(The Center Square) – After nearly two years in office, Mayor Lisa Brown reflected on the state of the city on Monday during an address to the Spokane City Council, drawing criticism from residents present.
The 30-minute speech highlighted the administration’s efforts over the past year amid ongoing budget gaps. Despite balancing a $25 million deficit in her first year in office, Brown faces another $13 million shortfall heading into 2026, which she attributes to uncertainty with President Donald Trump’s policies.
However, sales tax growth began plateauing long before Trump won the 2024 election. Voters allowed Brown to raise taxes last November after she said the shortfall could result in job losses across public safety. Last week, she sent an email noting that about 30 to 50 employees’ jobs are currently at risk…