Kris Mote, executive director of the Spokane Public Facilities District, which owns the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, has resigned after 10 years with the district.


Motes departure and growing public interest in other roles the district might take on, such as the proposed expansion of the city of Spokanes convention facilities and ownership of the citys Spokane Center is coincidental, says Spokane attorney Shaun Cross, a member of the districts board. The Spokane Center includes the Opera House, Convention Center, International Ag Trade Center, and Albi Stadium.


Her departure wont change the focus or goals of the district or how it does business, he says.


Mote was hired as the districts executive director in 1990, six months after the Washington Legislature authorized the creation of the Spokane Public Facilities District. In a prepared statement about Motes departure, the district said she was instrumental in establishing the district as an independent municipal corporation dedicated to the design, construction, and ownership of the Spokane arena.


Mote couldnt be reached for comment. The districts statement said Mote left to pursue other interests. Her resignation was effective April 30.


Cross says the board hasnt made a decision about whether a new executive director will be hired to replace Mote. In the next 30 to 60 days, the board will evaluate the executive directors position and the districts needs, then decide whether to hire a new executive director or define a new position for the districts top staff person, he says.