As we put the finishing touches on our final issue of 2023, before turning our attention toward loved ones, we reflect on a year that was better than expected for many, and we look ahead to a new year with optimism. 

In that spirit, we submit our annual list of holiday wishes for the Spokane business community, and the community at large. 

Our first wish is a simple one: We want $40 million to $70 million from the federal government to develop a technology hub in an old aerospace manufacturing facility on the West Plains. In October, the Inland Northwest Consortium's proposal to convert the former Triumph Composite Systems Inc. plant into the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center made the short list of projects in competition to receive federal funding. Looking at the list of other projects competing for those funds nationwide, there's nothing just like what Gonzaga University, Lakeside Cos., and their 50-some consortium partners are proposing. We hope the U.S. Economic Development Administration sees the inherent value in the project and makes it one of the five to 10 nationwide to garner funding. 

Next, we'd like to see the Spokane Regional Authority for Homelessness, Housing, Health & Safety become a reality. The regional approach to addressing homelessness and assisting our community's most vulnerable populations is a proven model. A great deal of research and thought has gone into the strategy, and the current approach clearly isn't effective. The Spokane City Council put a pause on the effort, requesting more time to research it, but even some of those with reservations concurred with the notion that a regional approach is the right one. Let's work through concerns, make sure everybody is doing their fair share, and make the regional authority a reality. 

At the state level, we'd like to see Gov. Inslee and the Legislature adjust the cap-and-invest program to lower gas prices and ease the burden on businesses and residents statewide. The carbon tax has generated hundreds of millions of dollars more than the state projected, and gas prices have risen more than elected leaders claimed they would. It's clear the equations can be tweaked to accomplish the state's goals for addressing climate change while lowering the price of gas, which remains among the highest in the U.S., even with recent price drops. 

Finally, on a more individual level, we ask that you believe what you see, as Washington Trust Bank economist Steve Scranton says, when it comes to the economy. We've been talking about a looming recession for a year now, and the national economy continues to expand. We might have a mild recession in the new year, and we might have a soft landing. Either way, make decisions based on what you experience, not what you hear. Spokane has a diverse economy that can weather a mild downturn, and there might not be any reason to take a foot off the gas. Lean into the possibilities for growth and success. 

We hope you're able to take some time with those closest to you in the coming days, and we hope your new year is prosperous and bright.