Spokane City Council Extends ICE Protections, Enforces Local Hiring on Construction

The Spokane City Council recently passed two significant ordinances aimed at community safety and workforce development. The "Safe and Welcome in Spokane" ordinance expands protections against warrantless searches by ICE agents in designated non-public areas, including ticketed events on public rights of way, to address safety concerns and foster trust within the community. This ordinance, which passed 5-2, builds on a 2018 law and was supported by local advocacy groups for protecting vulnerable populations, though it faced opposition citing concerns over federal law enforcement interference and enforceability. Additionally, the Council approved the "Public Dollars for Public Benefit" ordinance requiring contractors on city construction projects over $5 million to sign community workforce agreements with union representation and prioritize hiring local workers, especially from underrepresented communities, to boost local jobs and economic reinvestment. This ordinance passed 4-3 amid debates over potential increased costs and reduced competition. Both measures reflect Spokane's focus on protecting residents and promoting equitable economic opportunities through local legislation.