Proposal would allow varied allocation for Photo Red funds | News

(UPDATED: 4:15 P.M.) - City council will be proposing in July to allow neighborhoods the option to allocate photo red funds for the start up of cop shops. This was suggested specifically for Balboa/South Indian Trail but would be an one-time option for all the neighborhoods.

Currently the photo red funds go toward traffic calming improvements in neighborhoods. It won’t change the way the funds are distributed unless the neighborhood wants to change it.

The director of Spokane C.O.P.S. Christy Hamilton says there’s been an increase of crime in the area during the past year and if a cop shop was available in that community, it would help neighbors deal with that issue. Neighborhood volunteer Karen Kearney says it's about time for a cop shop in the area since the closest one is in Shadle and the area is growing with residential and commercial development. 

According to Spokane Police's strategic analysis, crime level is mostly down for property crimes in the Balboa?South Indian Trail neighborhood. Burglary has seen a 14% decrease, vehicle prowling has seen a 25% decrease, but vehicle theft has seen a 60% increase.

To start a cop shop in a neighborhood, they need between $5-7,000 to help pay for infrastructure like computers, phones and some building amenities, but first they need a building.

Hamilton says she would prefer a donated venue instead of taking money from another program like traffic calming improvements. 

Another idea for photo red funds came from the Nevada-Lidgerwood neighborhood who suggested they could be used for neighborhood councils.

When discussed at community assembly, it was suggested that neighborhood councils and interested parties address the proposal to Steve Salvatori before the July 9th briefing. He’s on vacation until July 2nd, but can be reached by email at ssalvatori@spokanecity.org. The first reading for the option will be on July 16th by City Council with a resolution vote on the following week on July 23rd.