Council Members Wilkerson and Zappone Partner with State Officials to Secure $1.4 Million for Spokane Police Academy
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~ Spokane City Council Members Betsy Wilkerson and Zack Zappone, along with Senator Andy Billig, Representative Timm Ormsby, and Representative Marcus Riccelli, have successfully secured $1.4 million dollars of funding in the State's budget for the renovation and expansion of the Spokane Police Academy.

Council Member Wilkerson said, "We prioritized advocating for funding during the recent legislative session, and I am glad to see those efforts pay off. This funding will provide necessary additional basic law enforcement classes." Council Member Zappone added that after seeing the need to improve and expand the academy, they worked closely with their 3rd Legislative District representatives to ensure funding was acquired.

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The funding was in doubt all session due to its top priority status for the City Council and local legislators. However, through their collaboration, they were able to include it in the final budget. Senator Billig commented on this achievement saying "A key to keeping our community safe is having sufficient peace officers and ensuring they are well trained. This capital budget investment helps us to achieve those goals, and I was glad to advocate for it in the Legislature." Rep. Riccelli also expressed his pride in working with his fellow legislators on providing this necessary funding.

The renovation and expansion of the Spokane Police Academy will provide training to prospective officers who will serve across Washington state - a necessary investment in its future safety.

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