HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026, 03-03 Formal B Meeting PacketAGENDA
SPOKANE VALLEY CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
FORMAL B FORMAT
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Remotely via ZOOMMeeting and
In Person at Spokane Valley City Hall, Council Chambers
10210 E. Sprague Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Please Silence Your Cell Phones During Council Meeting
NOTE: Members of the public may attend Spokane Valley Council meetings in -person at the address provided
above, or via Zoom at the link below. Members of the public will be allowed to comment in -person or via Zoom
as described below. Public comments will only be accepted for those items noted on the agenda as "public
comment opportunity." Citizens must register by 4 p.m. the day of the meeting to provide comment by Zoom.
Please use the links below to register to provide verbal or written comment.
• Sign up to Provide Verbal Public Comment at the Meeting via Calling -In
• Submit Written Public Comment Prior to the Meeting
• Join the Zoom WEB Meeting
CALL TO ORDER
INVOCATION: Pastor Mike Drew, Valley Assembly Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
SPECIAL GUESTS/PRESENTATIONS:
PROCLAMATIONS:
GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT OPPORTUNITY: This is an opportunity for the public to speak on any
subject except agenda action items, as public comments will be taken on those items where indicated. Please keep
comments to matters within the jurisdiction of the City Government. This is not an opportunity for questions or
discussion. Diverse points of view are welcome but please keep remarks civil. Remarks will be limited to three
minutes per person. If a person engages in disruptive behavior or makes individual personal attacks regarding
matters unrelated to City business, then the Council and/or Mayor may end that person's public comment time
before the three -minute mark. To comment via zoom: use the link above for oral or written comments as per
those directions. To comment at the meeting in person: speakers may sign in to speak but it is not required. A
sign -in sheet will be provided at the meeting.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Second Read: Ordinance 26-003 Banning the Sale of Kratom — Caitlin Prunty
[public comment opportunity]
2. Motion Consideration: South Sullivan Preservation (8th to 24th) Bid Award — Erica Amsden
[public comment opportunity]
3. Motion Consideration: Amended 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda— Virginia Clough
[public comment opportunity]
Council Agenda March 3, 2026 Page 1 of 2
NON -ACTION ITEMS:
4. Admin Report: Potential Grant Opportunity: Pedestrian/Bicycle Program & Safe Routes to Schools — Adam
Jackson
INFORMATION ONLY (will not be reported or discussed):
5. 2025 Annual Hearing Examiner Report
GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT OPPORTUNITY: General public comment rules apply.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
MAYOR'S COMMENTS
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Potential Acquisition of Real Estate [RCW 42.30.110(1)(b)] & Potential Litigation [RCW 42.30.110(1)(1)].
(Proposed motion: I move Council adjourn into executive session for approximately 45 minutes to discuss
potential acquisition of real estate & Potential Litigation, and that no action will be taken upon return to open
session)
ADJOURNMENT
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Scan to access the meeting materials
Council Agenda March 3, 2026 Page 2 of 2
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: March 3, 2026 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ® new business ❑ public hearing
❑ information ❑ admin. report ❑ pending legislation ❑ executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Ordinance 26-003 Second Reading: Adopting SVMC 7.55 — Kratom
Sale & Distribution
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: Washington State Constitution Article XI, Section 11; RCW
35A.11.020; RCW 35.22.280; Chapter 7.80 RCW
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: On December 23, 2025, Council heard an
administrative report on kratom and options for a code text amendment regulating the sale of
kratom products. On February 10, 2026, Council heard a first reading of Ordinance 26-003.
BACKGROUND: Kratom is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia. It contains two primary
psychoactive alkaloids: Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine ("7-01-1"). At low doses, kratom
acts as a mild stimulant; however, at high doses, it acts like an opiate and can produce sedative
and psychoactive effects. Historically, leaves from the kratom tree have been used as a mild
stimulant, an alternative medicine to treat a variety of symptoms, and an alternative to opioids
and stimulants to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Kratom products are sold over the counter and
come in many forms. It is typically ingested through tablets, capsules, extracts, and tinctures.
Kratom products are sold in many retail settings in Spokane Valley.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") has identified that 7-OH has a significant potential
for abuse and associated harms, including heightened risks to youth. Likewise, the Drug
Enforcement Agency ("DEX) has listed kratom as a "Drug of Chemical Concern" as it can lead
to addiction, dependency, hallucinations, confusion, psychosis, and other significant adverse
impacts. Several cases of psychosis have been reported and common side effects include
nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth, constipation, increased urination, tachycardia, vomiting,
drowsiness, and lack of appetite.
On the other hand, kratom has been identified as a potential means for harm reduction for persons
with opioid use disorder, as well as alcohol and stimulant use disorder. However, research and
clinical studies are lacking and kratom is not approved by the FDA. Despite its potential to ease
symptoms of withdrawal from other substances, kratom is typically self -prescribed with no
oversight and carries its own risk of addiction with continued use. Long term use may cause
negative effects, including anorexia, insomnia, seizure, liver damage, high blood pressure, and
hallucinations. Because kratom is not regulated at the federal or state level, kratom products
currently sold may vary widely in purity, dosage, and composition. This creates a public health
concern, particularly for young people and vulnerable populations who may be exposed to
products with unknown potency or contaminants, increasing the risk of adverse effects or potential
for abuse and addiction. Additionally, kratom is often used alongside controlled substances, such
as fentanyl and methamphetamine, increasing the negative effects of both substances. In 2025,
Mitragynine was listed as a contributing factor, along with other substances, in two Spokane
County deaths.
At the state level, Washington does not currently regulate or prohibit the sale or possession of
kratom. However, multiple bills are being considered at the legislative level, two in the Senate
and one in the House: Senate Bills 6287 and 6196 and House Bill 2291. Senate Bill 6287
establishes restrictions on kratom products, creates labeling requirements, and prohibits sale to
individuals under the age of 21. Senate Bill 6196 levies a 95% tax on kratom. Neither Senate
Bill includes preemption language that would limit the City's ability to regulate kratom products.
House Bill 2291 ("HB 2291") prohibits the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of 21, but
otherwise allows sales to adults. It also requires retailers and processors to obtain licenses;
prohibits unsecured displays of kratom products in retail establishments open to minors; prohibits
public consumption of kratom products; imposes labeling and processing requirements, including
maximum allowed levels of 7-OH; requires processors to obtain independent testing and analysis
of kratom products before sale or distribution; and imposes an 11% tax on kratom products to
fund a youth regulated substance prevention account.
While HB 2291 is aimed at protecting public health and safety, if passed as currently written, it
includes a preemption clause that would require the City to repeal any ordinance regulating
kratom. The City met with the bill sponsor and followed up with Councilmember Kelly testifying
at the January 30 Committee hearing, urging lawmakers to amend the preemption clause and
allow local jurisdictions to adopt local regulations, including prohibition to individuals over 21. Staff
also provided the Legislature with amended language.
Following the public hearing, the bill was removed from the Legislature's February 4 executive
session and the bill sponsor communicated the Committee's intent to pause the bill as there was
not sufficient time to address questions prior to the Policy Committee cutoff on February 4. The
Committee plans to work on this bill with stakeholders over the interim and if the Senate bills
return to the House, they will be prepared to answer those questions. As mentioned, the Senate
bills do not include preemption.
Locally, Spokane has lifted its deferment pending legislative action, and Spokane City Council
will most likely have a second reading on a proposed ban on March 2, 2026. The City of Cle Elum
has adopted an ordinance banning kratom after passing a six-month moratorium prohibiting the
sale and distribution of kratom last October.
Background information on kratom was presented for Council's consideration at the December
23, 2025 Council meeting. Council gave consensus to move forward with a first reading. A first
reading was heard by Council at the February 10, 2026 Council meeting, and Council passed a
motion to move forward with a second reading. The attached ordinance prohibits the sale of
kratom products in Spokane Valley and classifies unlawful kratom sales as a class I civil infraction.
Minor changes were made to comply with Chapter 7.80 RCW governing civil infractions, including
designating each separate sale, distribution, and advertisement of kratom as a separate offense
each day the violation is committed, continued, or permitted. The substantive changes are as
follows:
7.55.040 Violation - Penalty
A. Any person, cooperative, organization, or legal entity who violates SVMC 7.55.030 shall
be issued a class 1 civil infraction with a fine of $250. Each separate sale, advertisement, or
distribution of Kratom is considered an independent violation subject to the penalties listed herein.
In the case of a single violation occurring over a period of multiple days, each 24-hour period the
violation is committed, continued, or permitted shall be a separate and distinct violation subject to
the penalties herein.
B. Any Kratom retailer found guilty of violating SVMC 7.55.030 may have its business license
revoked or denied pursuant to SVMC 5.05.080.
OPTIONS: Approve Ordinance 26-003 or take other action deemed appropriate.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to approve Ordinance 26-003 prohibiting the
sale of Kratom products within Spokane Valley and establishing a penalty for a violation of such
prohibition.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: None anticipated.
STAFF/COUNCIL CONTACT: Caitlin Prunty, Deputy City Attorney, Dave Ellis, Spokane Valley
Police Chief, Lieutenant Rob Satake, Spokane Valley Police Department
ATTACHMENTS: Proposed Ordinance 26-003: An Ordinance of the City of Spokane Valley,
County of Spokane, State of Washington Adopting Title 7, Chapter 55 of the Spokane Valley
Municipal Code Relating to the Sale of Kratom Products; PowerPoint Presentation
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO.26-003
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, COUNTY OF SPOKANE, STATE
OF WASHINGTON, ADOPTING TITLE 7, CHAPTER 55 OF THE SPOKANE VALLEY
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE SALE OF KRATOM PRODUCTS.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Article XI, Section 11 of the Washington Constitution, the City of
Spokane Valley ("City") is authorized to "make and enforce within its limits all such local police, sanitary
and other regulations as are not in conflict with general laws," which include regulations necessary to
protect public health, safety, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, kratom is a psychoactive substance made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa
tree; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has listed kratom as a Drug of Chemical
Concern, finding that kratom consumption can produce both stimulant and opioid-like effects and can lead
to dependence, addiction, and negative psychotic and physical effects; and
WHEREAS, cases of kratom-related toxicity and adverse effects have been reported, particularly
when combined with other substances; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") has determined that 7-
hydroxymitragymne ("7-011"), a naturally occurring alkaloid in the kratom plant, is a dangerous substance;
and
WHEREAS, the FDA has not approved any prescription or over-the-counter drug products
containing kratom or its two main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-OH; and
WHEREAS, the safety profile of kratom products is not well established and its effect on minors
is largely unknown; and
WHERAS, kratom is not federally regulated in the United States and is not subject to government -
mandated safety checks, resulting in a lack of oversight and accepted safety standards for use, regulation
of ingredients, purity levels, and dosage; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington has not enacted any laws or regulations governing the sale
or use of kratom; and
WHEREAS, kratom products are sold at various retail locations in Spokane Valley posing a risk
to the City's residents, particularly youth and vulnerable populations; and
WHEREAS, prohibiting the sale and distribution of kratom products helps reduce the risk of
accidental overdose, substance misuse, and long-term health impacts, and protects the public health, safety,
and welfare of residents of Spokane Valley.
follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley, Washington ordains as
-1-
Section 1. PMose. City Council finds that the sale and distribution of kratom in the City
causes harm to public health, safety, and welfare and that it is in the best interest of the City to permanently
prohibit the sale and distribution of Kratom within the City limits.
Section 2. New Chapter. Chapter 7.55 is adopted as follows:
Chapter 7.55
SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF KRATOM PRODUCTS
Sections:
7.55.010
Purpose and Intent
7.55.020
Definitions.
7.55.030
Prohibition on Sale or Distribution of Kratom Products
7.55.040
Violations — Penalties
7.55.010 Purpose and Intent.
The purpose and intent of chapter 7.55 SVMC is to protect the public health and safety of Spokane Valley
residents by prohibiting access to kratom products to all individuals, to include any products containing 7-
hydroxymitragymne, mitragymne, or any extract, synthetic alkaloid, or synthetically derived compound.
7.55.020 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following words shall be defined as:
"Advertise" means any communication to one or more persons identifying that kratom products are being
offered or sold by any person, cooperative, organization, or legal entity, including but not limited to physical
displays of kratom products, signs located at a business; signs located in places other than at a business,
including billboards; advertisements on vehicles; advertisements in paper media such as newspapers,
magazines, flyers, cards, or business cards; or advertisements in electronic media such as internet websites,
social media, electronic classified advertisements, cell phone applications, and television or radio
advertisements.
"Distribute" means to furnish, give away, exchange, transfer, deliver or supply, whether or not for
monetary gain.
"Kratom" or "Kratom Product" means any kratom analogue, food product, food ingredient, dietary
ingredient, dietary supplement, or beverage that contains any part of the leaf of the plant mitragyna
speciosa, including extracts containing natural or synthetic alkaloids mitragymne or 7-hydroxymitragymne
or any synthetically derived compound of such plant and is manufactured as a powder, capsule, pill,
beverage, or any other consumable form.
"Kratom retailer" means any person, cooperative, organization, or legal entity that sells kratom products or
that advertises, represents, or holds itself out as selling or maintaining kratom products within the City of
Spokane Valley.
"Sell or "sale" means to offer, carry, stock, furnish, exchange, transfer, deliver, or supply for monetary
gain.
7.55.030 Prohibition on Sale or Distribution of Kratom Products
No person, cooperative, organization, or legal entity may sell, distribute, advertise for sale or distribution,
or permit to be sold any Kratom Product in the City of Spokane Valley.
-2-
7.55.040 Violation - Penalty
A. Any person, cooperative, organization, or legal entity who violates SVMC 7.55.030 shall be issued
a class 1 civil infraction with a fine of $250. Each separate sale, advertisement, or distribution of Kratom
is considered an independent violation subject to the penalties listed herein. In the case of a single violation
occurring over a period of multiple days, each 24-hour period the violation is committed, continued, or
permitted shall be a separate and distinct violation subject to the penalties herein.
B. Any Kratom retailer found guilty of violating SVMC 7.55.030 may have its business license
revoked or denied pursuant to SVMC 5.05.080.
Section 3. Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance should be
held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality
shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance.
Section 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect five days after
publication of the Ordinance Summary.
Passed this day of , 2026.
ATTEST:
Marci Patterson, City clerk -
Approved as to form:
Office of the City Attorney
Date of Publication:
Effective Date:
Laura Padden, Mayor
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CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: March, 3, 2026
Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ® new business ❑ public hearing
❑ information ❑ admin. report ❑ pending legislation ❑ executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Motion Consideration: Bid award for the South Sullivan Rd
Preservation, CIP #366.
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: SVMC 3.35.10 —Contract Authority
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
• 9/5/2023 — Administrative report discussing the 2023 NHS Asset Management
Program's call for projects.
• 9/12/2023 — Motion consideration to authorize City manager to apply for NHS grant.
• 7/9/2024 — Motion to apply for TIB grants, including this project.
• 2/10/2026 — Administrative Report on the 2026 Capital Improvement Projects, which
included this project.
BACKGROUND: The South Sullivan Preservation Project will remove and replace the existing
pavement on south Sullivan Road from 8th to 24th Avenue, construct sidewalk on the west side
of Sullivan from 8th to 16th Avenue, install ITS infrastructure, add a pedestrian crossing south of
Central Valley High School, implement stormwater revisions, and complete signal revisions
within the project limits.
The project is funded through combination of local funds and a National Highway System (NHS)
grant. The NHS grant contributes $3,957,000 to the project and does not require local city
match.
The project was advertised on February 23rd, 2026, in The Spokesman Review, as well as on
the city website. Twelve bids were received and opened February 13, 2026. The Engineer's
Estimate for was $5,144,613. The lowest, responsive and responsible bidder is Selland
Construction, Inc. with a bid of $ 3,937,220, approximately 23% less than the engineer's
estimate. The project's bid tabulation is attached.
OPTIONS: 1) Move to award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, or 2)
take other appropriate action.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to award the South Sullivan Rd Preservation to
Selland Construction, Inc. in the amount of $3,937,220 and authorize the City Manager to
finalize and execute the construction contract.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: The project is funded with a combination of $3,957,000 in
NHS funds and city funds from 303, 311, and 402. There are sufficient funds to cover the
construction costs for the construction contract.
STAFF CONTACT: Erica Amsden, PE, CIP Engineering Manager
ATTACHMENTS: Bid Tabulation for South Sullivan Rd Preservation
Project Exhibit
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CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: March 3, 2026 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ® new business ❑ public hearing
❑ information ❑ admin. report ❑ pending legislation ❑ executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Motion and Consideration of Amended 2026 Federal Legislative
Agenda
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: N/A
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: The 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda was adopted on
October 28, 2025, following an admin report provided at the October 14, 2025 Council meeting.
BACKGROUND: City Council was advised that amendments would likely be in order prior to the
city delegation's Washington, D.C. meetings in the spring. The updates on the agenda include an
allocation in the city's 2026 budget, federal action on our city's 2026 Congressionally -directed
spending (CDS) requests and updates in the funding sections for each of the four projects.
2026 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
The following changes were made to page 1 of the 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda:
• Added $4 million federal appropriation, sponsored by Congressman Baumgartner and
Senator Cantwell, to the funding secured for the Sullivan/Trent Interchange project.
• Added the pending FY'26 BUILD application amount of $20.8 million.
• Added $400,000 to the funding secured for the Barker/1-90 Interchange project that was
included in the city's 2026 budget (Fund 312).
• Update funding sections to adjust funding secured, total costs and funding gaps for all four
projects.
• Update FY '27 CDS request amounts to:
o Argonne Bridge at 1-90 $3 million
o Sullivan/Trent Interchange $5 million
o South Barker Corridor $2 million
o Barker/1-90 Interchange $2 million
• Update adopted date in footer.
OPTIONS: Amend the proposed 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda as presented or take other
action deemed appropriate.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to amend the 2026 Federal Legislative Agenda
as presented.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: N/A
STAFF CONTACT: Virginia Clough, Legislative Policy Coordinator
ATTACHMENTS: Draft 2026 Amended Federal Legislative Agenda
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2026
Spokane Federal
VAll
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Spokane Valley The City supports USDOT project priorities that focus on safety, economic growth
and modernizing the transportation system. Investing in transportation infrastructure
Capital Projects strengthens local and national economic competitiveness through the efficient movement
of goods and people and access to commerce and employment.
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IN
Since 2010, Spokane County and Spokane Valley's
populations have grown about 17% and 19% respectively.
The County's population reached 566,000 in 2025, 1
I
doubling since construction of 1-90 began in the late 1960s. �I
Source: WA State Office of Financial Management I
Argonne Bridge
at 1-90
Total $2Z5 million
■ Funding Secured
$3.3 million
❑Funding Gap
$24.2 million
FY `27 CDS Request
$3 million
Sullivan/Trent
Interchange
Total $50.7 million
■ Funding Secured
$22.4 million
❑ Pending FY'26 BUILD
$20.8 million
Funding Gap
$28.3 million
FY `27 CDS Request
$5 million
South Barker
Corridor
Total $41 million
-'Anding Sr ,.ired
$20.3 million
'ndi
$20.7 million
FY `27 CDS Request
$2 million
Barkerl1-90
Interchange
Total $50 million
■ Funding Secured
$400,000
❑Funding Gap
$49.6 million
FY `27 CDS Request
$2 million
CDS = Congressionally Directed Spending
See project flyers for detailed information Amended March 3, 2026
POLICY PRIORITIES
Public Health and Safety
• With public safety being the top priority and our desire to support law enforcement in their
efforts to maintain law and order at all levels, the City asks for assistance to mitigate potential
impacts of being non -sanctuary citywithin a sanctuary state.
• Support initiatives to promote work with the U.S. Marshal's Service to share intelligence,
coordinate enforcement operations and ensure offenders are swiftly apprehended and
prosecuted. Multi -agency collaboration serves as a force multiplier, allowing combined
resources and expertise to more effectively disrupt crime networks and combat the spread
of illegal drugs. Programs within the Department of Justice such as the Fugitive Task Force
JAG grants and the High -Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program are valuable in this regard.
• Support for funding and grant programs that assist with law enforcement personnel, safety
and equipment needs including continuation of the COPS Program (Community Oriented
Policing Program) and the Byrne JAG (Justice Assistance Grant) program for critical law
enforcement equipment, fixture and personnel needs as well as increased public defense
and prosecution requirements.
• Strengthen the U.S. border to inhibit the movement of drugs, weapons, contraband and
people while prioritizing the health and welfare of U.S. citizens.
• Encourage the federal government to establish funding assistance to aid in the planning and
construction of jails and facilities for behavioral health, detention and law enforcement.
• Uphold laws and regulations that provide local governments with the ability to regulate its
public spaces, including, but not limited to, open use of controlled substances, overnight
camping, etc.
• Support for federal programs and funding to increase drug enforcement and treatment
programs as well as passing legislation addressing the growing epidemic of substance abuse.
• Oppose funding for controversial harm reduction efforts such as safer supply programs,
supervised consumption sites and the distribution of safe smoking kits, as they have shown
to increase overdose rates and other concerning outcomes.
• Support legislation that updates regulations for Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMDs), as
the 16-bed Medicaid exception serves as a disincentive for building larger facilities and
contributes to psychiatric bed shortages. Examples include H.R.4022 (Increasing Behavioral
Health Treatment Act) and H.R. 5462 (Michelle Alyssa Go Act).
• To encourage more effective outcomes, provide more flexibility for opioid treatment
programs with regard to duration of stays as recommended by the National Institute of Drug
Abuse.
• Support secure and ethical sharing of data among crisis response teams and partner
agencies to streamline intake and crisis assessment while protecting client privacy and
complying with federal and state regulations.
• Continue funding at the local level for emergency management, as it plays a crucial role in
safeguarding the lives and well-being of our citizens, minimizes economic disruption and
promotes resilience throughout the community.
• Evaluate the methodology for state -level allocations and local redistributions to ensure
fairness and equity for each community such as the national opioid settlement.
• Ensure safety regulations and other protections for communities that experience frequent
transport of hazardous materials via train through the passage of the Railway Safety Act.
• Enact measures requiring railroads to maintain their properties to deter trespassers,
encampments, and associated negative impacts upon adjacent businesses and
neighborhoods and requiring prompt clean up after public health and safety incidents.
Amended March 3, 2026
POLICY PRIORITIES CONTINUED
Transportation and Infrastructure
• Encourage Congress to continue federal participation in locally directed projects, given the
unprecedented growth and maintenance needs of existing infrastructure within the region.
• Continued partnership with Washington State's Congressional representatives and the U.S.
Department of Transportation to ensure that coordination between federal agencies does not
delay the efficient use of federal transportation funds.
• Eliminate obstacles to the efficient implementation of federal transportation projects.
• Continue funding levels for discretionary programs such as BUILD and CRISI.
• Provide flexibility in project management to ensure efficient use of funding.
• Streamline grant agreement development, review and execution so funding can be spent
more expeditiously.
• Encourage the U.S. Dept. of Transportation to work with states to establish Disadvantaged
Business Enterprise (DBE) goals on a regional rather than statewide basis, as more remote
agencies must bear the cost of travel for contracted services from larger metropolitan areas
and prioritize the development of the new DBE certification process.
• The City encourages members of Congress to visit the Inland Northwest region to see how
extraordinary growth is driving these critical infrastructure projects and the City of Spokane
Valley's wise stewardship of federally -awarded funds.
Housing and Homelessness
• Promote targeted reforms to programs with proven results and preserve access to essential
services for people on the cusp of or currently experiencing homelessness. Examples include
Continuum of Care Program, Homeless Assistance Grants and Medicaid.
• Assess HUD requirements to ensure cost effectiveness and prioritize funds for programs that
provide a hand up and empower individuals to become self-sufficient.
• Expand opportunities to better serve youth who are experiencing homelessness and
substance use disorders. An example would be finding additional measures besides HUD
point -in -time counts, as homeless youth are often not included in those counts.
• Promote innovative solutions and partnerships to stabilize the property insurance market as
rising premiums and restrictive coverage have escalated premiums. These increases are
driven by factors like the growing frequency of natural disasters, higher reconstruction costs
and inflation, which disproportionately affect affordable housing developers, low and
moderate -income households and first time homebuyers.
• Promote construction and preservation of affordable housing through programs such as
Low -Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHTC), HOME Investment Partnership Program
and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG).
• Support for federal incentives to increase and diversify housing options for an arrayof income
levels, including very low-income and workforce housing.
• Support for HUD to adequately fund its Housing Choice Voucher Program to create stability
and certainty for Public Housing Authorities to continue assisting families and individuals in
need of affordable housing options and extend sufficient notice if funding should run short.
Amended March 3, 2026
POLICY PRIORITIES CONTINUED
Economic Development and Workforce
• Support policies and programs that expand and grow the manufacturing sectors in the City
of Spokane Valley and across the region.
• Simplify the small business loan process at the federal level to streamline assistance.
• Preserve local authorityfor permitting and siting of broadband infrastructure.
• Support policies and programs that expand the availability and affordability of workforce
housing options in the City of Spokane Valley and across the region.
Value of Hydropower
• Hydropower is essential for grid stability, providing reliable and affordable energy, backup
during blackouts and integration for variable renewable sources like solar and wind.
Therefore, the City supports efforts to increase capacity of the Lower Snake River dams, as a
reliable and resilient energy grid is critical for economic stability, public safety and national
security.
• Ensure that stakeholders who rely on the benefits of the Columbia River system participate
in conversations at the federal level, including but not limited to, growers and producers,
public utilities, ports, local government and river users.
SUPPORT FOR LOCAL AND REGIONAL INITIATIVES
• Fairchild Air Force Base remains a critical hub for global air -refueling missions that underpin
U.S. and allied force projection around the world. Ensuring the safety and effectiveness of
both military and civilian aviation operations must take priority over incompatible projects
that could compromise flight paths, radar reliability or mission readiness. An example would
be proposed large wind turbine farms whatwould impede flight paths near Fairchild AFB and
Spokane International Airport.
• Support of the Regional Spokane Coeur d'Alene American Aerospace Materials
Manufacturing Center (AAMMC) Tech Hub.
• Support for Spokane County's $3 million CDS request for expansion of the Regional
Stabilization Center.
Amended March 3, 2026
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: March 3, 2026
Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ❑ new business ❑ public hearing
❑ information ® admin. report ❑ pending legislation ❑ executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Administrative Report: Potential Grant Opportunity — Pedestrian
Bicycle Program (PBP) and Safe Routes To School (SRTS) Program
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 35.77.010: Six Year Transportation Improvement Program
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
Annual adoption of the City's Six -Year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP)
In even -numbered years, City Council has regularly authorized the City Manager to apply to
the WSDOT PBP/SRTS call for projects.
February 17, 2026, City Council authorized the City Manager to apply to the WSDOT City
Safety Program call for projects. Applications included the Barker/Appleway Roundabout, the
Appleway Crossings, and the Arterials Crossings projects.
BACKGROUND: In January 2026, the Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT) issued a call for projects for the PBP and SRTS that aims to improve safety and
increase the number of people walking or bicycling. Past awards from the PBP and SRTS
programs include the Barker/81" Roundabout, 2024 Arterial School Crossing Upgrades, Bowdish
Sidewalk from 121" to 22nd Avenues, and the City Hall Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) crossing
on Sprague Avenue.
The funding programs can fund construction projects, planning/design only projects, or
education and encouragement programs. Critical program details are:
PBP SRTS
Total Available Program Funds: $49.4 M $57.0 M
Funding Type (State/Federal) State State and/or Federal
Match Amount: No match required for either program
Application Due Date: April 15, 2026 April 15, 2026
Award Date: Recommended awards will be given to the state legislature
by December 1, 2026, for inclusion in subsequent budget
appropriations in 2027. Formal award letters are expected
in June 2027 (pending State budget approval).
Staff have reviewed the adopted six -year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), various
elements of the comprehensive plan, its Local Road Safety Plan, and current or near -team
planned projects to generate a preliminary application list that satisfies eligibility requirements
for both PBP and SRTS programs. The projects in Table 1 are recommended for application.
Table 1. Recommended Projects for Application
Fund
Project
Total
Request
PBP
Barker/Appleway Roundabout
$4,500,000
$4,300,000
PBP
Appleway Crossings
$1,100,000
$1,100,000
PBP
Arterial Crossings
$1,100,000
$1,100,000
PBP
Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety Improvements Planning:
$300,000
$300,000
Sprague (Argonne to Sullivan and Sullivan (Sprague to Mission
SRTS
Citywide School Zone Flashing Beacon and Rectangular Rapid
$1,500,000
$1,500,000
Flashing Beacon Installations
Project details are described below and also in the attached PowerPoint. The first three projects
in this bulleted list were also submitted to WSDOT's City Safety Program. WSDOT staff for the
City Safety Program and this PBP/SRTS call for projects regularly coordinate with each other.
Further, City staff will continue to coordinate project funding status between the programs with
the goal of maximizing potential awards across the two programs for all City applications.
Barker/Appleway Roundabout - PBP
This intersection is a key component to the South Barker Corridor, which includes two
roundabouts at the 1-90 interchange, one existing roundabout at Sprague, and two future
roundabouts at 4t" and 81" Avenues. The intersection project is initiating its design phase
and is likely to require multiple funding sources to obtain full construction funds. In
February, City Council approved the City Manager to submit a similar funding request for
this project to WSDOT's City Safety Program.
Appleway Crossings - PBP
Scoped as two new Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHB) and one new Rectangular Rapid
Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crossing located near Orchard Crest Apartments, Dartmouth
Road, and the U-City Driveway across the street from the University Transit Center. The
project will consider existing conditions and compare them to design standards for
vehicle volumes, lane capacity, and safe crossing conditions for active users. In
February, City Council approved the City Manager to submit a similar funding request for
this project to WSDOT's City Safety Program.
Arterial Crossings - PBP
Scoped as two new PHB crossings at Coleman Road crossing Appleway and Sprague
Avenues, three new RRFB crossings on N. Barker Road between Indiana and Garland
Avenues, and one new RRFB at the existing crossing located on Park Road at Cataldo
Avenue. The project will consider existing conditions and compare them to design
standards for vehicle volumes, lane capacity, and safe crossing conditions for active
users. In February, City Council approved the City Manager to submit a similar funding
request for this project to WSDOT's City Safety Program.
• Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety Improvements Planning - PBP
The proposed development and design -only application request will evaluate active
transportation -related crashes along Sprague Avenue between Argonne and Sullivan
Roads and Sullivan Road between Sprague and Mission Avenues.
Scope will include thorough public engagement with the impacted community
(businesses, residents, general public, transit users, city council, etc.) to determine
infrastructure improvements that can improve the transportation network to more safely
accommodate all users of all abilities. As part of the overall scope, the planning exercise
will lead to a construction ready project that is 100% designed and be eligible for future
construction funds from a subsequent program calls for projects. This element to the
project is a coordinated effort between City Council, city staff, and WSDOT's Active
Transportation Division.
Citywide School Zone Flashing Beacon (SZFB) & Rectangular Rapid Flashing
Beacon (RRFB) Installations — SRTS
This project is a citywide installation of beacons at existing, known school zones and/or
arterial crossings serving the community near or adjacent to schools. There are 18
school zone flashing beacons proposed for existing school zones that are currently only
signed and lack flashing beacons. Similarly, there are 17 rectangular rapid flashing
beacons proposed for arterial crossings adjacent to or near schools. Both beacon types
aim to increase driver awareness to the presence of active users nearby.
OPTIONS: Discussion.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Staff seeks Council consensus to proceed with the
proposed projects. The proposed projects will be provided to Council for a motion consideration
at a subsequent meeting in March 2026.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: None at this time. There is no match requirement for the
2026 PBP/SRTS call for projects.
STAFF CONTACT: Adam Jackson, P.E., Engineering Manager
ATTACHMENTS: PowerPoint
List of Proposed SZFB + RRFB Installations
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CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER 2025 ANNUAL
REPORT
I. INTRODUCTION
I have been serving as the City of Spokane Valley Land Use Hearing Examiner since June
28, 2021, and my current contract continues until mutually modified or terminated by either parry.
I report, in writing, to the City Manager at least once per year. The purpose of this report
is to review the administration of the City's land use policies and regulating resolutions, as well as
reporting on the number and type of decisions rendered since the prior report.
City of Spokane Valley land use hearings are held at City Hall monthly on the first, second
and fourth Thursday of each month on an ad hoc basis as needed.
This report is on all actions from January 1, 2025 through December 1, 2025. During this
time frame I have rendered 4 decisions. I also made one decision on a Declaration of Dangerous
Dog appeal.
II. ANALYSIS
Subdivisions
SUB 2025-0005 Pappy's Landing. This was a proposal for a proposed subdivision will divide
9.73 acres into 31 residential lots. The lots range in size from 10,004 to 22,665 square feet. The
property has frontage along Dishman Mica Road to the west, Pierce Road to the east, and Van
Marter Road to the north. A single-family dwelling and other accessory structures currently exist
onsite. All existing structures will be removed for the proposed development. Access to lots
within the proposed development will be provided by a newly constructed public street,
connecting Van Marter Road south of 35th Avenue to Pierce Road at 36th Avenue. The new
private street will extend south from the new public street to provide access for Lots 8, 9, and 10
of Block 2. The new public street will be named 36th Drive and the new private street will be
named Glenn Lane. The existing segment of Van Marter Road south of 35th Avenue will be
renamed to 36th Drive upon construction of the new public street. The new public street, 36th
Drive, will be constructed with curb, gutter, sidewalks, roadside swales and other improvements
as required for local access streets per the Spokane Valley Street Standards (SVSS). A border
easement is also required along the new street to be constructed. As a mitigation measure of the
Mitigated Determination of Non -Significance (MDNS), the applicant is required to construct a
five -foot -wide sidewalk along the west side of Van Marter Road (to be renamed 36th Drive) from
the northern plat boundary to 35th Avenue. In addition, two fire hydrants will be installed
adjacent to the new public street as conditions of approval. After an open record public hearing
and review of the entire file, the Hearing Examiner approved the subdivision and the PRD subject
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
Page 1
to 89 Conditions of Approval with subparts.
SUB 2025-0001 Mirabeau Townhomes. This was a request for a 38-lot Subdivision with public
streets and associated curb, gutter, sidewalk and stormwater improvements. The proposed lots are
located at parcel numbers 55082.0113 55082.0111 and 55082.0112 s The site is not addressed.
The project is generally located 660' east of the intersection of Euclid Avenue and McMillan
Road; further located in the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 8, Township 25 North, Range 45 East,
Willamette Meridian, Spokane County, Washington. The owner and applicant is Mirabeau
Townhomes, LLC, P.O. Box 1478, Hayden, ID 83835.The developer has indicated that each lot
will be developed with a duplex and that a day care and community facility will be developed
respectively on Lot 13 and lot 14, Block 3. The proposed uses are permitted either outright or by
conditional use permit. This subdivision review does not authorize these uses but notes that they
are permitted and subject to review and process at the time of permit. After an open record public
hearing and review of the entire file, this subdivision was approved subject to 7 conditions of
approval with subparts.
SUB 2025-002 Collins Lane Subdivision. This was a request to subdivide 25,838 square feet
into six attached single-family lots. The proposed subdivision involves three existing lots that all
contain duplexes under construction. As a result of the subdivision, the common wall separating
the individual living units will be located on and along the common boundary of the adjoining
lots. The proposed subdivision will subdivide three existing lots. The three lots have a total area
of 25,838 square feet, and the resulting six lots will range in size from 4,300 to 4,324 square feet.
After an open record public hearing held by a Hearing Examiner Pro Tem, and review of the
entire file, this subdivision was approved subject to 38 conditions of approval with subparts.
SUB 2025-0003 Greenline Subdivision. This was a preliminary request to divide 1.40 acres
into 26 residential lots. The location of the project is : Parcel number 45133.0542, addressed at
15621 E Valleyway Avenue, located in the NW'/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 3, Township 25 North,
Range 44 East, Willamette Meridian, Spokane County, Washington. The owner was Valleyway
Group, LLC and the applicant was Simpson Engineers, INC. The proposed subdivision will
divide 1.40 acres into 26 residential lots. The lots range in size from 2,003 to 3,262 square feet.
The site is located north of and adjacent to Valleyway Avenue, 400 feet east of Sullivan Road.
The preliminary plat of record (Exhibit 7) indicates the proposed development will comprise
three to four -unit townhomes, with each unit being on individual lots. A single-family dwelling
and other accessory structures currently exist onsite. All existing structures will be removed for
the proposed development. After an open record public hearing and review of the entire file, this
subdivision was approved subject to 73 conditions of approval with subparts.
Appeals.
SCRAPS No 73966 Dangerous Dog Appeal. This was an appeal of a Declaration of Dangerous
Dog that was made by Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Services ("SCRAPS"). The
original hearing was held on November 7, 2024 and the Hearing Examiner made a decision
affirming the Declaration of Dangerous Dog. However, the appellant, Paula Bowes, appealed the
decision because the Hearing Examiner did not allow her to question witnesses offered by
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
Page 2
SCRAPS. On remand from Spokane County Superior Court, the Hearing Examiner held a second
duly noticed open record public hearing on April 10, 2025. Ms. Bowes was given notice of this
hearing. Ms. Bowes did not attend this hearing. Prior to the hearing, City of Spokane Valley staff
attempted numerous times, to contact Ms. Bowes by telephone indicating that the hearing was
being delayed until she could arrive. She never answered the phone. Testimony was received by
SCRAPS as to the fact that they mailed to Ms. Bowes on April 3, 2025 by regular and certified
mail, the notice of hearing and provided the supplemental material. The regular mail was not
returned. The certified mail indicated that on April 5, 2025, delivery was attempted and that it
was being held by the Post Office at the request of Ms. Bowes. The Hearing Examiner
determined that this hearing would proceed, Ms. Bowes received legal and proper notice of the
date, place, and time of this hearing and that she chose not to attend. The Hearing Examiner
admitted evidence into the record, took testimony from witnesses and issued the decision on
remand, once again affirming the Declaration on Dangerous dog.
III. CONCLUSION
Throughout this year, I have not been requested to remove myself as a Hearing Examiner,
nor have been required to remove myself as a Hearing Examiner due to any conflict of
interest/appearance of fairness issues.
Hearings have been held and evidence gathered in an orderly fashion. Written decisions
have been rendered on a timely basis. While I do not know whether any of my decisions from this
year have been appealed, I do know that none of my decisions have been returned to me from any
higher court.
I would invite you to attend a hearing. You will find that I consider it an important part of
my duty to allow all members of the public to present the evidence and testimony they wish to be
included into the record, so long as it is consistent with the laws as set forth in this state.
In 2025, I served as Hearing Examiner for Adams County, Chelan County, Douglas County,
Garfield County, Grant County, Kittitas County, Klickitat County, Okanogan County, Whitman
County, City of Bridgeport, City of Cashmere, City of Chelan, City of Cle Elum, City of Connell,
City of Dayton, City of East Wenatchee, Electric City, City of Ellensburg, City of Entiat, City of
George, City of Grand Coulee, City of Kennewick, City of Kittitas, City of Leavenworth, City of
Mattawa, City of Moses Lake, City of Othello, City of Pasco, City of Pullman, City of Quincy,
City of Rock Island, City of Spokane Valley, City of Walla Walla, City of Waterville, City of
Wenatchee and the City of Yakima. I also serve as Hearing Examiner for Chelan -Douglas Health
District.
I would like to commend former Planning Manager Steve Roberge, Senior Planner Lori
Barlow, and the entire City of Spokane staff for their professionalism in the preparation and
presentation of their staff reports and their conduct at hearings. Their diligence and hard work
make my job easier as they present the application materials and preliminary evidence in a
succinct and easily comprehensible format. It allows me to do my job on a more efficient basis
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
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which saves the City money. They are always prepared and are always professional at the
hearings. In short, you have a Planning Department o of which the entire City can be proud.
I would be happy to meet with you and the City Council at your convenience in order to
discuss policies and implementation of those policies and any other items that may be of interest
to you or the City Council.
In summary, the Hearing Examiner process continues to be successfully implemented in City
of Spokane Valley.
Respectfully submitted this q day of January, 2026.
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER
�l l
drew L. Kottkamp
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY LAND USE HEARING EXAMINER
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
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