W E E K L Y N E W S L E T T E R
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Issue 24 | November 14, 2025
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Spokane businesses need your voice now more than ever. On Monday night, City Hall will hear testimony on the proposed commercial parking tax — a measure that would hit downtown at the very moment it’s fighting to recover. If you believe in a stronger, more vibrant Spokane, stand with us and say NO to the parking tax. Your voice matters. Your presence matters. Use the link below to sign up and testify, and let City Council know Spokane’s business community is paying attention.
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Dear Spokane Community,
Over the past few weeks, Spokane has watched Mayor Brown and the City Council take meaningful steps toward revitalizing our downtown. The revised H.O.M.E. Starts Here ordinance has given SPD the ability to re-engage with individuals living on our sidewalks and in our parks, connecting many with treatment for addiction and mental health challenges. Lives are beginning to change because leaders chose to act — and chose to honor the will of the people.
When the SBA launched in July 2024, our primary focus was a clean and safe downtown. Recent progress shows that Spokane is turning a corner, but the work doesn’t end here. While we’ll continue to advocate for safety and accountability, our vision is broader. Spokane deserves thoughtful taxation policies, long-term planning that reflects real business needs, and a transportation system that supports business along with our growing, connected city.
We’re here to listen to the business community and speak boldly on your behalf to local leaders. Want to help move Spokane forward? If you’re not yet a member of the Spokane Business Association, click below to join us in building the best place in Washington to do business. If you’re already part of SBA, make sure you’re following us on all platforms — tap the link below and stay engaged in the journey.
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Addressing Office Vacancy Rates in Downtown Spokane
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This month we are turning our focus to the staggering vacancy rate in downtown Spokane—a crisis that reaches far beyond empty storefronts. Every darkened space tells a story of lost opportunity, lost energy, and lost revenue.
When businesses close their doors, Spokane forfeits millions in potential tax dollars—funds that could otherwise fuel public safety, infrastructure, addiction recovery, and the essential services that keep our city alive. Each boarded window isn’t just a vacancy—it’s a heartbeat gone quiet in the city’s economic pulse.
Turning this around will take more than optimism. It will take leadership, accountability, and a shared vision bold enough to restore confidence in Spokane’s core. The Spokane Business Association remains steadfast in pursuing real solutions that bring business back, strengthen community, and keep Spokane’s heart beating strong.
Hear from Chris Batten of RenCorp Realty and Gordon Hester of Kiemle & Hagood—community leaders who live and breathe this economic reality every day.
So grab a coffee at Indaba and join us.
Bring your lunch, leave with insight!
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Get Informed. Get Involved.
Be Part of the Solution.
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Member Meetings
Sprague Union Terrace Community Room
1420 E Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA 99202
12 PM | 4th Wednesday of Every Month
(No meeting in November)
Come enjoy lunch and let's talk East Central!
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You're Invited
December 10, 2025
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Welcome Senator Marcus Riccelli
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Representing Spokane’s 3rd Legislative District, Senator Marcus Riccelli has long been a steady voice for collaboration and common-sense policy. A lifelong Spokane resident and Gonzaga graduate, he has focused his career on strengthening local health care, education, and economic opportunity. Before joining the State Senate, Riccelli served in the House of Representatives and worked as outreach manager for U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell.
at create a thriving, equitable city for all.
Today, he continues to champion initiatives that move Spokane forward — improving access to care and supporting policies that create a thriving, equitable city for all.
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See Spokane through our lens -
Watch our stories unfold.
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CLICK ⬆️ 5AM Walks Official Trailer
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CLICK ⬆️ 5AM Walks Episode 1
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CLICK ⬆️ 5AM Walks Episode 2
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CLICK ⬆️ Annual Dinner Video
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CLICK ⬆️ Annual Dinner Keynote Address
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CLICK ⬆️ Dr. Marbut - What's the Cost?
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CLICK ⬆️ Dr. Marbut's Wake Up Call for Spokane
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CLICK ⬆️ Press Conference
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CLICK ⬆️ Where it all began 2024
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SPOKANE 311 empowers residents to take part in keeping the city running smoothly—turning everyday citizens into the eyes and ears of Spokane. With just a mobile phone, anyone can quickly report potholes, graffiti, or other concerns from anywhere in the city.
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Spokane Business Association gives businesses a united voice, direct access to decision-makers, and a seat at the table where real change happens. Together, we advocate, connect, and grow Spokane’s business community.
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www.SpokaneBusinessAssociation.com
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