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The Spokane Valley City Council has unanimously passed an ordinance that criminalizes overnight camping in public parks, making it a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. This decision follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to enforce camping bans without sufficient shelter options, aiming to provide law enforcement with tools to manage homelessness.
Spokane has been selected as a proposed Team Base Camp for the FIFA World Cup 26™, marking a significant opportunity for the city to showcase its facilities and hospitality. This selection is expected to boost local tourism and engagement in the international sporting event, positioning Spokane on a global stage.
Council Members Zack Zappone and Kitty Klitzke recently led a bike tour of District 3 in Spokane, emphasizing community engagement and local infrastructure. The event highlights the city's commitment to promoting sustainable transportation and increasing bike accessibility in the region, particularly as Thanksgiving approaches.
A minor was taken into custody after bringing a replica gun onto school grounds in Spokane, Washington. The incident raised concerns about school safety, prompting immediate action from local authorities. The community is urged to remain vigilant regarding school-related security matters.
Spokane County commissioners have approved a 1% increase in property taxes for 2025, resulting in an additional $3 annual cost for the average homeowner. This decision aims to address rising costs and ensure continued funding for essential public safety services.
The City of Spokane has completed a survey regarding the future of the willow tree at Finch Arboretum, which has succumbed to old age. This survey sought public input on the tree's fate, highlighting community engagement in local parks and recreation decisions.
Spokane County is initiating a comprehensive planning process for 2026, featuring in-person meetings with regional specialists. This two-year effort aims to address key planning issues while actively engaging the community.
Spokane's leaders are prioritizing the safety of the city's most dangerous intersections, focusing on major corridors with high collision rates. They propose reducing speed limits and redesigning streets to enhance safety for all road users. The city is considering both immediate and long-term solutions based on local data identifying critical hotspots.
Spokane voters are likely facing another delay in deciding on a proposed property tax increase for neighborhood parks, as the City Council plans to postpone the vote for a third time. The Spokane Park Board has requested this delay to work with Spokane Public Schools on a coordinated campaign, addressing concerns about the timing and impact of multiple tax proposals on voters.
Spokane is reevaluating its 32-year partnership with the Spokane Community Oriented Policing Services (C.O.P.S.) due to concerns about funding and program effectiveness. City officials are questioning the organization's success metrics and community engagement, which may lead to reallocating resources to other volunteer organizations as the current funding contract nears expiration.