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Council amends budget to accept Department of Ecology Climate Commitment Act funds for EV and solar projects
Summary
The Spokane City Council adopted a special budget ordinance to accept a Department of Ecology grant from the Climate Commitment Act; public commenters urged use of funds for electric vehicles and solar on city properties.
The Spokane City Council approved a special budget ordinance amending the biennial budget to accept a grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology under the Climate Commitment Act.
The ordinance (C36 6 77 amending ordinance C36 6 26) accepts Ecology grant funding intended for climate-related projects. In public comment, John Alder said he is "glad you're buying electric vehicles" and urged the city to use some of the funds for solar on city properties. Justin Haller, a District 1 resident who spoke during the grant item, criticized the city's climate initiatives and questioned the cost and practicality of electric vehicle purchases.
Why it matters: The Climate Commitment Act establishes state-level funding streams for emissions-reduction activities; accepting the grant allows the city to proceed with proposed projects identified in the staff packet. Council discussion focused on the grant acceptance itself; commenters asked for clarity on specific uses such as vehicle electrification and solar installations.
Decision and next steps: The council approved the budget amendment to accept the Department of Ecology grant. Staff will be responsible for implementing projects consistent with the grant terms and returning to council as required by budget and grant administration rules.
Ending: Council members did not record detailed funding allocations in the public comments; staff will publish project plans and apply grant spending according to Department of Ecology requirements.
