Vancouver at 150
Vancouver, Wash., Portland’s slightly younger neighbor to the north celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. Long overlooked — some would say snubbed — by Portlanders, Vancouver is now the fourth largest city in Washington and a neighbor whose future is key to the vitality of the Portland metropolitan area. What makes Vancouver unique? What can the two largest cities on the Columbia River learn from each other? How can Vancouver and Portland collaborate to ensure a prosperous future?
These and other questions will be explored on June 22 with Vancouver leaders Mayor Royce E. Pollard, City Manager Patrick McDonnell, and Bart Phillips, president of the Columbia River Economic Development Council. The panel will also cover a breadth of subjects including Vancouver’s economic development, downtown revitalization and the area’s educational system.
Pollard has been mayor of Vancouver since 1996. He served as a U.S. Army officer for more than 27 years. He is a board member of the Bi-State Transportation Committee and Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council.
McDonnell, city manager for the city of Vancouver, previously served as Vancouver’s deputy city manager, Clark County administrator and assistant Clark County administrator. He serves on the Vancouver School District Management Task Force.
Phillips is chief executive and operating officer of the Columbia River Economic Development Council and has more than 25 years of experience in economic development and business recruitment services in Washington.
Join City Club as we explore the pride, progress and possibilities of Vancouver.
