SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane is considering two ordinances aimed at reducing crime in the downtown area. The Lisa Brown administration is leading this initiative, focusing on alcohol and drug use.
The first ordinance targets the sale and consumption of alcohol. Mayor Lisa Brown aims to reinstate an “alcohol impact area” in downtown Spokane, a measure previously repealed by the former administration.
One significant change would be the prohibition of single-serve alcoholic drinks in downtown convenience stores.
Mayor Brown believes that addressing alcohol use could help solve broader issues. “And we also know alcohol-related offenses are related to other types of crimes like assaults and illegal drug use,” she said.
Police Chief Kevin Hall supports the proposed ordinances. He stated, “Re-establishing an alcohol impact area is an important step towards addressing some of the root causes of crime within downtown Spokane.”
The ordinances would also require non-restaurant establishments, like convenience stores and gas stations, to stop selling alcohol earlier in the night. “But we’ve proposed eliminating alcohol sales after midnight downtown from 12 a.m. to 2 a.m.,” said Brown.
The Brown administration is collaborating with the Downtown Spokane Partnership, Police Chief Hall, and City Councilmember Paul Dillon to implement these changes. Their goal is to create a safer downtown. “I think we are going to end up with increased public safety,” said a spokesperson.
The second ordinance focuses on drug paraphernalia. It would limit the sale of glass pipes, foils, and other items unless the seller also provides Narcan for free. While some, like community member “OG” Oganga, express concern about the ongoing drug crisis, Mayor Brown hopes these measures will address both drug and alcohol misuse.
Mayor Brown also noted that removing single-serve drinks could help reduce litter on downtown streets.
