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Council committee reviews $100,000 contract to Spokane Immigrant Rights Coalition amid questions on process and oversight
Summary
The committee heard public testimony both supporting and opposing a proposed $100,000 personal services contract with the Spokane Immigrant Rights Coalition (CERC). City staff and CERC representatives said 92% of funds would go directly to households; council members pressed for procurement, reporting and anti‑lobbying safeguards.
The Public Infrastructure and Environmental Sustainability Committee on Feb. 10 reviewed a proposed $100,000 personal services agreement to create a Community Justice Fund administered by the Spokane Immigrant Rights Coalition, a coalition fiscally sponsored by Muslims for Community Action and Support (MCAS).
City staff and CERC representatives told the committee the fund is intended for urgent, short‑term needs — transportation to hearings, temporary lodging, childcare, medical exams and communication for families with relatives detained by immigration authorities. Sebastian, speaking for CERC, said about 92% of money deposited into the coalition’s account reaches households after an approximately 8% fee to MCAS for fiscal‑sponsorship services.
The proposal drew mixed reaction during a long…
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