Spokane City Council Adopts Engagement and Enforcement Ordinances

The Spokane City Council approved two ordinances addressing homelessness in a recent Legislative Session. Ordinance C36679 consolidates existing laws on unauthorized camping, making it a misdemeanor citywide, while emphasizing engagement with people experiencing homelessness. The ordinance aims to provide clear enforcement mechanisms and connect individuals to navigation services. Ordinance C36694 targets aggressive solicitation, defining behaviors that may intimidate the public, such as persistent solicitation and threatening language. Council Member Zack Zappone highlighted the need for safe spaces for those affected, indicating that enforcement will focus on service engagement before citation.

Council Member Paul Dillon added that the new laws clarify existing regulations while prioritizing public health and safety. The Council plans to monitor the implementation of these ordinances and continue pursuing upstream solutions for homelessness in Spokane. For additional information, visit the Council's official website on homelessness initiatives.