During a recent Spokane city council meeting, local business owner Aaron Rifkin passionately addressed the pressing issue of chronic homelessness in the city. Rifkin, who owns Ladder Coffee Roasters, emphasized the need for open discussions about homelessness, distinguishing between chronic and active homelessness. He expressed concern that the council was not adequately addressing the root causes of homelessness, which he believes include drug addiction and mental illness.

Rifkin highlighted the visible increase in homelessness in downtown Spokane since he moved there in 2016, stating that the situation has drastically changed, with many individuals struggling on the streets. He urged the council to focus on solutions that would help these individuals find rehabilitation and support, rather than merely discussing temporary measures like shelter availability.

The meeting also featured comments from other council members, who acknowledged the complexity of the homelessness crisis. They pointed out that addressing this issue requires collaboration with various systems, including criminal justice and behavioral health services. One council member noted that the city has adopted state laws regarding open drug use, which limits local legislative options.

The council plans to continue these discussions, with a focus on camping and homelessness scheduled for a roundtable on November 7. Members reiterated the importance of engaging community partners and the county to tackle the multifaceted challenges of homelessness effectively. The meeting underscored a collective recognition of the urgency to address the crisis while fostering a safe and economically secure environment for all Spokane residents.