Times are tough, but communities across Southwest Washington continue to come together and show resiliency when it's needed most, creating a positive outlook for the future.
That was the common sentiment across the region last month, as Clark County, Cowlitz County and the cities of Vancouver and Battle Ground turned the microscope on themselves while delivering their annual “State of” addresses. The Port of Woodland joined in with their address on Tuesday.
From one review to the next, area addresses were quick to discuss budget limitations, job growth (realized and projected) and projects in the pipeline.
ClarkCounty
The underlying message behind Clark County’s State of the County address was as follows: The county's financial position has improved, but strict spending controls remain in place.
“The board asked county managers to watch every dime and that’s exactly what they have done,” said Board Chair Tom Mielke. “Our outlook for the next two years is flat, but the ice is not quite as thin as it was a year ago. A major priority this year will be to strengthen our cost containment strategies for the long haul.”
Commissioners Marc Boldt and Steve Stuart said the county hopes to improve its financial standing by utilizing more regional collaboration.
“We remain committed to breaking new ground, improving the ways we do business and establishing models for others,” said Stuart.
Cowlitz County
In Cowlitz County, Commission Chairman George Raiter expressed confidence that residents will see better times ahead. He said the achievements of 2010 will have a lasting positive impact on the entire region. Those achievements include:
• The completion of the Columbia River Channel Deepening project
• New $9 million Skyline Steel pipe fabrication facility at the Port of Longview
• Construction of the Port of Longview's $200 million grain terminal
City of Battle Ground
Battle Ground's Deputy Mayor Phil Haberthur was also eager to tout local projects, which included the North Parkway Improvement Project – Phase II, the redesign of the City’s utility statements and the annexation of 104 acres in Southwest Battle Ground.
In addition to the growth Battle Ground saw in 2010, he said the city was fortunate to have businesses reinvest in the community by creating new jobs, using The Vancouver Clinic's new Battle Ground location as an example.
City of Vancouver
Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt touched on a number of job creating projects as well, including construction activity on 192nd Avenue, the $44 million waterfront access project (which he called a game-changer) and a variety of expansion projects at the Port of Vancouver.
Leavitt said he is hopeful that 2010 was the rock bottom, and no further layoffs will be necessary due to the poor economy.
“We are seeing signs of a slow recovery,” he said. “We are hopeful that our retail and home building businesses are finding their footing, we are optimistic that our banks and credit unions are again making loans and we are confident that the strong foundation we’ve built here will be lucrative for new businesses.”
Leavitt closed with a plea for local residents to come together and support the Columbia River Crossing project, calling it our most important investment to ensure a brighter future. He also reiterated his position on the need for a bridge with tolls.
“I am resigned that tolling is the only practical, acceptable and sustainable means to contribute our local share,” said Leavitt. “There is no other palatable option for our contribution.”
Port of Woodland
Portof Woodland Commission President Paul Clineand Executive Director Nelson Holmberg said the port fared well in 2010, keeping its industrial occupancy rate high while also maintaining a responsible budget.
Holmberg said he expected 2011 to be a strong year, and he attributed the port’s current success to maximizing partnerships and utilizing its own resources.
The Port of Woodland also celebrated its 50th year in 2010.
