Public Meetings - Spokane Valley, Washington

The Spokane Valley City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at City Hall, 10210 E Sprague Ave. The agenda included a Presidents' Day proclamation, approval of routine consent items, a telecommunications franchise ordinance, a first reading of a Kratom sales restriction ordinance, capital improvement project reports, a clean air regulation comment letter, and a budget overview. The council approved consent items and the franchise, forwarded the Kratom ordinance to a second reading, and directed follow-up on several administrative reports. Proclamation - Mayor Laura Padden proclaimed February 16, 2026, as Presidents' Day in Spokane Valley. Representatives from the DAR/CAR organizations accepted the proclamation and announced upcoming America 250 celebrations. Consent Calendar - Approved claim vouchers dated January 27, 2026 ($7,367,598.72) and February 10, 2026 ($1,174,447.39). - Approved payroll for pay periods ending January 15, 2026 ($714,880.78) and January 31, 2026 ($770,630.03). - Approved council meeting minutes from January 13, 2026 (listed twice on the agenda), January 20, 2026, and January 27, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - During the first general public comment period, one speaker made brief remarks about police patrols and vaccines; no other speakers came forward. - During the Kratom ordinance public comment, several residents and out-of-state advocates testified: - Ben Lund (Spokane Valley resident/business owner) supported a total ban, citing lack of data and ease of enforcement. - Spencer Coffin (Spokane resident) opposed a blanket ban, urging regulated sales with labeling, testing, and age restrictions. - Jennifer Gillis (via Zoom) supported restricting synthetic 70H products while preserving access to whole-leaf Kratom for chronic pain patients. - Misty Brown (Thornton, Colorado) opposed the ban, sharing personal recovery experience and speaking for a Spokane Valley resident unable to attend. - Melody Wolf (Michigan) urged the council to follow current FDA/HHS positions and avoid banning natural Kratom. - Alison Smith (Global Kratom Coalition) recommended a 21+ sales regulation with a 2% limit on 70H and third-party testing. - John Shenholzer (American Veterans for Kratom Safe) opposed the ban, citing peer-reviewed studies and distinguishing natural Kratom from synthetics. - Jordan Richard (California) opposed the ban, stating Kratom is statistically safer than opioids and culturally established in Southeast Asia. - The second general public comment period had no speakers. Discussion Items - Ordinance 26-001 (Second Read) – Forge Fiber 37 LLC Franchise: Councilmember Tony Beattie presented the franchise ordinance for a telecommunications franchise to Forge Fiber 37 LLC, an AT&T subsidiary acquiring Lumen facilities. The performance bond was increased to $100,000, and language regarding potential franchise fees was updated. Councilmember Merkel praised the increased guarantee. The council approved the ordinance on a voice vote. - Ordinance 26-003 (First Read) – Kratom Sale & Distribution: Police Chief Ellis and City Attorney's Office representative Caitlin Prunty presented a draft ordinance prohibiting Kratom sales in Spokane Valley. They described Kratom's risks, the lack of federal/state regulation, and enforcement challenges. A class 1 civil infraction ($250 per violation) and potential business license revocation were discussed. Councilmember Kelly raised concerns about banning natural Kratom while synthetic 70H is the primary problem; Councilmember Yeager moved to table the item for three months to gather more information. The tabling motion failed on a voice vote. The council then voted to forward the ordinance to a second reading. - 2026 Capital Improvement Projects: Staff presented the 2026 CIP, including: - Centennial Trail improvements (bridge completed; trailhead/lighting; roundabout at Trent; construction through 2026–2027). - Sprague Avenue Preservation (Bowdish to McDonald; grind/inlay, curb ramps, stormwater, and lane-narrowing to restore shoulder striping; construction spring 2026). - South Barker Corridor (Sprague to Appleway; widening, bike lanes, sidewalks, landscaping; late March–June 2026, state-funded). - Sullivan Avenue Preservation (8th to 24th; reconstruction, sidewalk infill, new mid-block crossing at 12th, RRFBs; federal/city funded). - Local access preservation contract (neighborhood street overlays and stormwater retrofits; spring/summer). - 32nd Avenue Preservation/Pines to SR-27 (with 18-inch water main by MOD Irrigation, ITS conduit; May–August). - Arterial school crossings (10 crosswalks on Broadway, Pines, and 32nd with ADA ramps and flashing beacons). - Belfort Park improvements (pickleball/basketball courts plus amenities; potential lighting/sound system alternate). - Pavement condition indices were provided: Sprague 65–75, South Barker 80, Sullivan 40–60, etc. - Clean Air Regulation Comments: City Manager John Holman and Attorney Tony Beattie reviewed a proposed Department of Ecology rule on criteria pollutants in overburdened communities. They argued that major PM2.5 sources are wildfire smoke (45,000 tons/year), wood smoke (17,000), and agriculture (15,000), not local businesses. The city drafted a comment letter requesting proportionality, third-party assessments, and state funding of compliance costs. Council consensus approved sending the letter. - Budget 101 Presentation (Part One): Finance Director Cheslie Walls explained governmental accounting (GAAP/BARS), the city's 31 funds, the 2027 budget calendar, state-mandated public hearings, and the general fund 50% minimum fund balance policy (currently projected at 49.04%). A follow-up presentation is scheduled for February 17, 2026, with a winter workshop on February 24, 2026. - Advance Agenda Requests: Councilmember Yeager requested an administrative report on noise ordinance options regarding the Shogun nightclub. Councilmember Merkel requested an evaluation of vacant property registration (zombie properties) and a separate report on the pavement preservation pilot program. City Manager suggested existing tools may cover some concerns; consensus was given for staff follow-up. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda unanimously. - Approved Ordinance 26-001 granting a franchise to Forge Fiber 37 LLC. - Forwarded Ordinance 26-003 (Kratom ban) to a second reading; a motion to table for three months failed. - Approved sending the clean air regulation comment letter to the Department of Ecology. - Directed staff to bring back admin reports on noise ordinance, vacant property registration, and pavement preservation pilot. - Noted that agenda items for the HCDAC Grant Application and Resolution 26-002 (Surplus Items) were not covered in the available transcript.

The Spokane Valley City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The primary purpose was to enter an executive session to discuss pending litigation under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). The meeting was brief, consisting of roll call, a motion to enter executive session, and adjournment. Executive Session - The agenda proposed an executive session of approximately 45 minutes, but during the meeting a motion was made and approved to limit the session to approximately 20 minutes. No action was taken upon return to open session. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Wick was excused from the meeting by a unanimous vote (6-0). - A motion to adjourn into executive session for approximately 20 minutes passed unanimously. - After the executive session, the council reconvened in open session and adjourned the meeting without further discussion or action.

The Spokane Valley City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting covered several action items including an interlocal agreement with Broadlinc, a bid award for the South Barker Corridor project, and two emergency interim ordinances addressing battery energy storage systems and marijuana retail sales. Non-action items included presentations on the STA Connect 2035 strategic plan, grant applications for homeless services and sewer connections, a city safety program grant opportunity, and the 2025 accomplishments report. Public comments were received on various topics. Public Comments & Testimony - Ben Lund (36-year resident and business owner): Expressed support for the city's management, fiscal discipline, and infrastructure projects. Raised questions about the 20-year economic development plan, apartment construction cycles, and state policies affecting home ownership. Noted that rental days on market are increasing (two to three weeks), possibly indicating supply catching up with demand. - Rick Fryer (Spokane Valley resident and Fire Commissioner): Supported the emergency interim ordinance on battery energy storage systems, citing fire code challenges. Also supported pedestrian safety improvements, noting that pedestrians are twice as likely to die from vehicle contact than from fires (7,300 pedestrian deaths in 2023 vs. 3,670 fire deaths). Discussion Items - ILA Broadlinc (Interlocal Agreement): City Manager John Hohman, Public Works Director Robert Blegen, Broadlinc Executive Director Arian Schmidt, and Traffic Engineering Manager Jeremy Clark presented. The ILA allows the city to participate on the Broadlinc board and collaborate on fiber optic infrastructure. Benefits include cost-sharing on conduit/fiber installation and potential subscriber revenue for the city. Ownership of assets installed within city limits would remain with the city, with separate franchise/right-of-way agreements needed for specific projects. Council clarified that future projects will require additional council approval. - South Barker Corridor Bid Award (Appleway to Sprague): Engineering Manager Rob Lochmiller presented. 11 bids were received; lowest responsible bidder is Selland Construction at $1,319,735 (approximately 33% below engineer's estimate). Project includes road widening to three lanes (up to five at Appleway intersection), bike lanes, sidewalks, and stormwater improvements. 100% funded by state grant funds (FIMPSID). Councilmember Merkel noted doorbelling residents had concerns about driveway access during construction; staff confirmed contractors must provide daily access. - Emergency Interim Ordinance 26-002: Prohibiting Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): City Attorney Kelly Konkright presented. BESS facilities are unregulated under current code and pose fire and toxic fume risks (22 known fires since 2019). The ordinance prohibits BESS for up to one year to allow study through the periodic update process. A public hearing will be held within 60 days. Councilmember Merkel moved to reduce the term to six months, but the motion lacked a second. Councilmember Wick and Yeager supported the pause to prevent vesting of permits. The ordinance passed unanimously. - Emergency Interim Ordinance 26-004: Reclassifying Marijuana Retail Sales as Legal Nonconforming: Deputy City Attorney Tony Beattie presented. Three marijuana retail stores exist in Spokane Valley (in CMU, RC, and IMU zones). Current code allows relocation within zones; this interim ordinance prohibits any relocation for one year. Cited studies on adolescent harm from high-THC products and proximity to retailers. The city receives $180,000–$280,000 annually in tax revenue from marijuana sales; eligibility requires not prohibiting state-licensed cannabis businesses. The ordinance does not close existing stores but prevents moves; if a store discontinues operations for 12 months, the use lapses. A public hearing is set for March 17, 2026. Councilmember Yeager expressed concerns about overreach and slippery slope; Councilmember Merkel supported as a status quo freeze. Passed 6-1 (Yeager opposed). - STA Connect 2035 Strategic Plan: STA Planning Manager Steve Roberge, Chief Planning Officer Emily Poole, and CFO Robert Hamud presented. Voters approved the 2016 "STA Moving Forward" initiative (two-tenths of 1% sales tax, sunsetting December 31, 2028). Connect 2035 includes planning for Route 9 extension to Appleway Park & Ride, mobility on demand pilot in North Spokane Valley, and customer experience improvements. Ridership in 2024 reached 10.1 million (pre-pandemic level), with 2025 expected at 10.4 million. Council discussed paratransit service hours, park-and-ride utilization, and the renewal proposal (no tax increase, only renewal of existing two-tenths). - HCDAC Grant Application: Accounting Manager Sarah Farr and City Services Administrator Gloria Mantz presented two potential grants: (1) up to $635,000 for homeless outreach services (supplementing Frontier Behavioral Health contract), and (2) up to $1 million in CDBG funds to assist homeowners in the Grace neighborhood (35 parcels on septic) with sewer connection fees and construction costs. Property owners have until 2028 to connect. Council expressed support for both applications. - City Safety Program Grant Opportunity: Engineering Manager Adam Jackson presented. The state DOT program offers $30 million in federal funds (100% grant, no local match) for spot or systemic safety improvements. Recommended projects include Barker & Appleway roundabout (angle collisions), Appleway Trail pedestrian crossings (near City Hall, library, park), Sprague Avenue crossings (Pines to Sullivan), and other locations. Discussion included concerns about prioritizing enforcement vs. infrastructure. Council consensus to bring back a prioritized list with cost estimates at the next meeting. - 2025 Accomplishments Report: City Manager John Hohman reviewed highlights: 10 new police officers hired (plus 11th via grant), closure of 18 illicit massage businesses, completion of Pines BNSF railroad bridges, $17 million in infrastructure grants received, business-friendly policies resulting in Dave & Busters and Trader Joe's, completion of cross-country course and Green Acres Park phase 2, and maintenance of AA-1 bond rating. 44 council meetings held. Council commended staff. Key Outcomes - ILA Broadlinc: Motion passed to authorize the city manager to execute the interlocal agreement. Subsequently, Council appointed Councilmember Wick to the Broadlinc Board for 2026 and Councilmember Kelly as alternate (motion passed). - South Barker Corridor Bid Award: Motion passed to award the contract to Selland Construction for $1,319,735 and authorize the city manager to finalize the construction contract. - Emergency Interim Ordinance 26-002 (BESS): Motion passed (unanimous) to adopt the ordinance prohibiting battery energy storage systems for up to one year, effective immediately. A public hearing will be held within 60 days. - Emergency Interim Ordinance 26-004 (Marijuana Retail): Motion passed (6-1, Yeager opposed) to reclassify marijuana retail uses as legal nonconforming, prohibiting relocations for one year. A public hearing is set for March 17, 2026. - HCDAC Grant Application: Council expressed consensus to staff's plan to apply for homeless outreach funding and CDBG funding for Grace neighborhood sewer connections. Formal application due February 20, 2026. - City Safety Program: Council directed staff to return at the February 17 meeting with a prioritized list of projects and cost estimates for application. - 2025 Accomplishments Report: Received and filed. - Other: Meeting extended to 9:15 p.m. to accommodate agenda. Councilmember Merkel flagged zombie properties for future discussion. City Manager announced a $4 million congressionally directed spending award for the Sullivan-Trent project, reducing the funding gap to $25 million.

The Spokane Valley City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 10210 E Sprague Ave. The meeting consisted of roll call, a motion to enter executive session, and adjournment. No public comments were accepted, and no formal actions were taken in open session. Roll Call & Excusal - Mayor Patton, Deputy Mayor Hattenberg, and Councilmembers Haley, Kelly, Wick, and Merkel were present. - Councilmember Yeager was excused by unanimous vote. Executive Session - Council voted unanimously to adjourn into executive session for approximately one hour (the agenda had listed two hours) to discuss potential acquisition of real estate under RCW 42.30.110(1)(b), with no action to be taken upon return. - The executive session was extended twice: first to 7:50 PM, then to 7:55 PM, per the senior deputy city attorney. - Council returned to open session at approximately 7:58 PM. Key Outcomes - Motion to adjourn: Approved unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM without any further discussion or action in open session. - No votes were taken on any substantive items beyond the procedural motions.

The Spokane Valley Hearing Examiner (Andy Cotcamp) convened a public hearing on January 22, 2026, at 9:00 A.M. to consider two preliminary subdivision applications. No final decisions were made; written rulings will be issued within 10 working days. Public Comments & Testimony - Nancy Purcell (2531 S Adams Rd) spoke in opposition to SUB-2025-0004, citing concerns about density (30 lots on 5.22 acres adjacent to acre‑lots), traffic (estimated 313 average daily trips), lack of specific building size information, and visual impacts. She requested a 6‑ to 8‑foot privacy fence along the western boundary. - Jesse Renneker (14827 & 14821 E 24th Ave) expressed concern about the cumulative effects of multiple recent R3–zoned developments on infrastructure (crumbling 24th Avenue), emergency services, child safety, property values/taxes, and pedestrian safety. He noted his family did not receive mailed notice of the December 5, 2025 MDNS determination. Discussion Items SUB-2025-0004: 24th Avenue Subdivision - Proposal: Create 30 residential lots on 5.22 acres (two parcels) at 14908 E 24th Ave, zoned R3 (max 8 units/acre). Density = 5.7 units/acre. Two existing houses to remain. A new public street (Burns Court), two private streets, sidewalks, and off‑site path to Sunrise Elementary (or crosswalk) as SEPA mitigation. Administrative exception approved for setback non‑conformities. - Staff presentation (Levi Basener): Recommended approval with conditions, including right‑of‑way dedication for future south connection, visual screening for two lots, and relocation of existing driveways. - Applicant testimony (Austin Fuller, Whipple Consulting): Presented trip generation (24 AM peak, 30 PM peak, 313 ADT), noted path will be built (not mid‑block crossing), and committed to discussing fence request with developer. Todd Whipple added that a consistent fence may be considered but not guaranteed. - Community concerns (from letters): Traffic, single access, school safety, utilities, property values – addressed by applicant and staff. SUB-2025-0005: Racehorse Meadows Subdivision - Proposal: Create 36 residential lots on 6.5 acres (unaddressed, near Rich Ave & Mayhew Rd), zoned R3. Density = 5.5 units/acre. Three new public streets (extensions of Lawnfellow, Blake, and Ellen), two private streets, hammerhead turnarounds, and frontage improvements. Two access points. - Staff presentation (Levi Basener): No public comments received. SEPA MDNS issued Dec 19, 2025 with only condition of an inadvertent discovery plan. Recommended approval. - Applicant testimony (Austin Fuller): Presented trip generation (29 AM peak, 38 PM peak, 465 ADT). No agency or community concerns noted. Key Outcomes - No final decisions rendered at the meeting. Hearing examiner closed the public record for both items after hearing testimony and receiving all exhibits. - Written decisions will be issued within 10 working days (by February 5, 2026). - Appeals must be filed with Spokane County Superior Court within 21 days of the date of the written decision. - Exhibits admitted: For SUB-2025-0004: exhibits 1–17, staff report (18), applicant letter (19), applicant PowerPoint (20), staff PowerPoint (21). For SUB-2025-0005: exhibits 1–15, staff report (16), applicant PowerPoint (17), applicant letter (18), staff PowerPoint (19).

The Spokane Valley Planning Commission held its regular meeting on January 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall (10210 E Sprague Avenue). The meeting included the election of officers for 2026, a study session on the Public Records Act (PRA) and Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA), and updates on the comprehensive plan update. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved and seconded, passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (December 11, 2025): Moved and seconded, passed unanimously. Commission Reports - Commissioners Weatherman, Meyer, Paco (Poquel), Winkler, and Dingus each reported nothing to report. Chairman McKinley also had nothing to report. Administrative Report - Planning Manager Steve Roberts provided updates: - The Washington State Legislature is in session; the city is monitoring bills that could affect planning work. - The commission will soon begin reviewing draft elements of the comprehensive plan, starting with economic development, natural resources, and land use elements. A schedule will be presented at the next meeting. - The scoping notice for the environmental impact statement (EIS) on the comp plan will be issued next week. Public Comment - No public comments were received. Election of Officers - Chair Election: - Nominations: Commissioner Justin Weatherman and Commissioner John Robertson. - Each nominee briefly introduced themselves. Weatherman noted he had been on the commission for about two years; Robertson noted his 35 years of residency and service as vice chair for two years. - Vote: Commissioner Robertson received 4 votes; Commissioner Weatherman received 3 votes. Robertson was elected Chair for 2026. - Vice Chair Election: - Nominations: Commissioner Ann Winkler and Commissioner Bob McKinley. - Each nominee introduced themselves. Winkler is a traffic engineer; McKinley is an accountant and has served eight years on the commission. - Vote: Commissioner McKinley received 4 votes; Commissioner Winkler received 3 votes. McKinley was elected Vice Chair for 2026. Study Session: Open Public Meetings Act & Public Records Act - Senior Deputy City Attorney Tony Beattie presented the annual training on PRA and OPMA. - PRA: - Defined public records as any writing relating to government conduct owned or used by the agency. Private devices used for city business create public records; best practice is to use city email and phone. - Records requests must be responded to within five business days (provide, link, acknowledge, clarify, or deny). - Exemptions include attorney-client privilege and work product. There is no constitutional privacy right for public records on private devices. - Penalties for non-compliance: $0–$100 per day per page, plus attorney fees for prevailing parties. Mitigating factors include proper training. - OPMA: - All meetings of a governing body with a quorum and discussion of city business must be open to the public. Serial meetings (sequential private discussions resulting in a quorum discussing business) are prohibited. - Special meetings require 24‑hour notice and an agenda; final actions cannot be taken on items not listed. - Violations can render actions null and void, with individual penalties of $500 (first violation) and $1,000 (subsequent violations). - Questions were answered regarding use of personal email and how to handle searches (Nissan affidavits). For the Good of the Order - Commissioners welcomed new members Dingus and Pokal. - Newly elected Chair Robertson offered a historical reflection on Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” and George Washington’s orders from January 22, 1776, encouraging civility and respect. - The meeting adjourned by motion and second, passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - John Robertson elected Chair; Bob McKinley elected Vice Chair. - Commissioners received annual PRA/OPMA training. - Staff will provide a comprehensive plan review schedule at the next meeting. - Scoping notice for the EIS on the comp plan will be issued the following week. - Next regular meeting: scheduled for February 12, 2026 (second Thursday of the month).

The Spokane Valley committee met on January 22, 2026, to hear a presentation on ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households from SNAP, discuss potential uses of 1406 funds for housing, review the upcoming Point-in-Time (PIT) homeless count, and address resident concerns about reporting homelessness and the lack of available shelter beds. No public comments were made. Discussion Items ALICE Household Presentation - Nicole Bishop, philanthropy manager at SNAP, presented on ALICE households—working families who cannot meet basic needs despite full-time employment. She reported that 38% of Washington households and 41% of Spokane County households fall below the ALICE threshold. Using 2025 fair market rent data (e.g., $1,123/month for a one-bedroom) and a minimum wage of $16.66/hour, she illustrated that a full-time worker earning $2,900/month would need $3,369/month to avoid being rent-burdened. The survival budget for a family of four in Washington is $109,000/year, compared to the federal poverty level of $22,000. SNAP served about 40,000 Spokane County neighbors in 2024, including 8,000 working families. Key programs include homeless services (228 moved to permanent housing), 12 affordable housing units, eviction prevention (over 1,000 households), energy assistance (26,000 households), weatherization (293 units), and small business support (22 businesses started/expanded, 48 jobs created/retained). Bishop encouraged changing the narrative and offered free ALICE simulations. Potential Use of 1406 Funds - A housing coordinator (identified as the city's housing homes coordinator) noted growing need among ALICE families and suggested exploring the use of 1406 sales and use tax funds for housing-related projects. These funds have a current balance of approximately $1.2 million, with about $200,000 added annually. The revenue source runs through 2030. Committee members expressed interest in bringing back a detailed proposal, including eligibility, provider projects, and cost-benefit analysis. A motion was made to place this on the agenda for a future meeting (though February will focus on public meeting act training). No formal vote was taken, but the chair agreed to follow up. Point-in-Time Homeless Count - Ms. Roberson presented highlights from the 2025 PIT count report. She noted that the count, conducted on a single night in January, showed a slight overall decrease in homelessness but an increase in unsheltered individuals. About 70% of those counted were last housed in Spokane County, and most others from elsewhere in Washington. The 2026 PIT count will begin January 28, 2026, with a Homeless Connect event downtown and fieldwork through February 2. Volunteers are needed to canvas Spokane Valley, including at Partners in the Northwest (serving 300 households per day). Committee members discussed the importance of local data and countered claims about people being bused in from other areas. Reporting Homeless Concerns and Shelter Bed Availability - Mr. Gonz asked about procedures for reporting homeless individuals through the city's S.V. Express app. The housing coordinator clarified that 911 is for crimes/emergencies, crime check (for non-emergency crimes) can be used, and the city's report-a-concern button routes non-emergency non-crime concerns to his office (though not on weekends). He emphasized that there is no 24/7 response. When asked about increasing shelter beds, the coordinator stated that the city currently rents no beds—Truth Ministries and Hope House contracts ended. Inclement weather beds through Way Out Center/Salvation Army cost $75/night but open only when temperatures drop below 32°F for two consecutive nights. He noted the high cost ($130/night at Hope House) and limited funds (HHAA fund $300,000). He committed to continuing to explore options. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to revisit 1406 fund allocation at a future meeting (likely after February 2026). - No formal votes were taken on funding or policy changes. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Spokane Valley City Council met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting opened with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of the agenda, a Community Risk Reduction Week proclamation, six action items, two non-action administrative reports, two public comment periods, and council/city manager comments. Votes were unanimous on the franchise ordinance and commute trip reduction agreement; three grant motions passed 5-1 with Councilmember Merkel dissenting. Proclamation - The council proclaimed the week of January 19-26, 2026 as Community Risk Reduction Week. The proclamation noted an estimated $23.2 billion in national property damage from fires in 2023, continued wildland-urban interface losses, and that medical calls exceed 80% of total fire service call volume in some jurisdictions. A fire service representative thanked the council for dedicating the week. Public Comments & Testimony - First general public comment: No speakers signed up or appeared. - During the BUILD grant item: John Harding of Spokane Valley opposed the Sullivan Interchange project, arguing the bridge is not severely compromised, the city would still spend $8-10 million, traffic impacts at two locations would remain, and economic impacts of long construction were unknown. Another speaker thanked the engineering staff and urged the council to trust professional recommendations. - Second general public comment: - A mobile business owner thanked the council for the cryptocurrency presentation and asked how kiosks would be identified and removed, and worried scammers could move to mobile cryptocurrency acceptance. He also asked for an update on the old Ziggy's building and nearby shelter concerns. - John Harding described his wife's experience with behavioral health and criminal justice systems, stating people with behavioral health issues are being let down and that the council should separate criminality from mental health needs. - Joseph Godsey of Spokane Valley supported a ban on cryptocurrency kiosks but urged a regional approach to avoid pushing victims elsewhere; he suggested a consumer protection screen requiring users to type the word 'scam' before depositing money. Discussion Items - Ordinance 26-001 (First Read) – Forge Fiber 37 Franchise: City Attorney Tony Beattie presented a 10-year non-exclusive telecommunications franchise for Forge Fiber 37, an AT&T subsidiary acquiring Lumen facilities. The performance bond was increased from $25,000 to $100,000, and franchise-fee language was added. Councilmember Kelly asked about warranty periods; Councilmember Merkel appreciated the bond increase and asked for warranty requirements to be reviewed in the proper forum. The council unanimously advanced the ordinance to second reading. - AWC CQC Application: Deputy City Manager Eric Lamb said the AWC annually seeks civic-minded student applicants. After one timely application and one late application, a committee recommended Chloe Nelson as the city's applicant and a general letter of recommendation for Gavin Ahamuda. Councilmembers Haley and Yeager praised both students. Councilmember Merkel asked for a longer application window next cycle. The motion passed unanimously. - BUILD Grant – Sullivan Interchange: Engineering Manager Adam Jackson requested authorization to apply for a $24,959,696 BUILD grant for the Sullivan Interchange Project. Deputy Mayor Hattenberg supported it, citing trucking industry and public safety needs. Councilmember Merkel questioned the need and timing and voted no. Councilmember Kelly suggested holding community conversations to answer public concerns. City Manager Holman said the project had been discussed for 4-5 years and is badly needed. The motion passed 5-1. - FMSIB Grant Application: Jackson presented a multi-project application to FMSIB for the Sullivan and Trent, Barker I-90, and Argonne I-90 interchange projects. He explained the requests were structured to leverage state funding, including $8 million for Sullivan and Trent to satisfy BUILD non-federal match and phased funding for Barker and Argonne. Councilmember Merkel voted no for the same reasons. The motion passed 5-1. - NHFP Grant Application: Jackson said the state NHFP program provides $11 million per year for five years and recommended applying for $3 million for Sullivan and Trent and $2 million for Barker I-90 through SRTC. Councilmember Merkel voted no. The motion passed 5-1. - Commute Trip Reduction Interlocal Agreement: Jackson presented a 2025-2027 interlocal agreement with Spokane County for CTR services. The city would pass through about $117,000 in state funds to the county, covering 17 of 93 countywide agencies. Councilmember Merkel asked for more performance metrics in future agreements; Councilmember Kelly said he was glad another agency administers the program. The motion passed unanimously. - Cryptocurrency Kiosk Discussion (Admin Report): Police Chief Ellis, City Attorney Kelly Conqueror, and Sergeant Pat Bloomer presented information about cryptocurrency fraud. Bloomer cited national losses of $1.6 billion in 2024, over 30,000 cash-to-crypto ATMs, and numerous local victims, including an 83-year-old who lost $25,000, a victim who lost $300,000 and died by suicide, and a family that lost $13,000 in a fake son-in-custody scam. He said local investigators wrote 131 search warrants, frequently recover more than $1 million annually, and had already recovered $194,758 and frozen $130,500 in January 2026. City Attorney Conqueror outlined regulatory options: class one civil infraction ($250 fine), misdemeanor (90 days/$1,000), gross misdemeanor (364 days/$5,000), plus business license revocation. Councilmembers discussed definitions, legitimate uses, and avoiding overbreadth. Council agreed to direct staff to return with draft code options. - Safe and Healthy Spokane Task Force Update: Deputy City Manager Lamb reported on the January 8 task force meeting. The asset assessment identified overburdened crisis response, fragmented 911/988 coordination, insufficient re-entry services, housing gaps, workforce shortages, and fragmented data. Four subcommittees were formed. Lamb expressed concern that the timeline (subcommittee recommendations by April 1 and final recommendations by May 1) was very aggressive. Councilmembers discussed the need for a new jail, mental health facilities, and concerns about local control. Mayor Padden and councilmembers also discussed the potential for a future public safety sales tax ballot measure; City Manager Holman noted the county jail is 40+ years old and requires significant investment. - Legislative Update: Virginia Clough, Eric Lamb, and Chief Ellis reviewed pending bills. - SB 6002 (ALPR/automated license plate readers): Chief Ellis opposed most provisions, including removal of NCIC alerts, limiting to felonies, 72-hour data retention, warrant requirements, and restrictions on sharing with out-of-state agencies. He supported exemptions from public records and public awareness requirements. Councilmembers Hattenberg and Yeager supported comments; Merkel initially favored a formal 'con.' City Manager Holman suggested selecting 'other' with comments to preserve lobbying ability. Council consensus was to submit comments as 'other' with strong opposition. - Sheriff qualification/removal bills (SB 5974/HB 1399): Ellis opposed requirements for sheriff background checks and removal by an unelected commission, and said the bills would hinder volunteer/limited commission officers. Councilmembers Yeager, Kelly, and Merkel opposed the bills. The city had already submitted opposition on SB 5974. - E-bike bills: Ellis said the bills would clarify regulation of high-speed electric bikes/scooters. Deputy Mayor Hattenberg supported, citing trail safety concerns. - Short-term rental tax: A 6% tax on booking platforms would go to a state affordable housing fund. Multiple councilmembers opposed the tax; consensus was to oppose. - Shelter preemption bills (HB 2266/SB 6069): Staff warned the bills would eliminate local siting, spacing, operational requirements, and notifications for shelters and supportive housing in all non-industrial zones. Councilmember Wick testified in opposition in Olympia. Council opposed the bills. - Homeless bill of rights (HB 2489): Staff said the bill would bar enforcement of public camping laws unless adequate shelter was available; testimony was submitted opposing it. - Keeping Families Together Act amendment (HB 1092): Virginia Clough and Councilmember Haley supported the amendment adding 'serious harm' language and drug-use provisions. Haley stated child deaths increased 200% under the current law and shared a personal story. Councilmember Merkel also supported the amendment. Council Comments - Councilmember Kelly thanked colleagues and requested more discussion opportunities. - Councilmember Merkel criticized the STA bus purchase and expressed a personal vision prioritizing public safety, taxpayer accountability, practical economic development, balanced growth, and ending homelessness through enforcement. - Councilmember Haley defended the double-decker bus purchase, citing Cheney route demands and noting the cost is consistent with standard buses. - Councilmember Yeager said he would be in Olympia next week and encouraged public engagement through groups like Conservative Ladies of Washington. - Deputy Mayor Hattenberg noted the state's business climate is challenging but highlighted local economic development successes. Key Outcomes - Approved agenda and advanced Ordinance 26-001 to second reading unanimously. - Selected Chloe Nelson as AWC applicant and approved a letter for Gavin Ahamuda unanimously. - Authorized BUILD, FMSIB, and NHFP grant applications, with votes of 5-1 each; Councilmember Merkel opposed all three. - Approved the Commute Trip Reduction ILA unanimously. - Directed staff to return with cryptocurrency kiosk code options. - Provided direction on legislative positions: oppose ALPR restrictions (with 'other' comments), oppose sheriff bills, support e-bike clarification, oppose short-term rental tax and shelter preemption bills, oppose homeless bill of rights, and support HB 1092 amendment. - City Manager announced next week's meeting will be an extended executive session on potential real estate acquisition. The meeting adjourned.

The Spokane Valley Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) Commission held its regular meeting on January 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall with a Zoom option. Commission Secretary Holt presided because the previous chair's appointment expired in December 2025. The meeting included the election of a new chair, financial and administrative reports, mandatory Public Records Act and Open Public Meetings Act training, and a continued discussion of the Opportunity Fund code update. Commissioner Crane was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made; no one signed up via Zoom or spoke in person. Election of Chair - Commissioner Jessica Glasson was nominated and seconded for the two-year chair position. With no other nominations, Glasson was elected unanimously by voice vote. Financial Report - Lesli Brassfield reported that November 2025 TPA revenue collections totaled $115,033, bringing the year-to-date total to $1,258,000. Last year's end-of-year total was $1,310,000, so staff anticipates a slight decrease but is not concerned about needing to use reserves. Administrative Report - CoStar data for November showed the city's 16 hotels at 53% occupancy, up about 3% year over year, with an average daily rate of $93. The 24 comparable Spokane hotels saw a year-over-year increase of about 10.6%, attributed partly to events at downtown venues. - Website and social media analytics for December (from 116 and West) showed reduced website traffic after paid search was cut back due to decreased funding and lower Canadian visitation. Social engagement on Facebook and Instagram remained strong. - A shop-local campaign cost the city approximately $29,000–$30,000 (about $20,000 for creative and the majority for media buy), used marketing firm Brandit, and partnered with the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce via QR codes to a Discover the Valley shopping page. - The city purchased the Placer.ai geolocation/visitor spending platform using 2026 TPA budget funds. It can analyze visitation and spending trends going back 5–7 years. Staff is still learning the tool and noted some data quirks (e.g., a parking lot appearing as a top destination). - Commissioner Grant expressed concern that hotel conversions from website clicks remain extremely low, and noted that if marketing doesn't lead to bookings, funds might be better spent elsewhere. Staff responded that 2026 campaigns will focus more directly on hotel pages, and that traditionally about 70% of visitors don't book through DMO websites. Mandatory Training: Public Records Act & Open Public Meetings Act - City Attorney Kelly Konkright led required training. PRA topics included the definition of a public record (broad, including emails, texts, and social media), the city's five-day response requirement, and potential penalties of per-page per-day fines. Best practices emphasized avoiding personal devices/emails for city business and preserving records if personal devices are used. - OPMA topics included the requirement that meetings be open, the prohibition on serial meetings, and the nullification of actions taken in violation. Penalties include $500 for a first violation and $1,000 for subsequent violations. Opportunity Fund Code Text Update - The commission reviewed the revised proposed SVMC 3.21 update. One proposed change would place the commission's decisions on the next city council consent agenda, allowing council to override by majority vote; the decision would be final immediately after that meeting. Commissioners requested that the language clarify the override is all-or-nothing, not a reduction or amendment. - Staff confirmed that consent agendas currently appear only at every other city council meeting (formal A meetings), so the language will be adjusted to provide a weekly review mechanism to avoid delays. - Discussion covered budgeting: awards could be committed up to five years in advance, with funds set aside from the current year's budget, and the opportunity fund would be replenished through the annual TPA budget process. Commissioners emphasized the need to build the fund to meet potential multi-year event commitments. - The commission did not take action. Members will send individual comments/edits to Kelly by the end of the following week (January 23). Kelly will be out of the country February 7–22, so Tony will present the revised draft at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Jessica Glasson elected chair unanimously. - Opportunity Fund code update was not approved; further revisions and individual commissioner comments were requested. - Next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for February 19, 2026, with possible rescheduling to the 26th to achieve a quorum. - No public comments were made. - Financial and administrative reports were received for information; no formal motions were made beyond the chair election and adjournment.