Washougal Mourns Loss of Former Mayor and Current Councilmember Molly Coston
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*Courtesy of the City of Washougal Communications Dept.*
The City of Washougal is deeply saddened to share the passing of former mayor and current councilmember Molly Coston. A long-serving public official and dedicated community volunteer, Coston’s leadership and commitment played a central role in Washougal’s growth and civic identity for nearly two decades.
“Molly’s passing is a huge and sad loss for our City of Washougal,” said Mayor David Stuebe. “She was dedicated to this community and consistently approached her work with commitment, fairness and passion. Many people called her ‘Mayor Molly’ because she was approachable and took the time to truly listen and be truly engaged. Her leadership influenced the direction of our city, and we are so grateful for her service.”
Coston first joined the Washougal City Council in 2005, serving for six years. After several years away from city government, Coston was elected Mayor of Washougal in November 2017 and held the position from 2018-2021. In 2021, she was elected to fill the unexpired term for Council Position 5, with her current term set to conclude in December 2027.
During her tenure, she led and supported numerous key projects:
Convened a citizen panel to study shifting to a Council-Manager government, later approved by voters.
Played a key role in creating recently voter-approved Regional Fire Authority.
Chaired the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, guiding hotel-tax investments in tourism and events.
Championed new public art for the Towncenter Plaza campanile.
Regularly attended community events, actively engaging with residents.
Helped shape major projects including the Steigerwald Restoration, Waterfront Trail, Towncenter Revitalization, the 32nd Street Rail Crossing elimination and many others.
She was currently serving as the Chair of the C-Tran board of directors. She also represented east Clark County on the Regional Transportation Council Board of Directors, serving as its chair in 2010.
Beyond her roles in City Hall, Coston was an involved community member. She served as:
President of the Board of Directors for the Washougal Arts & Cultural Alliance (WACA)
Columbia Gorge Refuge Stewards board member
25 year member of the Camas Washougal Rotary, serving as Peace Builder Chairwoman and on the Public Image Committee, Youth Services Committee, AKIN, and Diaper Drive
House Committee Co-Chair at Orchard Hills Golf & Country Club
Washougal School District PAC member
Coston has lived in Washougal since 2000. She was a graduate of the University of Arizona and George Washington University. Coston was also a Master Scuba Diver. She was 77.
