Issue 4 | February 20, 2026
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House Bill 2489 did not advance out of the House Rules Committee and missed Monday’s cutoff, effectively ending its path forward this legislative session.
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As we’ve discussed, the bill would have stalled the progress Spokane has been making through a balanced approach that pairs compassion with timely and clear engagement.
Thank you to everyone who stayed engaged, informed, and steady throughout this process. This moment reinforces the importance of thoughtful advocacy and strong local voices and working together.
We also thank our legislators for their thoughtful consideration and support of local flexibility, allowing our city to continue the approach we believe is making a real difference by prioritizing recovery, housing stability, and human life.
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Thayne McCulloh Joins SBA Board of Directors
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As the 26th President of Gonzaga University (2009–2025), Dr. Thayne McCulloh led the university through a period of historic achievement—strengthening academic excellence, expanding access, and deepening community impact. McCulloh has been a major advocate for economic development and improving quality of life for all of Spokane.
The Spokane Business Association’s Board of Directors operates the organization which exists to advocate for businesses located in the City of Spokane and benefit city residents.
SBA is honored to have Dr. McCulloh join our organization.
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5 AM Walk — One Year Later
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On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Spokane Business Association gathered once again in front of City Hall to mark the one-year anniversary of Gavin Cooley’s 5 a.m. crisis walks. What began as an early-morning response to very real concerns about downtown safety has become something far bigger: a visible, steady commitment to stability, collaboration, and recovery.
Those first walks weren’t symbolic. They were boots-on-the-ground, hard conversations, direct engagement with business owners, service providers, and public officials. They were about refusing to look away. One year later, the progress is undeniable. Cleaner streets. Stronger coordination. A renewed sense that downtown Spokane is moving forward, not backward.
And here’s the part that matters for our members: that momentum isn’t slowing. With HB 2489 now lacking traction, the path ahead is clearer. The work being done to restore confidence, improve safety, and support recovery efforts downtown can continue without disruption. That stability gives businesses something priceless; predictability and the ability to plan for growth.
Downtown Spokane is not defined by its hardest chapters. It is defined by the people and businesses who show up every single day, roll up their sleeves, and do the hard work of building something better.
And we’re not done yet.
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Just in Case You Missed It!
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Clean Buildings Performance Standard Compliance Support
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SBA welcomed the Building Efficiency and Clean Operations Network (BEACON) Fellowship Project to our Lunch & Learn on Wednesday. Sponsored by the WA Department of Commerce, BEACON offers free Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) education and support for Spokane-area building owners.
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Need help? Commerce is now accepting applications for Clean Buildings grants and audits through March 4, 2026 at 3:00 PM PST.
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Kate Telis
City Council Member
District 2
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Kate Telis was elected to the Spokane City Council representing District 2 in the November 2025 general election. An attorney and longtime community advocate, she brings a deep commitment to public service and thoughtful leadership to City Hall. Representing South Spokane, Telis is focused on practical, community-centered solutions that strengthen neighborhoods and support a safe, vibrant city.
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February 25, 2026
Sprague Union Terrace Community Room
1420 E Sprague Avenue, Spokane WA 99202
4th Wednesday of the Month
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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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THANK YOU to our 2026 Sponsors
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