Washougal seeking Citizens Academy, planning commission applicants

The city of Washougal is seeking applicants for its spring 2026 Citizen Academy.

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, according to a news release.

The six-week program will run from April 16 through May 21, with sessions held Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at the Washougal Community Center.

“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, the city’s community engagement manager. “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 Citizen Academy, participants will develop a greater understanding of the roles and responsibilities of city government while engaging directly with city leaders; will be “well-equipped to share their knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors, strengthening civic engagement throughout Washougal”; and will be encouraged to take active roles in local government through volunteer opportunities, boards and commissions, according to the news release.

Participants will gain valuable insights into a variety of topics, including general government, finance and budget, community development, public works, public safety and community services and strategy.

Residents interested in joining the Citizen Academy can apply by completing an online on the city’s website. The 2026 class is limited to 36 participants. Applicants must live or operate a business within the Washougal community. The application period will close March 26 and applicants will be notified by March 27. The application can be found at cityofwashougal.us/CitizenAcademy.

The city is also accepting applications to fill two vacancies on its Planning Commission. The Planning Commission serves as an advisory body to the Washougal City Council and plays a key role in shaping the city’s future growth and development, according to the city’s website.

The seven-member commission meets in the evening on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month as needed. Commissioners review proposed changes to the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Municipal Code as they relate to building and development.

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by submitting a resume or a narrative outlining their background and experience, along with a letter of interest describing why they would like to serve on the Planning Commission, and how their background and experience would benefit both them and the city of Washougal.

Applicants must either live within the city limits of Washougal, or live outside the city limits but within the city of Washougal urban growth boundary. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Feb. 20.

Applicants may apply online by completing the required fields and uploading a letter of interest and a resume or narrative of background and experience. The application form is located at cityofwashougal.us/FormCenter/Community-Development-13/Planning-Commission-Application-136.