Beggs can help us look forward

“When Spokane Leads, Washington State Follows!” This is more than a slogan for Breean Beggs in his run for City Council president. It is an accurate reflection of the many laws in our state that started with Spokane leadership, including Beggs.

We may not realize the role of local leaders, such as Beggs, on our daily lives. Recently, a new state law, piloted in Spokane requires post-parole supervision for car and property thieves, to limit repeat offenders. Likewise, a law providing paid sick leave for state employees grew from a previous law in Spokane. Spokane is leading again with the Community Diversion Unit, that pairs mental health workers with police to divert people with addiction, mental illness and homelessness to services rather than to jail.

As a City Council member, Beggs has improved city safety, infrastructure, and cost-effectiveness of criminal justice. He has also led in cleaning up downtown and expanding Riverfront and local parks.

Spokane is growing rapidly. We need ethical, innovative leadership that brings different groups together, while staying true to Eastern Washington values. Breean Beggs can help us look forward to an exciting, well-run Spokane, for all of us to treasure and enjoy.

Joanna Clifton

Valleyford