Lisa Gardner, lgardner@spokanecity.org
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 9:02 a.m.
Spokane—WA, During Monday’s Legislative Session, the Spokane City Council voted on a resolution supporting putting the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) ballot initiative to be on the August 2026 ballot. The initiative would reauthorize a 0.2% sales tax for STA to fund public transportation services. The resolution seeks to make this funding permanent, as it is set to expire under a sunset clause at the end of 2028.
“Spokane Transit Authority is essential to connecting our communities,” said Council Member Paul Dillon. “No matter your ZIP code, everyone across Spokane and the region deserves reliable, accessible transit to get to work and school, while creating economic development, vibrant neighborhoods, and new opportunities for residents. It’s time to move forward.”
As part of the Connect 2035 plan, STA’s strategic 10-year investment plan, this tax will help expand and improve public transit in the region. It will support initiatives such as the “Opportunity Fare” pilot program for low-income bus fares, mobility-on-demand services, and the Division Street bus rapid transit project, among other transportation improvements.
"Public transit is a cornerstone of our city,” said Council Member Zack Zappone. “People use it every day to get to work, school, stores, health care clinics, and recreation. Reauthorizing the STA sales tax this August means we are more likely to secure over $120 million in state and federal grants to support construction jobs and expand services to more areas. This is a critical step to building a more vibrant and prosperous city where everyone can get ahead.”
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