Council Adopts New Rules with Additional Opportunities for Public Participation

The Spokane City Council approved new procedural rules on December 10, 2024, aimed at increasing public participation in local governance. Starting in 2025, community members will be allowed to provide verbal testimonies at regular standing committee meetings scheduled for Mondays at noon. These meetings will accommodate both in-person and virtual attendees, broadening access to the legislative process. Council President Wilkerson highlighted the importance of stakeholder feedback in crafting effective policies, noting that the new rules will facilitate earlier and more frequent public input. The amended rules also include provisions for incorporating written comments into final legislative agenda packets, enhancing transparency.

To ensure clarity, written testimonies must meet specific criteria, including word limits and submission deadlines. This initiative reflects the Spokane City Council's proactive approach to governance, aiming to create legislation that aligns more closely with community needs and fosters a more inclusive local government.