Your trusted source for local Spokane, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The City of Spokane is celebrating Earth Day throughout April with various activities aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community involvement. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship, highlighting the city's daily contributions to protect the planet. The month-long celebration includes volunteer opportunities, learning activities, and events focused on water conservation and clean-up efforts.
Pullman City Administrator Mike Urban is currently on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation, with no clear details provided about the reasons or timeline for his absence. Acting City Administrator Megan Vining has stepped in, while Urban has retained legal counsel to protect his reputation amidst the unfolding situation. This administrative shakeup follows the recent resignation of Police Chief Jake Opgenorth, indicating broader changes within Pullman's leadership.
The Spokane City Council has passed an interim zoning ordinance that eliminates building height limits in downtown Spokane. This decision aims to facilitate urban development and potentially enhance the city’s skyline. The article emphasizes the significance of this change for local businesses and the community.
Washington state officials, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, are voicing concerns over the economic impact of new tariffs announced by President Trump. They argue that the state's trade-driven economy will suffer significantly due to increased tariffs and potential retaliatory measures from trading partners. The agricultural sector, in particular, is expected to face severe challenges amid this trade war.
The Spokane Valley City Council is moving forward with a proposal to place a 0.01% sales tax measure on the ballot, aimed at funding additional police positions. Despite strong council support, public opinions are divided, reflecting the community's conservative values and concerns about fiscal responsibility. A final decision on the ballot measure will be made by April 15.
Phase II construction is set to begin at Greenacres Park in Spokane Valley on April 1, 2025. This project aims to enhance recreational facilities and promote nature conservation, supported by various local entities and funding sources. The initiative is expected to significantly benefit the community by providing more opportunities for outdoor activities.
Conservationists have faced a setback in their efforts to stop the transfer of 200 acres of undeveloped land in Latah Valley to developer Blue Fern, which plans to build approximately 1,000 homes. The Washington Board of Natural Resources declined to reconsider the transfer despite the ecological and cultural concerns raised by activists. With a deadline looming for the transfer, advocates are now focusing on lobbying for alternatives to keep the land in public hands.
The Spokane Fire Department, in collaboration with the American Red Cross, is launching its seventeenth joint event to install free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in high-risk homes in Spokane. This initiative aims to enhance fire safety and has already benefitted over 8,000 homes since its inception in 2014, with support from various community volunteers. The program not only provides essential alarms but also empowers families with crucial fire safety information.
A new policy in downtown Spokane mandates that smoking paraphernalia, such as glass pipes, can only be sold if naloxone (Narcan) is provided for free at the point of sale. This initiative aims to address the public health crisis related to addiction, particularly the use of illicit substances like fentanyl. The policy is part of Mayor Lisa Brown's broader community health strategy and coincides with the introduction of the Alcohol Impact Area to curb off-premises alcohol sales.
A new specialized shelter for women experiencing homelessness is set to open at Knox Presbyterian Church in Spokane, thanks to a collaboration between multiple organizations, including Empire Health Foundation and the City of Spokane. This shelter is part of a pilot program designed to provide targeted assistance to various vulnerable populations, emphasizing community support and stability. Local leaders express their optimism about the shelter's potential to facilitate positive change for women in need.