Residents of Clark County are being asked to weigh in on the C‑TRAN 2045 transit plan, a proposal that would add high‑capacity options such as expanded BRT, light rail and electric vehicles while also raising local taxes and public debt. The plan, currently slated for a board vote on Dec. 8, has drawn sharp criticism from community members who say the cost outweighs the benefits.
Tax and debt implications
The proposal calls for a sales‑tax increase that could rise from the current 0.7% to as high as 1.1% or more. In addition, C‑TRAN would be authorized to issue tax‑exempt municipal bonds backed by its sales‑tax revenue, potentially adding significant debt to the public‑transportation benefit area. Critics note that the agency already receives only about 2.6% of its revenue from fares, meaning the bulk of funding would come from taxpayers.
Comparison to Sound Transit
Opponents point to Washington Policy Center data on the neighboring Sound Transit district, where households pay over $1,700 annually in sales, motor‑vehicle excise and property taxes. Despite that level of subsidy, Sound Transit’s light‑rail lines carry less than 1% of daily trips, and overall transit ridership in the region has declined compared with a decade ago. The letter argues that Clark County could face a similar outcome without a clear return on investment.
Board composition and representation
In 2025, the state directed C‑TRAN to restructure its board, creating a majority of seats held by Vancouver representatives—four members from Vancouver and two county seats drawn from districts that largely overlap Vancouver. This shift gives a six‑member majority that favors light‑rail expansion, while the remaining five county districts have no direct vote on the board. Critics contend that this arrangement does not fairly represent all Clark County residents, especially those in unincorporated areas.
Public participation opportunities
Residents who oppose the plan can submit written comments by Nov. 16, 2026, using the subject line “CTRAN 2045 Plan Input.” A public hearing is scheduled for Tues. Nov. 10 at noon, and written comments may also be mailed or delivered in person to 10600 NE 51st Circle, Vancouver, WA 98682. Those wishing to testify in person are encouraged to bring their comments to the hearing.
Potential impact on cost of living
The letter warns that higher taxes and increased debt could raise the cost of living for Clark County families and businesses. It urges the board to keep the sales‑tax rate at its current level and to reject the 2025 plan, which would set the stage for the more expansive 2045 proposal.
What’s next?
The C‑TRAN board will decide whether to adopt the plan at its Dec. 8 meeting. If adopted, the tax hikes and debt options outlined in the proposal could be implemented without further public votes, according to the plan’s language. Community members are therefore being asked to make their voices heard now, before the board takes final action.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
