KayCee Downey

Guiding Future Climate Policy: Community Survey Results

KayCee Downey, Planner II, 509.625.6500

Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 3:54 p.m.

Guiding Future Climate Policy: Community Survey Results

The first phase of the City of Spokane’s Climate Planning efforts focused on the who, what, and where of local climate hazards. Community members shared their lived experiences to provide greater understanding of how daily routes, human health, community wellbeing, infrastructure systems, local economies, and much more are affected by extreme weather events like heat and wildfire smoke. As we enter phase two, where we will discuss policy development and prioritization, we again turned to the community to share their thoughts. The Community Climate Policy Survey was open from July 21 through August 31, 2025 and received over 1,400 responses. The survey built upon prior engagement, using topics and themes previously heard to further define priorities for the next 20 years. These results will play a crucial role in shaping policies that support a more resilient future for Spokane.

The Community Climate Policy Survey Results and Analysis report highlights the key findings and the next steps toward a resilient and safer future for our community.

Water, Health, and Food Systems Top Priority

Water, human health, and food systems collectively ranked as the top three topics of importance for survey takers. Over one quarter of respondents said water was their main priority, with an additional 23% marking it as their second. Human health was another consistent number one choice, while food systems was a consistent secondary or third priority for survey respondents showing a shared interest. These survey results mirror prior feedback of the Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment during the first phase of the Climate Planning efforts, pointing towards a clear direction for future policy considerations.

Key Themes for Future Action

When asked what future actions the City should consider, to develop supportive policies, eight key themes were identified:

  • Lead by example – establish pilot programs and implement resiliency policies at City-owned and community-focused facilities and properties.
  • Water Conservation and Waste Management – highlight the need for river and aquifer protection, as well as waste management and reduction.
  • Community Collaboration and Engagement – community collaboration, engagement, and engagement can support local resiliency.
  • Urban Green Spaces – prioritize expansion and access to green spaces and the natural environment within city boundaries.
  • Active Transportation – improve the existing transportation system and expand access to active transportation options.
  • Disaster Preparedness – prepare the community for disasters and respond to extreme weather events.
  • Equal Access – ensure all benefits, incentives, and improvements created through climate and resiliency policies are accessible to all City of Spokane community members.
  • Sustainable Development – ensure growth, future development, and City policies are sustainable and resilient.

Full analysis can be found in the PlanSpokane Community Climate Policy Survey Results and Analysis report for those interested in learning more about the community feedback from the survey.

Survey Results & Analysis Report

Next Steps

The Community Climate Policy Survey kicked off the second phase of Climate Planning for the City of Spokane, beginning the conversation around policies to create a more resilient future. The results will guide policy development and ultimately lead to recommendations for the PlanSpokane 2046 Comprehensive Plan update.

Your next opportunity to provide feedback on climate and resiliency topics is at a Community Workshop Series on Future Growth and Guiding Policies this November. Mark your calendars and learn more about the workshops online.

Stay informed about upcoming engagement opportunities by signing up for the PlanSpokane newsletter.

Have questions for the Climate Planning team? Contact us at climateplanning@spokanecity.org.

Learn more about PlanSpokane 2046 and the ongoing Climate Planning efforts online at PlanSpokane.org.

The City of Spokane Climate Planning project is funded by a state grant. The WA Department of Commerce climate planning grant is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available on their website.

More About...