SPOKANE, Wash. – The City of Spokane Council approved a resolution to include Proposition 1 sales and use of tax for community safety on the November ballot.
The Spokane City Council approved Resolution 2024-0067 on July 22, allowing a 0.1% increase in local sales tax to be included on the November ballot. The revenue will fund community safety initiatives and enhance operations for the Spokane Fire Department, Police Department, Municipal Court, Office of the Police Ombudsman and possibly more.
“I am grateful to the Council for their support in placing the Community Safety Sales Tax on the ballot and allowing voters to weigh in on their priorities. If passed, money from this sales tax will go toward critical investments like new, reliable vehicles for our firefighters, reviving the Neighborhood Resource Officer program, and overall improved community safety for all.” Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown said.
The tax won’t apply to essential items like food and prescription drugs. If passed, it will take effect in early 2025.
“Ensuring that the Fire and Police Departments have the necessary equipment to perform their safety duties has always been my priority. Community Safety also involves fully supporting and maintaining the functionality of our courts.” Stated Council President Betsy Wilkerson.
