Mayor Brown Statement on Supreme Courts Proposition 1 Ruling

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown released a statement following the Washington Supreme Court's ruling regarding Proposition 1, which clarified local initiative powers and reaffirmed the validity of the city's camping ordinance. She stated that while the ordinance is being enforced, enforcement alone cannot resolve the homelessness crisis. To that end, the City is deploying funds from opioid settlements to create more sobering beds and is working with Spokane County to expand crisis stabilization facilities. Brown highlighted the positive outcomes of the High Utilizer Initiative and the Spokane Fire Department's CARES Team, which are effectively addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. In addition, the City is exploring more strategies to increase the supply of affordable housing, which is a critical factor in combating homelessness.

The Mayor expressed a commitment to thoroughly reviewing the Court’s opinion to ensure future actions align with judicial guidance and the community’s needs. This proactive approach reflects the City’s dedication to tackling homelessness with a multifaceted strategy. The statement underscores the importance of balancing enforcement with supportive services and housing solutions.