Good morning, this is your Spokane Local Frequency for Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The city is waking up to clear skies and a cool start, but things are heating up around town—so let’s dive into what’s happening in Spokane today and what you can look forward to. First, a quick update on recent headlines. Spokane residents are talking about a weekend fire that broke out at the Spokane Valley Mall. Fire investigators are still working to determine the cause, and thankfully no serious injuries have been reported, but several stores remain closed as cleanup continues. If you’re headed to the mall today, expect detours and some limited access as crews finish their work. In the Hillyard neighborhood, eight people were displaced after an apartment fire, and local support groups are rallying to provide temporary housing and supplies for those affected.
Public safety is on a lot of minds this morning as Washington state just rolled out a major new law directing one hundred million dollars in grants to hire more police officers and boost community safety programs. Spokane officials say these funds could help fill critical gaps in local law enforcement and improve response times citywide. Another piece of legislation is increasing penalties for littering and delaying new plastic bag requirements, so you’ll see signs around town reminding everyone to keep our parks and streets clean as we move into summer.
For a look at what’s new and happening, the Kettle Falls Historical Center is making headlines as it reopens after two years of closure due to flood damage. If you’re thinking about a short drive, it’s a perfect day-trip destination to connect with Inland Northwest history and check out their refreshed exhibits. Sports fans have something to cheer about today as Cheney High School brings a young and talented roster to the 3A boys state golf tournament. They’re hoping to bring home some hardware and add to the city’s growing list of teen sports achievements.
On the arts and entertainment front, local venues and parks are gearing up for a summer filled with live music, food markets, and family-friendly activities. Check out Riverfront Park later today, where food trucks will be lining up for lunch hours and local musicians take the stage for the weekly Music in the Park series. Don’t forget, the Downtown Spokane Partnership is still running their parking meter rate forums. Businesses have been vocal about proposed increases, so if you want your voice heard, these meetings are open to the public.
In national news impacting our community, Spokane leaders are voicing concerns after a Supreme Court decision that revokes deportation protections for Venezuelans. Advocacy groups are organizing an information session this evening at the community center for affected families and allies who want to get involved in supporting their neighbors.
That’s what’s happening around Spokane today. This has been Spokane Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
