Council approves 2026 TPA spending plan, splits vote on Spokane Sports allocation
November 05, 2025 | Spokane Valley, Spokane County, Washington
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"As you recall, I provided an administrative presentation ... regarding the 2026 TPA budget of $1,775,000 and a proposed work plan," Leslie Brasfield, the city's tourism and marketing manager, told the council. Brasfield said the TPA Commission and staff recommended utilizing $170,000 to establish an opportunity fund and $30,000 in administrative authority for technology purchases, $700,000 for Spokane Sports recruitment/marketing and $875,000 for destination marketing with 116 West.
Councilmember Merkel asked for a division of the motion and said he would not support the Spokane Sports portion while supporting the other elements. After a first voice vote approving "everything except Spokane Sports," the council took a separate vote on the Spokane Sports allocation; the transcript records one opposing vote on that item. The presiding officer announced the motion passed.
Council discussion clarified that the TPA contracts are written as not-to-exceed amounts and that the TPA Commission will approve specific awards and scopes; Councilmember Padden noted the commission would decide final award amounts based on proposals.
What happens next: staff will execute contracts within the authorized not-to-exceed amounts and the TPA Commission will confirm scopes and awards. Documentation of the separate Spokane Sports vote will be reflected in the formal minutes.
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