Spokane's building fees jump again next year as city tries to afford growth

The Spokane City Council has approved a notable increase in development fees for 2024, representing the second phase of a three-year effort to align these fees with the actual costs of city infrastructure services. The general facilities charges, which are one-time fees for developers connecting to city water and sewer services, have remained unchanged for over 20 years. This increase is particularly urgent in the Latah Valley, where infrastructure failures have led to a moratorium on new development. Under the new plan, water and sewer connection fees will rise incrementally, with annual adjustments for inflation. For instance, fees for 3/4-inch connections will increase from $2,821 to $3,582 for water and from $4,819 to $5,611 for sewer services.

The city is also incentivizing smaller pipe connections by providing lower rates for 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch connections. This comprehensive fee adjustment aims to ensure the sustainability of public services amidst rising development demands, with city leaders believing that this phased approach will help mitigate potential impacts on housing costs and local development.