Spokane: Council To Consider Development Moratorium in Latah Valley
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Spokane ~ Spokane City Council will be discussing a proposed one-year moratorium on subdivision applications in the Latah Valley and Grandview Thorpe neighborhoods during their upcoming Legislative Session on Monday. This decision comes as a response to the significant increase in residential development in the area and concerns over inadequate fire protection resources and emergency access.

According to Council Member Paul Dillon, who is sponsoring the ordinance, the rapid growth in Latah Valley has highlighted the need for better public safety and health measures, particularly when it comes to fire safety. "This moratorium is necessary to address these issues and ensure that we are prepared for any potential disasters," Dillon stated. He also emphasized that this decision is crucial for providing long-term planning for the residents of Latah Valley.

If passed, the moratorium would mean that the City will not accept, process, review, or approve any new applications for preliminary short subdivisions or preliminary subdivisions in the designated Moratorium Zone. However, applications that were already counter-complete before the effective date of this ordinance will still be processed according to Spokane Municipal Code.

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Council Member Lili Navarrete expressed her support for affordable housing but stressed that safety should always be a top priority. "We cannot expand housing without proper infrastructure," she stated.

It's important to note that this moratorium would not apply to applications for preliminary short subdivisions and preliminary subdivisions that were already vested before the effective date of this ordinance. According to state law, a public hearing will be held on July 15, 2024, where City Council will determine whether to finalize and continue the moratorium for the full year.

The Council Legislative Session will take place on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at City Council Chambers or can be viewed online at https://my.spokanecity.org/citycable5/live/ and https://www.facebook.com/spokanecitycouncil. The decision on the moratorium is expected to be a significant topic of discussion during the session.

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