During a recent city council meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding public safety and infrastructure issues in the Highlands neighborhood. One resident expressed gratitude for newly installed streetlights, which have improved nighttime visibility and safety. However, this positive note was overshadowed by alarming reports of ongoing drug activity in the area. The resident, who serves as president of the Highlands Neighborhood Association, recounted witnessing drug deals occurring in front of a group of young adults participating in a special needs program, emphasizing a disconnect between police reports and community experiences.

Another speaker echoed these sentiments, criticizing the council's previous claims that crime rates were declining. They highlighted the frustrations of local homeowners regarding inadequate infrastructure, particularly in relation to parking and traffic management around newly constructed fourplexes. The speaker raised concerns about the impact of these developments on neighborhood safety and livability, noting that the streets are already too narrow to accommodate increased traffic.

Additionally, allegations of unlicensed contractors working on these developments were brought to light, raising questions about city oversight and accountability. Residents expressed a sense of urgency for the council to address these issues, with one speaker lamenting that their concerns have been largely ignored.

The meeting also touched on broader issues of substance abuse and funding, with a resident criticizing local health authorities for returning significant funds that could have been used to address these pressing community challenges. The speaker called for more effective action beyond mere proclamations, urging the council to prioritize tangible solutions for the residents of Cowlitz County.

Overall, the discussions highlighted a community grappling with safety concerns, infrastructure inadequacies, and a desire for more proactive governance.