A More Representative Vancouver

Vancouver is home to nearly 200,000 people with an incredible diversity of cultures and backgrounds, making it one of the most vibrant cities in Southwest Washington. This richness shapes who we are — and who we aspire to be as a community.

Today many neighborhoods in Vancouver don’t have a real voice at City Hall. Areas like Fruit Valley, Fourth Plain, and East Mill Plain — home to some of the city’s most diverse communities — are underrepresented under our current system.

Why Vote YES on Charter Amendment #13

Voting YES in November means fairer elections where every neighborhood can choose a representative who understands their lived experiences and priorities. District representation ensures that all voices — not just a few — are heard in shaping Vancouver’s future.

It’s a simple change that makes our city government more fair, inclusive, and accountable.

What District Representation Would Mean

Under this new system, the Vancouver City Council would include:

  • 4 Councilmembers elected by geographic districts — each representing a different part of the city.

  • 2 Councilmembers and the Mayor elected citywide — ensuring balance and citywide leadership.

This means more neighborhoods will have a seat at the table, especially those that have historically been overlooked.

How This Benefits Our Communities

This system would begin in 2027, giving the city time to prepare — and giving residents a chance to shape how it works.

Here’s what it means:

  • Stronger Local Voice: Residents elect someone who lives in their neighborhood and understands their priorities.

  • Fair & Transparent: Districts will respect neighborhood boundaries, reflect community diversity, and be drawn through an open public process with anti-gerrymandering safeguards.

  • Balanced Leadership: District Councilmembers bring local insight, while citywide members and the Mayor keep the broader vision in focus.

  • More Access to Lead: Running for a district seat is more accessible than running citywide, opening doors for grassroots leaders from historically excluded neighborhoods.

Why This Matters

For too long, many neighborhoods in Vancouver have gone without meaningful representation. District representation gives every community the power to choose someone who reflects their values, understands their challenges, and will fight for their future.

This is about making government work for all of us — building a stronger, more inclusive Vancouver together.