Clark County plans additional 109 housing units despite environmental concerns

The City of Woodland's Planning Commission meeting on April 17, 2025, spotlighted a pressing housing challenge as officials grappled with accommodating a projected increase of 109 housing units from Clark County. This request stems from a population growth strategy that allocates one-tenth of a percent of the county's growth to Woodland, which currently has 86 units in the Horseshoe Lake area.

Consultants and city officials discussed the feasibility of transferring this housing requirement to Cowlitz County, where more land is available. However, state officials from Commerce indicated that no formal mechanism exists for such a transfer, leaving Woodland to plan for the units in good faith. The conversation highlighted the complexities of urban growth boundaries (UGB) and the environmental constraints posed by wetlands in the area, which could hinder maximum density development.

Commission members expressed concerns about the practicality of meeting these housing goals, especially given the environmental implications of developing on sensitive land. The discussion underscored the challenge of balancing housing needs with environmental protection, as officials acknowledged that the current land available may not support the required number of units without compromising ecological standards.

In addition to the immediate housing needs, the commission reviewed a report from Cowlitz County projecting a total housing need of 10,500 units over the next 20 years, reflecting broader regional growth trends. This report serves as a preliminary framework for future discussions and planning efforts, emphasizing the urgency for collaborative strategies to address housing shortages across both counties.

As Woodland navigates these challenges, the commission's commitment to responsible planning remains clear, with ongoing discussions expected to shape the future of housing development in the region.