For the first time in its history, Spokane Valley will put a sales tax increase to a public vote this August. The city council voted 5-1 to approve the ballot measure, which proposes a one-tenth of 1% sales tax hike to fund the hiring of additional police officers.
If passed, the modest tax increase—equal to 10 cents per $100 spent—would generate roughly $2.6 million annually. That would cover the estimated $1 million needed to bring ten new officers on board, the second round in a planned three-phase expansion following a 2023 recommendation to hire 31 additional officers.
Public safety costs are projected to rise by $4.7 million by 2027. Since 2021, expenses have increased at an average of 10.9% per year—more than double the previous 5.2% annual rate. The city, which has refrained from using its state-allowed 1% annual property tax increase since 2009, is facing limited budget options with just $411,000 in recurring revenues over expenditures.
Mayor Pam Haley defended the proposal, saying it reflects the will of the community and puts the decision in the hands of voters. However, critics argue that the city’s supporting poll, with just 641 respondents, doesn’t reflect the sentiment of the Valley’s 105,000 residents. Concerns were raised about pushing a tax increase based on a sample representing less than 1% of the population.
Councilmember Al Merkel voted against the measure, agreeing that the city needs more officers but arguing the funding should come from within the existing budget. If approved, the tax would cost individual residents an average of $12.43 per year, or about $29 per household.
Police Chief Dave Ellis has warned that without the increase, the city will struggle to maintain its current level of public safety. Calls for service have risen 54% since 2004, yet Spokane Valley operates with fewer patrol officers than similar-sized cities. Response times for emergency calls have jumped 28% since 2020.
Ellis says the new revenue would enhance patrol coverage, reduce burnout, and improve outcomes in areas like school safety, neighborhood security, and the city’s homeless response.
Voters will make their decision on August 5. If the measure fails, the city may be forced to make service cuts or leave the police force under-resourced.
