Vancouver resident Michael Langsdorf appalled when Camas Mayor Steve Hogan suggested committee come up with ideas of how to prevent homelessness was shot down

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and may not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com

I recently had the opportunity to watch on TV channel 21 the October Clark County Ending Homeless Organization.

I was appalled when the idea presented by Camas Mayor Steve Hogan to come up with ideas of how to prevent homelessness was shot down by the county chairman of the organization. The chair, Mr. Michael Torres, was more concerned about impressing the members on the importance of asking the Washington Legislature for more money to continue funding existing programs.

How is his salary paid and how much do we as taxpayers pay for his sage advice?  

Michael Langsdorf
Vancouver

---

Also read:

• 
  POLL: After hearing state leaders describe the I-5 Bridge as vulnerable in an earthquake, what is your reaction?
  State and local leaders describe the I-5 Bridge as structurally at risk but recommend drivers continue crossing it while complex replacement plans unfold.
• 
  Opinion: Historical state income tax and another massive operating budget highlight the end of the 2026 legislative session
  Rep. John Ley details the passage of a state income tax, an expanding $80 billion budget, and new Clark County infrastructure funding following the 2026 legislative session.
• 
  Opinion: Fighting for transparency in Washington government
  A recent court decision allows Washington lawmakers broad new secrecy over internal records, as advocates report rising obstacles to government transparency and public engagement.
• 
  Opinion: Attacking Democracy in the name of Democracy
  Ryan Frost critiques several 2024 legislative bills, warning unchecked Democrat dominance enables policies that erode local accountability, block referenda, and threaten citizen participation.
• 
  Opinion: Washington passed an income tax to fund education, then the same majority cut education — and left $700+ million on the table
  State officials passed a new income tax to fund education, then approved over $1 billion in cuts—while forgoing $700 million in annual federal scholarships students could have received.