Spokane City Council recently voted unanimously to approve the Alcohol Impact Area (AIA) ordinances in an effort to enhance safety and the vibrancy of our downtown core.
Last month, GSI voted to support reinstating the ordinance that prohibits the sale of certain high-alcohol, low-cost beverages in the downtown core, which has been heavily impacted by public intoxication. The ordinance addresses disruptions caused by chronic inebriation while bolstering safety and economic activity downtown.
The ordinance is based on evidence from similar programs in other cities and Spokane’s previous AIA. Studies show that AIAs are effective in decreasing minor offenses related to public inebriation, and they do so without negatively impacting overall retail sales for businesses in the area.
“The reinstatement of this AIA is a necessary step in addressing the unique challenges our downtown faces,” said Jake Mayson, GSI’s Director of Public Policy. “While it’s not a comprehensive solution to issues like addiction and homelessness, it provides a critical tool to maintain safety and order as we work on broader, long-term solutions. We stand ready for continued work with the administration and council on furthering this critical work.”
GSI is committed to engaging with the Spokane community to ensure the success of this initiative in our downtown core and has requested ongoing evaluation to minimize unintended consequences and maximize positive impacts.
