Inland Northwest financial experts have observed an increase in people retiring slightly earlier, and some say the potential for an increase in certain federal taxes is playing a role. John Kessler, senior vice president with Spokane-based Washington

Spokane-area community banks and credit unions are unified in opposition to proposed federal legislation that would require them to report to the IRS on the deposits and withdrawals of all business and personal accounts with a balance of more than $600.

In the face of COVID-19, Eastern State Hospital, in Medical Lake, has been recognized by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for setting up separate wards for quarantined patients and COVID-positive patients, despite a temporary funding cutback.

With the Sept. 4 expiration of federal pandemic unemployment assistance, employers may see higher unemployment insurance charges as more former employees transfer to regular unemployment benefits, according to the Washington state Employment Security

Demand for low-water landscaping has increased significantly during an exceptionally dry and hot Inland Northwest summer, experts here say. Last month, the U.S. Drought Monitor placed the Spokane area in the most extreme category for drought, called D4

This year, the U.S. Environmental Agency, in partnership with the Coeur d'Alene Work Trust, plans to complete three construction projects throughout the Coeur d'Alene basin area and haul over 500 truckloads of historic mine waste-contaminated material

New laws and an eviction moratorium bridge have created confusion, and more funding for rental assistance is needed, say both landlord and tenant group leaders here.

Last year, the Hutton Settlement began paying $3,000 a month for private security to protect its 20 Spokane-area commercial properties from graffiti, property damage, and theft.