1. Growth, Housing & Infrastructure: Rapid growth across Clark and Cowlitz County continues to put pressure on local roads, public utilities, and housing supply. What is your single highest-priority infrastructure or development project over the next 12–18 months, and how will your city fund and execute it without overtaxing local residents?
Mayor Dinehart:
Woodland’s highest infrastructure priority over the next 12 to 18 months is advancing the engineering and design for improvements at I-5 Exit 21. As Woodland continues to grow, addressing congestion and improving access at this interchange is critical to supporting residents, businesses, and future development.
We will pursue state and federal transportation funding, WSDOT partnerships, and regional transportation programs, while also using transportation impact fees paid by new development for eligible project costs. Our goal is straightforward: improve the transportation infrastructure Woodland needs to support growth while minimizing the financial burden on existing residents and taxpayers.
2. Economic Vitality & Fiscal Health: Between shifting retail trends and rising operating costs, maintaining a balanced city budget while supporting local business is an ongoing challenge. What specific steps is your administration taking to attract and retain local businesses, and where do you see the greatest opportunity for commercial growth in your city?
Mayor Dinehart:
Woodland is experiencing substantial commercial and industrial growth, with new businesses choosing to build, relocate, and expand within our community. This investment creates opportunities to grow our tax base, support essential City services, and maintain long-term financial stability.
The City takes pride in its long-standing relationships with businesses and developers. We work to encourage responsible development while ensuring new growth contributes its fair share toward necessary infrastructure improvements.
Woodland has historically been considered a bedroom community, with many residents commuting elsewhere for work. As we continue attracting commercial and industrial businesses, we have an opportunity to create more living-wage jobs, allowing residents to both live and work in Woodland while building a stronger, more sustainable local economy.
3. Livability & Community Vision: Beyond roads and budgets, what do you consider your city’s greatest non-financial asset or strength today, and what is one emerging issue or concern facing your residents that you feel isn't getting enough attention?
Mayor Dinehart:
Woodland’s greatest strength is its small-town character and strong sense of community. Our residents, businesses, and community organizations take pride in Woodland and genuinely care about its future.
The issue that deserves greater attention is how we preserve that quality of life as Woodland grows. Growth brings opportunity, but it also puts additional pressure on our parks, recreational facilities, pedestrian safety, and neighborhoods. We need to be intentional about balancing new development with investments that benefit existing residents and preserve the welcoming, close-knit character that makes Woodland a great place to call home.
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This is part of The Reflector's Community Leader Entries monthly series. For more information, read our message from James Doyle, Reflector Chief of Staff/Editor, here.
