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Council approves 2026 TPA expenditures; Spokane Sports allocation passes with one no vote
Summary
Council authorized 2026 TPA spending for visitor-technology, marketing and sports recruitment; the package was approved but Spokane Sports's allotment drew a single dissent before passing. Staff said the 2026 TPA budget totals roughly $1.775 million.
The Spokane Valley City Council authorized use of 2026 Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) revenue for multiple contracts and reserves after a presentation by Leslie Brasfield, the city's tourism and marketing manager. Brasfield said the TPA Commission and staff recommended using $170,000 to establish an opportunity fund and administrative review authority, up to $30,000 for visitor geolocation/visitor spending technology, up to $700,000 for Spokane Sports recruitment and marketing services, and up to $875,000 for destination marketing with 116 West.
Brasfield told the council the total TPA budget proposed for 2026 is approximately $1,775,000 and described the recommended split of services. Councilmember Merkel said she supported the technology, grant and 116 West portions but "did not think that the amount given to Spokane Sports is common sense" and would not vote for that portion. After taking a roll call vote on the package excluding Spokane Sports (approved), the council separately voted on the Spokane Sports allocation; that allocation passed with one councilmember recorded in opposition.
Brasfield said TPA-funded contracts are typically written as "up to" amounts and that contractual language would limit payment if a project did not proceed. Councilmembers and staff emphasized that the TPA Commission reviews and approves proposals brought by consultants before funds are spent.
The council approved the TPA expenditure authorizations and directed staff to proceed with the contract processes and necessary contractual scopes.
