The upcoming Vancouver mayoral race is shaping up to be a contest focused on experience, featuring incumbent Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and challenger Justin Forsman.
At the age of 72, McEnerny-Ogle has significant experience in public service, including a five-year tenure on Vancouver’s planning commission before her election to the City Council in 2013.
She was first elected as mayor in 2017 and has been advocating for the city on several fronts since then.
In contrast, 38-year-old Forsman, despite being a frequent candidate in both local and statewide elections, has not been able to secure a majority vote on any occasion other than his successful bid for a precinct officer position in 2020.
Forsman’s political aspirations span several unsuccessful campaigns, as he ran four times for Vancouver City Council between 2015 and 2021, as well as four attempts for the state Legislature from 2016 to 2024.
One of the most contentious issues between the candidates has been the Interstate 5 Bridge replacement project.
Forsman has made it clear that he opposes the inclusion of light rail in the project, asserting that making the bridge without it is crucial for Vancouver.
He remarked, “We’ve had this project in the works for the last 30 years or so, and … people do not want light rail.
We see our city officials pushing it regardless.”
On the other hand, McEnerny-Ogle responded by stating that while several issues are pressing, the bridge replacement is not among them.
She emphasized her focus on advocating for the necessary support from federal and state governments to facilitate the project, saying, “We are an advocate for the federal and state governments to make that happen.”
Rather than the bridge, McEnerny-Ogle highlighted homelessness, public safety, and economic development as the city’s most significant challenges.
In terms of public safety, McEnerny-Ogle has pointed to efforts by the city council to secure funding for the Vancouver Police Department by backing Proposition 5, which seeks to raise property taxes to fund more police positions.
She stated, “The public has asked for public safety in all of their community surveys over the many years.”
The proposition aims to provide funding for 13 additional police officers, helping alleviate the burden of overtime many officers are currently facing.
In contrast, Forsman expressed strong opposition to Proposition 5, labeling it “a permanent tax burden” and indicative of “failed leadership.”
Homelessness is another issue where Forsman’s personal experiences play a significant role, as he gave insight into his upbringing while advocating for more concerted efforts to tackle the crisis.
He noted, “I spent a long time on the streets as a child … so I can relate.
I know what it’s like.”
Forsman believes that more can be done to assist unhoused youth in Vancouver.
Conversely, McEnerny-Ogle referred to the city’s Housing Assistance and Resources Team, which she claims is actively working on the streets to connect individuals with support and housing services.
She remarked, “The team has done a wonderful job of putting their arms around each individual to help them or send them on their way.”
As the election draws near, Clark County Elections plans to begin mailing ballots to voters on Friday, ensuring that community members can weigh in on these pivotal issues.
image source from：columbian
