City of Spokane and City Council Announce 2026 Legislative Agenda

~ Spokane City Council Adopts Legislative Agenda for 2026 State Legislative Session

During Monday night's legislative session, the Spokane City Council voted 5-2 to adopt a resolution outlining the city's legislative agenda for the upcoming 2026 state legislative session. The council's priorities, which were recommended by the city's Legislative Team, reflect a range of policy and budget concerns that aim to benefit historically marginalized communities.

Lisa Gardner, the City Council Communications Director, stated that the city's legislative priorities are not easily categorized by their impact on equity. However, she anticipates that the city's focus on state funding for social service programs and housing will have a positive effect on these communities.

One of the notable priority issues outlined in the resolution is support for Waste-to-Energy initiatives to protect jobs, ratepayers, and the environment. The council also plans to expand "parking-to-People" programs in order to create more housing options. Additionally, building exemptions for fairer taxation are also a key priority.

In terms of budget priorities, the council aims to reappropriate lapsed funds towards critical improvements and expansion of the Northeast Regional Law Enforcement Academy. This will allow more officers to train locally and reduce costs associated with training recruits outside of the region.

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The council also plans to increase resources for behavioral health and substance treatment programs, including support for Spokane's SMART teams that provide rapid responses to people in crisis. They also hope to secure additional funding for emergency shelters, transitional housing, and other programs that serve homeless individuals.

Another important issue on their agenda is increasing access to affordable childcare through state-subsidized slots, workforce development initiatives, and new facilities developed by the Northeast Public Development Authority.

Other key issues included in their legislative agenda are affordable housing, street and sidewalk repairs, metal-studded tires regulations, Keep Washington Working policies, cryptocurrency consumer protection measures, and tourism promotion efforts.

Council Member Zack Zappone expressed his excitement for the state legislative agenda, stating that it reflects the needs of the community. The council adopts these priorities in accordance with SMC 02.02.030 after consulting with three council members, city staff, and contract lobbyists who make up the City's Legislative Team.

The Spokane City Council is committed to advocating for policies and funding that will benefit their community and address important issues facing their city. With their legislative agenda in place, they are ready to work towards a better future for all residents of Spokane.

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