Vancouver resident Kirk VanGelder expresses his support for Richard (Dick) Rylander in the race for the Clark County Council District 5 seat
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and do not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com
It is my pleasure to enthusiastically endorse Richard (Dick) Rylander for District 5 Clark County Council!

I have watched him over the last couple of years pour himself into various community improvement activities such as school board issues, Republican Party State Committeeman, and now appointed Clark County Councilor. In every one of those activities, Dick thoroughly researches data and information to bring to bear on the problems being solved. I know of no one who is as diligent as Dick on that. This has led to much better-informed solutions for each of those entities. It has also been effective at cutting through some of the politics to bring all sides together in selecting effective paths forward.
His commitment to voters is also apparent in his Pledge of Transparency to do everything within his power to share information and have an open dialogue with citizens of Clark County and District 5. He continues “We must have open, frank discussions about needs versus wants, costs and what the people are willing to pay for.”
Dick’s passion is for making Clark County better for his grandkids and others. He is NOT in it to build a political career or stepping stone to other offices! He’s the real deal! You won’t be disappointed! Make sure you vote for him later this month!
Kirk VanGelder
Vancouver
Also read:
- Opinion: Sheriffs fight backFour county sheriffs are suing to block a new law giving a governor-appointed board power to decertify and remove sheriffs, bypassing voter oversight in Washington.
- Opinion: The growing gap between public voice and political powerTodd Myers describes how large-scale protest and sign-ins often fail to sway state leaders, and argues authentic influence is most likely found through local action.
- Opinion: Who is winning the race for affordable power?Hydroelectric power keeps Washington competitive, but new laws and carbon pricing are driving up electricity costs for residents each year.
- Opinion: Half the road, full stop – Understanding pedestrian right-of-wayDoug Dahl explains how Washington’s law requires drivers to stop when a pedestrian is within one lane of their half of the road, not just when directly in front.
- Opinion: The state’s RFK-proofing bill comes with a costMandates like HB 2242 can lead to higher premiums as insurance companies absorb costs for new preventive services, affecting affordability statewide.







