City of Spokane Announces Next Chapter of HOME Starts Here Initiative

Spokane city leaders will announce the next phase of the H. O. M. E. Starts Here initiative during a Public Safety meeting and press conference, focusing on engagement and enforcement strategies.

The plan includes launching a daytime navigation center and a new coordinated street outreach team, aimed at addressing public camping and open drug use. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasized the need for balance between compassion and accountability, stating that the initiative will help connect people in crisis with essential resources while enforcing the law against repeat offenders. Councilmember Zack Zappone expressed that updating the engagement and enforcement ordinance can foster both support and accountability within the community. Chief Kevin Hall highlighted the necessity for officers to have more discretion in determining appropriate citations and arrests, aligning with the new outreach model. Recommendations for the ordinance update will involve collaboration with community and business partners.

The goals of the initiative will be discussed during a press conference scheduled for Tuesday morning. This initiative reflects Spokane's commitment to addressing homelessness and public safety effectively.