Legislative Policy Services

Responsibilities

The Legislative Policy Coordinator/Project Manager is responsible for coordinating the city's legislative efforts and assisting with ongoing collaboration and outreach with stakeholders and partners across county, state and federal governments. This person is also responsible for a variety of ad hoc projects including community outreach and special assignments as directed by the city manager.

City and community advocacy

Decisions made at the county, state and federal levels may have impacts upon our community, so the City takes a proactive approach to advocate for local control and for priorities that are in the best interest of our city. The public is encouraged to stay informed and participate in the process. 

City of Spokane Valley Legislative Agendas

Each year, the City Council adopts state and federal legislative agendas that include policy statements and potential funding requests for projects.

State Legislative Agenda

Federal Legislative Agenda

In addition to adopting its legislative agendas, city officials meet throughout the year with elected officials and community partners to discuss issues and advocate for our legislative priorities.

How you can participate in the legislative process:

  • Vote. Register to vote, ensure your current registration is up-to-date and prioritize voting.
  • Know Your Representatives. Learn who represents you at the local, state and federal levels and how to contact them.
  • Provide Feedback. Attend/view meetings and community forums, send written communications or call your representatives. 
  • Be Informed. Attend public meetings, listen to live streams/past recordings or subscribe for meeting information.

Learn who represents Spokane Valley


Spokane Valley City Council 

  • Mayor Laura Padden
  • Deputy Mayor Tim Hattenburg
  • Councilmember Pam Haley
  • Councilmember Jessica Yaeger
  • Councilmember Al Merkel
  • Councilmember Ben Wick
  • Councilmember Michael Kelly

Spokane County Commissioners 

 WA State 4th District Legislators 

U.S. Congress 

How the City advocates for our community:

  • Adopts annual state and federal legislative agendas
  • Works with local, state and federal officials and staff to discuss priorities, current issues and projects.
  • Monitors proposed state legislation and provides feedback to support, improve or defeat bills and takes a position when appropriate.
  • Applies for funding and budget requests to support projects such transportation, park and utility improvements.
  • Partners with Association of Washington Cities, Greater Spokane Inc. and the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce on advocacy efforts.
  • Represents Spokane Valley community on local, regional and state boards, commissions and committees.
  • Utilizes lobbying expertise to secure funding, advocate for beneficial policies and communicate local priorities to help shape positive outcomes.

How Spokane Valley lobbyists advance the city’s priorities:

  • Develop agendas, communication strategies and persuasive materials for meetings with state and federal officials/agencies.
    • Key federal agencies
      • Dept. of Transportation
      • Federal Highway Administration
      • Federal Railroad Administration
      • Dept. of Justice
      • Economic Development Administration
      • Dept. of Housing and Urban Development
    • Key state agencies
      • Dept. of Commerce
      • Dept. of Transportation
      • Freight and Mobility Strategic Investment Board
      • Dept. of Ecology
      • WA Utilities and Transportation Commission
  • Identify and track legislation that is relevant to the City and collect feedback.
  • Attend relevant legislative hearings and meetings.
  • Lobby on legislation or budget issues that affect the city’s interests and fund projects that we could otherwise not afford.
  • Act as a facilitator between the City and various decision-makers.
  • Advise the City about funding opportunities and develop strategies for applications.
  • Work through roadblocks that impact projects.
  • Provide regular reports to city officials.