Spokane Valley City Council considering placing 0.1 sales tax on the ballot to fund bolstering of police services

The Spokane Valley City Council is deliberating a 0. 1% sales tax measure designed to strengthen its police department amid escalating law enforcement expenses. During a recent meeting, Deputy City Manager Erik Lamb outlined a projected increase of $4. 7 million in costs over the next three years, primarily due to a new collective bargaining agreement. The council voted 6-1 to move forward with the proposal, with Councilman Al Merkel dissenting, advocating for the use of existing city funds.

If voters approve the measure, it could generate approximately $2. 6 million annually, presenting a more appealing option than raising property taxes, which the council has not done for 17 years. Currently, police services account for over $41 million, more than half of the city's general fund budget. The proposed tax would fund seven new positions, including patrol deputies and a school resource officer, addressing pressing public safety needs. The city faces additional anticipated costs due to ongoing contractual obligations and rising public safety expenditures.

This strategic move reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing community safety while minimizing the financial burden on residents.