SPOKANE VALLEY, WA—Initial election results indicate Spokane Valley residents have declared their support in hiring more police officers and increasing public safety by approving Proposition 1 Spokane Valley Public Safety Sales Tax ballot measure.
The new dedicated revenue, estimated to be $2.6 million per year, will fund public safety expenses and the hiring of at least 10 new police officers over the next two years.
“Councilmembers asked our community to weigh in on their priorities, and we’re deeply grateful for everyone who voted and made their voice heard,” said Deputy Mayor Tim Hattenburg. “With this approval, we’re proud to move forward and begin hiring additional new police officers. The addition of these officers, along with the 10 new officers already hired in 2025, will enhance the safety and well-being of our community.”
“I’m grateful to the Spokane Valley City Council and our generous community for their unwavering support,” said Spokane Valley Police Chief Dave Ellis. “This initiative ensures that our police department will have the necessary resources and personnel to keep Spokane Valley safe and secure.”
Proposition 1 will increase sales tax in the City of Spokane Valley by one-tenth of one percent (0.1%) bringing the city’s sales tax rate from 8.9% to 9.0%. This is the first-ever general sales tax increase since the city’s incorporation in 2003.
More information is available at www.SpokaneValleyWA.gov/911.