What’s on the ballot in November?

From Black Lens staff reports

1. Aquifer Protection Renewal and Fees

Cost: Up to $1.25/month per household for water use and $1.25/month per household for sewage disposal

Purpose: Protect and improve the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer (water supply), reduce pollution, upgrade sewage and stormwater systems, and monitor water quality

Duration: Up to 20 years

What this means for you: A small monthly fee to help keep the region’s drinking water safe and clean.

2. Public Safety Sales Tax Increase

Cost: Sales tax increase of 0.1% (one penny per $10 spent)

Purpose: Fund public safety, including hiring more police officers, maintaining operations, staffing retention, and covering related costs

Duration: Ongoing, no set end date

What this means for you: A small increase in sales tax when you shop, with the money going directly to law enforcement and public safety services in Spokane Valley.

3. Fire District 13 Emergency Medical Services Levy

Cost: Property tax of 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value

Purpose: Continue funding emergency medical services for residents in Fire District 13

Duration: Six years (starting in 2026)

What this means for you: Property owners will pay a modest tax to ensure ambulance and emergency medical services remain available in their community.

Legislative and county candidates can be found at: sos.wa.gov