This week’s Spokane Valley City Council meeting began with the pledge of allegiance and approval of the following meeting agenda.
General Public Comments
Each week, community members have an opportunity to address Councilmembers during the General Public Comment period, either at the beginning or end of each meeting in person or via Zoom.
PUBLIC HEARING
#1 Public Hearing for Potential Public Safety Sales Tax Measure
Staff presented background on rising law enforcement costs, results of a police staffing study, and a community survey showing support for more officers. A 0.1% sales tax could raise $2.6 million for public safety. The Council heard public testimony. A vote on submitting the ballot measure will follow.
ACTION ITEMS
#2 Ordinance #25-004 (First Reading): Public Safety Sales Tax Measure
A motion to advance the ordinance to a second reading passed 6–1.
#3 Ordinance #25-003 (First Reading): Massage Therapy Business Licensing
Amendments include new chapter 5.30, updated license requirements, and criminal penalties. The motion passed unanimously to move forward.
#4 Resolution #25-003: Declaring the City is Not a Sanctuary City
Updates reaffirm Spokane Valley’s 2016 stance while aligning with state law RCW 10.92.160. The motion passed 5–2.
#5 Mayoral Appointment: Permanent Homeless Housing Task Force
The Council unanimously confirmed nine voting and two non-voting members to the new advisory body on homelessness.
NON-ACTION ITEMS
#6 Affordable and Market Rate Housing RFP Response Presentation
Two applicants presented their proposals to develop city-owned properties using ARPA/CLFR funds. The Council will rank and vote on April 22.
#7 Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) 2025–2029 Plan Update
CommuteSmartNW shared goals for reducing single-occupancy commutes. A future ordinance will adopt the updated CTR plan.
#8 Aquifer Protection Area Report
Staff reviewed Spokane Valley’s participation in the APA program and associated costs. Council provided input on continuing participation.
#9 2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Amendment #1
The proposed amendment adds updated costs and several projects including Thorpe Bridge replacement, Wellesley Avenue preservation, Barker/8th roundabout, and South Barker corridor ROW funds. A public hearing is scheduled for April 15.
#10 Potential Grant Opportunity: Sullivan & Trent Interchange
Staff recommended applying for federal funding under the Local Bridge Program. Council agreed to bring this back for a formal vote.
INFORMATION ONLY
#11 Flora Cross Country Complex – County Sewer Easement
#12 SREC ACE Accreditation for Emergency Dispatch
About Spokane Valley City Council
City Council meetings occur most Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Spokane Valley City Hall, 10210 E. Sprague Avenue, online via Zoom or Comcast channel 14. Meeting agendas and minutes are available at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/Agendas. Email the Council at CityCouncil@SpokaneValleyWA.gov or learn more at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/CityCouncil.
Stay Connected
Spokane Valley City Hall is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find information at SpokaneValleyWA.gov, sign up for updates at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/SignUp, or follow the City on social media.