North Greenacres Neighborhood

March 2009 Spring News

Mar 27, 2009

Construction activities we can see just west of Flora. While private construction is taking place just north of the freeway. The City is engaged in a grant process to extend from Sullivan, Indiana road to tie in to Mission Ave. It will run diagonal across the empty field. This was a neighborhood concern that Mission Avenue would become congested with cut through traffic in the very center of our neighborhood. Liberty Lake traffic will also be utilizing this "short cut" when it's finished.

Spokane Valley is poised to adopt new street standards and is accepting public comment. One new change would only allow on driveway per home. This would definitely make many properties unable to provide access to property behind an existing home. Please get a copy from the city that is on CD or go tot heir website at www.spokanevalley.org

Mr. Stone, Spokane Valley's Park Director stated that they intended to begin work on the park plan with the $300,000 we received from the legislature. Budgets are tight across the state and at a recent council meeting there was discussion about concerns about whether the City would actually receive the money that was designated in 2008.

Disincorporation proponents are gathering signatures in a very organized effort to reach every registered voters. Anyone interested in this effort can should contact Friends of Spokane Valley. Difficulties with opening businesses and the challenges of meeting the City's every changing demands have made Spokane Valley increasing undesirable to new business. The Sprague Appleway Revitalization project with the inherent City Center Vision has created a zoning nightmare. Commercial properties have been rezoned as residential or multi-use. The grandfathering does not extend to any new buyer of that business. They are new occupants and must meet the new standards. One small business owner complained that after spending $60,000 to meet their new code, he was subjected to another surprise demand that has bankrupted him before he can even open the doors.

These types of experiences are not isolated. It bodes very badly for taxpayers. Residential taxes cannot carry the cost of community services. Business and Industrial taxes offset the shortfall from residential property taxes. If we continue to only expand residential housing while discouraging business, Spokane Valley will find itself financially with fewer resources.
Politics is a rascally item to understand. There are few promises we can count on. Try to stay informed. Who we are as people and neighbors will make more impact than any government policy.

Choose to Care
We can make a difference by caring about those on the street where we live. Let us take the time to know our neighbors. Pay attention to who is unable to get out of their homes. Visit those who are sick, out of work, or discouraged. When you bake, take a small plate to someone else.
Plant a garden and share your bounty. It's a stress reducer to actively garden. Share the gift of laughter and choose to care.