Letter: Rooted in Clark County – Real conversations that matter

Mayoral candidate Justin Forsman highlights his appearance on James O’Neil’s podcast, stressing free speech, infrastructure, homelessness, and citizen communication.

Vancouver mayoral candidate Justin Forsman says ‘too often politics feels scripted, but local voices are creating platforms for real dialogue’

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

One of the greatest strengths of Clark County is our willingness to talk openly about the future. Too often politics feels scripted, but local voices are creating platforms for real dialogue.

James O’Neil, host of the Rooted with James O’Neil podcast, is one of them. His show gives community leaders, nonprofits, and candidates a chance to speak directly to the people. I was honored to sit down with James for Episode 24 and talk about my background, why I first ran for office, and my vision for Vancouver.

We began with my personal story. I didn’t grow up with privilege or stability. I grew up in the system, in foster care, as a ward of the state, and at times homeless as a youth. Those hardships gave me a firsthand understanding of struggle, resilience, and what it means to fight for a better life. They also gave me a deep commitment to stand up for those who feel ignored or silenced by the system, because I have been there myself.

In 2014, I first got involved in politics and made my first run for City Council in 2015. One of my core issues then was water fluoridation. I believed then, and still do today, that no government should be allowed to impose permanent health decisions on families and individuals without their consent. That fight for accountability was my entry point into public service, and over time my platform has grown to address the many challenges facing Vancouver.

Early in our conversation, we also talked about the obstacles that come with standing up for what you believe in. Instead of debating issues, insiders and detractors have often resorted to personal attacks, censorship, and even the destruction and theft of campaign signs. These tactics don’t just target a candidate, they undermine the community’s right to open debate and disenfranchise voters. That is why I continue to stand firmly for free speech and the right of every resident to be heard.

From there we discussed the biggest issues shaping our city. We talked about the $10 billion I-5 Bridge replacement project that will impose tolls and light rail while rewarding outside consulting firms with billions. I explained why I support a third bridge crossing that truly relieves congestion. We discussed road diets that shrink car lanes and increase traffic, annexation — something residents do not want, that the city cannot afford, and that is pushed more as a revenue scheme than as a service to the people — and the homelessness crisis that has become a revolving door of funding with little accountability. I made it clear that I support long term solutions including rehabilitation programs, stronger enforcement against open drug use, declaring fentanyl a public emergency, and even vouchers to help people living on the street keep their pets so they can enter shelter without barriers.

On the budget, we talked about how Vancouver is carrying $44 million in debt and cannot continue down the path of constant borrowing and tax increases. Families live within their means, and so should City Hall. That is why I have proposed an idea for a city owned bank that keeps our money local, funds housing and infrastructure at lower cost, and reinvests in Vancouver instead of sending profits out of state.

Finally, we ended on the removal of meaningful citizen communication at City Hall. The silencing of our speech, the dismissal of community concerns, and the lack of real forums for dialogue all feed public distrust. I support public forums where people can be heard, be respected, and feel empowered that they can address our council with their most pressing concerns.

What I appreciated most about James O’Neil’s podcast is that it wasn’t just about policy points. It gave me the opportunity to share my personal story, my vision for our city, and the values that drive my campaign to serve as your Mayor. Campaigns are not only about platforms, they are about people. James, with his show, is helping to shine a light on that.

In the weeks ahead, Rooted with James O’Neil will be interviewing other local candidates, including Pooneh Gray for Vancouver City Council, Mahsa Eshghi and Leslie Lewallen for Camas City Council, John Idsinga and Cherish DesRochers for Battle Ground City Council, Brandon Erickson for the Charter Review Commission, and Brad Richardson for Port Commissioner. His podcast is quickly becoming one of the most valuable forums for voters to hear directly from the people seeking to represent them.

I want to thank James O’Neil for creating this platform. Rooted with James O’Neil is about connection, honesty, and community. I encourage everyone reading to check out my full interview and the other episodes at the link below this letter. The more we listen and learn, the stronger our community can become.

Justin Forsman
Candidate for mayor of Vancouver