Talk Spokane

This podcast you get to see who is running there is more then 150 people running. some new and some for re-election

These actions broadly cover national security, domestic policy, and governmental reform. Specific examples include measures related to aviation safety, combating terrorism, and reforming federal hiring practices. The page also features links to social media and contact information. The overarching theme appears to be implementing the new president's policy agenda.

The Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) board voted to remove the City of Spokane from its regional 911 dispatch system due to disagreements over governance, user fees, and the city's perceived lack of commitment to regional collaboration. Mayor Brown and city officials criticized SREC's unreasonable deadlines and unwillingness to compromise, while SREC cited the city's reluctance to fully participate and a state bill that would inequitably distribute tax dollars. The Spokane Fire Department, already part of SREC, will be removed in 2026, forcing the city to create its own independent dispatch system for both police and fire. This decision has raised concerns about potential delays and miscommunication in emergency response. The dispute highlights a breakdown in trust and differing priorities between the city and its regional partners.

Multiple large wildfires in Los Angeles caused a significant portion of the city's fire hydrants to run dry due to unprecedented high water demand, exceeding the capacity of the existing water system. This shortage was exacerbated by factors including power outages impacting pumping systems, high winds hindering aerial water drops, and a large, out-of-service reservoir. While some blamed California's environmental policies, experts attributed the problem to a combination of factors involving the system's design and the scale of the fires. The incident has prompted calls for investigations and a reassessment of water infrastructure preparedness for future large-scale wildfires.

Airway Heights police arrested a 54-year-old woman, Angela L. Andreas-Miller, after discovering eight potential explosive devices—one in her apartment and seven in her car—while serving a warrant for identity theft. The discovery prompted the evacuation of a nearby apartment complex, causing concern among residents about communication from law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing, involving multiple agencies, including the ATF. Charges against Andreas-Miller include eight felony counts of possessing incendiary devices. Residents were eventually allowed to return home, and the situation is considered under control.

A terrorist attack occurred in New Orleans on Bourbon Street on New Year's Day, resulting in at least ten fatalities and thirty-five injuries. The suspect, Shamsud Din Jabbar, died in a shootout with police after driving a truck into a crowd. An ISIS flag was found in his vehicle, along with weapons and potential IEDs. The FBI is leading the investigation, which is being treated as an act of terrorism, though some officials initially expressed reservations about this classification. The incident sparked reactions from various officials, including President Biden and President-elect Trump.

Spokane, Washington is facing a budget dispute regarding funding for a promised police traffic unit. Mayor Brown's proposed budget uses funds intended for road infrastructure to partially finance the unit, a move criticized by activists as hypocritical, given her past statements. A previous agreement allocated funds from traffic camera fines, but council members imposed restrictions to ensure the money is used only for traffic enforcement, not as a general police slush fund. When is City hall going to keep there promise and get the traffic unit back?

Homelessness and Crime in Spokane, WA Main Themes: Rising Homelessness and Crime: Spokane, WA is experiencing a significant increase in homelessness and crime rates. Debate over Measure 1: There is public debate surrounding Measure 1, a proposed sales tax increase aimed at addressing crime. While presented as funding behavioral and mental health resources, concerns exist that it will primarily fund jail expansion. Factors Contributing to Homelessness: The high cost of rent in relation to income, regional jail and prison releases, and mental health and substance abuse issues are identified as key factors driving homelessness. Community Solutions: Calls for community-based solutions, such as utilizing abandoned buildings for housing and supporting non-profits, are emerging. Most Important Ideas and Facts: Homelessness: Rent Burden: Zillow research shows a strong correlation between homelessness and rent exceeding a third of income. This suggests that the affordability of housing is a significant driver of homelessness in Spokane. Regional Influx: Anecdotal evidence from the Point in Time Count suggests a significant portion of Spokane's homeless population originated from neighboring areas like Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. This points to a regional dimension to the issue. Jail and Prison Releases: The presence of a large regional jail and prison is cited as contributing to homelessness, highlighting the need for reintegration support for formerly incarcerated individuals. Mental Health and Substance Abuse: These factors are widely acknowledged as major contributors to homelessness, with online discussions emphasizing the need for accessible and effective treatment programs. Crime: Measure 1: This measure proposes a 0.2% sales tax increase to address crime. However, the vague wording raises concerns about its true allocation, with critics arguing it will primarily fund new jails instead of promised healthcare and support services for the homeless. Police Officer Accounts: Anecdotes from police officers describe a "revolving door" justice system, where individuals are arrested and released only to reoffend shortly after. This highlights the need for effective interventions beyond incarceration. Crime Statistics: The Spokane Police Department's CompStat report reveals a decrease in overall crime rates year-to-date compared to the previous year. However, specific crime types, such as vehicle theft and residential burglary, remain concerns in certain districts. Community Solutions: Repurposing Abandoned Buildings: Suggestions include converting abandoned buildings into housing for the homeless. This could potentially address both the lack of affordable housing and blight in the city. Non-Profit Support: Strengthening existing and encouraging the formation of new non-profits is proposed as a way to address the complex needs of the homeless population. Community Brainstorming: Emphasizing the need to listen to the perspectives of homeless individuals to understand their needs and challenges is crucial.

Assessing Progress on Lisa Brown's Campaign PromisesThe sources offer a mix of direct and indirect insights into Lisa Brown's progress on her campaign promises. While they don't provide an exhaustive list of her pledges, they do illuminate key areas and initiatives she emphasized during her campaign. By analyzing her actions and statements within these areas, we can assess her progress and identify areas where further action may be needed.Public Safety and Homelessness: A Mixed BagBrown campaigned on improving public safety and addressing homelessness. Her actions in these areas present a complex picture with notable achievements alongside lingering challenges.* Successes:* Brown secured funding for a street medicine outreach pilot program, aiming to provide medical care to unhoused individuals and alleviate pressure on traditional emergency services. [1]* She allocated opioid settlement funds towards expanding the Spokane Fire Department's CARES program, aiming to increase capacity for addressing substance use disorders. [2]* She initiated a transition away from the large, centralized Trent Avenue Resource Center towards a more dispersed shelter model, securing state funding to facilitate this shift. [3]* Ongoing Challenges:* Despite her efforts, Spokane still faces a significant shortage of shelter beds, with over 2,000 unhoused individuals and only a third having access to emergency shelter. [4]* Brown's proposed public safety levy, intended to fund existing obligations and enhancements in police, fire, and criminal justice services, was met with opposition and ultimately postponed due to concerns about its cost and lack of specificity. [5]* While Brown championed a regional approach to homelessness, the creation of a regional homeless authority remains a work in progress. [6]Economic Development: Building on Existing StrengthsBrown emphasized economic development and support for local businesses. She focused on leveraging Spokane's existing strengths and pursuing opportunities for innovation and growth.* Successes:* Brown actively supported the Tech Hub Initiative, aimed at growing Spokane's advanced manufacturing base. She signed an executive order streamlining permitting processes for projects related to the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center. [7]* She established the Economic Development Rapid Response Team to address permitting roadblocks and facilitate efficient development processes for key job-creating projects. [8]* Brown engaged in regular meetings with small business leaders and developers to understand their needs and identify opportunities for collaboration and support. [9]* Ongoing Challenges:* While Brown championed initiatives to support small businesses, concerns remain about the city's high regulatory environment and the potential impact of inflation and rising costs on their viability. [10, 11]* Developing a comprehensive Inclusive Economy Initiative, connecting residents with training and job opportunities, remains a work in progress. [9]Budget and Fiscal Responsibility: Confronting a Difficult RealityBrown pledged to address Spokane's budget deficit and restore fiscal stability. Her efforts in this area highlight the magnitude of the challenge and the need for difficult decisions.* Successes:* Brown implemented a budget freeze and initiated a review process to identify potential cost-saving measures. [12]* She engaged in public discussions about the budget deficit, aiming to increase transparency and foster public understanding of the city's financial situation. [11]* Ongoing Challenges:* Spokane faces a significant structural budget deficit, driven by factors like inflation, rising costs, and previously negotiated labor contracts. [11, 13]* The postponement of Brown's proposed public safety levy leaves a funding gap for essential city services, raising concerns about potential layoffs and service cuts. [5, 12]

This is about the 25-26 proposed city of Spokane budgets. We talk about what’s increased and decreased in this years budgets and what it means for the community.

Spokane Police Department CompStat Report Briefing - November 2024 This briefing document reviews the main themes and important facts from the Spokane Police Department (SPD) CompStat reports for November 2, 9, 16, and 23, 2024. Overall Crime Trends: Year-to-Date (YTD) Crime Reduction: All reports show a consistent trend of overall Part 1 crime reduction compared to the same period in 2023. The citywide reduction ranged from -5.14% on November 9th to -11.45% by November 23rd. Fluctuation in Weekly Trends: While YTD trends are positive, weekly and 28-day period comparisons reveal fluctuations in crime levels. Some weeks saw increases in specific categories, even within districts experiencing an overall decrease in crime. Shift to NIBRS Reporting: The reports note that SPD transitioned to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) on October 4th, 2016. This new standard provides a more detailed and comprehensive view of crime than the previously used Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system. Key Crime Categories: Property Crime: Property crime, particularly larceny, continues to be a significant concern across most districts. For example, the Northwest District experienced a -35.45% decrease in residential burglaries YTD, but larcenies increased by 2.73% (November 9th report). The Northeast Precinct saw a 13.51% increase in residential burglaries YTD, while larcenies decreased by 12.16% (November 16th report). Violent Crime: Violent crime trends are mixed. Some districts, like the Central District, witnessed a YTD increase in violent crime (2.74% on November 9th), driven mainly by aggravated assault. Other areas, like the Northeast Precinct, experienced decreases (-17.75% by November 9th). Vehicle Theft: Vehicle theft showed notable fluctuations. The South Precinct reported a YTD increase of 50.65% (November 2nd), while other districts saw reductions in some periods. District Highlights: Central District (P2): This district experienced mixed crime trends with some increases in certain violent crime categories like aggravated assault, but an overall reduction in property crime. Northwest District (P1): This district generally shows a positive trend with overall YTD crime reductions, but fluctuations occur in specific categories. For example, a 175% increase in arson was noted in one report. Northeast Precinct (P3, P4): While experiencing an overall decrease in crime, this precinct has seen a considerable increase in residential burglaries, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. South Precinct (P5, P6, P7): This precinct exhibits diverse trends across its three districts, with some areas showing increases in certain crimes while others show decreases. Vehicle theft has been a particular area of concern. Downtown Precinct (P8): This precinct typically reports lower crime numbers overall, but it still sees fluctuations, especially in property crimes like larceny.

2024 budget for medical lake. We’ll see what changes in 2025 and if things improve.

Today we look at the proposed budget cuts for Spokane County for the 2025 year.

This podcast goes over Q3 of the city of Spokane budget. In this budget overview there are key takeaways as the city is not doing so well with older vehicles, over time, and not generating enough revenue through traffic violations and parking fines.

Local news for the Spokane area for 11-22-24

Daily news for the Spokane area for 11-21-24.

Today’s news for 11-20-24 for the Spokane area.

A state democrat wants to make homeless a protected class in WA. What do you am think about this.