New children's play center + Mayor election controversy & more...

📰 News

New indoor children's play space to open in Ridgefield this spring

This spring, Junebug Play & Learning Spac e will open its first location in the Ridgefield Crossing development at 110 S. 65th Ave., Suite 106.

The 2,800-square-foot indoor children’s play space will offer a facility to host classes, workshops and other activities, as well as a room for hosting birthday parties. Workshops and classes will include lessons in STEM experiments and experiences, arts and crafts, as well as health and fitness. Planned amenities include a private nursing room, gender neutral bathrooms, an area safe for children with sensory issues and high-speed wi-fi.

Ridgefield mayor and City Council address confusion after mayoral vote

• Ridgefield Mayor Ron Onslow, reappointed after a surprising 4-3 council vote that ousted previous Mayor Jennifer Lindsay, has faced both criticism and support from the community. The vote led to calls for Onslow's resignation from some residents, while others emphasized unity and expressed concern that the controversy could negatively impact an upcoming school bond vote.

• The controversy stems from a lack of transparency and communication cited by Councilor Rob Aichele, who nominated Onslow, and by Onslow himself regarding Lindsay's tenure. Aichele and Onslow criticized Lindsay for insufficient council briefings and a lack of written reports, which they felt hindered effective leadership and collaboration.

• The situation has sparked a broader discussion on transparency, accountability, and the need for unity within the Ridgefield community, especially in light of an important upcoming vote on school bonds. Both sides of the debate agree on the necessity of addressing constituents' concerns and ensuring that city leadership acts in the community's best interests.

Former Ridgefield superintendent was highest-paid K-12 official in Washington last year

• Nathan McCann, the former superintendent of Ridgefield School District, was the highest-paid K-12 official in Washington for the 2022-23 school year, with a total compensation of $544,334, which was over $70,000 more than any other K-12 official in the state.

• McCann's high compensation included a lump sum payout of $318,202 upon his resignation in August 2023, in addition to his salary, as part of a negotiated agreement with the district despite having two years left on his contract.

• McCann's tenure was marked by efforts to manage the district's rapid population growth, including a successful $78 million construction bond in 2017 for new schools and renovations, though subsequent bond attempts failed, leading to his resignation and a transition to consulting work.

Artwork Selected for Ridgefield Roundabout Wine Labels

Bennett Hall Opening March 30

Bennett Hall is a large picnic shelter located at Abrams Park available to the public to rent for private or public events and celebrations. The shelter has concrete floors, walls with large windows, picnic tables and a stone fireplace. The building also includes a kitchen and an attached outdoor plaza. 

Online reservations will open March 1, 2024 with availability beginning March 30 for the 2024 season. All reservations are made online through Cogran.

🗓️ Events

Cupid's Dash For Cash Barrel Race - Clark County Event Center
Barrel Racers National 4D @ Dr. Jack Giesy Equestrian Arena
Saturday, February 17th, 8:00am - 10:00pm
Sunday, February 18th, 8:00am - 9:00pm

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet -  Clark County Event Center
Saturday, February 24th, 2024
4:00pm - 11:00pm
Exhibition Hall A

St. Valentine's Day Wine & Dessert Pairing
Saturday • 5:00 PM
3602 NW 119th St

Trivia Night
February 13, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM @ Ridgefield Craft Brewing Taphouse