This week in local news, Vancouver residents are grappling with the recent increases in the city’s tiered water rate system.
Longtime resident Jim Johnson, an enthusiastic gardener, has seen his typical $300 credit vanish in a single billing period due to the rate hikes that took effect this year.
The average water rate in Vancouver increased by 4.5 percent, impacting many families and individuals who are now facing higher water costs.
In community events, ten churches from Washougal and Camas are set to join forces for a special event titled ‘One Church for Jesus’ this Sunday at Doc Harris Stadium in Camas.
Scheduled for 10 a.m., this collective worship session is designed to promote unity among the participating churches and celebrate their shared values.
The gathering arose from ongoing discussions among east Clark County pastors, reflecting their commitment to community and mutual support.
The event will be free and includes a variety of activities such as sermons, prayer recitals, music, and activities for children.
Meanwhile, families are expressing concern over a proposed policy change from the Washington State Department of Transportation regarding roadside memorials.
Eighteen years after a tragic accident claimed the lives of two Camas women, their families have continued to maintain the roadside memorial that honors them.
The Shaddix family, who have kept the signs of their daughters, Krissy Shaddix and Jessica Blanck, in good condition since their installation in 2007, are troubled by the state’s plan that may limit how long these signs can remain posted.
Life in the area is also witnessing changes with the upcoming closure of Ridgefield Hardware & Gift.
After serving the community for more than a century, the longstanding store announced it will close its doors for good on September 30.
Scott Hughes, the current owner, expressed both pride and nostalgia for the store’s storied history, which dates back to its opening in 1914.
Despite the city’s growth, Hughes noted that business has slowed in recent years, leading to this difficult decision.
In the education sector, a labor dispute in Evergreen Public Schools has led to ongoing strikes among classified workers.
These workers have rejected the district’s latest offer, which has resulted in a further postponement of the school year’s start date.
School was originally set to begin on August 29, but was pushed back to September 2, and classes will now be delayed beyond this date as workers continue their strike action.
The situation remains fluid, with no clear indication about when students can expect to return to the classroom.
As these events unfold, the local community is invited to stay informed and engaged with the ongoing developments in their neighborhoods.
image source from：columbian
