Washougal evaluates economic development and community engagement strategies

The Washougal City Council convened on March 10, 2025, for a workshop focused on the economic development element of the city’s strategic plan. The meeting aimed to ensure that the local economy is effectively aligned with community goals and land use policies.

The discussion began with an overview of the current economic landscape in Washougal. Council members emphasized the importance of updating the economic development element to reflect local needs and opportunities. A key point raised was the necessity of community engagement, which will involve stakeholder interviews to identify targeted industries that could drive growth in the area.

The council clarified that the update would not require mandatory code changes but may lead to recommendations for improvements based on the findings from the community attributes team. This team will analyze existing economic data and present their insights to the council. The goal is to ensure that the policies and goals set forth are consistent with the desires of the community and the strategic plan.

Additionally, the council discussed the importance of maintaining a balanced housing and job mix in mixed-use areas, highlighting the need to avoid self-imposed barriers that could hinder economic progress. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the challenges ahead, particularly in addressing climate-related issues that may impact economic development.

Overall, the workshop underscored the council's commitment to fostering a robust local economy while ensuring that community values and environmental considerations are integrated into future planning efforts. Further discussions and updates are expected as the council moves forward with this initiative.