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City of Spokane
Community Update
September 10, 2024
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Mayor Brown Proposes New Special US Assistant Attorney Role to Target Narcotics Prosecution
A proposal put forward by Mayor Lisa Brown would combine federal and city resources to establish a Special US Assistant Attorney to focus on narcotics prosecution impacting the City of Spokane. If approved by the City Council, this attorney will be a City employee who works in collaboration with the Eastern District of Washington US Attorney’s Office. Click here for more information.
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Brown Administration Announces Two New Cost-Saving Measures
As a result of several cost-saving measures, the Brown Administration is pleased to announce the City's structural deficit has been reduced from $25 million to $14 million. Mayor Lisa Brown recently announced two additional measures to continue work on eliminating the deficit. One of the proposed measures is a voluntary retirement incentive for City employees who are part of the Managerial and Professional (M&P) Association and meet certain criteria. The additional cost-saving measure is a six-month freeze of the 2025 cost-of-living-adjustments (COLAs) for Cabinet members. For more information on the cost-saving measures already implemented by the Brown Administration, click here.
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Construction Update
The City of Spokane provides updates on the Lincoln Road, Washington-Stevens Corridor, and Greene/Market St. projects as well as a new grind and overlay project on Rustle Street.
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Francis Ave. Sewer Station Repair
Francis Ave. will be reduced to one lane in each direction between Belt St. and Elm St. for a sewer station repair. Flaggers will be on hand and traffic controls will be in place. This work will begin at 8 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 12 and continue for the entire day until work is complete. Click here for more info.
What to Expect:
- East and west bound traffic on Francis Ave. will experience significant slowdowns for the entire day.
- The center turn-lane on Francis Ave. will also be closed between Belt St. and Elm St.
- Drivers are encouraged to use alternate east and west arterial routes if possible.
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Kids Junior Firefighter Academy
The 6th annual Kids Junior Fire Academy is on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at River Park Square and on Post Street. The Kids Junior Fire Academy is open to “kids” of all ages, and will provide an opportunity for attendees to tour and see demonstrations from a ladder truck and fire engine, learn hands-only CPR, make a craft, operate a charged fire hose, learn about child passenger safety and so much more! Kids can collect stamps at each activity and receive a Jr. Firefighter certificate. Click here to learn more about this free event.
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Behavioral Health Unit Turns Lives Around
Shaun Housam shares how the Spokane Behavioral Health Unit saved his life. Learn more about the Behavior Health Unit in this KXLY article.
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Battery Smart Spokane
Lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire hazard, so charge smart! Always plug chargers directly into a wall electrical outlet. Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or a couch. For more charge smart tips, read this Battery Smart Spokane blog.
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Stay Alert, Slow Down, and Mind the Signs When Commuting Near Schools
The City of Spokane, Spokane Police Department, and Spokane Public Schools want to remind everyone about some simple safety rules around school buses and crosswalks. Our kids’ safety is crucial. Let’s have a great year getting to and from school! Click here for more safety tips.
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Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Poster Contest
Calling all artists! Enter your submissions for the Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Poster Contest! This is a unique opportunity for local artists to have their work featured globally. We encourage all artists to submit designs that capture the heart of Washington's community, culture, and love for soccer. Don’t miss this chance to be part of history! Learn more and register here before Friday, Sept. 27.
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Water Wise Tip: The Bucket Trick
Try the bucket trick to water your young saplings. For more tips vist WaterWiseSpokane.org.
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Washington Poison Center Helpline
Call the Washington Poison Center Helpline at 800-222-1222 if a person has been exposed to dangerous or potentially dangerous substances. The Poison Helpline can also be a resource for people seeking information before an exposure occurs.
The helpline provides immediate, free, and confidential expert advice 24/7.
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Council Recap
Council President Betsy Wilkerson recaps the Monday, Sept. 9, Spokane City Council meeting.
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Know the Number
Navigating City services can be confusing, but knowing the right number to call can make a significant difference in getting the help you need quickly and efficiently. Whether you need immediate public safety assistance or help paying your water bill, the City of Spokane and regional partners are ready to assist you. Visit the City's website for more information.
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Future of Spokane Falls Blvd. Survey Ends Friday
Time is running out and we want your feedback about future priorities for Spokane Falls Blvd. What are your thoughts on pedestrian safety, parking, bicycle lanes, and traffic flow? Take this short survey to help us plan.
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UHelp Program Needs Assistance
In 2013, the City of Spokane began a program to support households who qualify with one-time emergency financial assistance to help pay for their City utility bills, which includes charges for water, wastewater, stormwater, and garbage collection. The UHelp program is funded through donations with a dollar-for-dollar match provided by a designated Public Works fund of up to $50,000 each year. To continue to serve the need moving forward, more donations are needed.
You can donate online, by phone, or by mail. Click here to learn more about the UHelp program.
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Funding Available for Four Grants
The City of Spokane has issued four notices of funding seeking applications for Engagement Navigators, Youth Sports, Neighborhood Business Districts, and Childcare Center Capital grants. These grants are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. Visit my.SpokaneCity.org/ARPAfunding for more information.
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Community Needs Survey
The Consolidated Plan is a five-year strategic plan that governs the administration of federal funding appropriated for housing and community development activities that benefit low- and moderate-income persons. The City of Spokane will receive approximately $22 million in federal funding from 2025-2029. Take this survey to help us capture the needs of our community and how to prioritize funding.
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Bicycle Survey Part of Designation Process
The City reapplied for Bicycle Friendly Community status from the League of American Bicyclists. As part of the review process, the League wants your input on bicycling in Spokane. If you’ve ever biked here, please take a minute to complete a survey before Tuesday, Oct. 15.
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Spokane Rewards. Spokane Solves. Spokane Gives
The City of Spokane is a great place to combine community support with expertise. There are more than 30 boards, commissions, and committees made up of volunteers who help shape our community. If you have one day a year, or one day a week, there is an opportunity for you. Pick your passion and get involved!
Join the Climate, Resilience and Sustainability Board!
Join the Climate, Resilience and Sustainability Board and help Spokane meet its sustainability and climate goals! The purpose of the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Board is to provide advice and recommendations to the Mayor, City Council, and community on the actions necessary to achieve the community’s sustainability and climate goals consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Sustainability Action Plan, environmental stewardship policies of the City as adopted by the City Council, and within the requirements and parameters set forth in state law. Click here to apply!
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Summer Fun: Volume Music Festival
Volume Music Festival is back! Get ready for an unforgettable weekend with 100 performances across 10 stages in the heart of downtown Spokane. From emerging local talent to national acts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! The festival is Friday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 14. Don't miss out – grab your tickets here.
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On The Bright Side
The Numerica SkyRide Audio Tour is now available! Explore the fascinating history of the Spokane River and Spokane Falls with our new audio experience. Simply scan the QR code inside the cabin to get started.
And if you’re a Spokane County resident, don’t forget to use the offer code "Sky High Savings" at the cashier counter for $5 off your admission ticket! Come enjoy the ride!
Click here for attraction hours.
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