SPOKANE COUNTY – Measure one in Spokane County saw heavy opposition at the voting polls on Nov. 7 and initially looks to have failed with the first count.
34,024 or 37.90 % of votes went to support the measure, whereas 57,633 or 62.84 % voted against it.
The measure was the county’s attempt at a law and justice initiative that would increase sales tax 0.2 % for new products.
This measure has been presented to multiple city councils in the region, most of them showing support. Most local law enforcement agencies also showed support for the measure as it was explained to them.
Funds from the measure would have gone to criminal justice, public safety and behavioral health purposes. Funding would be split with 60 % going to county jails and 40 % going to cities and towns within the county, and the amount would be based on population.
The county has a growing concern with the original corrections facility that was built in 1986. The regional population has increased by over 200,000 people since then, and more people unfortunately means more crime and more criminals.
People opposing the measure claim it was too open ended.
The election results will be certified on Nov. 28.
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
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