During the 5th 2024 legislative meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, all five commissioners were present, either in person or virtually. The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and transitioned into the open public forum, where community members voiced their concerns and suggestions.

Becky Dickerhoof, a Spokane City resident, highlighted pressing issues surrounding housing and homelessness. She referenced her attendance at the Lands Council Legislative Summit, where discussions with local and state officials, including Governor Jay Inslee, focused on strategies for addressing these challenges in 2025. Dickerhoof emphasized the need for additional legislative tools to assist local governments, particularly the use of the amended RCW 82.14.530, which allows counties to impose a sales and use tax, commonly known as the 1590 tax.

Dickerhoof pointed out the financial burden of housing inmates, noting that the cost of housing an inmate is comparable to the average rent for a small apartment in Spokane County. She criticized current laws that criminalize homelessness, arguing that such measures create barriers to finding permanent housing and contradict fiscal responsibility and humane treatment of residents.

She also addressed the issue of abandoned properties in the county, attributing their prevalence to land speculation and greed. Dickerhoof proposed that the county consider using eminent domain to reclaim these neglected properties for community benefit, suggesting that revitalizing these areas could enhance neighborhood value and reduce crime.

Dickerhoof concluded her remarks by urging the commissioners to adopt the 1590 tax as a means to combat homelessness effectively, advocating for proactive solutions rather than exacerbating existing problems. The meeting continued with further public comments, indicating a community engaged in critical discussions about local governance and social issues.