The City of Spokane is committed to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in our community while continuing to provide critical City services and addressing the impacts of closures of schools, business and events.

Spokane County is now in Phase 2 of Governor Jay Inslee's Safe Start Washington plan. Phase 2 allows for gatherings of up to 5 unrelated people, in-store purchases at retail locations, and restaurants to open at 50 percent capacity, among other things.

The governor approved a variance, allowing Spokane County to move to Phase 2 prior to other parts of the state on May 22. Find more details on our "Staying Healthy" page.

Community leaders, including Mayor Nadine Woodward and the City Council, have supported the variance request as part of their work to help lead the Spokane region's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The City is looking to reopen City Hall, and similar City facilities, to the public during Phase 3 of the reopening plan. For now, learn how to do business with the city on our page about current City service changes.

Helping Citizens

Even though we are moving into Phase 2 of the reopening plan, the impacts of the measures that have been instituted to help slow the spread of COVID-19 have created a hardship for some citizens.

To help residents, the City has suspended late fees and water shut-offs for non-payment of City utility bills. Avista has announced that it is suspending power utility shut-offs during this time as well. Citizens can seek financial help with their energy bills and their City utility bills by calling SNAP at 456-SNAP. Spokane Public Schools is assisting with nutrition needs. Below is a list of additional resources:

• Washington State Department of Financial Institutions - guide for families who need financial assistance
• Washington State Employment Security Department – information regarding employment assistance
• Spokane Housing Authority – information regarding housing assistance
• The Fig Tree – guide for community support and necessities

Assisting Businesses

Finanical Helpline Dashboard

The City is working with Greater Spokane Incorporated and the Downtown Spokane Partnership on plans to help businesses. For help with City utility bills, please see information on our business deferral program. For the most up to date information visit the City's Small Business Resources page.

The City has started the #OrderUpSpokane campaign to encourage people to order take out from their favorite restaurants. 10-minute parking zones near restaurants in the City core will allow citizens and delivery drivers to efficiently pick up to-go orders. Check out this list of restaurants offering takeout and delivery options.

City Informational Videos

COVID-19 Daily Briefings

News Releases - Updated: 10/21/2020

Community Updates

Related Documents