They are creating new neighborhoods, and are the future of our city. They are the households with young families that are concerned about the Camas their children and grandchildren will inherit. They matter and must be part of governance. They feel they don’t belong.

How should the city handle mill cleanup? 

The Washington Department of Ecology has made something clear: the level of cleanup is based on future uses envisioned by the city. Rather than leave it to a private conversation between Ecology and Koch Industries, as the Mayor recently stated, and then have that agreement “explained” to the public, the public deserves the “seat at the table” we successfully fought for during Covid. The Community Advisory Committee has done a fantastic job starting a conversation about the mill’s future, and the importance of this to guide the cleanup. Unfortunately that spirit has been lost by a city still living in the mill’s shadow and acting like we are still a “mill town”. We also need to acknowledge this is more than a local issue. We are custodians of ancestral lands of Native Americans. As the Yakama Nation provided to me in a resolution I proposed to Council: “the cleanup of the Camas Mill Site and the restoration of natural resources impacted by the past, current, and future releases of hazardous waste in order to make the public whole and further tribal Treaty rights.” 

How should the city handle Lacamas Lake cleanup? 

Leading by example. The Lacamas Shores biofitler has become the unfortunate symbol of decades of general neglect of the lake. What was once a tremendous victory for Camas’ early non-governmental organization, the city looked the other way as it was abandoned and now pollutes the lake every time it rains. It doesn’t have to be this way. Through leadership on fixing this biofilter, we can move forward with the County, state, and work with other pollution sources to clean. We will have shown them our willingness to first clean the only known direct source of pollution into the lake. We are walking the walk. Come join us. We need to stop kicking the can down the road as some are saying and be willing to try some solutions. Maybe they won’t work the first time, but there is science out there strongly suggesting solutions. Unfortunately, we continue down the road of falling back to more study. 

You can learn more about Friedman’s campaign at: https://www.whatcamaswants.com

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