Local Politics
State lawmakers edge closer to final deal
Estate tax fix OK'd; Senate backs off some policy bills
OLYMPIA — Washington lawmakers edged closer to a final budget deal Friday, aided by an agreement on fixing the state's estate tax, the prospect of an unexpected revenue boost and fresh signs of compromise.
Immigrant rights advocates to host rally
Advocates for comprehensive immigration reform will host a rally 7:30 p.m. Monday outside the Vancouver office of U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, 750 Anderson St. on Officers Row.
Lawmaker's bill would protect salmon from California sea lions
WASHINGTON — Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Pasco, argued in a heated House subcommittee hearing Thursday that stepping up lethal means against predatory California sea lions could protect the Northwest salmon populations.
Pro-CRC group spends $30,000 on ads
Its focus is to convince lawmakers project is needed now
Columbia River Crossing supporters have increased efforts in recent months to convince legislators in Olympia, and residents in Clark County, that a plan to replace the Interstate 5 Bridge needs funding now.
FBI files show disdain for former Washington Gov. Rosellini
OLYMPIA — Over his decades in public life, former Gov. Albert Rosellini helped bring Washington into the modern era, burnishing his reputation as one of the state's most effective leaders by reforming state prisons, modernizing mental health institutions and helping create the 520 floating bridge that links Seattle to its job-rich eastern suburbs.
State House passes estate tax fix
OLYMPIA — The House has approved a legislative fix to a court ruling on the estate tax, a move meant to prevent issuing millions of dollars in refunds that were set to start going out Friday morning.
Inslee cancels participation in Paris Air Show
OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee is canceling his participation in the Paris Air Show.
Federal government releasing $15.6M for I-5 bridge over Skagit
WASHINGTON — Sen. Patty Murray says the U.S. Department of Transportation is releasing the remaining $15.6 million of the federal share for repair of the I-5 bridge over the Skagit River in Washington state that collapsed three weeks ago.
Clark County commissioners lean toward nonpartisan freeholders
After a half-hour's worth of considering different ways to hold a freeholder election this year, Clark County Commissioner Tom Mielke said at a Wednesday meeting that the board appears to have gone "back to Plan A."
Court date set for light-rail lawsuit arguments
Opponents sued Vancouver for not placing initiative on ballot
Residents want judge to order anti-light rail initiative on ballot
UPDATE: Herrera Beutler voices 'grave' CRC concerns to Coast Guard
Issues include planned height of I-5 Bridge replacement
U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler today reiterated her concerns about the Columbia River Crossing as the U.S. Coast Guard mulls a crucial bridge permit for the $3.4 billion project.
Clark County waives fees; jobs may develop
Commissioners pledge to track employment, services that lose funding
Consider the floodgates open. In another political victory for Clark County Commissioner David Madore, his plan to eliminate all traffic impact and permit fees for nonresidential development was approved Tuesday by a 2-1 vote of commissioners.
Clark County Commissioners delay freeholder ruling
Clark County commissioners will wait a week before deciding what to do about partisan freeholders.
Campaign Trail: Congress
Congress: U.S. Rep. Denny Heck, D-Olympia, will host a fundraiser reception 5 to 7 p.m. June 24 at the home of Kasey and Ed Cote, 4608 N.W. Olive St. in Vancouver. Admission is $50. Heck represents Washington's 10th Congressional District. To register or for more information, call 360-359-1514 or email Jessica@DennyHeckforCongress.com.
UPDATE: Legislature adjourns; 2nd special session set
Inslee says state must plan in case of July 1 government shutdown
OLYMPIA — The Legislature adjourned Tuesday for the second time this year without a budget agreement, and will return Wednesday to continue their work in a second overtime session called earlier in the day by Gov. Jay Inslee.
Editorial Cartoon
