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Spokane's Community Climate Planning Survey gathered insights from 1,573 residents regarding local climate hazards, revealing significant concerns about wildfires and extreme heat. The findings will guide future policies aimed at enhancing the city's resilience against climate challenges. Engagement opportunities, including workshops and ongoing assessments, will further inform the city's climate planning efforts.
The Spokane County Prosecutor's office has announced that no criminal charges will be filed against deputies involved in a shooting incident that occurred on December 10, 2021. The decision was made following an investigation that concluded the use of lethal force was justified. This ruling highlights ongoing discussions about law enforcement practices and accountability in the region.
The Spokane County Prosecutor has cleared Sheriff’s Deputies Ashley Hood and Kyle Leavenworth of any criminal wrongdoing in the December 10, 2021 shooting of Michael L. Dingman, deeming their use of lethal force justified. Similarly, a separate incident involving several Spokane Police Officers who shot a suspect on January 31, 2024, was also found to be justified. These decisions have significant implications for law enforcement accountability in the region.
The Spokane Valley City Council is contemplating a 0.1% sales tax to bolster police services amid rising law enforcement costs. Deputy City Manager Erik Lamb highlighted that the tax could generate approximately $2.6 million annually, reducing the burden on taxpayers while addressing public safety needs. The proposal is set for a first reading on April 1, with a council member dissenting based on the belief that current funds are sufficient.
The Spokane County Prosecutor's Office has determined that deputies were justified in using lethal force against Michael L. Dingman during a December 2021 incident. The shooting occurred after Dingman, who was armed with rifles, failed to comply with commands and charged at the deputies. An independent investigation confirmed that Dingman's rifles were not loaded at the time of the incident.
The Spokane City Council is considering a new ordinance titled "Ban the Address," aimed at preventing discrimination against homeless job seekers. This law would prohibit employers from firing or refusing to hire individuals solely based on their homelessness, although it does not mandate job accommodations. The council plans to vote on the ordinance in April, following previous controversies surrounding a more expansive "homeless bill of rights."
The City of Spokane is considering rejoining the Spokane County Aquifer Protection Area (APA) following a recommendation from the newly established Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Board. This initiative, which proposes a $15 annual fee for single-family homes, aims to generate approximately $1.8 million annually for aquifer protection projects, addressing pollution and climate change threats. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasizes the critical importance of safeguarding the community's sole-source aquifer for sustainable water resources.
Spokane voters may soon decide whether to rejoin the Spokane County Aquifer Protection Area, a coalition aimed at safeguarding the region's primary drinking water source. The proposed measure, expected on ballots later this year, would see homeowners pay a fee of $15 annually, the same amount they contributed decades ago. City officials emphasize the importance of rejoining to address new pollution threats and maintain water quality.
The Spokane City Council has authorized an additional $100,000 in legal fees to combat a wrongful death lawsuit from the estate of Robert Bradley, who was fatally shot by police in 2022. This decision raises the city's total spending on the case to $500,000, as Bradley's family alleges that police ambushed him during a court order service. Spokane County Prosecutor Larry Haskell previously declined to charge the involved officers, citing self-defense.
The City of Spokane Valley is actively seeking volunteers for its Pro and Con Committees regarding a proposed Public Safety Sales Tax. This initiative is aimed at engaging community members in discussions that will shape public safety funding and policy decisions. Interested individuals can find more information and apply through the city's official channels.