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The City of Spokane has provided an update regarding the DNR Thorpe Property Trust Land Transfer Request, indicating a request for additional time for deliberation and engagement with stakeholders. This development is crucial for the city as it pertains to local land management and development initiatives.
The City of Spokane has applied for the transfer of the Thorpe Road property from the Department of Natural Resources to safeguard it for preservation as part of its Parks & Natural Lands Master Plan. However, the application did not rank sufficiently high for funding consideration, prompting the City Council to request an extension of the public comment period to discuss the matter further with stakeholders.
Spokane's development fees are set to rise significantly next year as part of a three-year initiative to align them with the actual costs of city infrastructure. This increase, driven by a moratorium on development due to failing infrastructure in the Latah Valley, will impact various water and sewer connection fees, aiming to encourage smaller connections while addressing the city's growth needs.
The Spokane City Council has requested a delay in the transfer of a 160-acre woodland south of Thorpe Road to Blue Fern Development, which plans to build 1,000 homes. Concerns about increased traffic and the preservation of cultural and natural values have prompted this request. While the council cannot legally halt the transfer, they aim to influence the Department of Natural Resources. A public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday to discuss the development.
The Spokane Regional Continuum of Care is organizing the annual Point-in-Time Count from January 21-29, 2025, to evaluate the local unhoused population. Volunteers are needed to help survey individuals and families experiencing homelessness, with collected data aiding local and federal entities in addressing homelessness effectively. Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer through the provided link.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown faces criticism from transportation safety activists over her budget proposal to fund a traffic enforcement unit by reallocating infrastructure funds. Activists argue this contradicts her previous campaign stance against similar budget maneuvers, highlighting the ongoing tension between public safety funding and infrastructure commitments.
Spokane City Council has deferred a Parks levy ballot measure originally scheduled for February 2025 to explore a potential partnership with Spokane Public Schools. This collaboration aims to maximize resources and address the rising demand for recreation facilities across all neighborhoods.
Spokane County voters remain divided following the recent presidential election, with a computerized analysis indicating a slight shift in polarization. While the region has historically leaned Republican, an increase in toss-up precincts suggests a more competitive political landscape, indicating that polarization may not be as severe as previously thought.
Spokane Valley is celebrating the holiday season with two festive events: the 'Celebration of Lights' and 'Breakfast with Santa,' both supported by local organizations. The city is also constructing a new cross country course set to open in 2025, while parks have been winterized for year-round community enjoyment.
The Spokane Police Department emphasizes crime prevention strategies, particularly focusing on auto theft deterrence. Residents are encouraged to install anti-theft devices in their vehicles, potentially reducing theft risk and lowering insurance premiums. The article highlights commonly stolen vehicle models and provides resources for further information.