Scrutinize dealership request

Larry H. Miller is requesting that Spokane transfer ownership of the west 17 feet of Madison between Second and Third avenues to the dealership. (The right of way, sidewalk and 2 feet of Madison would be vacated.) Miller’s cost: the property’s fair market value.

This is only the latest part of Miller’s greater plan, in which all of Madison between Second and Third would eventually be closed to through-traffic solely for the dealership’s benefit.

While Spokane needs to support business development, the public interest must be protected. Blocking a connector to two busy arterials, interrupting through-traffic on a street without signals, reducing access to local businesses and eliminating already-limited parking are reasons to deny this petition.

A full accounting of the dealership’s benefits to Spokane (sales tax, property taxes, etc.) would be welcomed.

Perhaps Larry H. Miller would better serve both its clients and the public by beautifying Madison, expanding the current sidewalk area including street trees, while keeping parking spaces and a lane of traffic in each direction. Comment on Miller’s petition at or before the June 15 City Council meeting.

Pat Freeman

Spokane