Residents and advocates warn Spokane County commissioners about HUD funding cuts, homelessness pressures

Multiple members of the public urged Spokane County commissioners on May 13, 2025 to address worsening homelessness and the potential impacts of proposed federal budget cuts to housing programs.

Becky Dickerhoof, representing Spokane City in public comment, summarized analysis from the National Low Income Housing Coalition and said the president’s fiscal 2026 budget proposal would cut HUD funding by about 44 percent and make deep reductions in rental assistance and homeless assistance grants. “The proposed consolidation would effectively eliminate funding for critical activities, including permanent supportive housing, coordinated entry, dedicated HMIS grants, and overall continuum of care planning,” Dickerhoof said.

Dickerhoof told the board that the National Alliance to End Homelessness estimates 166,000 households in permanent supportive housing could be put at risk by the proposed changes; she also said local residents who rely on part‑time jobs and LEAP energy assistance face increased housing instability.

Mark Karchner, a downtown property owner, described worsening conditions near his building and along the river route path, citing visible drug use and repeated overdoses that have required Narcan. “This is the first time I’ve come here, kind of out of a lot of frustration,” Karchner said; he asked whether county resources were being fully utilized and the board said staff would get his contact information to the county directors in charge of homelessness funds.

County commissioners did not take formal action on public comments during the open forum. Commissioner Kearns thanked housing and homelessness office staff for updating a regional agreement with the cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley (an item approved on the consent agenda) and said he looked forward to continued collaboration with those cities.