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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 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 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.
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 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.
Airway Heights is currently accepting applications to fill two vacancies on its city council after the resignations of Deputy Mayor Veronica Messing and Councilman Kevin Richey. The city manager announced that applications will be accepted until April 8, with interviews scheduled for April 21 and selections on May 5. Both former council members encourage residents to apply, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
The Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System is enhancing customer service by extending its hours of operation to 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week, starting April 1, 2025. This change aims to improve accessibility and predictability for the public, with specific disposal services for Household Hazardous Waste remaining available only on weekends. Additional information is accessible through the Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System's website.
The article provides updates on upcoming elections in Spokane County, including a special election scheduled for April 22, 2025, and highlights the importance of voter registration. It emphasizes the upcoming Candidate Filing Week from May 5 to 9, 2025, for various offices. The content is relevant for local residents as it informs them of crucial electoral dates and actions they need to take.
The Spokane Police Department is hosting a community hiring event on March 29, 2025, at the West Central Community Center. This event aims to provide information about various job opportunities within law enforcement, including roles such as Police Dispatcher and Records Specialist. Attendees will learn about the hiring process, job duties, benefits, and minimum qualifications.