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Spokane City Council considers removing job protections for full-time staff due to a $13 million budget deficit. The council previously enacted these protections to make hiring easier but firing more difficult. The decision comes amidst calls for citywide staff cuts.
Spokane's new street outreach teams cleared 96 encampments in their first 12 days, connecting many individuals with housing and behavioral health services. Mayor Brown emphasized the importance of collaboration among service providers for sustainable change.
New street outreach teams in Spokane closed 96 encampments within their first ten days of operation. This initiative aims to address homelessness effectively and improve community safety.
The Spokane City Council launches a community food drive from October 15 to December 15 to support local programs Zilch and Bite2Go, which combat food insecurity for children. Council Member Paul Dillon emphasizes the importance of this initiative for community health and student retention. Donations can be made at City Hall or via a secure QR code.
Mayor Lisa Brown ordered flags at all City facilities to be lowered to half-staff in memory of Eastern State Hospital Security Guard Colleen Bass, who was killed in the line of duty on September 27. The gesture aligns with Governor Bob Ferguson’s directive for state flags to also be lowered. The City of Spokane expresses its condolences to Bass's family, friends, and colleagues.
Gonzaga University and the Spokane Police Department co-hosted a weeklong training event for Dialogue Policing, aimed at enhancing communication skills among law enforcement. The program, developed by the Columbus Police Department, includes training sessions on de-escalation techniques and perspectives from community activists. Officers engage in training scenarios to solidify their understanding before certification.
Gonzaga University and the Spokane Police Department hosted a weeklong Dialogue Policing training to enhance communication skills among law enforcement. The course, developed by the Columbus Police Department, included sessions with local activists and media members to foster understanding during large gatherings. Attending officers participated in training scenarios and learned de-escalation techniques.
Spokane City Council and city employees will hold a community food drive from October 15 to December 15 to support the Zilch and Bite2Go programs. These initiatives aim to combat food insecurity by providing food supplies to local families and students. Council Member Paul Dillon emphasized the importance of addressing hunger for community well-being and student success.
The Spokane City Council and City Employees will conduct a food drive from October 15 to December 15 to support Zilch and Bite2Go programs, which combat food insecurity among local children. Council Members emphasize the importance of community involvement, urging residents to donate non-perishable food items or monetary contributions.
Gonzaga University and the Spokane Police Department co-hosted a weeklong Dialogue Policing training event aimed at enhancing law enforcement communication skills. The program, which included community activist perspectives and de-escalation techniques, attracted multiple agencies from the Spokane area. Officers participated in training scenarios to solidify their understanding before earning certification.