Spokane County to Vote on Key Public Safety and Water Protection Measures in August

Spokane County residents will soon have the opportunity to participate in several important local decisions through upcoming ballots. A primary measure scheduled for August 5 involves the renewal and expansion of the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer Protection Zone, which, if approved, would impose monthly fees of up to $1.25 per household for water use and sewage disposal over the next two decades. Another key item is the proposed increase of 0.1% in the Spokane Valley's sales tax, aimed at bolstering public safety efforts by funding additional police personnel. Additionally, Spokane County Fire Protection District No. 8 proposes reinstating its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) property tax levy to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value starting in 2025, with adjustments tied to the consumer price index, ensuring dedicated funding for emergency medical care. Similarly, Spokane County Fire District No. 13 seeks to maintain its EMS levy at the current rate for six years beginning in 2026. Voters will also decide on several local elections, including city council positions in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, and Deer Park, as well as fire district and school district boar...