RES 24-018JOINT RESOLUTION
CITY OF CAMAS RESOLUTION NO. 24-018
CITY OF WASHOUGAL RESOLUTION NO. 1246
A JOINT RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Camas, Washington, and the
City Council of the City of Washougal, Washington, providing for the submission to qualified
electors of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal, at a special election to be held on
April 22, 2025, of a proposition that, pursuant to Chapter 52.26 of the Revised Code of
Washington, approves a plan to form a Regional Fire Protection Authority to be known as the
Camas-Washougal Fire Authority within the boundaries of the City of Camas and the City of
Washougal, effective September 1, 2025.
RECITALS
A.The ability and demands to respond to emergency situations by fire protection and
emergency medical service agencies has increased and progressed with community
needs and special service demands. Providing an effective fire protection and
emergency medical service system requires a collaborative partnership and
responsibility among local and regional governments and the private sector.
B.There are efficiencies that can be gained by regional fire protection and emergency
medical service delivery, while maintaining local control.
C.The City of Camas ("Camas") and the City of Washougal, ("Washougal") have had
a long-standing cooperative partnership, striving to provide the highest level of
fire and emergency medical services to their citizens within the confines of
available resources. This cooperative partnership began in the 1970s with the
provision of a regional ambulance service and culminated with an interlocal
agreement in 2014, which provided for a consolidation of services as the Camas
Washougal Fire Department, with Camas providing services to Washougal. While
this cooperative relationship has served the public well for many years, as a
result of the needs of a growing community and demands for enhanced fire and
EMS services, Camas and Washougal have determined that it is in the public
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interest to place a measure before the voters that if approved would result in the formation of a Regional Fire Authority (RF A). D.Pursuant to RCW 52.26.030 and 52.26.040 the cities of Camas and Washougalformed an RF A Planning Committee to evaluate the feasibility of creating a newand separate regional fire authority to provide the fire protection and emergencyservices within the boundaries of Camas and Washougal. The members of thePlanning Committee included three City Council members from Camas and threeCity Council members from Washougal. Over a period of several months, thePlanning Committee met and created a Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Plan("Plan") providing for the governance, design, financing, and development of fireprotection and emergency services.E.The Planning Committee held its final meeting on October 16, 2024, andrecommended approval of the Plan to the Camas City Council and Washougal CityCouncil. The Camas City Council and Washougal City Council met in joint worksession on November 6, 2024, to review the recommended Plan. By adoption ofthis Joint Resolution, the Plan is formally adopted and certified to the ballotpursuant to RCW 52.26.060 by both the City of Camas and the City of Washougal.Copies of the Plan are available from the administrative offices of the City ofCamas and the City of Washougal.F.Authority to form a RF A is authorized by Chapter 52.26 RCW. Chapter 52.26 RCWrequires that in order to form an RFA, the Plan must be approved by the voters of thearea affected by the Plan. Therefore, in accordance with the Plan and state law, it isappropriate to place before voters within the proposed service boundaries of the RF Aat a special election to be held on April 22, 2025, a proposition calling for the creationof a RF A which shall be known as the Camas-Washougal Fire Authority to be fundedby a $1.05 per $1,000 assessed value property tax levy and the approval of the Plan,all in accordance with state law.NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF .
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CAMAS, WASHINGTON, AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WASHOUGAL WASHING TON, AS FOLLOWS:
RESOLUTION
SECTION 1. -Adoption of Plan for the Camas-Washougal Fire Authority. The City Council
of the City of Camas and the City Council of the City of Washougal hereby formally adopt
the 2 0 2 5 Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Plan. A true and correct copy of which is attached
as Exhibit A and incorporated by this reference.
SECTION 2. -Findings of Camas City Council and Washougal City Council. The City
Council of the City of Camas, Washington, and the City Council of the City of Washougal,
Washington, hereby adopt each of the recitals above as findings and further find that it is in
the best interest of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal to submit to the qualified
electors of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal at a special election to be held on
April 22, 2025, a proposition to adopt the Plan that creates a RFA which shall be known as
the Camas-Washougal Fire Authority, which if approved will be funded by a property tax
not to exceed $1.05 per thousand of assessed value. If approved by a majority of the
total persons voting on the ballot measure within the boundaries of the authority in
accordance with RCW 52.26.060, effective September 1, 2025, this proposition would
create a RF A as provided in Chapter 52.26 RCW with boundaries coextensive with the
boundaries of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal.
SECTION 3. -Proposition for Voter Submittal. There shall be submitted to the qualified
electors of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal for their approval or rejection, at
a special election on April 22, 2025, the question of whether or not the RF A known as
the Camas-Washougal Fire Authority should be created in accordance with the Plan
and funded with the real property tax levies referenced above. The City Council of the City
of Camas and the City Council of the City of Washougal hereby request that the auditor of
Clark County, as ex-officio Supervisor of Elections, call such election and submit the
following proposition at such election, in the form of a ballot title substantially as follows:
PROPOSITION NO.
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The City Council of the City of Camas and the City Council of the City of Washougal have
adopted a Joint Resolution approving the Regional Fire Authority Service Plan
("Plan") concerning the creation of a Regional Fire Protection Authority ("RF A").
This proposition would approve the Plan and create a Regional Fire Authority to be
known as the Camas-Washougal Fire Authority, effective September 1, 2025, to provide
fire protection and emergency medical services in the City of Camas and the City of
Washougal. The RFA would be funded by property tax ($1.05 per $1,000 of assessed
value).
Shall the registered voters residing within the cities of Camas and Washougal approve
the formation of a regional fire authority (RF A) and approve the RF A Plan proposed by
the cities of Camas and Washougal?
Yes
No
SECTION 4. Without further action of the Camas City Council and the Washougal City
Council the ballot proposition language set forth in Section 3 above may be revised to
correct scrivener's errors and to conform with statutory requirements.
SECTION 5. - Pro and Con Committee Appointments. The Camas City Council and the
Washougal City Council hereby assign to the Joint Policy Advisory Committee the task of
appointing members to a committee to advocate voters' approval of the proposition and
to a committee to prepare arguments advocating voters' rejection of the proposition.
SECTION 6. - Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or
phrase of this Resolution is declared unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, such
decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this resolution.
SECTION 7. - Ratification. Any act consistent with the authority and prior to the
effective date of this Resolution is hereby ratified and affirmed.
SECTION 8. - Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect and be in force
immediately upon its passage.
SECTION 9_. - Triplicate Originals. Three originals of this Resolution are signed by the
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City of Camas and the City of Washougal. PASS ED at a regular or special open public meeting by the City Council of the City of Camas, Washington, this 2nd day of December, 2024.
PASS ED at a regular or special open public meeting by the City Council of the City of Washougal, Washington, this 2nd day of December, 2024.
EXHIBIT A
2025 Regional Fire Authority Plan City of Washougal, Washington Mayor ATTEST: ATTEST: City Clerk City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO FORM: City Attorney City Attorney Docusign Envelope ID: 968C5A37-6C31-41F5-82CF-B9C2B56ADFA0
2025 Regional Fire Authority Plan
Camas, Washington
Camas-Washougal Regional Fire Authority
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 2
Contents
Acknowledgements ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee ......................................................................................... 4
Planning Sub-Committees ....................................................................................................................... 4
Governance Subcommittee ................................................................................................................. 4
Organization Subcommittee ............................................................................................................... 4
Finance Subcommittee ........................................................................................................................ 4
Section 1: Background & Needs Statement ................................................................................................ 5
Needs Statement ..................................................................................................................................... 5
Transition .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Section 2: Definitions ................................................................................................................................... 7
Transition .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Section 3: Legal Authority ........................................................................................................................... 8
Regional Fire Protection Service Authority ............................................................................................ 8
Planning Committee Authority ............................................................................................................... 8
RFA Plan Approval Authority ................................................................................................................... 8
Transition .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Section 4: Jurisdictional Boundaries ........................................................................................................... 9
Jurisdictional Boundaries on Date of Formation.................................................................................... 9
Changes in Jurisdictional Boundaries After Date of Formation of the RFA .......................................... 9
Transition .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Section 5: Funding and Finance ................................................................................................................. 10
Interim RFA Finances ............................................................................................................................. 10
RFA Revenues ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Policy ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
Transition ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Section 6: Transfer of Assets ...................................................................................................................... 11
General .................................................................................................................................................... 11
Real Property .......................................................................................................................................... 11
Non-Real Property .................................................................................................................................. 11
Liabilities .................................................................................................................................................. 12
Other Assets ............................................................................................................................................ 12
Transition ................................................................................................................................................. 12
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 3
Section 7: Governance ................................................................................................................................ 13
Reference ................................................................................................................................................ 13
Activity/Operation ................................................................................................................................... 13
Transition ................................................................................................................................................. 15
Section 8: Organizational Structure .......................................................................................................... 16
Organizational Chart .............................................................................................................................. 16
Contracts for Services ............................................................................................................................ 16
City Retained Administrative Service Responsibilities .......................................................................... 17
Transition ................................................................................................................................................. 17
Section 9: Personnel & Administration ..................................................................................................... 18
Functions ................................................................................................................................................ 18
Administration ....................................................................................................................................... 18
Operations .............................................................................................................................................. 18
Fire Prevention ....................................................................................................................................... 18
Labor and Other Agreements ............................................................................................................... 18
Other ....................................................................................................................................................... 18
Transition ................................................................................................................................................ 18
Section 10: Operations and Services ......................................................................................................... 19
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services ................................................................................ 19
Ambulance Services ............................................................................................................................... 19
Code Management ................................................................................................................................ 19
Public Education ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Section 11: Appendices ................................................................................................................................ 21
Appendix A: RFA Commissioner District Map ....................................................................................... 21
Appendix B: Standard of Cover ............................................................................................................. 22
Appendix C: Organizational Structure .................................................................................................. 33
Appendix D: Real Property Assets ........................................................................................................ 34
Appendix E: Apparatus/Vehicles/Equipment ........................................................................................ 34
Appendix F: Regional Fire Authority Jurisdictional Boundaries* ........................................................ 35
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 4
Acknowledgements
Recognizing the challenges and opportunities that fire jurisdictions are facing, the Cities of Camas and
Washougal, in partnership since 2011, have agreed to explore the integration of the governance and
funding options available to provide regional fire protection and emergency under a fully integrated
organization for both communities.
Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee
City of Camas City of Washougal
City Councilor - Bonnie Carter, Chair City Councilor - Molly Coston
City Councilor - Marilyn Boerke City Councilor - Julie Russell
City Councilor - John Nohr City Councilor - Michelle Wagner
Purpose: A regional fire protection service planning committee is responsible for creating a plan that
outlines how fire protection and emergency services will be governed, designed, financed, and developed.
Once developed, the Planning Committee will adopt the Plan by consensus and forward it to the
governing bodies to formally vote on whether to place it on the ballot.
Planning Sub-Committees
Governance Subcommittee
City of Camas City of Washougal FD Staff Assignments
Greg Anderson, Citizen Rep. Lisa Brandl, Citizen Rep. Cliff Free, Fire Staff
Marilyn Boerke, Elected Official Michelle Wagner, Elected Official Ron Schumacher, Fire Staff
Doug Quinn, City Staff David Scott, City Staff
Purpose: The subcommittee will review various governance options for the regional fire authority and
determine the recommended structure for the governing board.
Organization Subcommittee
City of Camas City of Washougal FD Staff Assignments
Zach Goodman, Citizen Rep. Jim Crawford, Citizen Rep. Cliff Free, Fire Staff
John Nohr, Elected Official Julie Russell, Elected Official
Purpose: The subcommittee will address issues related to organizational structure and services to be
provided to the community, determine staffing levels and positions to fulfill the organizational mission,
and address support service provisions.
Finance Subcommittee
City of Camas City of Washougal FD Staff Assignments
Justin Lottig, Citizen Rep. Barbara Basnett, Citizen Rep. Shaun Ford, Fire Staff
Bonnie Carter, Elected Official Molly Coston, Elected Official
Cathy Huber Nickerson, City Staff Daniel Layer, City Staff
Matt Thorup, City Staff
Purpose: The subcommittee will work with staff to develop budgets, identify capital needs and debt
service, create a taxing structure, develop presentation materials, and recommend approaches to the
regional fire authority's funding.
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 5
Section 1: Background & Needs Statement
Needs Statement
In the 1930s, the Camas Volunteer Fire Department began providing basic first aid ambulance services,
while over the years, the system has evolved to the Camas/Washougal Fire Department providing ALS
ambulance service to the communities of Camas, Washougal, and East County Fire and Rescue
(Formerly Clark County Fire Districts #1 and #9), under a single unified operational model.
Also, in 2008, the Cities of Camas and Washougal conducted a study that recommended the
consolidation of the two separate fire departments in providing fire protection services to provide
efficiency and increase the scale of the economy. Since 2012, the Cities of Camas and Washougal have
been providing fire protection and EMS services under a consolidated operational service model yet
governed by two cities.
In addition, a 2019 Master Plan study examined the Camas/Washougal Fire Department and provided
recommendations for the combined organization to address shortfalls in accordance with national
standards. The main recommendation from the study revealed that only 10% of the service area
receives 3/4 of the number of firefighters required, including the use of mutual aid from other fire
departments, to combat a residential structure fire effectively. Many other recommendations revealed
a strong need for an adequate funding model to address future challenges.
Specific challenges faced by the Camas/Washougal fire department also include response times for fire
suppression, EMS response, and ambulance service increasing to levels and increasing response times;
rising costs exceeding available revenue; and inefficiencies associated with divided governance
demands within each City's general fund.
In 2021, a facilitated analysis was conducted with key personnel and Council members from each City
as well as the Department staff to understand current views and perspectives regarding the present
partnership model as well as aspirations for a successful partnership. The success of the partnership
statement is defined as providing a "Sustainable and equitable approach to delivering fire and EMS to
the combined communities of Camas and Washougal."
While the delivery of fire protection and emergency medical services, operationally, has been working
well under an agreement, long-range planning under a divided governance structure is challenging
due to each City having different priorities that may not align with the funding for the fire department.
Currently, gaps in system equity stem from the complex governance and decision-making structures
within the current model. The involvement of two separate Councils, each with different levels of
authority and viewpoint of information, as well as a joint policy advisory committee with a limited
scope of authority and different priorities, has led to complications in decision-making, misalignment
of governance expectations and lack of a unified and long-term vision for the Fire Department. The
administrative effort is also complicated by the additional work required to process information and
policy initiatives through two separate city governance structures resulting in a lack of long-term
financial sustainability.
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 6
Equitable representation in governance, unification of vision, and streamlined decision-making, as well
as existing funding options, are more effectively addressed through the establishment of an
independent Fire Protection and EMS provider under the oversight of a single governing body
representing the entire service area. A Regional Fire Authority provides this model through a
centralized governing body with direct oversight over complex operational challenges and decision-
making and representation for all combined community members, and directly accountable to the
citizens.
The City of Camas and Washougal have determined that a formal joint governance structure
encompassing the service area of the two agencies is the best path to provide the fire department
with a permanent and representative governance structure that is solely responsible for the entire
service area rather than representing each entity's interest.
Delivery of core emergency services and timely development of significant service improvements can
best be achieved through consolidated governance and stable funding options for regional fire
protection and emergency services. A well-funded and singular governance approach to fire and
emergency medical services is best suited to address the increasing volume and complexity of
responses.
Historically, this approach has been successfully implemented in Washington State through provisions
in State Law relating to establishing a Regional Fire Authority, referenced in RCW 52.26. This law
essentially transfers the legal responsibility for fire protection and EMS delivery to a special service
district encompassing both city service boundaries, providing a governance structure that is
concerned with the new agency (Regional Fire Authority).
The Cities of Camas and Washougal are asking their citizens to formally and legally consolidate the
governance structure and organization that serves the citizens within the boundaries of both Cities of
Camas and Washougal, thereby addressing the needs and challenges outlined above.
Transition
The BACKGROUND & NEEDS STATEMENTS section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a
majority vote of the RFA Governing Board.
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 7
Section 2: Definitions
The definitions in this section apply throughout this RFA Plan unless the context clearly requires
otherwise.
Board or RFA Governing Board means the governing body of the Camas/Washougal RFA.
Camas means the City of Camas.
Camas/Washougal RFA or RFA means the municipal corporation, an independent taxing authority
within the meaning of Article VII, Section 1 of the Washington Constitution, and a taxing district
within the meaning of Article VII, Section 2 of said constitution, whose boundaries are coextensive
with the boundaries of the Participating Jurisdictions as of the effective Date of formation, as
created by the majority vote of the registered voters within those boundaries, to implement the
Camas/Washougal RFA Plan.
Camas/Washougal RFA Planning Committee or Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee
(RFAPC) means the advisory committee authorized by RCW 52.26.030 to draft and propose to the
governing bodies of the Participating jurisdictions a plan to design, finance, and develop an RFA to
be submitted to the voters of the Participating jurisdictions for their approval.
Camas/Washougal RFA Plan or RFA Plan means the Plan to develop and finance the
Camas/Washougal RFA, including but not limited to governance, design, specific capital projects,
fire operations, emergency medical services, facilities, and maintenance, repair, and preservation
of existing and future facilities and systems, pursuant to RCW 52.26.040.
EMS Levy means the voter-approved property tax levy to fund Emergency Medical Services per
RCW 84.52.069.
Participating jurisdictions means the two cities—Camas and Washougal—forming the
Camas/Washougal RFA upon voter approval of the RFA Plan.
RCW means Revised Code of Washington.
Washougal means the City of Washougal.
Transition
The DEFINITIONS section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a majority vote of the RFA
Governing Board.
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Section 3: Legal Authority
Regional Fire Protection Service Authority
The authority to form a Regional Fire Protection Services Authority by the Participating Jurisdictions is
provided by Chapter 52.26 of the Revised Code of Washington.
Pursuant to RCW 52.26.090(1)(g), the governing Board of the Camas/Washougal Regional Fire
Authority shall exercise its powers and perform its duties as the Board determines necessary to carry
out the purposes, functions and projects of the authority in accordance with the following statutes:
(a) all of the statutory chapters and sections of Title 52 of the Revised Code of Washington, including
but not limited to RCW 52.12.021 and RCW 52.12.031. Further, the governing Board may adopt a
Community Assistance Referral and Education Services (CARES) program pursuant to RCW 35.21.930.
Planning Committee Authority
The authority to form the Camas/Washougal Planning Committee is provided in RCW 52.26.020.
Authority and empowerment of the Camas/Washougal Planning Committee is provided in RCW
52.26.030.
RFA Plan Approval Authority
Upon successful development, approval, and adoption of the Camas/Washougal RFA Plan by the
Planning Committee, and the governing bodies of the Participating Jurisdictions, the two Participating
Jurisdictions shall certify the RFA PLAN to the ballot, including identification of the revenue options
and levy rate specified to fund the Plan.
The Participating Jurisdictions—Camas and Washougal --shall jointly suggest a draft ballot title, give
notice required by law for ballot measures, and perform other duties as required to put the RFA Plan
before the registered voters of the respective participating jurisdictions for their approval or rejection
as a single ballot measure that approves formation of the Camas/Washougal RFA and approves the
RFA plan.
On the Effective Date, the interlocal agreement between Camas and Washougal regarding the
formation and operation of the Camas/Washougal Fire Department, dated December 4, 2013, and any
subsequent renewal agreements shall be terminated.
Transition
The LEGAL AUTHORITY section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision only by a majority
vote of the RFA Governing Board.
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Section 4: Jurisdictional Boundaries
Jurisdictional Boundaries on Date of Formation
On the Effective Date, the Jurisdictional Boundaries of the RFA shall be the legal boundaries of the
Participating Jurisdictions. The boundaries are generally depicted on the map attached hereto and in
Appendix F of this RFA Plan.
Changes in Jurisdictional Boundaries After Date of Formation of the RFA
Any territory that is annexed to either Participating Jurisdiction is deemed annexed to the RFA as of
the Effective Date of annexation. A fire protection jurisdiction within reasonable proximity to the
boundaries of the RFA is eligible to be annexed into the RFA per RCW 52.26.300. Such an annexation
is initiated by the adoption of a resolution by the governing body of the fire protection jurisdiction
requesting the annexation.
Such a resolution shall be filed with the governing body of the RFA for that body's consideration, and
the governing body may amend this RFA plan to establish the terms and conditions of the annexation.
If the governing body requesting the annexation accepts the terms and conditions and the plan
amendment, the annexation proposition is submitted to the voters of the annexing jurisdiction for
their approval or disapproval.
Transition
The JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARIES section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision only
by a majority vote of the RFA Governing Board.
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Section 5: Funding and Finance
Interim RFA Finances
The Cities of Camas and Washougal will provide the RFA with interim funding not to exceed $4,616,593
in order to support its operations from January 1, 2026, until June 1, 2026, at which time the RFA will
begin receiving ad valorem taxes from the new RFA Levy. An interlocal agreement between the RFA
and the Cities will specify the proportional allocation for each city's amount to loan, how the RFA shall
seek drawdowns of such funds, and the terms for the RFA to repay the borrowed monies. All funds
obtained by each of the two cities from Camas and Washougal Emergency Medical Services Levies, fire
code permit fees, and other miscellaneous revenues will be transferred to the RFA by mutual
agreement.
RFA Revenues
The RFA intends to utilize the following funding sources during the initial years of its existence:
• Ad valorem property taxes, pursuant to RCW 52.26.140 and RCW 52.26.050, with an initial
fire levy rate set at $1.05 per thousand dollars of assessed valuation.
• Revenues from ad valorem property taxes under the existing EMS Levies of each city will
be transferred to the RFA through an agreement between the Clark County Treasurer and
the RFA.
• Contract payments for East County Fire & Rescue EMS levy revenues shall be transferred
to the RFA through an agreement between the Clark County Treasurer and the RFA.
• The RFA will charge and collect ground ambulance transport fees in accordance with
policies adopted by the RFA Governing Board.
o For residents of the Cities of Camas and Washougal, the RFA will provide a waiver
of the patient's copay amount if transported by the Camas/Washougal RFA.
• Impact fees allowed and collected by law and by the ordinances of Camas and Washougal
shall be transferred to the RFA through agreements between the Cities of Camas and
Washougal and the RFA.
• To the extent permitted by law, the RFA Governance Board shall have the authority to
pursue contracts with agencies and entities exempt from property taxes in accordance
with RCW 52.30.020 and related statutes.
• The RFA shall execute interlocal agreements with the cities of Camas and Washougal to
collect and remit permit, plan review, and inspection fees collected by each city.
Policy
The RFA governing body on or after the Effective Date shall establish a Reserve Fund Balance policy
and approve an Equipment Replacement Plan and Capital Improvement Plan with considerations
made in the transitional finance assumptions.
Transition
The FUNDING AND FINANCE section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision only by a
majority vote of the RFA Governing Board.
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Section 6: Transfer of Assets
General
Unless otherwise noted in this RFA Plan, all current assets, equipment, documents, contracts,
agreements, and records from Camas and Washougal shall be transferred to the RFA.
Real Property
Appendix D identifies the real property, including building fixtures, keys, passwords, furniture, and its
contents.
On or around the Effective Date, the City of Camas and City of Washougal fire department assets shall
transfer to the RFA in accordance with this section. Such assets shall include all real property and
personal property, including but not limited to furniture, office equipment, computers, motor vehicles,
fire/EMS apparatus and equipment, reports, documents, surveys, books, records, files, papers, or
written material owned by or in the possession of either city.
On or around the Effective Date, the City of Camas shall provide for the necessary dedications of
easements and rights of way to facilitate all appropriate use of Fire Station 42, located at 4321 NW
Parker Street, Camas, WA, by the RFA.
Upon issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, the City of Camas shall provide for the necessary
dedications of easements and rights of way to facilitate all appropriate use of New Fire Station 41. On
or around the Effective Date, the City of Camas and the RFA shall approve an interlocal agreement for
the use of the existing or temporary facility used for current Fire Station 41 at 616 NE 4th Avenue,
Camas, WA, until the transfer of the new facility upon the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
Upon issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, the City of Washougal shall complete a parcel
subdivision (Party Wall) to create a separate parcel of real property for the newly constructed Fire
Station 43, separate from the remainder of the Washougal Police Station property, and shall provide
for the necessary dedications, easements, and rights of way to facilitate all appropriate use of the fire
station by the RFA. The City of Washougal shall undertake the subdivision and easement process at
the City's own cost. On or around the Effective Date, the City of Washougal and the RFA shall approve
an interlocal agreement for the use of the existing or temporary facilities used for Fire Station 43 until
the transfer of the new facility upon the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. Any shared facility
space and use, maintenance, and utility sharing costs shall be outlined in an agreement between the
City of Washougal and the RFA approved on or around the Effective Date.
Non-Real Property
Appendix E lists the apparatus/vehicles, equipment and small and attractive assets that shall be
transferred to the RFA on or around the Effective Date. Upon the City of Camas accepting and receiving
two new fire engines, they shall be transferred to the RFA on or around the Effective Date. Upon the
City of Washougal accepting and receiving one new fire engine, it shall be transferred to the RFA on
or around the Effective Date.
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Liabilities
On the Effective Date, the RFA shall assume the following liabilities: Existing fire engine bond debt held
by the City of Camas and the subsequent debt service payments shall be paid by the RFA after the first
collection of taxes in 2026 to the City of Camas until the total debt is paid as detailed in an Interlocal
Agreement.
Other Assets
On or around the Effective Date, the Cities of Camas and Washougal shall transfer to the RFA all
identified funds held by both cities, to which an agreement between the parties shall identify the
manner and timing of such transfers. The following transfer types and agreements for each shall be:
• Impact Fees (The cities will continue to provide and transfer all collected Fire Impact Fees
by an agreement approved on or around the Effective Date.)
• Equipment Rental Reserve Funds transferred to the RFA per agreement approved on or
around the Effective Date.
• Other Reserve Funds (Fire Department Allocation of Reserve Fund transferred to the RFA
per agreement approved on or around the Effective Date.)
• Donations (if any, transferred to the RFA per agreement approved on or around the
Effective Date.)
• EMS Pass-Through Revenues (EMS Levy revenues—Camas, Washougal + ECFR per
agreement approved on or around the Effective Date).
• GEMT Funds (Transfer to RFA per agreement approved on or around the Effective Date.)
• Billable Transport Revenues (Transfer per agreement approved on or around the Effective
Date and eventually transitioned to a third-party biller)
• The Cities of Camas and Washougal shall collect, and remit permit, plan review, and
inspection fees generated within each City to the RFA per agreement approved on or
around the Effective Date, including any and all such fire-related fees received from the
Port of Camas/Washougal.
• Any current contracts for services between the cities related to fire protection shall be
collected and remitted to the RFA per the agreement approved on or around the Effective
Date.
Transition
Unless otherwise noted in this RFA Plan, all current assets, equipment, documents, contracts,
agreements, and records from the City of Camas and the City of Washougal relating to the
GOVERNANCE shall be transferred to the RFA.
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Section 7: Governance
Reference
The authority to provide governance for the Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority (RFA) is
provided by RCW 52.26.080 and RCW 52.26.090.
Activity/Operation
As provided by RCW 52.26.080, the Camas/Washougal RFA Governing Board shall come into existence
and authority on September 1, 2025, upon approval of this plan by the registered voters residing within
the Jurisdictional Boundaries established in this RFA Plan.
As provided by RCW 52.26.080, the initial governing Board for the RFA shall consist of six voting
members: three (3) current members of the City of Camas city council who have been appointed by
the appropriate City official(s) and three (3) current members of the City of Washougal city council
who have been appointed by the appropriate City official(s).
RCW 52.26.080 provides authority for Commissioner districts:
• Subsection (4)(a) states that a regional fire protection service authority plan may create
commissioner districts. If commissioner districts are created, the population of each commissioner
district must be approximately equal. Commissioner districts must be redrawn as provided in
chapter 29A.76 RCW.
• Subsection (3)(b) states that the terms of office for regional fire protection service authority
commissioner positions may be established by the plan; however, no single term may exceed six
years, and the terms of multiple positions must be staggered.
• Subsection (4)(b) states that: (1) only a registered voter who resides in a commissioner district
may be a candidate for, or serve as, a commissioner of the commissioner district and (2) only voters
of a commissioner district may vote at a primary to nominate candidates for a commissioner
position in that commissioner district, provided, however, that all voters of the proposed regional
fire authority shall be eligible to vote in the general election for each of the commissioner districts.
RCW 29A.76.010 establishes criteria for the development of RFA Commissioner Districts that will be
applied in this Plan as follows:
• (4)(a) Each district shall be nearly equal in population as every other such district comprising
the regional fire authority.
• (4)(b) Each district shall be as compact as possible.
• (4)(c) Each district shall consist of a geographically contiguous area.
• (4)(d) Population data may not be used for purposes of favoring or disfavoring any racial group
or political party.
• (4)(e) To the extent feasible and if not inconsistent with the basic enabling legislation for the
regional fire authority, the district boundaries shall coincide with existing recognized natural
boundaries and shall, to the extent possible, preserve existing communities of related and
mutual interest.
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On or after January 1, 2028, the Governing Board of the RFA shall be composed of the following:
• Five commissioner districts of approximately equal population will be established, effective on
January 1, 2028, within the RFA Jurisdictional Boundaries in accordance with RCW 52.26.080
and RCW 29A.76.010. Three districts will be within the City of Camas, and two districts will be
within the City of Washougal. The City of Camas' districts will utilize their established ward
areas as district boundaries. The City of Washougal will be divided into two districts with
approximately equal population of the city. Refer to Appendix A, which is illustrative of district
boundaries.
• If a commissioner is appointed by a city, and while serving in the capacity of a commissioner
for the regional fire authority, that commissioner shall act on behalf of the citizens of the entire
RFA service boundary.
• During the primary and general elections of 2027, elections will be held in each of the five
districts; or each city shall retain the right to appoint members from their respective city
councils to serve as commissioners.
• To maintain staggered terms for the governance board, as required by RCW 52.26.080 (3)(b),
one commissioner of Camas and Washougal, respectively, shall each serve a six-year term; one
commissioner of Camas and Washougal, respectively, shall serve a four-year term; one
commissioner of Camas shall serve a two-year term, provided that the determination of the
term lengths for Camas and Washougal districts shall be done by lot.
• After the expiration of the terms above, each district commissioner should serve six-year
terms, except in circumstances that a City appoints their commissioners, then such appointees
shall serve two-year terms. If the cities continue to appoint commissioners after the initial
appointment, effective January 1, 2028, every effort shall be made to preserve staggered
terms of office.
• Should a City decide not to appoint one or more of their commissioners, then the City would
lose its ability to appoint that position in the future.
The RFA Governance Board shall have all the power and authority granted by governing boards under
Washington State Law, including but not limited to all of the chapters and sections of Title 52 of the
Revised Code of Washington. It shall include the power and authority to make any decisions
appropriate for the RFA and issues related to RCW 52.26.
Upon ratification of the RFA Plan by the registered voters, the RFA Governance Board shall adopt
governance bylaws, policies, rules, and regulations for conducting the business of the RFA upon
formation after the Effective Date of September 1, 2025, in accordance with RCW 52.26.080.
Members of the RFA Governing Board may receive compensation in the same manner and under the
same conditions as provided by law for commissioners of a fire protection district organized under
Title 52 RCW, except for circumstances under RCW 52.14.010 (5).
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Subject to state law, after the Effective Date, ballot measures may be placed on the ballot by the
members of the Governance Board of the RFA by a Simple majority vote of the Governance Board. The
Board shall adopt a resolution requesting such an election in advance of the Clark County election filing
deadlines.
Transition
The GOVERNANCE portion of the RFA Plan may be revised by a super majority vote, defined as follows:
Requires five (5) of six (6) members of a six member governing board, or requires four (4) of Five (5)
members of a five member governing board.
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Section 8: Organizational Structure
Organizational Chart
The RFA shall be initially organized as provided in Appendix C of the RFA Plan; provided, however, that
after the Effective Date, the Fire Chief shall have the authority to adjust the Organizational Chart as
necessary to improve service delivery without amending the RFA Plan.
All personnel of the City of Camas/Washougal Fire Department in good standing as of the Effective
Date shall transfer to the RFA to fulfill assigned duties as outlined in the organizational structure in
Appendix C. All said personnel shall be transferred on the Effective Date at their current rank, grade,
and seniority.
All current employee agreements, collective bargaining unit agreements, outstanding labor issues,
personal service contracts, and any other contracts or agreements pertaining to work, duties, services,
or employment with Camas/Washougal Fire Department shall be transferred to the RFA with all fire
department personnel on the Effective Date.
All current administrative and business functions, agreements, documents, operations, policies, and
procedures from the Camas/Washougal Fire Department shall transfer over to the RFA unless
otherwise noted in this Plan.
Contracts for Services
The RFA will establish agreements and contracts for various support services in accordance with the
following:
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
human resource services and benefit administration activities as outlined by an interlocal
agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
accounts payable and accounts receivable services as outlined by an interlocal agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
ambulance billing as outlined by an interlocal agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
facility maintenance services as outlined by an interlocal agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
payroll services as outlined by an interlocal agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall contract with the City of Camas to provide
information technology services as outlined by an interlocal agreement.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall obtain liability and property insurance
separately from the City of Camas and Washougal, which will be paid for by the RFA.
• On or around the Effective Date, the RFA shall obtain legal counsel separate from the City of
Camas and Washougal, which will be paid for by the RFA.
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City Retained Administrative Service Responsibilities
The Cities of Camas and Washougal shall continue to provide the following services:
• The City of Camas LEOFF Board will continue to oversee LEOFF 1 benefits for the City of Camas
retirees in accordance with the City of Camas LEOFF 1 Policies and Procedures.
• The City of Washougal LEOFF Board will continue to oversee LEOFF 1 benefits for the City of
Washougal retirees in accordance with the City of Washougal LEOFF 1 Policies and Procedures.
The RFA may establish its own Civil Service process as provided by RCW 52.26.280 and RCW
52.26.100(6)(b) no later than January 1 of the first full calendar year after the Effective Date, and the
City of Camas will continue to provide a Civil Service Board for the RFA during the interim at no cost to
the RFA.
Unless otherwise noted in the RFA Plan, the transfer of authority and the administration and
management of the RFA shall be seamless and shall initially model the current administrative and
management components of the City of Camas and the City of Washougal within the boundaries of
each City. The agreements, operations, and procedures outlined in this Section may be adjusted as
necessary to accomplish a seamless transition.
Transition
The ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a majority
vote of the RFA Governing Board.
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Section 9: Personnel & Administration
Functions
All current administrative and business functions, agreements, documents, operations, and policies
and procedures from the Participating Jurisdictions shall transfer over to the RFA unless otherwise
noted in this Plan.
Administration
All current personnel assigned to the Administration, including the Fire Chief, Division Chief, Fire
Marshal, Division Chief of EMS, Fire Training Captain, and Administrative Support positions of the
participating jurisdictions, shall be transferred over to the RFA on the Effective Date at their current
rank, grade, and seniority to fulfill the duties of those positions outlined in the organizational structure
in Appendix C, unless otherwise noted in the RFA Plan or labor agreement.
Operations
All current personnel assigned to Operations, including all personnel assigned to each of the four
Battalions of the participating jurisdictions, shall be transferred over to the RFA on the Effective Date
at their current rank, grade, and seniority to fulfill the duties of those positions outlined in the
organizational structure in Appendix C unless otherwise noted in the RFA Plan or labor agreement.
Fire Prevention
All current personnel assigned to the Fire Marshal Division of the participating jurisdictions shall be
transferred over to the RFA on the Effective Date at their current rank, grade, and seniority to fulfill
the duties of those positions outlined in the organizational structure in Appendix C unless otherwise
noted in the RFA Plan or labor agreement.
Labor and Other Agreements
All employee/member agreements, collective bargaining agreements, personal service contracts,
and/or other contracts or agreements pertaining to work, duties, services, or employment with the
current organization shall be transferred and assigned to the RFA on the Effective Date.
Other
On the Effective Date, the RFA shall administer and conduct all hiring and promotional processes,
logistics, and purchasing and provide its general legal services.
Transition
The PERSONNEL & ADMINISTRATION section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a majority
vote of the RFA Governing Board.
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Section 10: Operations and Services
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services
All current operational and service delivery aspects of the Camas/Washougal Fire Department,
including fire protection, community risk reduction, hazardous materials, specialized rescue, and first
response EMS, shall be transferred to the RFA on the Effective Date. Current and proposed staffing
models, deployment standards, field operations, command staffing, and operational policies and
procedures of the Camas/Washougal Fire Department shall be transferred to the RFA and continued
at the current level of service on the Effective Date.
All automatic aid and mutual aid agreements, interlocal agreements and contractual services
agreements, documents, or memorandums currently in place with the Camas/Washougal Fire
Department with respect to the above-listed services shall be transferred and assigned to the RFA on
the Effective Date to provide continuous, seamless readiness and emergency service coverage.
Ambulance Services
All current operational and service delivery aspects of the Camas/Washougal Fire Department's EMS
Ambulance services shall be transferred to the RFA on the Effective Date. Current staffing models,
deployment standards, field operations, command staffing, and operational policies and procedures
of the Camas/Washougal Fire Department shall be transferred to the RFA and continued at the current
level of service on the Effective Date.
All current automatic aid and mutual aid agreements, interlocal agreements and contractual services
agreements, documents, or memorandums currently in place with the Camas/Washougal Fire
Department with respect to the above-listed services shall be transferred and assigned to the RFA on
the Effective Date to provide continuous, seamless readiness and emergency service coverage.
The current agreement with East County Fire and Rescue (ECFR) for ALS Ambulance services shall be
transferred to the RFA on the Effective Date, and the same level of service as defined in the agreement
shall remain in effect.
Code Management
The Cities, through their Camas/Washougal Fire Department, currently provide fire prevention and
code enforcement fire investigation activities in the City of Camas and the City of Washougal. The Code
enforcement activities include initial and annual inspections, a review of new construction plans,
development review processes, and consultation with both the City's Building Officials.
The authority of the RFA to establish and provide fire code management, prevention, community risk
reduction, and public education components of the RFA is provided in the Revised Code of Washington
52.12.031(4).
Unless otherwise noted in the RFA Plan, the transfer of authority for fire code management,
prevention, public education, community risk reduction, and support services of the RFA shall be
seamless and shall initially model the current Fire Prevention and Education services utilized.
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The RFA Fire Marshal will work collaboratively with the Cities of Camas and Washougal in developing,
adopting, and updating municipal standards regarding fire prevention and fire/life safety codes.
The RFA Fire Marshal will work closely with the Cities of Camas and Washougal in reviewing and making
recommendations on all new construction and development projects within the RFA to include
respective annexation and Urban Growth areas in accordance with municipal standards for fire
prevention and fire/life safety codes.
The Cities of Camas and Washougal will retain code enforcement authority in accordance with
Washington State law for their respective jurisdictions.
The RFA will provide all inspection and fire prevention services and will rely on the respective
jurisdiction for code enforcement powers granted by the State of Washington and as outlined in an
interlocal agreement between the RFA and the Cities.
The Cities of Camas and Washougal Legal Departments will provide the RFA legal services necessary
to operate the RFA fire prevention division in matters within the City limits and its Urban Growth Areas.
However, the primary legal services for code enforcement activities will remain with each City
participating in the RFA for activities occurring within said participating jurisdictions.
On the Effective Date, Code Enforcement Services within the boundaries of the RFA shall be provided
as follows:
• The City of Camas will designate the RFA Fire Chief as its Fire Chief, who in turn will delegate
the RFA Fire Marshal as the Fire Code Official responsible for performing the duties described.
The RFA shall conduct code enforcement activities within the City of Camas. The City of Camas
shall collaborate with the RFA in such activities and provide any necessary police support and
prosecution of criminal and civil cases when appropriate.
• The City of Washougal will designate the RFA Fire Chief as its Fire Chief, who in turn will
delegate the RFA Fire Marshal as the Fire Code Official responsible for performing the duties
described. The RFA shall conduct code enforcement activities within the City of Washougal.
The City of Washougal shall collaborate with the RFA in such activities and provide any
necessary police support and prosecution of criminal and civil cases when appropriate.
Public Education
The RFA will offer numerous opportunities to engage and educate the Camas and Washougal
communities through a series of events, including the Fire Department Open House, Family Promise
Program, Fourth of July and New Year's Eve risk reduction outreach, Harvest Festival, Fire Prevention
Week, Hometown Holidays, and various other occasions.
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Section 11: Appendices
Appendix A: RFA Commissioner District Map
Appendix B: Standard of Cover
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COMMUNITY
Population and Demographics1
Camas-Washougal Fire Department serves the municipalities of the City of Camas and the City of
Washougal, which collectively cover over 20 square miles and serve approximately 31,167 citizens in
Camas and 19,168 citizens in Washougal (U.S. Census Bureau estimate, 2020) for a combined 50,344
population for fire and EMS services. In addition, CWFD serves East County Fire & Rescue for
Emergency Medical Services and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance transportation. This
enlarges the service area to over 80 square miles, catering to more than 10,362 residents and
bringing the total number of citizens served by the wider Advanced Life Support Ambulance service
area to 60,706.
Naturally Occurring Characteristics
The cities of Camas and Washougal region are in southwest Washington state, part of Clark County,
along the northern banks of the Columbia River. Both cities are within the Portland-Vancouver
metropolitan area, situated about 15-20 miles east of Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR.
Geography
The City of Camas lies near the western end of the Columbia River Gorge, nestled between the river
to the south and rolling hills to the north and east. The Washougal region encompasses the City of
Washougal and surrounding rural areas to the east. The Columbia River borders the region to the
south and is adjacent to the foothills of the Cascade Mountains to the northeast.
Topography
The topography of the area is varied. Camas feature a mix of flat, lowland areas along the river,
gently rolling hills, and steeper, forested areas as you move northward. The elevation increases
moving away from the Columbia River, with some bluffs and escarpments offering scenic views.
Washougal also has a varied landscape, with flat areas near the river and more rugged terrain further
inland. The Washougal River runs through the City, contributing to the region's rugged landscape.
Human Related Characteristics2
Camas
The City of Camas has experienced significant growth in recent decades, becoming a desirable
suburb in the Portland-Vancouver metro area due to its proximity to employment hubs and natural
beauty.
Demographics: Camas has a predominantly White population, making up around 85% of residents,
with smaller proportions of Asian (7%), Hispanic or Latino (6%), and African American (1%)
populations.
1 University of Washington, Geology Department – Geologic History of the Columbia River Basalt Group
2 American Community Survey, 2022 - 5-Year Estimates
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Education: Over 50% of residents hold at least a bachelor's degree, which is significantly higher than
the national average.
Economy: Camas has a median household income of $ 133,829, well above both the state and
national averages. Historically an industrial city due to its paper mill, it has transitioned into a tech-
centric economy, with many residents working in professional, scientific, and technical services.
Housing: The City has a relatively high rate of homeownership, with about 78% of housing units being
owner-occupied.
Washougal
The City of Washougal, located just east of Camas, has a more rural feel but is also growing rapidly.
As of the 2020 Census, the population of Washougal was around 17,039 people, showing steady
growth in line with the region.
Demographics: Washougal's population is also predominantly White (over 85%), with smaller
percentages of Hispanic or Latino (6%), Asian (2%), and African American (1%) residents.
Education: About 35% of Washougal residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, which, while lower
than Camas, is still above the national average.
Economy: The median household income in Washougal is around $97,295, lower than Camas but
above the national median. Many residents commute to nearby employment centers in Camas,
Vancouver, or Portland. Washougal also has some local industries, particularly in manufacturing and
construction.
Housing: The homeownership rate in Washougal is similar to Camas, with about 76% of homes being
owner-occupied.
Community Growth Planning
Camas
In the City of Camas, recent history reflects consistent growth at an increasing rate. Between 2014
and 2017, Camas saw an average of 235 homes constructed per year. In 2018, 275 homes were added
to the city inventory, and in 2019, the number increased to an estimated 550 homes (including
condominiums and apartments) at the midpoint of the year. Existing plans include approximately
2,500 housing units on the north end of Lacamas Lake (Northshore/Green Mountain) and an
additional approximately 2,500 infill units distributed throughout the City. According to the 2035
Comprehensive Plan, the population of Camas is projected to be 34,098. Existing building height
restrictions are 35 feet for residential properties and between 65 and 100 feet for commercial
structures.
The Camas 2035 Comprehensive Plan identifies within its vision statement "…a variety of businesses
that offer stable employment opportunities and family-wage jobs in the medical and high-tech
fields." Camas is a gateway to nature and recreational opportunities, leading to a robust tourism
industry. Professional office, medical, and industrial uses will typify western Camas, with retail
businesses supporting the large campus firms. The north shore area will fulfill the employment and
retail needs of the growing population on the northeast side and reduce trips outside of the City."
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Washougal
The City of Washougal has a different philosophy on growth. The Washougal 2035 Comprehensive
Plan states that "Washougal can fulfill the 20-year forecasted population and employment needs
within the existing urban growth boundary; therefore, Washougal is not seeking an urban growth
boundary expansion as part of this periodic Comprehensive Plan update process." After significant
effort to gather community input for a common vision for the City, the feedback reflected:
• A desire for a variety of housing types in the Northwest UGA while maintaining the rural feel of the
area;
• Limited commercial or retail uses would be appropriate, but did not want large employment centers
in the Northwest UGA;
• Parks and trail connectivity are important, as well as the potential for community-serving uses, such
as a community center;
• The Northeast UGA participants wanted to see a variety of housing types but only limited
employment-related uses;
• Participants expressed a desire for community spaces and parks and trails and thought some small,
neighborhood retail uses could be appropriate;
• Workshop participants made it clear that Washougal City Center needs to take advantage of its
natural setting and proximity to the Gorge, the Columbia and Washougal Rivers, the wildlife refuge,
and other natural amenities.
The comprehensive plan reports that participants expressed the need for a vision to knit Washougal
together and create a new identity. In short, the desired vision is to maximize natural amenities,
maintain a rural feel in the northern portions of the City, and retain a small-town feel in the
downtown area, but with convenient retail amenities to serve the city residents.
The majority of Washougal is zoned urban low-density residential, with town center designation in
the center of the City and general commercial zoning on the north side of Evergreen Way/E Street
and the west end of State Route 14 on both sides. Heavy industry is limited to the port area on the
south side of State Route 14 along the Columbia River, buffered by parks and open space.
Growth in the City has been limited, with an estimated 281 homes to be added in the northwest area
of the City near to midterm. Most of the growth in the City will be infill, and that will be limited.
Industrial growth is primarily contained in the Port of Camas Washougal along the banks of the
Columbia River within Washougal. Commercial growth is anticipated along E Street, the waterfront,
and the City will soon begin working on a subarea plan with a possible planned action ordinance for
its Town Center Districts. This planning process will look at ways to increase population and
employment within these downtown districts.
Washougal's current building height restriction is 35 feet for residential properties and up to 75 feet
for commercial structures. The existing maximum building height in the Town Center districts is 55
feet; however, as part of the subarea plan work, there may be some discussion about increasing the
height.
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Business Overview - Camas and Washougal 3
Camas
As of 2020, Camas had a diverse and growing economy, transitioning from its historical roots in
paper manufacturing to a more tech and services-oriented business environment with approximately
1700 total businesses. The following table provides data on the types of businesses.
Figure 1: Types of Businesses - City of Camas
Industry Percentage Details
Professional, Scientific, and Technical
Services 20% tech and consulting
Manufacturing 12% advanced manufacturing
Retail Trade 15% local shops, food services
Health Care and Social Assistance 10%
Construction 8%
Washougal
Washougal's business landscape is slightly smaller and more locally oriented, with a focus on
manufacturing, construction, and retail, with approximately 1,200 businesses.
Figure 2: Types of Businesses - City of Washougal
Industry Percentage Description
Manufacturing 18% small-medium scale, light industrial
Construction 14% contractors, home builders
Retail Trade 12% local retail and restaurants
Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services 8%
Accommodation and Food Services 10%
Natural Disaster Risks4 5 6
The CWFD plans for and prepares for natural hazards and will deploy to the highest need, affecting
the most citizens. The top four natural hazard risks for the Cities of Camas and Washougal are
illustrated here.
Earthquakes
Both Camas and Washougal are located near the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which poses a
significant earthquake risk. A major earthquake in this zone could cause widespread damage due to
ground shaking, infrastructure failure, and landslides.
3 U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Economic Census, Camas & Washougal Business Data
4 U.S. Geological Survey – Cascadia Earthquake Hazards.
5 FEMA – Flood Risk Maps for Washington
6 National Interagency Fire Center – Wildfire Risk for Pacific Northwest
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Flooding
Both cities contain shorelines on the Columbia River and the Washougal River, making them
vulnerable to flooding, particularly during heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt. The areas closest to the
rivers are at the greatest risk of inundation.
Landslides
The hilly terrain in and around Camas and Washougal, especially near the foothills of the Cascade
Mountains, is susceptible to landslides. Heavy rainfall or seismic activity can trigger slides, affecting
homes and transportation routes in these areas.
Wildfires
The surrounding forests and the dry summer climate put both cities at risk of wildfires, especially in
the wildland-urban interface areas. Prolonged droughts, strong gorge winds, and steep topography
increase the likelihood of fire events, which could threaten homes and air quality.
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CAMAS WASHOUGAL FIRE DEPARTMENT (CWFD)
Agency Description
The Camas/Washougal Fire Department (CWFD), after over 35 years of cooperation, officially merged
operationally under an interlocal agreement on December 4, 2013. Now serving two rapidly
developing cities with distinct visions, an operationally combined department is stronger yet faces
challenges such as outdated facilities and understaffing. CWFD provides an array of emergency
services that include:
• Fire Suppression
• Fire Investigation
• Fire inspection of occupancies within the City of Camas and the City of Washougal
• Transporting Advanced Life Support (ALS) Emergency Medical Services
• First Response Advanced Life Support (ALS) Emergency Medical Services
• Public Education
• Fire Prevention
• Hazardous materials "Awareness Level" Response 7
• Low-angle Rescue
• Automatic and Mutual emergency response to neighboring jurisdictions
In 2024, the Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau (WSRB) assigned both the Cities of Camas and
Washougal a Class 4 rating, focusing solely on assessing fire protection risks. WSRB assigns each
community in Washington State a Protection Class of 1 through 10, where 1 indicates exemplary fire
protection capabilities, and 10 indicates the capabilities, if any, are insufficient for insurance credit. The
CWFD intends to maintain and potentially improve the rating in future years.
Mission and Values
The Camas/Washougal Fire Department delivers professional services to the community by following
its mission and values, which are reflected in its strategic goals.
Mission
To provide the highest quality service to our community through the protection and preservation of
life and property.
Values
• Excellence • Integrity
• Courtesy, equality, and respect • Dependability, trust, and honesty
• Professionalism • Enthusiasm, optimism and recognition
• Readiness, education, and training • Pride
• Competency and accountability
7 The Technical Rescue includes high and low angle rescue, confined space rescue, trench rescue, water rescue, and
hazardous materials responses, many of the technical responses include regional agencies who have higher level of
certified technicians specializing in specific incident types.
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Administration/Support Services
The Camas/Washougal Fire Department provides efficient management in delivering community
services. This includes overseeing the administrative functions: managing an ALS Ambulance service,
delivering Community Risk Reduction programs such as fire code enforcement, fire investigation,
and public education, and handling business matters such as financial planning and budgeting. The
administrative team staffing is outlined in the following organizational structure.
Table 1: Administrative Organization Structure
RFA Governance
Board
Fire Chief
Division Chief
Fire Marshal
Division Chief
Operations
Division Chief
EMS Services
Business
Manager
Admin FMO Admin Fire
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24-Hour Shift Staffing
The CWFD provides the following requirements of the 24-hour shift staffing model, which shall
consist of the following apparatus and station assignments.
• A minimum of three (3) Captains or Acting Captains
• A minimum of nine (9) Firefighter/ Paramedics & EMTs
• A minimum of one (1) Battalion Chief or Acting Battalion Chief
• Additional staffing requirements:
o Engine companies shall have a minimum of one (1) Captain or one (1) qualified Acting
Captain and one (1) qualified Paramedic
o Ambulances shall be assigned a minimum of one (1) Paramedic and one (1) EMT
o CWFD shall provide licensed Aid and Transport services through the entire CWFD
service area.
Table 2: Station and Apparatus Assignments
Station 41 Station 42 Station 43
1 Battalion Chief position (Assigned to Station 41, responding throughout Service Area)
ONE FIRE ENGINE COMPANY
Engine 41
One Officer and One Firefighter
(includes 1 paramedic position)
ONE FIRE ENGINE COMPANY
Engine 42
One Officer and One Firefighter
(includes 1 paramedic position)
ONE FIRE ENGINE COMPANY
Engine 43
One Officer and One Firefighter
(includes 1 paramedic position)
ONE MEDIC AMBULANCE
Medic 41
Two Firefighter/EMS positions
(includes 1 paramedic position)
ONE MEDIC AMBULANCE
Medic 42
Two Firefighter/EMS positions
(includes 1 paramedic position )
ONE MEDIC AMBULANCE
Medic 43
Two Firefighter/EMS positions
(includes 1 paramedic position )
ONE WILDLAND ENGINE (CS)
Brush 41
Cross-staffed from Engine 41
ONE WILDLAND ENGINE (CS)
Brush 42
Cross-staffed from Engine 42
ONE WILDLAND ENGINE (CS)
Brush 43
Cross-staffed from Engine 43
ONE MEDIC AMBULANCE (CS)
Medic 44
Cross staff from E41
(includes 1 paramedic position)
(CS) = Cross-Staffed Units – Staff switches
from one unit to another unit, dependent
on incident type.
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 31
Total Organizational Overview
The entire organizational structure for the delivery of administrative and operational services is
shown below. Operations personnel who work a 24-shift schedule are divided into a four-platoon
schedule.
RFA Governance
Board
Fire Chief
Division Chief Fire
Marshal
Deputy Fire Marshal Deputy Fire Marshal
Division Chief
Operations
A Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
B Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
C Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
D Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
Fire Training Officer
Division Chief EMS
Services
CARES Nurse EMS Training Officer
Business Manager
Admin FMO Admin Fire
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 32
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
The CWFD has established the following performance standards for the community to identify the
level of service to be expected.
Turnout Time
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted a turnout time standard of two (2) minutes 90%
of the time.
First Engine Arrival at Fire Suppression Incident
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted a travel time standard of five (5) minutes for the
first fire engine (2 Firefighters) to arrive at a fire suppression incident within their first due area 90%
of the time.
Deployment of Effective Response Force (ERF) at a fire suppression incident
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted a travel time standard of ten (10) minutes to
deploy an ERF (11 Firefighters) when responding to fire suppression incidents within the City of
Camas and the City of Washougal 90% of the time.
First Response Medical Aid Vehicle arriving at an EMS incident.
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted a travel time standard of five (5) minutes in the
urban area and nine (9) minutes in the suburban area for the arrival of the first emergency medical
aid vehicle (2 EMTs) when responding within their first due area 90% of the time.
Arrival of Advanced Life Support Transport unit at an emergency medical incident.
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted a travel time standard of nine (9) minutes in the
urban area, thirteen (13) minutes in the suburban area, and twenty-one (21) minutes in the rural area
for the arrival of Transport Capable EMS Medic unit with a minimum of one Firefighter Paramedic
90% of the time.
Tech Rescue (Hazardous Materials, Low Angle & Water Rescue & Vehicle Extrication)
The Camas Washougal Fire Department Firefighters Awareness Level hazardous materials response
within the City of Camas and the City of Washougal, Technician Level low angle & water rescue and
vehicle extrication response. The Camas Washougal Fire Department's response time standard for
this category of incidents is the same as the "First Engine Arrival" and "Deployment of ERF
standards."
Code Enforcement/Public Education
The Camas Washougal Fire Department has adopted the following inspection standards: annual
business inspections of high-risk occupancies annually, moderate-risk occupancies semi-annually, and
low-risk occupancies once every three years within the Cities of Camas and Washougal. Upon receipt
of the complete project application for new construction occupancy plans, the Fire Marshal's office
will review for code compliance and return comments within 3 weeks. In compliance with RCW
43.44.050, the fire department chief shall assign qualified investigators to investigate the origin,
cause, circumstances, and extent of all fire-related losses within the municipal boundaries of Camas
and Washougal. Each year, the RFA will offer numerous opportunities to engage and educate the
Camas and Washougal communities through a series of events, including the Fire Department Open
House, Family Promise Program, Fourth of July and New Year's Eve risk reduction outreach, Harvest
Festival, Fire Prevention Week, Hometown Holidays, and various other occasions.
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 33
Appendix C: Organizational Structure
RFA Governance
Board
Fire Chief
Division Chief Fire
Marshal
Deputy Fire Marshal Deputy Fire Marshal
Division Chief
Operations
A Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
B Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
C Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
D Shift BC
3 Captains
11 Firefighters/EMS
Fire Training Officer
Division Chief EMS
Services
CARES Nurse EMS Training Officer
Business Manager
Admin FMO Admin Fire
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 34
Appendix D: Real Property Assets
Fire Station Facility Address
New Fire Station 41 (Bond Issue) *528 NE 4th Avenue, Camas WA
Fire Station 42 (Renovation) 4321 NW Parker Street, Camas WA
New Fire Station 43 (Bond Issue) *1400 A Street, Washougal WA
*The address will change upon issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
Appendix E: Apparatus/Vehicles/Equipment
Apparatus/Vehicles Type Service Year
E41 Fire Engine 2016
E42 Fire Engine 2009
E43 Fire Engine 2010
E44 Fire Engine 2004
E46 Fire Engine 2003
Camas Bond Issue NEW Fire Engine 2024
Camas Bond Issue NEW Fire Engine 2025
Washougal NEW Fire Engine 2025
B41 Brush Engine 2004
B42 Brush Engine 1994
B43 Brush Engine 2020
FM41 Staff Vehicle 2020
FM42 Staff Vehicle 2021
FM43 Staff Vehicle 2021
C41 Staff Vehicle 2015
EMS41 Staff Vehicle 2016
BC41 Staff Vehicle 2017
BC42 Staff Vehicle 2017
TRN41 Staff Vehicle 2011
CARES 41 Staff Vehicle 2024
M41 Medic Vehicle 2019
M42 Medic Vehicle 2017
M43 Medic Vehicle 2023
M44 Medic Vehicle 2016
M45 Medic Vehicle 2013
Small and Attractive Equipment Quantity
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus 41
Ambulance Gurneys 5
LifePak 15s 8
Ventilators 4
Video Laryngoscopes 5
Hydraulic Extrication Tools (Sets) 4
Chain Saws 10
Circular Saws 7
Gas Fans 6
Thermal Imaging Cameras 32
Multi-Gas Detectors 5
Radios 85
Camas/Washougal Regional Fire Authority Plan | 2025 35
Appendix F: Regional Fire Authority Jurisdictional Boundaries*
*The CWFD Ambulance Transport Response Area falls outside the proposed RFA boundary but is
designated as a contract service area for ambulance services provided to East County Fire and Rescue by
the RFA.