Brian Coddington, 509.625.6740
Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at 3:16 p.m.
City Councilwoman Kate Burke, District 1 Position 2, kicked off her first year of involvement in the City of Spokane’s budgeting process by releasing a list of her key priorities. “This process should be transparent, so that the voters can see what we’re working on,” said Councilwoman Burke. “I want to be mindful that we’re spending tax dollars.” She also pointed constituents to the City’s interactive online budget tools so that they can learn more and join the conversation.
Councilwoman Burke focused on making requests which are targeted to improve the housing situation in Spokane, which is a strategic plan priority: “People are struggling with this housing market. That’s true whether you look at middle-class folks looking for homes to buy, or the much more severe situation of those who are desperate to either get or keep an apartment in the first place.”
Including $3M to renew last year’s funding for pilot projects, as well as a $240,000 revolving fund for rental relocation in cases of buildings being condemned, a pilot program to provide RV park vouchers to motorhome dwellers, and a trio of studies to learn more about possible solutions to housing issues, Councilwoman Burke’s requests amount to an approximate $3,480,000. “That’s 1/270th of our City’s total expenses from 2018,” she said. “Spokane’s affordability makes it a great place to live, work, play, get an education and do business. My budget priorities represent a small investment into ensuring we keep our city livable for all as we grow.”
