Spokane leaders preview planning code updates and urge public input

City Council President Betsy Wilkerson and Planning Commission Chair Jesse Banks met in a brief joint session to discuss revisions to Spokane's planning codes and upcoming projects.

"These are some changes that are coming that will drive growth and development for the next decade," said City Council President Betsy Wilkerson, stressing the need to hear from residents as officials refine code updates.

Planning Commission Chair Jesse Banks said the commission is "working really, really exceptionally well," and described a focus on "foundational policy frameworks that are gonna guide lots of things around growth and development in our city for the next several decades." He said opportunities for dialogue between the commission and council are "absolutely critical."

Wilkerson said the joint meeting was intended to ensure the council, commission and the public "have all the right people around the table" to make well-informed decisions. She emphasized that officials want to hear from citizens across the city as the code updates move forward.

Banks encouraged residents seeking more information about the comprehensive plan process, public outreach events or upcoming hearings to visit planspokane.com.

Officials said staff will continue developing materials to bring recommendations forward for council consideration and eventual adoption.