Spokane voters decide in November on a $7.7M annual 0.1% sales tax increase for police, fire, and court services, with potential spending transparency concerns and regional safety effects.

Spokane voters will decide in November on a proposed 0.1% sales tax increase for police, fire, and court services, projected to generate about $7.7 million annually. Concerns regarding spending transparency have led city officials to propose a segregated fund for tax proceeds. Meanwhile, Spokane County seeks to renew a nearly 30-year-old 0.1% sales tax vital for its juvenile justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation for youth offenders. Sheriff Nowels warns the city proposal could disrupt regional safety efforts.

September 22, 2024
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