Council to consider moratorium on development in Latah Valley

Lisa Gardner, city council communications director, 509.625.6226

Monday May 20, 2024 at 9:05 a.m.

Spokane — During Monday’s upcoming legislative session, the City Council will consider establishing a one-year moratorium on subdivision applications in the Latah Valley/Grandview Thorpe neighborhoods. This moratorium is due to a significant increase in residential development and insufficient availability of fire protection resources, as well as entry and exit during emergencies.

“Growth pressure in the Latah Valley highlights the need for a better public safety and health response, particularly in the event of fire, which is why this moratorium must be put in place,” Paul said Dillon, council member and sponsor of the ordinance. “As we witness the continued threat of wildfire risks, this is an important step in preparing for a disaster response and providing the long-term planning that the people of Latah deserve.” »

If adopted, for the duration of this moratorium, the City will not accept, process, review and/or approve new applications for short preliminary subdivisions or preliminary subdivisions for sites within the moratorium zone, but will continue to process requests that were counter-complete. , as provided in the Spokane Municipal Code, prior to the effective date of this ordinance.

“While I am a strong supporter of affordable housing, I must prioritize the safety of our constituents,” said Council Member Lili Navarrete. “We cannot develop housing without adequate infrastructure. »

The moratorium will not apply to applications for short preliminary subdivisions and preliminary subdivisions acquired before the effective date of this order. In accordance with state law, the City Council will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2024, to determine whether to finalize the moratorium and continue it for the entire year.

The Council Legislative Session will be held on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers – 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd or online at https://my.spokanecity.org/citycable5/live/ and https://www .facebook.com/spokanecitycouncil.

About the Spokane City Council
The City Council is the legislative body of the City of Spokane, home to more than 220,000 residents and located in the heart of the Inland Northwest. The City’s 2,000 employees strive to provide efficient and effective services that facilitate economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for all our citizens. For more information, visit SpokaneCity.org/CityCouncil/ and follow us @SpokaneCityCouncil on Facebook.