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WE CANNOT USE CARCERAL SOLUTIONS FOR
HUMANITARIAN PROBLEMS.

JUSTICE NOT JAILS.

VOTE NO ON MEASURE 1 THIS NOVEMBER.

“More jails won't fix Spokane's problems!”

This October, when Spokane County receives ballots, we will be asked to give our approval for a 0.2% increase in the sales tax rate. Don't fall for it. Commissioners Kerns and French, voted in December to place Measure 1 on the ballot to address public safety and criminal justice systems. It's been exposed that the tax increase is intended to primarily generate funding for more correctional facilities, not for the betterment of Spokane's community. Over the next 30 years, this sales tax spike is projected to accumulate approximately $1.7 billion. Out of this total, 40% will be allocated to the individual municipalities within Spokane County, while the remaining portion will be directed to the county itself.

The expansion of Spokane jail facilities will result in millions of dollars being diverted from other essential community needs. A "no" vote rejects the authorization of a 0.2% sales tax from April 2024 through December 2054, along with the allocation of revenue to fund criminal justice, public safety, behavioral health programs, and jail expansions.

Join Justice Not Jails volunteers who are connecting with voters at their doors and on the phone about the importance of defeating Measure 1. 

10 KEY POINTS
AGAINST MEASURE 1:

  1. Transparency Is Essential: Transparency regarding fund allocation is crucial for informed decision-making, which Measure 1 lacks.

  2. Time for Thoughtful Planning: Rushing Measure 1 onto the ballot limits the opportunity for thorough planning and community engagement.

  3. Consider Alternatives: Instead of solely focusing on jail expansion, exploring alternatives like rehabilitation, diversion programs, and mental health services is essential.

  4. Prioritize Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation should take precedence in any criminal justice reform effort, which is not how the money is intended to be spend for Measure 1.

  5. Address Timing Concerns: The timing of Measure 1's introduction raises concerns about transparency and may have sidelined incoming commissioners.

  6. Community Input Matters: Engaging the most affected communities in fund allocation decisions is vital for tailoring solutions to specific needs.

  7. Emphasize Equity: Addressing racial disparities within the criminal justice system should be a top priority in any reform, which Measure 1 falls short of doing.

  8. Comprehensive Planning Needed: Before voting, comprehensive planning, collaboration, and reviewing projected bed needs are essential for efficiency.

  9. Demand Accountability: Holding officials accountable for using funds as intended is vital to ensure the promised reforms are realized.

  10. Evaluate Fiscal Impact: A clearer understanding of the long-term fiscal impact of the 30-year sales tax increase is needed before making such a commitment.

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