City of Spokane Applauds Full Passage of House Bill 1258
Washingtoner/10291806

~ On Thursday, Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1258 into law, a move that has been applauded by city leaders in Spokane. The bill, which ensures equitable distribution of local 911 excise tax funding for emergency communications, will be critical in funding a potential new emergency communications system for the city.

The City of Spokane has been in talks to potentially develop its own emergency communications system after being kicked out of the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) Board's regional system in January. However, the SREC recently suspended their recommendation to allow for mediation between the City of Spokane, Spokane County, and SREC.

According to Erin Hut, Communications Director for the City of Spokane, city leaders will enter mediation within the coming weeks. In the meantime, they are grateful for the passage of HB 1258 and see it as a crucial step towards building a fair, effective, and reliable emergency communications system.

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Mayor Lisa Brown expressed her gratitude to the Washington Legislature and Governor Bob Ferguson for passing and signing HB 1258 into law. She believes that this legislation will equip them with the necessary resources to develop the best possible emergency communications infrastructure for the city.

Spokane Fire Chief Julie O'Berg also expressed her appreciation for Representatives Timm Ormsby and Natasha Hill and the Legislature for passing HB 1258. She believes that this bill brings greater equity to how emergency communication services are funded and recognizes the essential role cities like Spokane play in dispatching and responding to 911 calls.

Similarly, Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall sees this bill as a crucial investment in public safety and emergency response for the City of Spokane. He believes that reliable and well-funded 911 communications are essential for effective policing and lifesaving services. He also appreciates the Legislature's acknowledgment of Spokane's operational role and their community's needs.

In conclusion, with the passage of HB 1258 into law, city leaders in Spokane are hopeful that they will be able to establish a fair and reliable emergency communications system for their community. They are grateful for the support of the Washington Legislature and Governor Bob Ferguson in this crucial matter of public safety.

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