Spokane Valley’s Historic Tax Vote Sparks Heated Debate | Image Source: www.thecentersquare.com
SPOKANE VALLEY, Washington, April 16, 2025 – For the first time in its history, Spokane Valley is calling on its residents to consider collecting local taxes. In a historic and controversial movement, Spokane Valley voted 5-1 to place a 0.1% sales tax measure in the vote on August 5. The funds, estimated at $2.6 million per year, would be used to increase the strength of the municipal police and to strengthen public safety efforts due to increased demand for services.
According to city officials, the new revenues would allow for at least 10 additional officers over the next two years, while covering the cost of patrol equipment and vehicles. The wording of the measure does not include a sunset clause, which makes the tax increase permanent unless it is revoked by voters in the future. Almost half of the funds raised are expected to come from non-residents, a detail that the city stands out as an advantage for premises that might otherwise bear a heavier burden.
What led Spokane Valley to consider an increase in sales taxes?
The proposal originated from a report by Matrix Consulting Group Ltd. In 2023, which concluded that police services had not kept pace with the population growth of 31 per cent since its inception in 2003. According to the report, the Spokane Valley Police Department (SVPD) has fewer than 31 people, citing more than 50,000 calls per year and an increase of 28 per cent in emergency response times since 2020.
In response, the city launched a ”police customization plan”. Phase I, which was funded internally by a reduction of $1.3 million (approximately 5 per cent) from non-police departments, recruited 12 posts, 10 of which were officers. However, Phase II, which includes the remaining rents, would require new sources of funding and the proposed increase in sales tax.
How much will it cost the residents?
Spokane Valley residents would pay 10 cents more for each $100 purchase if the tax passed. According to internal estimates, the annual cost of residents is estimated at $12.43 per person, less than $29 per household, a figure that city officials consider modest when assessing the benefits of improving public safety. The city also noted that a significant portion of revenues would be collected by visitors who buy or eat within the city limits.
Why is there political disagreement about this measure?
Despite the general agreement on the need for more enforcement, not all Council members support the budget process. Councillor Al Merkel issued the solitary dissent vote, arguing that the city must find space in its current budget to finance the 31 full posts. He proposed that the Council adopt a zero-based budgetary strategy, giving priority to public safety and reallocating funds from other areas.
“It’s our job,” said Merkel. “It is our responsibility to the taxpayer, and I think it is incomprehensible to ask the taxpayer to bear more burden for our mismanagement
Other Board members withdrew, citing strict budget conditions and recent cuts in parks, swimming pools and economic development programs. Counsel Jessica Yeager said they had already “set their belts” and that the remaining 64% of the city’s budget – including public safety and legal services – needed new sources of funding.
What do municipal officials and residents say about the tax proposal?
Mayor Pam Haley and police chief Dave Ellis expressed strong support for this measure. Haley noted that the decision to vote for the tax increase reflects the community’s view of a 2024 survey, where most preferred to allocate a portion of local tax revenues to public safety.
“Responsibility for financial contributions means listening to our citizens,” said Haley. “This proposed electoral measure reflects the voice of our community and we believe that our electors deserve the last word. »
Chief Ellis stressed the urgency of expanding the ranks of the ministry. He described the current force as exaggerated, with agents at risk of burning and response times to make high-risk incidents increasingly frequent.
“These new positions will significantly improve public safety by providing faster emergency response times, more neighbourhood patrols, increased capacity to investigate drug and property offences, safer roads, a comprehensive response to homelessness and greater school safety for our children,” said Ellis.
Why now? And what’s at stake?
There is a sense of urgency that drives this action. Although crime rates have fluctuated in recent years, Spokane Valley calls have increased by 54% since 2004, and public safety expectations are high. In addition to inflation, rising operating costs and stagnating tax revenues, the city is at a crossroads, needs to expand its services and balance its budgetary responsibility.
According to counselor Laura Padden, not acting now could lead to greater public dissatisfaction and a decline in overall quality of life. Street maintenance, economic development and recreational programs are already seeing budget cuts, and Council members say they are not willing to destroy them to finance police expansion.
How is it compared to similar cities?
Other cities in Washington have faced similar financing dilemmas. From Olympia to Yakima, local governments are increasingly using modest increases in sales tax to finance basic public services, particularly law enforcement and emergency response. In contrast to increases in property tax, which may seem heavier for homeowners, sales tax increases are often considered fairer as they share the cost to residents and visitors.
However, these measures also tend to trigger debate on fiscal accountability, transparency and confidence. Opponents often argue that local governments must manage within existing budgets, while supporters argue that changing community needs require new revenue flows.
What if electors reject the measure?
If the measure fails in August, the city will be forced to reassess its approach. This could mean reducing recruitment plans, reorienting funds from other departments, or even reviewing another financial measure later. In any event, the decision will have a long-term impact on Spokane Valley’s ability to respond to crime, maintain public safety and prevent an officer fire.
Municipal Director Erik Lamb acknowledged that, although Phase I was possible through internal cuts, these cuts are not sustainable for long-term planning. Without new funding, Phase II would be delayed or eventually completely abandoned.
Is that the people’s decision?
The political tension surrounding this issue goes beyond budget tables. On this basis, the debate addresses deeper issues of democracy, representation and governance. Counsellor Padden accused Merkel of trying to “touch the people” by denying him the right to vote on the measure.
“It’s amazing for me that the council member who presents himself as the champion of the people, only wants it if the voice of the people comes through it,” Padden said. “I say the people decide.”
The Council’s 5-1 vote, despite internal disagreements, shows the commitment to let the residents weigh. With the question leading to the vote, the real decision now lies with the voters of Spokane Valley.
In the coming weeks, the city is expected to undertake outreach efforts to help residents understand what is at stake. Brochures, municipalities and digital resources will ensure that electors are fully informed before they vote.
Whether the increase in sales tax is approved or not, the August vote in the Spokane Valley will mark a decisive moment in its history – a moment that underscores the complex balance between growth, governance and community voice.
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