Government

Spokane-area lenders undertake second round of PPP funding

Bankers say program offers long-term benefits for financial industry

January 28, 2021

The U.S. Small Business Administration has released a third round of Paycheck Protection Program loan funds, and bankers here say they're prepared to handle changes made as a result of updates to the program.

Project delays in Hillyard area pinch PDA

Organization supporting The Yard secures funds to offset lag in revenue

January 28, 2021

Natasha Nellis

Development of two massive projects in northeastern Spokane-the Beacon Hill residential development and the Esmeralda Commerce Park-might not start as expected this year.

Fair Play: $10 million expansion envisioned at Fair & Expo Center

Proponents hope project would boost tourism, retail spending

January 14, 2021

Natasha Nellis

The city of Spokane Valley is planning a two-story, $10 million addition to the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, with the goal of boosting tourism and retail spending.

Meteoric rise in unemployment tax hits businesses

If state legislation doesn't provide relief, some worry hikes will doom employers

January 14, 2021

Virginia Thomas

Barring relief, some employers fear recently-implemented unemployment tax increases could be the final straw that puts them out of business permanently.

Spokane-area businesses received $786M in PPP loans

Lenders: Most borrowers haven't yet submitted loan-forgiveness requests

December 17, 2020

Virginia Thomas

More than $786 million went to 6,755 businesses in Spokane County through the federal Paycheck Protection Program, according to detailed data released earlier this month by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The disclosure comes after several

Spokane City Council passes tax to finance affordable housing

Collection to begin July unless alternative found

December 3, 2020

Virginia Thomas

Spokane City Council has approved a measure that will impose a 0.1% sales and use tax, the revenue from which will be dedicated to providing more affordable housing within the city.

Bill would expand incentives for retirement savings

Proposed act includes automatic enrollment, matching for student loans

December 3, 2020

Virginia Thomas

Proposed federal legislation some are calling SECURE Act 2.0 likely would encourage saving for retirement by expanding on legislation passed in 2019, local financial consultants and planners say.

Extra credit for helping nonprofits is coming

Filers who don't itemize still can get deduction this year for charitable donations

December 3, 2020

Kevin Blocker

As 2020 continues its arduous march to an end, Inland Northwest financial advisers, tax preparers, and heads of nonprofits are reminding clients and benefactors about a charitable giving tax benefit included in the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief,

Potential unemployment tax hikes concern builders group

State's post contrasts association's forecasts

October 22, 2020

Kevin Blocker

Members of the Associated Builders & Contractors' Inland Pacific Chapter have expressed concerns to Gov. Jay Inslee's office about the possibility of businesses experiencing steep unemployment insurance rate hikes in coming years.

Structural issues persist at Spokane Valley City Hall

Forensic architect team studies building this month

October 22, 2020

Kevin Blocker

This article has been updated to include comments from Mark D'Agostino, president of Meridian Construction Inc., and the company's attorney John Black.