News Flash

Building on the strong participation seen during its first year, the City of Washougal is pleased to announce the Spring 2026 Citizen Academy. This six-week program will run from April 16 through May 21, 2026, with sessions held Thursday evenings from 6:00–8:00 p.m. The Citizen Academy is designed to increase understanding of local government and provide residents, business owners, and community members with meaningful opportunities to engage with the city.

“We’ve seen such a great response during our first year of the Citizen Academy, and it’s been inspiring to see how eager people are to learn and get involved,” said Rose Jewell, Community Engagement Manager and program lead. “Informed citizens make our community stronger. When people understand how local government works, they’re better equipped to contribute, collaborate, and help make Washougal an even better place to live and do business.”

Through the Citizens’ Academy, participants will develop a greater understanding of the roles and responsibilities of city government while engaging directly with city leaders. Graduates will be well-equipped to share their knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors, strengthening civic engagement throughout Washougal. Additionally, they will be encouraged to take active roles in local government through volunteer opportunities, boards, and commissions.

Participants will gain valuable insights into a variety of topics, including:

• General Government
• Finance and Budget
• Community Development 
• Public Works
• Public Safety
• Community Services & Strategy

The Citizen Academy fulfills the City’s Redefined Community Identity strategic priority by helping students, residents, and business owners better understand how city government functions, increasing neighborhood involvement, and encouraging residents to take an active role in improving community safety, civic pride, and overall engagement. By strengthening knowledge and participation, the program supports a distinct and recognizable identity for Washougal that benefits both residents and the local economy.

How to Appy

Residents interested in joining the Citizens’ Academy can apply by completing the online application available on the City of Washougal website. The 2026 class is limited to 36 participants. Applicants must live or operate a business within the Washougal community. Those not selected for this session will be considered for future academies. The application period will close March 26, 2026, and applicants will be notified by March 27. The application can be found at https://cityofwashougal.us/CitizenAcademy.

More Information

The program is free of charge, and all materials will be provided. The academy will run for six weeks with sessions held on Thursdays from 6-8 PM at Washougal Community Center, 1681 C St, Washougal, WA 98671. Participants are expected to attend at least five sessions though full participation is strongly encouraged.

For more information and to apply, please visit https://cityofwashougal.us/CitizenAcademy.

Media Contact:

Rose JewellCommunity Engagement Managerrose.jewell@cityofwashougal.us360-835-8501 x101

Celebration of Life

January 24, 202611:00 AMWashburn Center (Washougal High School), 1201 39th St., Washougal, WA 98671

The online obituary for Molly is available and can be viewed and shared here:https://everloved.com/life-of/molly-coston/obituary/

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The City of Washougal is deeply saddened to share the passing of former mayor and current councilmember Molly Coston. A long-serving public official and dedicated community volunteer, Coston’s leadership and commitment played a central role in Washougal’s growth and civic identity for nearly two decades.

“Molly’s passing is a huge and sad loss for our City of Washougal,” said Mayor David Stuebe. “She was dedicated to this community and consistently approached her work with commitment, fairness and passion. Many people called her ‘Mayor Molly’ because she was approachable and took the time to truly listen and be truly engaged. Her leadership influenced the direction of our city, and we are so grateful for her service.”

Coston first joined the Washougal City Council in 2005, serving for six years. After several years away from city government, Coston was elected Mayor of Washougal in November 2017 and held the position from 2018-2021. In 2021, she was elected to fill the unexpired term for Council Position 5, with her current term set to conclude in December 2027.

During her tenure, she led and supported numerous key projects:

• Convened a citizen panel to study shifting to a Council-Manager government, later approved by voters.
• Played a key role in creating recently voter-approved Regional Fire Authority.
• Chaired the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, guiding hotel-tax investments in tourism and events.
• Championed new public art for the Towncenter Plaza campanile.
• Regularly attended community events, actively engaging with residents.
• Helped shape major projects including the Steigerwald Restoration, Waterfront Trail, Towncenter Revitalization, the 32nd Street Rail Crossing elimination and many others.

She was currently serving as the Chair of the C-Tran board of directors. She also represented east Clark County on the Regional Transportation Council Board of Directors, serving as its chair in 2010.

Beyond her roles in City Hall, Coston was an involved community member. She served as:

• President of the Board of Directors for the Washougal Arts & Cultural Alliance (WACA)
• Columbia Gorge Refuge Stewards board member
• 25 year member of the Camas Washougal Rotary, serving as Peace Builder Chairwoman and on the Public Image Committee, Youth Services Committee, AKIN, and Diaper Drive
• House Committee Co-Chair at Orchard Hills Golf & Country Club
• Washougal School District PAC member

Coston has lived in Washougal since 2000. She was a graduate of the University of Arizona and George Washington University. Coston was also a Master Scuba Diver. She was 77.

The City of Washougal extends its deepest condolences to Molly’s family, friends, colleagues, and all community members who were touched by her service.

Her leadership, fairness, and ability to bring people together left a lasting imprint on the landscape of Washougal.

Media Contact:

Michele Loftus, Communications Managermichele.loftus@cityofwashougal.us360-818-1485

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The City of Washougal is deeply saddened to share the passing of former mayor and current councilmember Molly Coston. A long-serving public official and dedicated community volunteer, Coston’s leadership and commitment played a central role in Washougal’s growth and civic identity for nearly two decades.

“Molly’s passing is a huge and sad loss for our City of Washougal,” said Mayor David Stuebe. “She was dedicated to this community and consistently approached her work with commitment, fairness and passion. Many people called her ‘Mayor Molly’ because she was approachable and took the time to truly listen and be truly engaged. Her leadership influenced the direction of our city, and we are so grateful for her service.”

Coston first joined the Washougal City Council in 2005, serving for six years. After several years away from city government, Coston was elected Mayor of Washougal in November 2017 and held the position from 2018-2021. In 2021, she was elected to fill the unexpired term for Council Position 5, with her current term set to conclude in December 2027.

During her tenure, she led and supported numerous key projects:

• Convened a citizen panel to study shifting to a Council-Manager government, later approved by voters.
• Played a key role in creating recently voter-approved Regional Fire Authority.
• Chaired the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, guiding hotel-tax investments in tourism and events.
• Championed new public art for the Towncenter Plaza campanile.
• Regularly attended community events, actively engaging with residents.
• Helped shape major projects including the Steigerwald Restoration, Waterfront Trail, Towncenter Revitalization, the 32nd Street Rail Crossing elimination and many others.

She was currently serving as the Chair of the C-Tran board of directors. She also represented east Clark County on the Regional Transportation Council Board of Directors, serving as its chair in 2010.

Beyond her roles in City Hall, Coston was an involved community member. She served as:

• President of the Board of Directors for the Washougal Arts & Cultural Alliance (WACA)
• Columbia Gorge Refuge Stewards board member
• 25 year member of the Camas Washougal Rotary, serving as Peace Builder Chairwoman and on the Public Image Committee, Youth Services Committee, AKIN, and Diaper Drive
• House Committee Co-Chair at Orchard Hills Golf & Country Club
• Washougal School District PAC member

Coston has lived in Washougal since 2000. She was a graduate of the University of Arizona and George Washington University. Coston was also a Master Scuba Diver. She was 77.

The City of Washougal extends its deepest condolences to Molly’s family, friends, colleagues, and all community members who were touched by her service.

Her leadership, fairness, and ability to bring people together left a lasting imprint on the landscape of Washougal.

Media Contact:

Michele Loftus, Communications Managermichele.loftus@cityofwashougal.us360-818-1485

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The Parks Passport Program is a youth engagement initiative created to encourage exploration, service, and learning in Washougal’s local parks. Participants earn stamps in passport booklets by attending events and completing hands-on service projects.

The City of Washougal is proud to announce the launch of a new volunteer initiative aimed at keeping Washougal clean and connected: “Washougal Wins When Everyone Pitches In!” This pilot program invites residents to join a citywide effort to reduce litter, beautify neighborhoods, and strengthen community pride—one bucket of trash at a time.

Beginning July 1, volunteers will pledge to complete 40 hours (approximately 1-2 hours a week) of litter clean-up by the end of 2025. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and on their own schedule, choosing any location within Washougal city limits. From sidewalks and storm drains to parks and school zones, every area counts.

To thank volunteers for their time and dedication, the program offers rewards* at key service milestones:

• 5 Hours – Official Washougal Wins! Mini Trash Bin
• 20 Hours – Official Washougal Wins! T-shirt
• 40 Hours – Official Washougal Wins! Hat*While supplies last

All volunteers who participate will also be recognized at Washougal’s Hometown Heroes Celebration in 2026.

“This is a program that truly belongs to the community,” said Sherry Montgomery, Community Aesthetics Manager. “It’s flexible, accessible, and has the potential to touch every corner of Washougal. One of the things I love most is that it makes it easy for everyone—regardless of schedule or ability—to be part of something bigger.”

The program was inspired by Montgomery’s own litter removal efforts with her 6-year-old niece and the dedicated work of local groups like the East County Citizen’s Alliance. The idea is to make it simple for residents to pitch in where they already spend their time—whether that’s on their block, near their workplace, or along their favorite walking route.

How to Join

Residents can start by heading to https://cityofwashougal.us/WashougalWins, completing the Individual Volunteer Service Agreement, checking the “Washougal Wins” box, and taking the program pledge.

The first 100 volunteers will receive an official Washougal Wins! kit**, which includes:

• A green 5-gallon bucket
• Trash grabber
• Reflective band
• Washougal volunteer pin
• Welcome packet with field guide and safety tips

**One kit per household.

All other volunteers will receive a Washougal volunteer pin and welcome materials.

Kit Pick Up Opportunities

• June 25: 8am-5p at City of Washougal Permit Center, 211 39th Street, Washougal, WA   
• June 27: 8am-5pm City of Washougal Permit Center, 211 39th Street, Washougal, WA
• July 18: 2p-6p at the Washougal Community Market, Reflection Plaza, downtown Washougal
• July 19: 9am 11am at SW corner of BiMart parking lot

If you are unable to pick up your kit at any of the opportunities listed above, please contact sherry.montgomery@cityofwashougal.us or 360.835.8501 ext. 612 to make other arrangements.

Litter Pick Up Meet Up – July 19

There will be a community meet-up on Saturday, July 19 in the BiMart parking lot, where participants can learn about litter priority areas in the city, review safety guidelines, connect with fellow volunteers, and pick up their kits. The City will also be present at the Washougal Community Market on July 18 to help residents sign up and ask questions.

Volunteers are encouraged to document their progress and post photos on social media using the program hashtag, #WashougalWins. Those who tag the City @WashougalGov on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, or use the hashtag may be featured on the city’s social channels. 

“This isn’t just about picking up trash—it’s about working together, getting outside, and showing pride in the place we call home,” added Montgomery. “We’re excited to see what our community can do when everyone pitches in.”

The Washougal Wins program supports the Community Aesthetics initiative under the City’s 2023–2028 Strategic Plan priority of Redefined Community Identity. By engaging residents in litter cleanup and public space improvements, the program is a key part of revitalizing Washougal’s appearance and fosters a cleaner, more vibrant city. Community Aesthetics is also part of the newly formed Community Services and Strategy department within the city. Learn about the strategic plan at https://cityofwashougal.us/StrategicPlan.

For more details or to sign up for the Washougal Wins Program, visit https://cityofwashougal.us/WashougalWins.

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Media Contact

Michele LoftusCommunications Managermichele.loftus@cityofwashougal.us

The City of Washougal has completed the full implementation of its Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI) system, marking the culmination of a years-long effort to modernize the city’s water meter reading process. The new system allows for 24/7 remote meter readings, providing more accurate billing, faster leak detection, and greater access to water usage data for customers. It also includes a new online portal where residents can residents can log in to view their daily water usage, set up alerts for unusual activity, and monitor their consumption in real time—whether they’re at home or away.

All residential and commercial water meters have been upgraded over the past seven years, and the supporting infrastructure—including a central base station and data repeaters—has been installed. Previously, meter readings were done manually through a monthly ‘drive-by’ system, which required city staff to physically travel through neighborhoods collecting data. It was time-intensive and occasionally resulted in missed readings. Now, readings are transmitted automatically every 12 hours via a secure radio network. It’s accurate, efficient, and responsive.

The transition to AMI not only reduces human error but also significantly improves the City’s ability to detect leaks and irregularities. In the past, leaks could go unnoticed for up to 60 days. With the new system, residents can be notified of potential leaks within 24 hours, helping prevent costly damage and water waste.

“Our team is most excited about the level of information we can now offer customers,” said Ryan Baker, Public Works Operations Manager. “If someone has a concern about their bill, we can provide a day-by-day breakdown. And the feedback so far has been extremely positive—especially around our faster leak detection.”

The new system is expected to save the City approximately 40–60 labor hours per month, allowing staff to reallocate time to other high-priority work (Figure 1). The move also supports the City’s broader goals of environmental stewardship by helping reduce unnecessary water loss and promoting more conscious water use. It also aligns with several of the city’s strategic plan principles, particularly being people-focused and responsive as well as bold and practical in approach.

Figure 1

Hours Per Meter Reading Platform

Residents can access their water usage data through https://mywateradvisor2.com and the My Water Advisor 2.0, available on PC and Android devices. Instructions for account setup and additional information are available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwashougal.us/823/4512/My-Water-Advisor-Portal. 

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Contact:

Michele LoftusCommunications ManagerCity of Washougalmichele.loftus@cityofwashougal.us

Did you know that City of Washougal Public Works is here for you 24/7/365? If you experience an emergency outside of our normal business hours and need assistance from our Public Works Team (Water, Sewer, Stormwater, Streets, or Parks), please call our after-hours service line at 360-735-9509!

The City of Washougal has detected trace amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its drinking water supply. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products and industrial applications since the 1940s, known for their inability to breakdown easily in the environment. PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

Between February and May 2024, routine testing conducted by the City identified PFAS levels slightly above the newly established Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) at least one time, on at least one PFAS substance at each of the 6 city wellheads. Testing results can be found at https://cityofwashougal.us/PFAS. Despite being below the State Action Level (SAL) set by the Washington State Department of Health, these levels prompted public notification. 

On April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS. The new limit from the EPA for levels of PFAS in drinking water is set at 4 parts per trillion. For perspective, 1 part per trillion translates to 1 second in approximately 32,000 years or a single drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The recommended limits are based on long-term exposure to PFAS throughout a person’s life and represent a conservative level at which no adverse impacts are expected over a lifetime of drinking the water, even in health-sensitive populations.

"The health and safety of our residents are our top priorities," commented Public Works Director Trevor Evers. "Upon detecting these low levels of PFAS, we have taken immediate steps to ensure our drinking water remains safe and compliant with regulatory standards."

The City of Washougal currently operates six wells across its service area and continues to thoroughly monitor water quality in accordance with federal and state requirements. The discovery of PFAS has prompted the City to act by investigating interim measures to safeguard the community's water supply.

Work underway includes:

• Testing the water supply: Operations staff continue to test and monitor water quality in compliance with state and federal requirements to ensure a safe water supply.
• Evaluating treatment options: Water quality engineers are evaluating treatment technologies to remove PFAS from the water supply.
• Finding long-term solutions: Expert scientists are investigating potential sources of PFAS and the extent of PFAS in the local groundwater supply.
• Planning for the future: Future costs for PFAS treatment are included in the City’s long-range capital plans.

PFAS can accumulate in the environment and persist for extended periods. The new EPA regulations underscore the urgency of monitoring and managing these contaminants, with public water systems required to conduct initial monitoring by 2027 and implement corrective actions, if necessary, by 2029.

"We are committed to transparency and proactive communication with our residents," said David Scott, City Manager. "Regular updates on PFAS testing results and our ongoing efforts to address this issue will be readily available to ensure our community remains informed."

Residents are encouraged to visit the City's website at cityofwashougal.us/PFAS for the latest information on PFAS testing, mitigation efforts, and educational material. Additionally, statewide PFAS testing results can be accessed through the Washington State Department of Health's PFAS Dashboard at https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/washington-tracking-network-wtn/pfas/dashboard. 

About City of Washougal

The City of Washougal provides clean and safe drinking water to over 18,000 residents across 83 miles of water mains and service lines. Committed to environmental stewardship and public health, the City continuously strives to meet and exceed regulatory standards for water quality. 

Contact

Trevor EversPublic Works Director360.835.8501 ext. 202

The Washougal Towncenter Revitalization (WTR) project will develop outdoor recreation facilities in the heart of Washougal’s revitalizing Towncenter District including in the creation of an off-leash dog park, pocket park and expanded public parking.