Rian Davis, a long-serving figure in Ridgefield’s development, has been appointed to the Ridgefield City Council.
During a meeting on Thursday, Oct. 10, the council voted to fill a vacant position following an interview process.
Davis, a 15-year Ridgefield resident, has been a Parks Board member since 2018 and assumed the board’s chair position in January 2023. His contributions have included advising the City Council on park developments and improvements. He has also represented Ridgefield on the Clark County Mosquito Control District Board of Trustees and has been involved with the Ridgefield Little League as a coach and board member. Davis, an eighth grade history and language arts teacher, also coaches middle school cross country and high school swimming.
After his appointment, Davis expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the city in a new capacity.
“I really appreciate the opportunity and the faith that the council has placed in me to represent the citizens of Ridgefield,” Davis said. “I do want to thank all my colleagues that I’ve had the fortune to serve with on the parks board. That has been a very meaningful time for me.”
During his interview, Davis was asked by Councilor Matt Cole about his priorities for Envision Ridgefield 2045, a long-term plan designed to manage the city’s growth over the next 20 years. With Ridgefield’s population projected to increase by over 10,000 residents in the next decade, Davis emphasized the importance of improving public transportation and affordable housing. He highlighted the need for transportation solutions that consider both sides of the Interstate 5 interchange.
“I think implementing transportation systems that make sure that the west side and the east side maintain that shared community feel … if somebody that’s on the west side is wanting to take classes at the new Clark College [building], getting there [should be] accessible and not a nightmare,” Davis said.
Davis filled the council vacancy following the resignation of Jennifer Lindsay on Aug. 23. His term is set for re-election in 2025.
New community park
Davis’ experience on the Parks Board quickly came into play in his first decision as a council member. After his appointment, the City Council reviewed a property slated for development as a new community park. The Paradise Pointe Subdivision, which will include 291 homes at the corner of Northwest 289th Street and North Royle Road, includes 15 acres dedicated to park space.
Parks Manager Corey Crownhart stated that a long-term goal for the park is to connect it with existing and future park developments, enhancing the city’s walkability. The Paradise Pointe developer, and then HOA, will send the city $20,000 annually to maintain the park, adjusting for inflation.
Davis highlighted the natural beauty of the area, which includes a pond and existing asphalt trails. He suggested that a nature play area would better suit the environment than a traditional play structure. He acknowledged the need for play features to serve the neighborhood’s new families.
“There’s not really a lot of play structure properties super accessible to this neighborhood,” Davis said.
Other council members echoed Davis’ sentiments, emphasizing the importance of preserving the natural landscape without excessive development. The Parks Board will present a master plan for the park by Dec. 31 for the council’s approval.
