Vancouver Connects

Temporary winter shelters closed, permanent solution in progress 

Over the winter, the City opened two temporary shelters that served more than 200 people, including families with children. With support from neighbors and community partners, the effort provided warmth, safety and connections to housing resources. Now, we’re moving forward with a year-round bridge shelter to help even more people on the path to stable housing.

Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle delivered the 2025 State of the City address on March 24 at the Firstenburg Community Center, reflecting on the City’s progress and the community’s role in shaping it. Her remarks focused on key priorities: safety, homelessness, housing and economic opportunity, and emphasized that community voices continue to guide Vancouver’s path forward. “Doing what is best for the community is our north star,” said Mayor McEnerny-Ogle. 

After a tough year of injuries and setbacks, 68-year-old Starla found safety, stability (and a dream kitchen) at Laurel Manor, a new affordable housing community for seniors in Vancouver.

With help from the City’s Affordable Housing Fund, Laurel Manor provides 82 safe, stable homes for seniors, including those exiting homelessness.

Many seniors in our community struggle to afford rent. Learn more about how we’re working to support safe, affordable housing.

Recently, The Columbian published a story about Vancouver’s online land use possibility maps. Using the online maps, you can look up the different kinds of development and land use that could be possible for where you live, work and play in Vancouver.

These maps are part of a larger effort by the City and community members to create Our Vancouver, an updated Comprehensive Plan that will guide the city’s growth and development over the next 20 years. Starting in late spring, you will have the opportunity to comment on the plan’s draft environmental impact statement report that describes the potential environmental impacts of the land use possibility maps.

A new state program is making it easier than ever to make the switch to low-carbon transportation. Vancouver residents can now apply for e-bike rebates through the Washington State Department of Transportation’s new WE-Bike program.

The application window will remain open until noon on April 23. Qualifying applicants can receive either a $300 rebate or an income-based rebate of $1,200. 

Watch the mail for your free spring cleanup coupons. This popular program helps Vancouver community members with free disposal of yard debris and tires at designated drop-off sites from April 1 through June 30. And don't forget to take advantage of free curbside disposal of up to five bulky items this year with the free bulky item pick up program. Before you embark on your spring yard work, learn more about proper tree pruning from our Urban Forestry team. And explore Earth-friendly alternatives to disposal of yard debris at free composting workshops.

Vancouver, it's time to make history! The City has launched a contest to create a new flag that embodies our shared values, diversity and future aspirations. Whether you’re a budding designer or a long-time artist, we want your unique take on what makes Vancouver so special.

Contest details:

• Submit your design by June 14 (Flag Day)
• Open to all ages
• Winner gets recognition and prizes

Ready to get started?