We need robust training for living wage careers in order for residents to have jobs to continue to grow and thrive.

The main driving factor behind creating jobs and economic growth is business. Council's duty is to provide a community that attracts new and innovative businesses. There should be a strong effort to create a favorable environment for business owners and entrepreneurs to do business in Vancouver.

Working with the Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC) and Workforce Boards we can court potential businesses to locate here, thereby taking advantage of the amenities of our community including parks and trails, exceptional education options, proximity to PDX airport, and our stellar quality of life.

Growing Up Fast

The city is experiencing rapid growth and development, such as the waterfront. We need to have consistent levels of investment in utilities and infrastructure as we move across the city to further projects like Tower Mall, Area 30, and the 192nd Gateway; all while keeping a steady eye on our annexation plan, and collaborating with Clark County to build up wealth and opportunity within the Urban Growth Area.

Access to Career Paths

Vancouver residents deserve access to career paths that set their families and themselves up for success. Partnering with Cascadia Technical Academy, Clark College, and Washington State University Vancouver to provide training for skills that equip students to seek employment in the high-tech, high-wage, and technical trades, we can develop a local “silicon forest” sector.

Additionally, the council needs to continue supporting apprenticeships, union labor, prevailing wage, and collective bargaining rights of workers.