The Incorporation Vote It It Passes, Just What Does Happen Next?

Several things can happen to the incorporation proposal, depending on the outcome of Tuesday’s election. If less than 40 percent of the voters cast ballots for incorporation, another election can not be held for at least three years.

If the proposal fails but gets at least 40 percent approval, proponents can bring it back for a vote as early as next year.

A successful vote (50 percent plus one vote in favor) would set off a chain of events that would conclude some time next year with the official incorporation of the city of Spokane Valley.

If Valley voters approve the city Tuesday, state law dictates that:

A primary election for city officials - council members and mayor - would take place on Sept. 19. Candidates, who must live within the boundaries of the proposed city, could file for the primary 30-45 days prior to the election - Aug. 7-18.

The final election for city officials would be held Nov. 7.

An interim period of at least 180 days but no more than 360 days would begin the day after the final municipal elections are certified by the supervisor of county elections.

During the interim period, the newly elected city council and mayor could adopt ordinances and resolutions, enter into contracts, borrow money, buy supplies, hire staff, rent office space and vote to annex to fire or library districts.

The city council must declare the city fully incorporated some time during the interim period.

When that happens, Spokane Valley would have all the rights and responsibilities of a city. All contracts negotiated by city officials would become final at that time.

The earliest the city could officially incorporate would be May 1996. The latest would be November 1996.