County to Reduce Staff and Services Linked to Development

Vancouver, WA – With the continuing sharp downturn in building permits and development applications, Clark County is preparing to reduce hours at permit centers in Vancouver and Battle Ground effective Nov. 3.

“In 20 years, I have not seen building and development experience a downturn this sharp,” said Community Development Director Marty Snell. “This is a response to the economy and the reduction in our business.”

Snell said 23 employees have recently been informed that they will be laid off from their jobs by the end of 2008, based on current circumstances.

He said the 2008 construction season brought no relief from the slowdown that began in 2006 and he sees no substantial change before the end of 2009. New hours of service will be announced as soon as a new staffing plan is completed.

The county will work to help place the outgoing employees in other county departments if possible. In addition, the Human Resources department will provide help with job-seeking activities and transition issues.

“We understand how difficult it can be when employees lose their jobs. Our policy is to do our best to assist those who are affected,” said Human Resources Director Francine Reis. “Beyond that, it is also very hard for us to lose the experience, expertise and company of top-notch people.”

Community Development has been reducing projected expenses for about two years. The department reduced staffing by 34 positions in earlier rounds of cost cutting this year. Of those, 17 were vacant at the time they were removed from the budget.