City Manager update: July 2026

July 1, 2026

Vancouver Celebrates America 250 

As our country approaches its 250th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the people, cultures, and experiences that have shaped the Vancouver of today and what it will become in the years ahead. Vancouver is built on a collection of shared stories and is committed to crafting a future together. 

The values that guide our work are rooted in a deep commitment to belonging, respect, and fairness. We know our history includes moments of progress, moments of hardship, and times when too many voices were not at the table. Our path forward must include listening to those voices and many others, including Indigenous communities, long-time residents, newcomers, and future generations of leaders. This will make us a stronger and more connected community. 

America 250 is also a chance to celebrate what makes Vancouver unique. We are a city that values service, creativity, and care for one another. We are a community that shows up for our neighbors and works to create a better future, whether we are “Sprucing the Couve,” volunteering for one of Vancouver’s many non-profit organizations, or working together to solve community concerns. That commitment to each other will guide us as we look ahead and think about the kind of city we want to leave for future residents. 

I hope you will join us at the Vancouver Celebrates America 250 on July 3. It is a chance to learn more about our shared history and to have fun as a community. The celebration will take place at the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds and will include live music, a pet costume contest, family games and activities, food vendors, guided tours of the Marshall House, free admission to the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and demonstrations from the Fort Vancouver Historic Weapons Program. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to close out the day with a free film screening of “A League of Their Own” under the stars. 

Vancouver’s story is still being written, and each of us plays a part in it. I look forward to continuing this work with you and building a community where everyone feels they belong. 

Lon