Our History

As citizens of Clark County, we have some tough decisions facing us. How will we manage rapid growth and still maintain our quality of life?

Our future, and the future of the natural environment we cherish, depends on how well our elected officials plan for and manage growth. Then as now, many elected officials gain their positions with the help of the development industry.

Smart growth, especially in rural areas, suffers as a result. A group of neighborhood leaders saw that individual efforts were fruitless and organized on a countywide basis to protect the livability of our area.

Friends of Clark County (FoCC) was formed in 1995 after Clark County adopted a 20 year Comprehensive Growth Plan as required by the state's Growth Management Act (GMA). There were dozens of appeals of the plan.

FoCC advocates for sensible growth and quality of life in Clark County. Our input is solicited by elected officials, staff, and the media. Our position on issues is carefully and seriously scrutinized by local decision makers. Several of our board members serve on planning commissions, task forces, and advisory panels. Where appropriate, we collaborate with other local groups.

In the spring of 1997 we sought help from 1000 Friends of Washington. They introduced us to the Audubon Society of Portland. Using their grant money, we were able to open an office, hire a director, start a quarterly newsletter, research and report on complex and controversial issues, hold public forums, create a web page and build a media presence.

These methods enable FoCC to take the issues of transportation, housing, land-use, economic development, and a healthy environment to the public to encourage informed decision-making.

In 2003, FoCC played a key role in the 20 year update of the county's comprehensive growth plan. The principles that formed the basis for our Healthy Communities proposal were adopted by the Board of County Commissioners.

In 2004, Friends of Clark County's loss became Clark County's gain. Our former Executive Director, Steve Stuart, was appointed to fill Craig Pridemore's seat on the Board of County Commissioners until an election this November.

FoCC encourages citizens of Clark County to participate in the public processes that shape the community in which we live. We continue to create, educate and empower advocates for smart growth and protection of our quality of life.

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