This week, Vancouver faced several pressing issues that stirred discussions within the community, including alarming staffing cuts in the local school district and significant developments in housing projects.
On June 3, the Vancouver Education Association, which represents local teachers, filed a grievance against Vancouver Public Schools regarding what they termed ‘secret’ staffing cuts. The grievance arises from the district’s $35 million budget reductions for the 2024-25 school year.
Union members contend that recent staffing cuts were not disclosed publicly, which goes against their contract stipulations that prohibit reductions being carried out without transparency.
The district has stated that they are unsure why their labor partners perceive a reduction-in-force is occurring without proper notification.
In another topic of concern, local immigration officials increased their presence in the community as confirmed by the Southwest Washington chapter of the League of United Latin American Citizens.
Reports indicate that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained an individual near a Vancouver elementary school early Monday morning, specifically around Northwest 46th and Franklin streets.
While the incident did not occur on school property, it raised alarms among civil rights advocates about the increasing visibility of federal agents in Clark County and their impact on the local community.
Addressing worker safety, an investigation by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries is underway regarding a serious injury that occurred at a Rotschy Inc. worksite in Woodland on June 3.
Labor leaders have criticized Rotschy’s safety record, stating that the injury could have been prevented. In response to public concerns, a company representative confirmed that Rotschy is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation, emphasizing their commitment to worker safety.
Adding to the housing discussion, a new project called Image District Cottages is nearing completion in East Vancouver.
Developed by Wolf Industries Inc., this initiative consists of modular one- and two-bedroom homes, which are designed to address the urgent need for affordable housing in the area.
The rent for these tiny homes begins at $1,695 per month, and the company is currently exploring possibilities for homeownership options in the future, according to co-founder Derek Huegel.
Moreover, in a significant turn of events, the Hudson’s Bay Company, recognized as the oldest company in North America, has officially shut its doors after more than three centuries in business.
Declaring bankruptcy, the Canadian retail giant ceased operations on June 1, selling its name and all intellectual properties to Canadian Tire, which has no intentions of reviving the Hudson’s Bay brand.
The closure marks the end of an era for an iconic retailer that played a notable role in Vancouver’s history, originally starting as a fur-trapping enterprise that left a lasting legacy in the region.
image source from：https://www.columbian.com/news/2025/jun/14/top-stories-union-files-grievance-ice-detains-person-near-vancouver-school-vancouver-tiny-home-project/
