SPOKANE VALLEY, WA — A public hearing is set for Oct. 24, following an appeal by Spokane Valley Councilmember Al Merkel, who is facing allegations of violating city governance policies.
According to a press release from the city of Spokane Valley, an investigation released on Sept. 4 found that Merkel had posted about city government issues on his personal Nextdoor account, which may have breached the Spokane Valley Governance Manual and the Washington State Public Records Act.
The investigation was initiated after a complaint from Spokane Valley Councilmember Jessica Yaeger in June. It concluded that Merkel’s posts could be classified as public records but could not be retained by the city due to his choice of platform.
During a City Council meeting on Sept. 24, members unanimously decided that Merkel would not receive city-funded legal representation. According to the city under Spokane Valley Municipal Code, the City Council is responsible for determining whether to provide legal support to Councilmembers facing claims. Merkel abstained from this discussion and vote because of a conflict of interest, leading the other six Spokane Valley council members to agree that the city cannot fund legal representation for policy violations.
The upcoming hearing will take place at Spokane Valley City Hall Council Chambers located on 10210 E. Sprague Avenue. More information can be accessed through the recording of the Sept. 24 meeting and related documents.
