City of Spokane Considers Rejoining County Aquifer Protection Area
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~ The City of Spokane is considering rejoining the Spokane County Aquifer Protection Area (APA) after a recommendation from the newly established Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Board. The board, led by Communications Director Erin Hut, believes that this measure is crucial for protecting the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and ensuring the sustainability of the community.

The APA has been in operation for 40 years and raises funds for projects aimed at safeguarding the aquifer from pollution, educating the public about its importance, and conducting long-term water quality monitoring and research. However, when the measure was renewed in 2004, the City of Spokane did not participate despite being a member for 20 years.

Mayor Lisa Brown emphasizes the significance of protecting the sole source aquifer as it serves as the largest drinking water utility in the region. With new threats such as PFAS contamination, climate change, and increased urban activities over the aquifer, rejoining the APA is seen as a crucial step in preserving this vital resource.

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The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer spans across north Idaho and Eastern Washington and serves over 500,000 people in our community. Council President Betsy Wilkerson stresses that renewing this measure is essential for ensuring responsible environmental stewardship and safeguarding our water resources.

Under state law, APAs can be used to fund various activities aimed at protecting underground aquifers. This includes stormwater management, implementing best practices for water quality protection, and education initiatives. For single-family residential properties connected to water within city limits, a fee of $15 per year would be charged on their property tax bill to support these efforts.

At their March meeting, the recently formed Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Board voted to approve a resolution recommending that City Council propose this measure to voters in April. The board believes that rejoining the APA is crucial for promoting sustainability within our community and protecting our precious water resources.

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