Backers Think Conditions Are Just Right

Tuesday is the best chance so far for people who want to form a city in the Spokane Valley.

They’ve lost twice before, when Valley residents rejected incorporation in 1990 and 1994. A third loss Tuesday doesn’t preclude more attempts; in fact, some Western Washington cities weren’t created until the fourth or fifth vote.

But conditions have never been as ripe for Valley incorporation - and may never be again - as they are now. Here’s why:

Remember November?

Last year’s general election convinced incorporation boosters, along with other dissatisfied voters, that change is possible. The elation may wear off if the new leaders in Washington, D.C., and Olympia fail to deliver on their promises.

Growing pains

Many Valley residents fear the state’s Growth Management Act will infringe on property rights. It’s become a campaign issue for incorporation boosters, who tell voters the impact will be diluted if the Valley incorporates before final growth boundaries are drawn.

The biggest growth management decisions will be made before boosters could put incorporation back on the ballot.

The joys of spring

A May election and a single-issue ballot mean a light turnout. Election watchers say that favors incorporation because only the most interested voters will show up.

Annexation overtures

Incorporation boosters have warned since 1990 that Spokane covets tax-rich Valley neighborhoods.

There was little proof until January, when the city asked the County Boundary Review Board to remove the Yardley industrial area from the boundaries of the proposed city - a move that would leave Yardley open to annexation. The board rejected the request.

Valley Fire District officials warn that if Yardley is annexed, the district will suffer severe budget cuts.

Seal of approval

The Boundary Review Board, which recommended that voters reject incorporation in 1990 and 1994, recommended approval of Tuesday’s proposal.

The city proposed this year is smaller and more urban than the earlier two. Those attributes would make it more efficient, the board said.

Late opposition

Kaiser Aluminum and Washington Water Power Co. bankrolled anti-incorporation efforts in the past. Kaiser sent letters to employees in 1994 warning they might lose their jobs if the city formed.

Kaiser and WWP’s Spokane Industrial Park were left out of this year’s proposal, so they aren’t fighting incorporation. Consequently, opponents had trouble organizing, and didn’t run their first campaign ad until early this month.