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Spokane is set to replace its downtown garbage cans after spending $106,000 annually on leased "smart trash cans" that failed to improve efficiency. The new units, costing over $200,000, aim to save the city approximately $367,000 over five years while addressing public misuse of trash receptacles.
The Washington state House of Representatives has passed a bill to limit annual rent increases to 7%, providing stability for renters facing rising housing costs. If the Senate approves the legislation, it will also require landlords to give 90 days’ notice before any rent hikes, addressing concerns voiced by tenants and advocates. The bill includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon signing into law.
The Spokane County Board of Commissioners has unanimously approved a $775,000 award from opioid settlement funds to Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services (STARS) for the Cowley Behavioral Health Treatment Facility. This funding will be used as a 25% match with state funds to enhance treatment services for those struggling with opioid use disorder. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the opioid epidemic in the region through immediate and long-term investments in behavioral health resources.
The Spokane County Prosecutor has cleared several police officers of any wrongdoing in the lethal shooting of Craig S. Anglisano, who was armed and reportedly suicidal. The incident took place in Edwidge Wolden Park on January 31, 2024, after police attempted to negotiate with Anglisano to disarm himself. An independent investigation confirmed that he had not fired his weapon during the confrontation.
Spokane City Council is set to host a community event featuring urban planning expert Peter Kageyama on March 7, 2025, at 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd. This gathering aims to engage local residents in discussions about community development and urban planning initiatives that can benefit Spokane. The event is part of ongoing efforts to foster community involvement and enhance urban living in the region.
A major construction project will commence on March 10, 2025, to replace a 30-inch water main along N. Freya St. in northeast Spokane, with work expected to last through the summer. The project aims to enhance water distribution reliability while improving roadways and sidewalks, with designated detours for drivers. Local access to businesses and the U.S. Post Office will remain available during the construction.
Eastbound lanes of W. Wellesley Ave. in Spokane will be closed overnight from March 8 to 9 for essential water main repairs. Drivers are advised to follow designated detour routes to minimize traffic disruptions, while westbound traffic will remain unaffected.
A vigilant bank employee in Spokane alerted law enforcement about a suspicious individual, leading to a swift response from police that apprehended the robbery suspect, Cody L. Burgess. The incident, involving a stolen vehicle and a discarded replica gun, highlights the effective collaboration between community members and law enforcement in ensuring public safety. Burgess now faces multiple charges, including first-degree robbery and vehicle theft.
The City of Spokane is hosting community workshops as part of its PlanSpokane initiative, inviting residents to share their feedback on the city's vision for the next 20 years. This initiative aims to engage the public in shaping the future development and policies of Spokane. Participation is encouraged to ensure diverse community input.
Spokane County is allocating nearly $1 million to Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services to enhance local addiction treatment and recovery efforts, as part of a strategic initiative to combat the opioid crisis. This funding, which includes a $775,000 grant, is aimed at expanding service capacity and addressing critical behavioral health needs in the community.