Stay informed about government news and updates in Spokane, WA.
Mayor Lisa Brown has signed an executive order aimed at reducing barriers for community and cultural events in Spokane, effectively lowering costs for event organizers and the city. This initiative seeks to strengthen community engagement and enhance cultural opportunities in the region, reflecting a commitment to fostering local events.
Mayor Lisa Brown's executive order aims to bolster community and cultural events in Spokane by freezing special event fees at 2024 levels, eliminating barriers for new and existing events. The order also directs city staff to innovate special event planning processes, reducing operational costs and enhancing community engagement. Local leaders highlight the importance of these events for fostering connections and driving tourism.
The February News You Can Use article highlights important community updates from Spokane, including the history of the Lincoln Heights neighborhood and practical reminders for residents regarding snow season and waste collection. Additionally, it promotes local events such as a Valentine's Day ice skating special and opportunities for community involvement through workshops and neighborhood council meetings.
City leaders in Spokane, including Mayor Lisa Brown and Fire Chief Julie O’Berg, have publicly endorsed House Bill 1258, which aims to ensure fair distribution of 911 excise tax revenue based on emergency call volume across Spokane County. The bill is crucial for maintaining effective emergency services, especially as the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications Board has set a deadline for the city to establish its own primary public safety answering point.
Spokane City Council Member Paul Dillon testified in support of House Bill 1258, aimed at enhancing fairness in 911 Emergency Communications Tax distribution. The bill seeks to allocate 48% of 911 excise tax revenue to Spokane, addressing the city's significant call volume and ensuring better representation in emergency services.
City leaders in Spokane recently testified in support of House Bill 1258, which addresses the proper apportionment of 911 excise tax revenue. This legislation could have significant implications for local emergency services funding and reflects ongoing efforts to ensure fair financial distribution in the region.
Solid Waste collection in Spokane will continue its normal schedule on Martin Luther King Day, January 20, 2025, with a reminder for residents to place carts at the curb by 6 am on collection days. Residents can find more information regarding the City holiday operating schedule through the provided link.
Spokane Police Department emphasizes its commitment to maintaining emergency communication services despite recent disagreements with the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) board. Chief Kevin Hall expressed disappointment over a motion suggesting the city establish its own Public Safety Answering Point, but reassured residents that police operations will not be affected in the short term.
Solid Waste collection in Spokane will follow its normal schedule during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, ensuring that residents are reminded to place their carts at the curb by 6 a.m. on their collection days. For further details regarding city holiday operations, a link is provided to additional information.
The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) faces a significant challenge as it will no longer participate in the Spokane Regional Emergency Communication (SREC) system starting January 1, 2026. This decision, stemming from disputes over cost-sharing and governance, raises concerns about emergency response coordination and community safety.