Council members honored at final meeting

SPOKANE VALLEY – Outgoing City Council members Arne Woodard and Brandi Peetz were recognized for their contributions last week.

The recognition came during their final meeting as members.

City Manager John Hohman expressed his gratitude and admiration for both members. 

“Arne has been a strong advocate for our business community and brought passion and vision to many city initiatives, including transportation, parks, land use and comprehensive planning, just to name a few,” Hohman said. “The impact of his work will continue to be realized for many years to come.

As for Peetz?

“Brandi has enthusiastically represented the Spokane Valley community. She is thoughtful and insightful, often bringing a new perspective to conversations,” he said. “Brandi has been an instrumental advocate for youth sports, parks and open space, ensuring all ages have opportunities to recreate and enjoy the outdoors.

“We’re lucky to have had such dedicated council members serving our community.”

Woodard said he was proud of his time in office.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve the Spokane Valley community for the past 12 years,” Woodard said. “I’m proud of the extensive and important work we’ve accomplished together. I encourage future city leadership to continue to make smart decisions that ensure Spokane Valley remains a business-supportive, family-friendly, safe and affordable community.”

Peetz, too, said she was proud of the city’s accomplishments during her tenure.

“As I reflect back on my time as a council member/deputy mayor, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Spokane Valley and am proud of the many projects, efforts, and successes we’ve accomplished,” she said. “I am especially proud of my ability to mend relationships and create new ones that helped us to be innovative and work together.

“I am looking forward to the new council continuing our efforts to move our city forward to create an even better place to work, live, and play.”

Woodard is a Spokane Valley native who has served on the City Council for more than 12 years since his appointment in April 2011. He served as deputy mayor from 2014-2015 and again from 2016-2017.

Woodard previously served on the city’s Planning Commission from 2010 until his appointment to the City Council. 

Peetz is a Spokane Valley resident of almost 32 years and has been a member of the City Council since November 2017.

She was deputy mayor from 2020-2021 and has participated in multiple boards and committees throughout her tenure both at the local and state level.