Public Meetings - Spokane Valley, Washington

The Spokane Valley Homeless Housing Task Force met on November 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The primary agenda items included approving previous meeting minutes, receiving a presentation on the five-year plan to prevent and end homelessness, and hearing an overview of Spokane Housing Authority programs and data. The task force voted unanimously to recommend the five-year plan to the Spokane Valley City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 2025 Meeting Minutes: A motion was made and seconded. The minutes were approved unanimously (all members present voted aye). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the designated periods, both at the start of the meeting and after the motion on the five-year plan. Discussion Items - Five-Year Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness: Staff presented the Continuum of Care (COC) five-year strategic plan, which had already been submitted to HUD in March 2025. The plan is also required by the Washington State Department of Commerce with an end-of-year deadline for city adoption. The presentation highlighted that HUD is making significant funding changes: permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing currently comprise 80% of the COC's portfolio but will be capped at 30% in the future, and 70% of funding will become competitive nationwide. However, Spokane Valley does not directly receive COC dollars, so the city's funding is not directly affected, but regional resources may shift. The task force discussed the need for a consistent regional plan, noting that Spokane County and the City of Spokane have already adopted the plan. A motion was made to recommend the COC five-year plan to the City Council; this passed unanimously. The recommendation will go to the City Council in December 2025 for a vote. - Spokane Housing Authority Program Presentation: Kelly Keenan, director of housing assistance programs, provided an overview of the housing authority's work. Key points included: - The authority administers HUD's Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program for Spokane County and five surrounding counties. - It operates approximately 6,000 vouchers total, including 4,700 tenant-based vouchers, project-based vouchers, and special purpose vouchers (e.g., VASH for veterans, Foster Youth to Independence). - Landlord incentive programs include one-month rent bonuses for new or returning landlords and bonuses for renting in high-opportunity areas. - The Family Self-Sufficiency program has 33 families enrolled, with one graduate who purchased a home. The authority aims to expand to 50 families. - The tenant-based voucher waitlist, opened for one week in July 2024, received 5,205 applications representing over 11,000 people. Of those households, 30% were elderly/near-elderly, 45% were disabled, and 40% were homeless. Issuance of tenant-based vouchers has been paused since fall 2024 due to rising per-unit costs exceeding HUD's flat funding. The current waitlist stands at 11,202 people. - Current voucher holder demographics: 68% single-person households, 60% female-headed, 72% with Social Security as major income source, 21% with wages. - Development projects include Orchard Vista (240 units of workforce housing with on-site childcare in Spokane Valley, completion December 2026), Haifumi Inn (88 one-bedroom units for 55+ in Spokane, halfway done), and Chalice Place (85–100 units for 55+ in North Spokane, timeline pending funding). - Members requested a jurisdictional breakdown of waitlist applicants by Spokane Valley residency; staff agreed to provide it later. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Five-Year Plan: Passed unanimously. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Spokane Valley City Council for adoption at its December 2025 meeting (deadline end of year). - Next Meeting: The task force’s regular meeting date (fourth Thursday of December) falls on Christmas; a rescheduled date the week prior was suggested but no formal decision was recorded. Members were reminded of the upcoming holiday. - Follow-Up: The chair noted a contact regarding an annual housing facility and planned to discuss further after the meeting.

The Spokane Valley Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) held a special meeting on November 20, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in City Hall Council Chambers to review and make funding recommendations on two applications related to a proposed ice sports facility on the city's Sullivan Property. The committee heard presentations from City Manager John Holman and Shelley O'Quinn of the Innovia Foundation, discussed the proposals, and unanimously approved two motions: one providing up to $600,000 annually for operations (with conditions) and another allocating $2 million for capital infrastructure. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments, either online or in person. Discussion Items - Overview: John Holman explained the city's economic development history, noting that a 2023 study identified a need for tourism venues like an ice rink. A benefactor through Innovia Foundation is self-funding the ice rink construction, but the city cannot sustain operations. The proposal includes commercial pads to generate revenue for ongoing operations. - Operational Application (Innovia Foundation): Shelley O'Quinn presented the operational budget, which differs from an earlier proforma by reducing fees for classes to ensure low/no-cost youth access and adding a line item for capital replacement (target of $500,000 fund). The budget anticipates breaking even in about five years, with reliance on development of adjacent parcels for long-term sustainability. - Capital Application (City of Spokane Valley): The city requested $2 million from Fund 104 (the 1.3% lodging tax capital fund) for design and construction of infrastructure at the Sullivan property. City Council has already authorized matching funds. - Questions and Concerns: - Committee member Rustin Hall (hotel owner) expressed concern about a potential hotel on the adjacent commercial pads, noting that hotels fund the lodging tax and should not fund a competitor. Holman and O'Quinn responded that complementary uses (e.g., restaurants, skate shop) are alternatives and that a hotel is not immediate if operational support is provided. - Hall and Amanda Hoffert noted hotel community excitement for the ice facility but reiterated concern about a competing hotel. O'Quinn confirmed that if LTAC provides operational support, development of commercial pads can be delayed and partnerships explored. - Committee asked about long-term ownership: O'Quinn explained that a single-purpose nonprofit under Innovia would own and operate the facility, with a first-right-of-purchase option for the city to ensure public access and prevent acquisition by private hockey academies. - Holman emphasized that public ownership would secure the mission of affordable access forever. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Operational Support): Moved by committee member (likely Gibbs or Gwynn, but not specified in transcript) and seconded, the LTAC recommended funding Innovia Foundation's operational request from Fund 105 as follows: - Up to $600,000 annually in 2027 and 2028. - Up to $550,000 annually in 2029, 2030, and 2031. - Conditioned on Innovia's agreement that no lodging facility be developed on the 11-acre site through the term of its ground lease with the city as long as lodging tax funds are provided. - Conditioned on Innovia providing a review in 2031 to LTAC of operational support needs and tourism generation. - Vote: Unanimous (all ayes). - Motion 2 (Capital Infrastructure): Moved and seconded, the LTAC recommended funding the city's capital request from Fund 104 for $2 million for design and construction of infrastructure at the Sullivan property. - Conditioned on the city executing a ground lease with Innovia for an ice sports facility substantially as identified in the application. - Also conditioned on meeting the conditions of the operational support motion. - Vote: Unanimous (all ayes). - No further business; meeting adjourned.

The Spokane Valley City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting included presentations, public comments, action on three items, and several administrative reports. Notable decisions included advancing a school speed camera ordinance to second reading (with one opposing vote), approving the 2026 property tax levy without an increase, and authorizing a $170,000 tourism opportunity fund. Council also heard economic trends, a parks and recreation season review, lodging tax recommendations, and a Balfour Park update. Special Guests/Presentations - Partners INW – You Rock Recognition Award: The November U Rock recipient was Partners Inland Northwest, recognized for providing food, clothing, diaper banks, and emergency utility assistance. CEO Dr. Cal Coblenz accepted the award. Council members praised the organization’s long history of service, with Deputy Mayor Hattenberg noting its location in a lower-income area of the Valley. The city also announced a food drive through December 5. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony First General Public Comment Opportunity: - Robert Gropper (Spokane Valley resident for 22 years) expressed frustration with homeless individuals refusing jobs, citing encounters and an ex-Marine who did not follow through on arranged help. He also complained about police resources being diverted to homeless issues. - Linda Clash (Ridgemont Estates) raised concerns about a proposed third road on a 22% grade connecting a county development (Timberlane Terrace) to city property (24th Avenue). She stated the Boundary Review Board had previously ruled the road should be only an emergency access, and she requested a site review from the city. - Sue (neighbor) joined Linda, describing multi-jurisdictional problems from a stormwater pond built on clay inside city limits but controlled by the developer. She noted the pond walls collapsed last winter, flooding the area, and no remediation has occurred. She also cited her service on the Boundary Review Board in 1988, which ruled only emergency access onto 24th Avenue. - Ben Lund spoke positively about the city’s leadership, noting the Economic Planning Committee open house, balanced budget, no city debt, and strong reserves. He urged reducing “misinformation” and focusing on challenges. - Al Schrock congratulated Councilmembers Wick, Padden, and Haley on their November 5 re-election, and expressed gratitude for their leadership. He encouraged them to maintain high standards. Second General Public Comment Opportunity: No speakers. Action Items 1. Ordinance 25-018 – First Read: School Speed Camera Program (Jerremy Clark, Gloria Mantz) - Staff presented the proposed automated traffic safety camera program for school zones, based on state law (HB 2384). Key points: cameras only capture vehicle rear and license plate; fines up to $290; revenue must fund traffic calming; a 30-day warning period; estimated net revenue of $1.5–2 million annually in early years, declining over time. Proposed locations: Centennial Middle School and Bowdish Middle School as primary viable sites. - Public Comments: - Kendra Roja (Spokane Valley) supported for child safety and suggested starting the hiring process early. - Al Schrock opposed reduced fines for low-income drivers, calling it “reverse discrimination.” Staff clarified the reduction is state-required for first violations. - Mike Kelly (Spokane Valley) urged caution, citing financial obligations and potential conflict with citizens; preferred exploring alternatives. - Council Debate: Councilmember Merkel supported as a pilot but emphasized need for long-term solutions like additional patrols or dummy signs. Councilmember Wick opposed due to concerns about vehicle owner liability, data privacy (citing Flock cameras), and preference for fixed radar speed signs. Councilmember Yeager noted conflicting privacy aspects (public records exemption clarified by attorney) and remained 50-50, but acknowledged safety benefits. - Vote: Motion to advance ordinance to second reading passed. (7-1? The transcript shows one "No" from Councilmember Wick, so not unanimous.) 2. Ordinance 25-016 – Second Read: Property Tax Ordinance (Chelsie Walls) - The 2026 levy of approximately $14.3 million excludes the 1% increase allowed by state law but includes an estimated $200,000 from new construction. Estimated levy rate: $0.79 per $1,000 assessed value (unchanged from 2025). The foregone 1% is banked for future use. - Vote: Approved unanimously. 3. Motion Consideration: TPA Opportunity Fund Authorization (Lesli Brassfield) - Authorized $170,000 from 2026 Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) revenue into an opportunity fund to support destination venues and events. The Spokane Valley TPA Hotel Commission will administer the fund. Councilmember Merkel supported as a good use of funds; Councilmember Wick looked forward to discussing criteria. - Vote: Approved unanimously. Non-Action Items / Discussion 4. EWU Economic Trends Update (Teri Stripes, Dr. Jones, Dr. Cullen) - Demographic: Spokane County’s 65+ population increased from 17% (2019) to 19%; city likely higher. Civilian labor force down 2,000 (to 52,000); unemployment fell from 5.7% (Feb 2025) to 4.3% (Aug). Jobs declined slightly to 50,000. County employment growth stagnant except healthcare and government. Residential construction permits steady (42 single-family units/quarter); multifamily surged in Q2 but zero in Q3. Home affordability flat; renter affordability improving, especially for low-income. Median household income in county soared to $86,000 (from $73,000). Taxable retail sales growth: 4.1% in Q2 2025, above state average. Top sectors: motor vehicles, miscellaneous retail, construction, big-box stores, food/accommodations. Projected modest growth of 3-4% for 2025, slightly lower for 2026. Council questioned impact of AI, cross-border shopping, and motor vehicle elasticity. 5. Parks and Recreation Season Review (Kendall May) - Recreation: Summer day camp reached capacity with waitlists; expansion plan in development. Movies in park expanded to five events. Mirabu Halloween event (Oct) had 200+ trick-or-treaters and 210 paid haunted trail participants (exceeded expectations). Senior Center met goal of 700 members. Aquatics: 23,482 total patrons (up 2,000 from 2024); increases in all programs except swim team. Parks: 395 shelter reservations; special events increased by 10. Greenacres Park phase two completed with ribbon cutting. Soccer mini pitch dedicated at Riverbend Elementary. Parks Master Plan update: community input event Dec 2. 6. LTAC Recommendations (Sarah Farr) - Lodging Tax Advisory Committee recommended $447,000 transfer from fund 105 to 104 (capital) and $483,000 in grants for nine applicants (summer theater withdrew). Recommendations based on Oct 29 meeting. Another LTAC meeting scheduled Nov 20 for Ice Sports facility applications; final recommendations to council in December. Councilmember Merkel expressed concern about funds being allocated to city infrastructure rather than events; stated he cannot support. 7. Balfour Park Update (John Bottelli) - Phase one completed summer 2024 (park infrastructure, veterans memorial). Next: sport courts (4 pickleball, 2 basketball) in 2026 ($415,000 state funding). Playground and splash pad in 2027 ($2.5 million federal/state grant). Additional $250,000 state request for lighting/audio. Donations: Heart of the Valley sculpture (Arts Council) and "Loves Me" sculpture (Wolf family). Councilmember Merkel asked about swapping playground and sport court timelines; staff explained grant constraints prevent swapping. Council Comments - Councilmember Yeager: Shared a positive story about Costco’s local recipe; no policy comments. - Councilmember Padden: Highlighted new businesses (Dave & Busters, Land Rover, Trader Joe’s) and successful cross country events (NWAC, WCC) with estimated $10 million economic impact for 2026; supported LTAC funding for cross country. - Councilmember Higgins: Noted police funding increased $11 million and force will grow 20% by 2026; but sheriff’s contract costs rose 16 million in five years (11% annually), which is unsustainable. Advocated for exploring a city-run police department to control costs. - Councilmember Wick: Updated on state committees: e-bike definitions need clarity; e-motos often mislabeled. State freight budget down $700 million due to deferred sales tax; project delivery concerns. - Councilmember Merkel: Mourned loss of a University High student from anaphylactic shock. Called for public involvement in upcoming comprehensive planning to address fire safety in Ponderosa area and sustainable growth. Supported continuing sheriff contract with adjustments. - Councilmember Yeager (second round): Recommended visiting Five Below for affordable gifts. City Manager Comments (John Holman) - Provided photos of Pines grade separation progress (BNSF excavation nearly complete). Addressed Timberlane Terrace issues: the drainage pond (inside city limits) has overflow problems; city recommended county not approve latest phase until remediation, but county approved anyway. City continues pressing. Site distance analysis for proposed 24th Avenue connection is underway. Key Outcomes & Decisions - Advanced Ordinance 25-018 (School Speed Cameras) to second reading – passed with one opposing vote. - Approved Ordinance 25-016 (2026 Property Tax Levy) – unanimous. - Authorized TPA Opportunity Fund ($170,000) – unanimous. - All other items were informational; no votes taken. - Meeting extended until approximately 9:20 p.m. - Next steps: Second reading of speed camera ordinance; December action on LTAC recommendations (including potential Ice Sports facility); continued monitoring of Timberlane Terrace issues.

This was a special meeting of the Spokane Valley City Council to discuss the city’s 2026 state legislative agenda with invited state legislators. The meeting focused on capital funding requests and policy priorities, with no public comments taken. The agenda was approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously by roll call vote. Discussion Items Capital Funding Requests 1. Balfour Park Lighting (presented by Deputy Mayor Hattenburg): Requesting $250,000 from the state capital budget for lighting for basketball and pickleball courts. The park serves 13,000 residents within a one-mile radius, including 750 households below the poverty line and 1,414 households with disabilities. Lighting will allow extended hours and enhance large events. The park is a central gathering place and is part of a master plan expansion. 2. Barker Road / Interstate 90 Interchange (presented by Councilmember Wick): Requesting $3.6 million for design work on a $50 million interchange redesign. The project includes widening the bridge, adding lanes, and roundabouts. The city has already committed $400,000. The interchange currently operates at level of service F. The design does not include I-90 widening, but the project supports future widening. 3. Sullivan/Trent Interchange (presented by Councilmember Wick): The interchange is structurally deficient and high-risk, with the lowest functional rating in WSDOT’s system. The city has secured $17.8 million but is $6 million short. Requesting state match to help close the gap. The design is progressing; the project is on the 2029-31 funding list recommended by the PRAB. Policy Statements 1. Public Safety and Behavioral Health (presented by Councilmember Padden): The city recently passed a one-tenth of one percent public safety sales tax (collected starting January 2026) to fund 12 new positions, including 10 police officers. The city requests state help with recruitment, training, and retention, including easier access to the $100 million public safety fund without onerous requirements. Supports regulations on police technology (e.g., license plate cameras) that balance privacy and effectiveness. Supports $10 million for regional search and rescue helicopters. Also requests more behavioral health facilities, updates to the Involuntary Treatment Act, and a change to the Keeping Families Together Act (2023) which has been linked to increased child fatalities—the state saw the highest child fatality numbers ever in 2025, with 22 in the first quarter alone. 2. Housing Affordability (presented by Councilmember Yaeger): Requests state policies to reduce the cost of constructing new housing, including relief from energy mandates and building code requirements. Notes that the state building code council does not apply to Seattle, yet imposes costs on the rest of the state. Supports preserving existing housing and preventing homelessness, and funding for workforce training programs. 3. Local Decision-Making Authority (presented by Councilmember Higgins): Asks the legislature to honor local decision-making and stop imposing new land-use mandates. The city is implementing 12 recent state mandates, which are challenging to incorporate into the comprehensive plan update. A chart in the packet shows implementation timelines. At least six more land-use mandates are expected for the 2026 session. Council expressed frustration with state overreach. 4. Fiscal Management (presented by Councilmember Merkel): Urges the state to avoid passing mandates and tax burdens to cities. Asks the state to protect shared revenue sources (liquor profits, criminal justice assistance, fuel tax, marijuana taxes). Requests that the state cut unnecessary programs rather than increase taxes or mandate city tax increases. 5. Reducing Costs Through Reform (presented by Mayor Haley): Supports use of local contractors, reducing project costs by allowing regional small business goals. Opposes joint and several liability, which forces cities to pay full damages even if minimally at fault. The city settled a case where a speeding, unbelted driver died after driving off the road, fearing liability over road curvature. Supports reforming abusive public records requests that burden local governments. Q&A and Updates from Legislators (10 minutes): - Legislators discussed their priorities: changing the name of the DCYF oversight board (noted as offensive), pushing back on the Keeping Families Together Act, addressing high costs of juvenile detention under SB 5252 (JR25s), and reforming DCYF’s culture. They noted a potential state income tax on income over $1 million, a wealth tax, increased gas tax, licensing fees, and a highway usage fee (based on vehicle fuel efficiency) as possible revenue measures. Legislators also discussed the state’s noncompliance with federal programs (e.g., Apple Health for undocumented immigrants, CDL issuance, aviation fund misuse) and the fiscal cliff. They expressed frustration with the state’s direction and noted that businesses are leaving for Idaho. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the agenda. - City Council presented formal funding requests for Balfour Park ($250,000), Barker Road/I-90 interchange ($3.6 million design), and Sullivan/Trent interchange (seeking state match for known shortfall). - Council adopted policy positions supporting local control, public safety funding, housing affordability reforms, fiscal restraint, and liability reform. - No formal votes were taken on the legislative agenda, but the council expressed unified support for the outlined priorities. - Legislators committed to advocating for the city’s requests, noting a short session with limited capacity but promising to raise issues such as police recruitment, child safety, and state liability. - The meeting served as a planning session for the 2026 legislative session, with next steps including direct advocacy by council members and coordination with the city’s lobbyist.

The Spokane Valley Planning Commission met on November 13, 2025, at 6:02 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included presentations on land use scenarios for the comprehensive plan update, public comments on shipping containers and housing cooperatives, and a reconsideration of a code text amendment regarding wireless communication tower height. The commission voted 4-2 to forward a recommendation to deny the height increase, and heard the announcement of senior planner Lori Barlow's retirement. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes of October 23, 2025, approved with a minor correction (word change on page 3). - Excused absence granted to Commissioner Wilson unanimously. Commission Reports - Commissioners reported no items, but several praised the open house held earlier that evening. Administrative Report: Land Use Scenarios for Comprehensive Plan Update - Presenter: Elliot Weiss, Senior Planner, Community Attributes Inc. (CAI), along with Clara (CAI). - Context: The city must update its comprehensive plan to comply with state laws (HB 1110, HB 1220, HB 1337), which require planning for over 16,000 housing units at various income levels and allowance of middle housing and ADUs by right. - Three Scenarios Presented: 1. Scenario 1 (Limited Rezone + Upzone): Rezone R4 land west of Sullivan Road between Sprague and Valleyway to multifamily; increase density in MFR, CMU, MU zones to 32 dwelling units per acre; allow middle housing and ADUs by right in R1-R4; expand UGA for commercial/industrial but not residential. 2. Scenario 2 (UGA Expansion): No rezone of R4; instead shift residential capacity (∼500 units) to currently unincorporated county land outside city limits, which complicates HB 1220 compliance. 3. Scenario 3 (No Rezone, Stronger Upzone): Keep existing zoning but increase multifamily density to 40 dwelling units per acre in MFR, CMU, MU zones to make up the ∼500-unit gap; expand UGA only for commercial/industrial. - Discussion: Commissioners asked about the source of the 500-unit gap, the meaning of “by right,” and how UGA areas factor into calculations (they do not count toward housing capacity until annexed). Commissioner Weatherman and others requested a future work session to delve deeper into the scenarios. Staff agreed to bring the item back as a regular discussion item. - No vote was taken on the scenarios. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Dole (Spokane Valley resident): Requested the commission consider allowing shipping containers for outside storage, noting current code prohibits them and enforcement is insufficient. He clarified he is not seeking to build houses from containers. - Joseph Godsey (Spokane Valley resident): Suggested housing cooperatives as a legal workaround for converting apartments into condos, enabling more homeownership. He had previously discussed condo conversion difficulties with Commissioner Meyer. Commission Business: CTA-2025-0002 – Reconsideration and Findings of Fact for Wireless Communication Tower Height - Presenters: Senior Planner Lori Barlow and Associate Planner Adam Knight. - Background: A city-initiated code text amendment would allow towers up to 100 feet plus 20 feet antenna (120 feet total) only for regional emergency communication providers. The commission voted 5-0 on October 23 to recommend denial, believing the urgent need (SREC’s relocation) had been addressed via an emergency ordinance. Staff later identified two scenarios where SREC could lose vested rights (if building permit must be resubmitted after temporary ordinance expires, or if a tower is damaged 80%), potentially causing loss of emergency services. - Staff Recommendation: The commission reconsider its denial and approve the amendment, arguing that the code change is good policy for essential government services and avoids relying on emergency ordinances. - Discussion: - Commissioner Winkler questioned whether an emergency ordinance could be used again if needed; staff noted emergency ordinances are time-consuming and not best practice for planning. - Commissioner Kelly emphasized that the amendment still requires a conditional use permit (CUP) in residential zones, providing additional oversight. - Commissioner Meyer expressed concern about a “broad stroke” allowing 120-foot towers citywide, but Commissioner Winkler countered that governing through emergency ordinances is unsustainable. - Motion to Reconsider: Commissioner Winkler moved to reconsider the previous findings of fact; no second was offered, so the motion died. - Vote on Findings of Fact: The commission then voted on the original findings of fact (recommending denial). The motion carried 4-2 (Ayes: 4, Nays: 2). The recommendation to deny the code text amendment will be forwarded to the Spokane Valley City Council. Key Outcomes - Land Use Scenarios: No action taken; staff will schedule a future work session for deeper discussion. - CTA-2025-0002: Motion to reconsider failed; commission adopted findings of fact recommending denial by a 4-2 vote. The city council will have final authority. - Personnel Announcement: Senior Planner Lori Barlow announced her retirement at the end of November; this was her last Planning Commission meeting. Commissioners expressed gratitude for her service. - Next Meeting: December 11, 2025 (noted as the last meeting of the year).

The Spokane Valley City Council met on November 5, 2025 at 5:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included action on a property tax ordinance, a divided vote on the 2026 Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) budget, and discussions on the city's legal newspaper, a lodging tax advisory committee request for an ice rink project, and allocation of excess fund balance. Public comments touched on election results and the legal newspaper decision. Councilmember Wick was excused. Consent Calendar - Roll call: Present – Mayor Haley, Deputy Mayor Hattenberg, Councilmembers Merkel, Higgins, Patton, Yeager. Councilmember Wick excused. Agenda approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - First General Public Comment: An unidentified speaker praised the election results, stating that voters rejected a "misinformation campaign" and reaffirmed trust in "steady, accountable leadership." The speaker provided statistics: primary results – Ben Wick 67%, Pam Haley 55%, Laura Patton 62%; approximately 92,625 votes counted with 22,000 remaining; turnout of 24.8%. The speaker concluded by thanking residents for voting and praised the city's leadership. - Second General Public Comment: Mike Patton, a 48-year resident, spoke against switching the city's legal newspaper from the Valley News Herald to the Spokesman Review. He argued the Herald has local ties, noted the publisher is willing to reopen a valley office, and questioned the cost difference, citing a specific ad would have been $73 more in the Review. He urged the council to hold off and analyze further. Action Items - Ordinance 25-016 (First Read – Property Tax Levy): Finance Director Chelsie Walls presented the ordinance, levying regular property taxes for 2026. The levy does not include the 1% increase allowed by law (city has not taken it for 17 years). It includes estimated new construction of $200,000, bringing the total levy to approximately $14.3 million, representing 21% of general fund recurring revenues. Based on an estimated assessed value of $18.2 billion, the levy rate is about $0.79 per $1,000 of assessed value – nearly unchanged from 2025. The ordinance was advanced unanimously to a second reading scheduled for November 18. - Motion Consideration: 2026 TPA Budget Proposal: Tourism and Marketing Manager Lesli Brassfield proposed four expenditures from the 2026 TPA budget of $1,775,000: (1) up to $30,000 for geolocation and visitor spending technology; (2) up to $700,000 for Spokane Sports for sports recruitment and marketing; (3) up to $875,000 for 116 West for destination marketing; and (4) $170,000 for an opportunity fund with TPA Commission administrative authority. Councilmember Merkel expressed support for all except the Spokane Sports portion, citing lack of common sense. The council voted separately: first, the motion for all except Spokane Sports passed unanimously (all in favor). Then, a vote on the Spokane Sports portion passed 6-1 (Merkel opposed). The total motion authorizing the city manager to execute the contracts was approved. Discussion Items - Admin Report: Private Development Report – Building Official Jenny Nickerson summarized the 2025 construction season. Highlights included newly opened businesses: Dave & Buster's, Land Rover dealership, Scale House Market, Sierra Trading Post, Play It Again Sports, and Swire Coca-Cola distribution expansion. Projects under construction: UPS site, Mirabu Place (300 units), Orchard Vista, McKinnon Place apartments. Planned projects: Saltese Creek (320 units), Mirabu Multifamily (5-story), Pappy's Landing (31 lots), and commercial projects like Honeywell Copperfield expansion and Avista Stadium concession stand repairs. Top five completed projects by valuation: Swire Coca-Cola ($15.4M), UPS conveyor system ($14.2M), Dave & Buster's ($7.5M), Mirabu Transit Center, and Scale House Market. Nickerson also showed a 10-year aerial comparison of the City Hall neighborhood. - Admin Report: Legal Newspaper Discussion – City Attorney Kelly Konkright and City Clerk Marci Patterson presented options for the city's official legal newspaper. The current paper is the weekly Valley News Herald (print circulation 650, plus online through Cheney Free Press). The Spokesman Review is a daily with 40,000 readers, offering a contracted rate of $1.57 per line (discounts on repeat insertions) and no per-publication fees beyond the first affidavit. The Valley Herald charges $0.90 per line plus a $5 affidavit fee and $5 online fee per item, and has a weekly deadline requiring submissions by Tuesday for Friday publication. The Exchange (another weekly) did not provide a legal publication option. Staff recommended switching to the Spokesman Review for faster turnaround and broader circulation. Council member Merkel questioned the timing and advocated for keeping local business. Councilmember Higgins noted the circulation issue was long-standing and that the Exchange had been added previously. The council reached consensus to move forward with a resolution naming the Spokesman Review as the legal paper of record, with a January effective date. The matter will return as an action item. - Admin Report: LTAC Application Request – City Manager John Hohman reported that the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), at its October 29 meeting, expressed strong interest in speeding up the proposed ice rink facility (Anovia Foundation project). The committee wants to consider an application to cover operational losses for the rink (projected $445,000 loss in year one, decreasing to $80,000 by year five) and to potentially contribute up to $2 million of the $3 million needed for infrastructure improvements (road access, sewer lift station). Hohman noted that the hoteliers are enthusiastic after the success of a recent cross-country event at the new course, which generated significant room nights. A special LTAC meeting is proposed for November 20 to receive applications from Anovia for operational loss reimbursement and from the city for infrastructure match. Councilmember Merkel expressed concerns about the unknown land lease terms and the potential for unbounded costs, urging caution. Other members, including Higgins, Yeager, and Patton, supported moving forward, emphasizing that the hoteliers (who generate the tax) want this and that it aligns with the city's economic development goals. Consensus was reached to proceed with the special meeting and application process. - Admin Report: Fund 312 Discussion – Finance Director Chelsie Walls presented the annual allocation of excess fund balance from the general fund (above the 50% reserve policy) into capital reserve Fund 312. The total available is approximately $7.9 million, originating from 2023 actuals where sales taxes exceeded budget by $2M and interest income by $3.2M. The City Manager then proposed allocations based on finance committee discussions: $1,042,000 for pavement preservation (Fund 311); $1,750,000 for local access street program (Fund 101); $672,790 for Sullivan Road Interchange local match; $500,000 for Barker I-90 interchange planning; $150,000 for Plants Ferry Park improvements (county partnership); $550,000 for Balfour Park sports courts ($300K) and audio/lighting ($250K state match); $100,000 for Summerfield Park (no allocation, only concept); $200,000 for public safety campus study; $1,100,000 as match for potential ice rink infrastructure if LTAC recommends; $150,000 for Sullivan Park parking lot rehabilitation; and $500,000 reserve for the cross-country course. Councilmember Merkel agreed with pavement, local streets, public safety campus, and Balfour Park, but remained opposed to others. Deputy Mayor Hattenberg supported the full list. The council gave consensus to proceed with the allocation as presented, noting that the $5.6 million transfer will appear in the upcoming budget amendment and the 2026 budget document. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 25-016 (Property Tax Levy) advanced to second reading on November 18 with unanimous support. - 2026 TPA Budget approved: (a) $30,000 for technology services; (b) $700,000 for Spokane Sports (passed 6-1); (c) $875,000 for 116 West; (d) $170,000 opportunity fund – all contracts authorized. - Legal Newspaper: Consensus to bring forward a resolution in January naming the Spokesman Review as the official legal newspaper. - LTAC Ice Rink Project: Consensus to hold a special LTAC meeting on November 20 to receive applications for operational loss coverage (from Anovia) and up to $2M infrastructure funding from the city. - Fund 312 Allocations: Consensus to adopt the proposed allocation list totaling $7.9 million, with the formal budget amendment to be presented December 9.

The Spokane Valley Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) held a special meeting on October 29, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to approximately 11:30 a.m. at City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included mandatory Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) training, an overview of the 2026 grant process and revenue forecasts, applicant presentations from nine organizations, individual project ranking, and committee discussion leading to funding recommendations and motions for future action. OPMA Training (8:00 – 8:30 a.m.) - Senior Deputy City Attorney Tony Beattie conducted annual training on the Public Records Act (PRA) and OPMA, emphasizing transparency, retention schedules, and penalties for violations. - Committee members were reminded that all deliberations and rankings must occur during open public meetings, not via serial communications or private discussions. Opening Comments (8:30 – 8:45 a.m.) - Councilmember and LTAC Chair Rod Higgins opened the public comment period; no members of the public offered comments in person or via Zoom. - Sarah Farr, Accounting and Finance Program Manager, presented the 2026 funding process, including state law requirements, revenue projections, and City Council goals. - Available revenue: approximately $930,000 in the 2% Fund 105 (tourism marketing, operations, and non-capital facility uses). - Capital Fund 104 (for municipally-owned tourism facilities) projected at $1,618,211. - Based on a five-year average, staff recommended transferring $447,000 from Fund 105 to Fund 104 to support capital expenditures, leaving $483,000 for awards from Fund 105. Applicant Presentations (9:00 – 10:40 a.m.) Each applicant gave a 10-minute presentation followed by committee Q&A. One applicant (Spokane Valley Summer Theatre) withdrew prior to the meeting. The remaining nine applicants presented: - City of Spokane Valley (John Batelli, Parks & Recreation Director) – Requested $260,000 for first-year maintenance and operations of the new Spokane Valley Cross Country Course. Estimated 30,000 visitors and 7,600 room nights in 2026. The course will host the WCC Cross Country Championships (November 2025) and the Nike Cross Regionals and Bob Furman Invitational in 2026. - Spokane Conservation District (Lisette Walser) – Requested $37,000 for marketing of the Scale House Market, including billboards and collateral materials. Projected 250,000 visitors in 2026, 17,500 overnight guests, and $14.3 million economic impact. Staff adjusted the request to remove $8,000 for ineligible signage. - Cody Productions (Chris Cody) – Requested funding to promote the Spokane Motorcycle Show (March 13–15, 2026) to audiences 50+ miles from Spokane Valley. Emphasized that advertising is exclusive to out-of-region audiences. - CNC Productions – Requested funding for the RV Show (January 22–25, 2026), using the same out-of-region marketing approach as Cody Productions. - Washington State Quilters – Spokane Chapter (Cheryl Clos) – Requested funding for the 48th Annual Quilt Show (October 16–18, 2026). Reported 500 paid lodging nights from the 2025 show and 31% out-of-state attendance. A portion of the request was for quilt-hanging system upgrades (fire-code compliance); staff noted capital expenditures are ineligible unless deemed operational equipment. - Spokane County Fair & Expo Center (Erin Gertell) – Requested $80,000 for marketing and security for the 10-day Interstate Fair. Reported 27,000 out-of-town attendees, 1,500 hotel room nights, and a $24.1 million economic impact from fair visitors. Half the request would support safety and security. - Spokane Valley HUB Sports Center (Phil Champ) – Requested funding to support 87 overnight-stay events in 2025. Reported 63% of teams traveling 50 miles. Requested an allocation change to increase marketing spending to $25,000. - Spokane Valley Heritage Museum (Jane Singleton and Tom MacArthur) – Requested funding for marketing (print and digital), website enhancements, and upcoming exhibits tied to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and a Smithsonian exhibit on women’s suffrage. Reported direct counts of visitors and room nights from guest logs. - Inland NW Wildlife Council (Melanie) – First-time applicant, requesting $75,000 for the Bighorn Outdoor Adventure Show (third weekend in March 2026). Funds would support a new website, online advertising, and speaker/influencer fees. Noted the March date coincides with high hotel occupancy, making partnership tracking difficult. Funding Allocation & Ranking (10:40 – 11:00 a.m.) - Committee members submitted individual priority rankings (1–9) on paper, which were tallied by staff and displayed on a screen. - Motion to transfer $447,000 from Fund 105 to Fund 104 (capital) passed unanimously. - After ranking, the committee discussed the displayed recommendations. The default allocation funded some applicants fully and others partially. Several applicants, including the Fair & Expo Center ($27,000 partial) and the Quilters, received partial funding; others received no funding. - Motion to approve funding recommendations as displayed was made and seconded. After discussion, the motion passed on a 4–1 vote. The dissenting member stated they would have preferred either fully funding or not funding certain applicants rather than partial allocations. Key Outcomes - Approved: Transfer of $447,000 from Fund 105 to Fund 104 for capital projects. - Approved: Funding recommendations as displayed, committing $483,000 from Fund 105 to selected applicants (list of specific award amounts not read into the record but adopted by the committee). - Approved: Motion to invite city staff to a special LTAC meeting to present a proposal for using up to $2 million in Fund 104 money to support a proposed two-sheet ice rink facility on Sullivan Road. The motion also requested a formal application and presentation. Motion passed unanimously. - Adjourned: Meeting concluded at approximately 11:30 a.m.

The Spokane Valley City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting began with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and a proclamation declaring November as National American Indian Heritage Month. The council addressed a consent agenda, a public hearing on a 2025 budget amendment, first readings of the 2025 budget amendment and the 2026 budget, a motion on the federal legislative agenda, and two non-action administrative reports. Discussions included bridge inspection concerns, the 2026 budget overview, a proposed amendment to fund 10 new police officers, the 2026 Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) budget proposal, and proposed permit fee adjustments. The meeting also featured public comments, council reports, and a city manager update on Flock cameras and police staffing. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: claim vouchers ($4,334,209.18), payroll for pay period ending October 15, 2025 ($695,133.37), and council meeting minutes of September 23, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Ben Lund (37-year resident) submitted a formal opinion letter from attorney Austin Hatcher, arguing that his speech about council members' official behavior is protected by the First Amendment and Washington State Constitution. He asked for equal enforcement of decorum rules. - Keith and Shelley Clark (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) invited the council to a ribbon-cutting event on December 12, 2025, for “giving machines” at the Valley Mall, which allow donations to local and global charities. - Al Shrock apologized for his previous remarks, stating they were inflammatory and that he will strive for civility. He also urged using financial reserves for unforeseen infrastructure needs. - Scott Battalion (Garco Construction project manager) thanked the council for the Swire Coca-Cola ribbon cutting and praised the city’s permitting process. - In the public hearing for the 2025 budget amendment: Al Shrock again spoke, emphasizing the need for a financial cushion to cover unknown costs like bridge repairs. Discussion Items 2025 Budget Amendment (Public Hearing & Ordinance 25-015) - Finance Director Chelsie Walls and Public Works Director Robert Blagen presented two urgent bridge issues: - Sullivan River Bridge (southbound side): Radial cracking, settling sidewalk, and a large void under the approach slab. Monitoring and geotechnical instrumentation are needed, estimated to cost $80,000 additional (for a total of $100,000 for both bridges). The timeline for monitoring is 3–5 months through winter. - Steen Road timber bridge (Saltese Creek): Decayed timber stringers and a pile, leading to closure of the southbound lane. Evaluation of repairs is underway; the bridge serves five parcels. The $80,000 addition to the Street Fund 101 will cover both bridges. - Councilmember Merkel asked for breakdown of $1.185 million in ARPA contract costs (not provided at meeting). - The public hearing was closed at 6:40 p.m. Ordinance 25-015 (amending the 2025 budget) was advanced to second reading (December 9, 2025) on a unanimous vote. 2026 Budget (Ordinance 25-017) & Councilmember Merkel’s Amendment - Chelsea Walls gave a budget and finance overview presentation, explaining fund accounting, the 50% minimum ending fund balance policy, and the two-year lookback for excess fund balances. - Councilmember Merkel moved to amend the 2026 budget by shifting approximately $2.5 million in recurring expenses to non-recurring status, freeing up recurring funds to authorize an additional 10 police officers (beyond the 10 already planned). The amendment lacked a second and failed. - The first reading of the 2026 budget (Ordinance 25-017) then passed unanimously. The 2026 budget totals $148.4 million across 31 funds, with a general fund of $70.6 million. Recurring revenues ($68.6M) exceed recurring expenditures ($68.5M) by $119,000. The general fund ending balance is projected at $42.1 million (61.56% of recurring expenditures). Federal Legislative Agenda (2026) - Virginia Clough presented the final draft, incorporating earlier council feedback: - Added policy supporting secure data sharing among crisis response teams. - Strengthened language supporting increased capacity of the Lower Snake River Dams for energy grid reliability. - Clarified funding request for the regional stabilization center expansion. - Contacted Kaiser Aluminum; currently no federal initiatives, but support for the materials manufacturing tech hub will benefit Kaiser and 1,500 aerospace suppliers. - The motion to approve passed unanimously. 2026 TPA Budget Proposal - Leslie Brassfield (Tourism and Marketing Manager) presented the TPA budget of $1,775,000, funded by a $4-per-room-night fee on 16 hotels. Key components: - Opportunity Fund ($170,000): To support local venues and events that drive overnight hotel stays. Criteria were discussed; councilmembers suggested adding monitoring/evaluation plans and a 10% cost-share requirement. The TPA Commission would award funds administratively, with criteria codified in municipal code. - Technology Services (up to $30,000): Geolocation and visitor spending data subscription. - Destination Marketing ($875,000 to 116 & West): Year 4 of the 5-year marketing plan, shifting to paid media. - Sports Recruitment and Marketing ($700,000 to Spokane Sports): Focus on the cross‑country course, with four secured 2026 events projected to generate 5,255 hotel room nights and over 21,000 visitors. - Council discussion raised concerns about ROI, venue vs. event organizer eligibility, and staff bandwidth for monitoring. Consensus was sought but not formally voted; the item will return on November 18, 2025, with more details. Permit Fee Discussion - Gloria Mantz (City Services Administrator) proposed restructuring engineering and planning permit fees to better reflect staff effort, potentially generating up to $400,000 in additional revenue. Key changes: - Eliminate grading fees based on excavation volume; replace with complexity-based categories. - Increase planning fees (SEPA, floodplain permits) and add new fees (temporary use permits for RVs, community services applications). - No increase to building permit fees. Add a $25 technology fee for standalone permits and raise the minimum standalone permit fee to $70. - Developers and the Home Builders Association expressed understanding of the need for predictable fees and fast permitting. Council provided consensus to incorporate the modifications into the master fee schedule. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing (2025 Budget Amendment): Closed; testimony received. - Ordinance 25-015 (2025 Budget Amendment): First reading passed unanimously; second reading scheduled for December 9, 2025. - Ordinance 25-017 (2026 Budget): First reading passed unanimously; Councilmember Merkel’s amendment to fund additional police officers failed for lack of a second. Second reading on December 9, 2025. - Federal Legislative Agenda: Approved unanimously. - TPA Budget Proposal: Consensus achieved to bring forward motions for the opportunity fund, technology services, and consultant contracts; formal vote expected at a later meeting. - Permit Fee Adjustments: Council consensus to include proposed fee changes in the master fee schedule, with adoption by year-end. - Advance Agenda: Councilmember Merkel requested a report on nighttime taco stands (consensus via show of hands) and a report on cold weather preparations for homelessness (consensus). Both items to be added to a future agenda. - City Manager Report: Chief Ellis clarified that Spokane Valley PD never opted into the Flock national data-sharing program that included ICE and CBP; the department’s cameras are used only for stolen vehicle and investigative alerts. Deputy City Manager Lamb and Chief Ellis presented historical police staffing data to counter claims of defunding, noting that budgeted officer positions were not filled due to retirements and recruitment challenges, not council cuts. - Meeting Adjourned: At approximately [time not specified]; next regular meeting will be a special meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 (starting with executive session at 5:00 p.m., regular business at 6:00 p.m.) due to election day and Veterans Day.

The Spokane Valley City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. The sole purpose was to convene an executive session to discuss the review of a public employee under RCW 42.30.110(1)(g). No formal public comments were accepted, and no action was taken on the employee matter during open session. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Yeager Excused: A motion to excuse Councilmember Yeager was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. - Executive Session: A motion was made and seconded to adjourn into executive session for approximately 45 minutes to discuss the review of a public employee, with the stipulation that no action would be taken upon return to open session. The motion carried without opposition.