Vancouver Housing Authority seeks county approval for broader operation scope

During the recent Clark County Council meeting, community concerns took center stage as Kimberly Goheen Elbon passionately addressed the council, urging them to prioritize the voices of local citizens. Speaking from her sister-in-law's memorial, Elbon emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in local government, particularly regarding timber sales and the controversial light rail project.

Elbon criticized the council's dismissal of public sentiment, stating, "You need to listen to them. They're telling you things that you're not protecting us against." She highlighted the disconnect between the council's decisions and the desires of the community, particularly regarding the light rail, which residents have rejected multiple times. "Count that money up," she demanded, referring to the millions spent on a project that the public has consistently rebuffed.

Following Elbon's remarks, the council moved on to discuss the Vancouver Housing Authority's (VHA) request for a resolution to operate within unincorporated Clark County. Senior policy analyst Jordan Bogie explained that the VHA seeks to streamline its operations, allowing for quicker responses to market opportunities in affordable housing without needing council approval for each project. This move aims to enhance the VHA's ability to act swiftly in acquiring properties, which is crucial in a competitive real estate market.

The council's support for the VHA's resolution could set a precedent, encouraging other jurisdictions to follow suit in facilitating affordable housing development. As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the council faces significant pressure to align its actions with the community's needs and expectations, particularly in light of the strong sentiments expressed by residents like Elbon. The outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for both local governance and housing initiatives in Clark County.