City of Spokane Announces Next Chapter of HOME Starts Here Initiative

Spokane city leaders will introduce new measures under the H. O. M. E. Starts Here initiative aimed at improving public safety and addressing homelessness.

Mayor Lisa Brown, Councilmember Zack Zappone, and Police Chief Kevin Hall will present their plans during a Public Safety meeting and a press conference. The initiative includes launching a daytime navigation center and a coordinated street outreach team to provide resources to those in need. Officials aim to end public camping and open drug use by allowing officers more discretion in issuing citations and enhancing community outreach. Mayor Brown stated, “This work is about balance, and we are committed to connecting people to the resources they need, while also creating an enforcement mechanism. ” Chief Hall noted the importance of developing accountability tools to align with new outreach efforts.

Recommendations for updating the engagement and enforcement ordinance will be drafted with input from community partners. This initiative reflects Spokane's commitment to addressing homelessness while ensuring public safety.