Spokane City Council Approves Funding for Allocations of American Rescue Plan Funds
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~ Spokane City Council Approves $5 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding for Community Investments

In a 6-1 vote, the Spokane City Council has adopted a Special Budget Ordinance to allocate $5 million of the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding towards various community investments. This marks the final significant allocation of the $81 million in funding that the City received for COVID relief during the pandemic.

Council Member Zack Zappone expressed his enthusiasm for this decision, stating, "This last significant allocation of American Rescue funding is an investment in our community. From addressing homelessness to improving youth activities and health to cleaning and securing neighborhoods, this allocation of funding invests in every neighborhood across the city."

The vote focused on several key areas, including $1.8 million for property acquisition to reduce homelessness in the downtown core, $225,000 for capital improvements at a northeast childcare facility, and $550,000 to support essential programs at the Spokane Municipal Court. Additionally, there will be $250,000 allocated towards scholarships and equipment for youth sports and over $500,000 towards neighborhood cleanup programs throughout the city.

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Other notable investments include support for the East Sprague Business District, alleyway activation projects, a health center at Shadle High School, improvements to Cannon Hill Pond, a behavioral health vehicle, and other initiatives aimed at community stabilization.

Council Member Paul Dillon emphasized the importance of this funding for programs and services that many residents rely on daily. He stated, "We're creating additional capacity for more treatment options, cleaning downtown, childcare expansion, criminal justice reform efforts, housing initiatives and more." Dillon also acknowledged Council Members Jonathan Bingle and Lili Navarrete for their hard work in connecting projects across all districts and laying the foundation for this final package.

Council Member Lili Navarrete echoed Dillon's sentiments and expressed her pride in the level of collaboration achieved by the council. She highlighted specific allocations towards the downtown fire station, childcare capital projects, and scholarships for youth sports. Navarrete also thanked Council Member Bingle for his dedication and willingness to compromise throughout the process.

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The City Council made the decision to pass the ordinance on an emergency basis, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that city staff have enough time to effectively utilize the funds before the end of 2024. This will maximize the impact of the American Rescue Plan funding on the community.

Overall, this allocation of $5 million in ARPA funding showcases Spokane City Council's dedication to investing in their community and addressing critical issues such as homelessness, youth activities, public safety, and more. With this final significant allocation, the City can continue its efforts towards recovery and stability in the wake of the pandemic.

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