Ridgefield helped secure a policy that prevents existing local transit taxes from being used to pay for light rail operations tied to the Interstate Bridge replacement. Instead, any funding for light rail operations must come from new revenue sources, protecting taxpayers in smaller Clark County cities.
Ridgefield and other small cities in Clark County secured new protections on March 10 that prevent existing local taxes from being used to fund future light rail operations.
The decision came after votes by the C-TRAN Board Composition Review Committee and the C-TRAN Board of Directors, addressing both funding concerns and board representation issues.
What Happened
C-TRAN approved changes to both its board structure and funding policies, addressing months of debate across Clark County.
The board returned to a 4-3-2 representation model, giving four seats to Vancouver, three to Clark County and two to smaller cities including Ridgefield.
At the same time, the agency added language to its transit plan preventing previously approved local sales taxes from being used to fund operations and maintenance for future light rail tied to the Interstate Bridge replacement.
Some Background
Concerns from smaller cities had been building for over a year, with leaders worried that residents could be required to help pay for light rail despite limited direct benefit.
Projected operating costs for light rail are estimated at around $10.3 million annually, though that number could change over time.
Previous disagreements also centered on board representation. A temporary 3-3-3 structure gave equal representation to Vancouver, Clark County and smaller cities but raised concerns from the state about compliance with population-based expectations.
Why It Matters for Ridgefield Residents
The decision directly affects Ridgefield taxpayers by ensuring they are not automatically responsible for funding long-term light rail operations.
Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole described the outcome as a balanced solution that protects local funding while keeping regional projects moving.
“We had to make sure that the bridge project kept moving forward, that any funding for light rail came from new money and that we kept C-TRAN together,” Cole said.
The agreement allows Ridgefield to remain part of the regional transit system without committing existing tax revenue to future light rail costs.
What Happens Next
C-TRAN may still participate in funding light rail operations, but only through new funding sources that would likely require additional approvals.
The Interstate Bridge replacement project continues to move forward, with light rail still part of the broader discussion.
Future decisions on funding and implementation could bring additional votes or public input opportunities.
Have a tip? Contact Meanwhile in Ridgefield.
Who: C-TRAN Board, Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole, Clark County cities
What: Vote to protect local taxes from funding light rail operations
When: March 10, 2026
Where: Clark County, Washington
Why it matters: Shields Ridgefield taxpayers from future light rail costs
Ridgefield helped secure protections for local taxpayers
Existing taxes cannot fund light rail operations
C-TRAN board returned to a 4-3-2 structure
The Interstate Bridge project continues moving forward
Light rail funding must come from new revenue sources
Frequently Asked Questions
What did C-TRAN approve?
C-TRAN approved changes that prevent existing local taxes from being used to fund light rail operations and adjusted board representation.
How does this affect Ridgefield residents?
Ridgefield taxpayers are protected from automatically funding light rail operations with existing local taxes.
Will Ridgefield still be part of C-TRAN?
Yes, Ridgefield remains part of the regional transit system under the updated agreement.
What is the Interstate Bridge replacement project?
It is a major regional project that includes plans for a new bridge and potential light rail connection between Washington and Oregon.
Will light rail still happen?
Light rail is still being considered, but funding for operations would require new revenue sources.
Why was the board structure changed?
The board returned to a 4-3-2 structure to comply with state expectations tied to population representation.
How much could light rail operations cost?
Estimates suggest about $10.3 million annually, though costs could change over time.
