Spokane: Council Members Propose Budget Amendment to Fund Libraries and Public Safety

~ In response to the concerns of their constituents, Council Members Zappone and Klitzke have proposed a budget amendment that would provide additional funding for libraries and other community priorities. According to Jackson Deese, Legislative Aid for Council Member Zappone, and Lisa Gardner, City Council Communications Director, the proposal aims to address the revenue shortfalls that have been threatening library services and programming.

The proposed amendment would increase library funding by $800k and also allocate funds for an additional public defender position, a regional fire authority study, and the restoration of a City Channel 5 position. In order to make these investments possible, the City Council Office would see a decrease in funding.

Council Member Zappone emphasized the importance of libraries as a vital resource in the community. She stated that in addition to providing access to digital and physical collections, libraries also offer free programming for families, seniors, low-income residents, and individuals interested in learning about healthy cooking or participating in arts and literary events. She also noted that voters have consistently approved additional funding for libraries.

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However, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond their control, revenue shortfalls have threatened library services and programming. In order to bridge this gap and continue meeting community priorities, Council Members Zappone and Klitzke are proposing this budget amendment.

Council Member Klitzke highlighted the need for fiscal responsibility while still focusing on direct community benefits. She stated that by finding efficiencies within their own council office and sharing resources with the mayor's office, they can fund necessary requests from the library while also meeting state standards on public safety.

The proposed budget cuts were acknowledged as difficult but necessary by Council Member Zappone. She explained that by making cuts to their own office's budget, they can align their spending with the priorities expressed by residents. This will also allow them to reimagine their operations in order to provide quality services.

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In addition to investing in libraries, Council Member Klitzke also emphasized the importance of public safety. She stated that funding another public defender position would ensure the enforcement of the Safe and Accessible Spaces Ordinance, while also exploring the feasibility of a regional fire authority that could provide more efficient and effective services.

Overall, the proposed budget amendment aims to address community needs and priorities while also being fiscally responsible. As Council Member Klitzke stated, "The economic outlook for everyone is dire at the moment, and the City is no different. City Council needs to be a leader in lean operations, just like community members are dealing with at home so that we can move forward and focus on creating a well run, well maintained city that cultivates economic development."

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