Spokane Valley Settles City Hall Construction Litigation

Spokane Valley's City Council has reached a significant milestone by approving an $11. 75 million settlement with Meridian Construction, concluding a lengthy legal dispute over construction defects in the City Hall building. This decision, made during the January 28, 2025, council meeting, represents the fourth and final settlement related to the building's issues, furthering the city's efforts to resolve ongoing litigation. In total, the city has recouped $2. 185 million from previous settlements with other contractors involved in the project.

Mayor Pam Haley noted the importance of this resolution, stating it allows the city to refocus on its priorities for 2025 and ensures that taxpayer funds are being effectively utilized. The construction of the City Hall was completed in September 2017, but serious defects were identified shortly after occupancy, leading to a lawsuit filed in April 2020. Multiple consultants were engaged to assess the defects, and a $4 million contract was awarded for remediation work in January 2023. Repairs to the building's foundation were completed in August 2024, and the city is now assessing further remediation needs. This settlement underscores the city's commitment to accountability and transparency in addressing construction challenges.