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Spokane Council Members Klitzke and Zappone proposed an $800,000 budget amendment to fund local libraries. Additionally, new automated traffic safety cameras were installed, with a violation warning period starting Monday.
Mayor Lisa Brown praised the City Council for approving a balanced mid-biennium budget modification that addresses a deficit caused by economic challenges. The budget prioritizes core services and public safety investments while reflecting the city's commitment to responsible fiscal management.
Spokane City Council approved a modification to the 2026 city budget, focusing on minimal staff cuts while allocating funds to essential services. Additionally, the council enacted a new transportation tax on commercial parking to support local infrastructure improvements.
The Spokane City Council approved a 12% commercial parking tax to fund transportation system maintenance and safety improvements. The tax, set to begin on April 1, 2026, includes credits for student, employee, and residential parking. Council Member Paul Dillon emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration before implementation.
The City of Spokane launched a community survey to gather input for its Water Conservation Master Plan, which aims to sustainably manage water resources. The plan, adopted in 2020, outlines strategies for reducing water demand and minimizing customer impact. Residents can participate in the survey, available in multiple languages, to help shape future conservation efforts.
The Spokane City Council approved a 5-2 vote on the 2025-2026 Mid-Biennial Modification Budget, emphasizing minimal staff cuts while allocating funds to essential services. Council President Betsy Wilkerson and Council Member Paul Dillon highlighted the importance of collaboration in making tough budgetary decisions.
Spokane officials encourage residents to participate in updating the City’s Water Conservation Plan by taking a survey. The initiative aims to enhance community involvement in local water management efforts.
Spokane City Council Member Jonathan Bingle condemned the recent tax increase, calling it the largest in state history. He criticized the government's reliance on tax hikes instead of exploring reasonable alternatives and pledged to advocate for a more accountable budget.
Spokane Council Member Jonathan Bingle opposes the recent tax increase, calling it fiscally irresponsible. He emphasizes the need for a government that operates within its means and prioritizes essential services over new spending. Bingle pledges to advocate for a more accountable budget that respects taxpayers.
Council Members Klitzke and Zappone proposed an $800,000 budget amendment to enhance funding for libraries in Spokane. Additionally, new automated traffic safety cameras have been installed, with a violation warning period set to begin on Monday.