2024 March Splash

THE

MARCH

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responsibility over public services depends on where you live, pg 10

KRIS KRAMER GIVES BACK WITH BUSINESS PAGE 2

CHANCE TO SERVE COMMUNITY PAGE 8

TT’S BBQ OPENS SECOND LOCATION IN LL PAGE 23

2 • MARCH 2024

The Splash

DOCKSIDE In Gear for Good – Kramer puts

integrity first at Christian Brothers

By Craig Howard Splash contributing editor

Most people in Liberty Lake know Kris Kramer as the point person at Christian Brothers Automotive, a full-serve repair shop on Appleway Avenue in the east section of town.

Yet, if not for a few fortuitous turns several years ago, Kramer could have just as easily been the face of heavyduty ovens, ranges and custom-made refrigerators with roots much farther to the east.

At the time, Kramer’s position as a project manager with Farmer’s Insurance was scaling down and he and his wife Anne were adjusting to life as empty nesters with their children married and out of the house. After years of traveling across the country in the insurance industry, Kramer was determined to settle down as the franchise owner of a business – and the field was not exactly narrow.

Christian Brothers Automotive that had a presence in 20 states and was expanding throughout the country.

Opening a shop would mean owning his own business but the process could take as many as three years.

Kramer started researching the business and was quickly on board, impressed with Christian Brothers’ focus on integrity, serving the public and holding true to faith-based roots.

“It wasn’t the first opportunity I’d looked at but it was the last,” Kramer said. “I was in. It was phenomenal.”

Kramer stayed with Fix Auto until the end of 2016, securing a prized contract with Farmers Insurance a week before he left to start a new chapter with Christian Brothers. His new professional home broke ground on Appleway Avenue in August of that year.

As the business celebrates seven years in Liberty Lake this month, Christian Brothers Automotive continues to stay true to the principles that sold Kramer on the company when he first signed on. Employing between 14 to 16 staff, the location stays busy but always has time to uplift the community through events like National Service Day each fall that benefits single moms to efforts that support a variety of local nonprofits like Union Gospel Mission, Family Promise of Spokane and Naomi Community.

Kramer also lives out the mantra of giving back as a member of Liberty Lake Rotary and, prior to that, as part of Liberty Lake Kiwanis “Part of the Christian Brothers’ mission is to be a valuable member of the community and Rotary is a good way to do that,” Kramer said.

Kramer grew up the oldest of four children. His dad owned his own janitorial business and Kramer

“I remember sawmills and trains going through Coeur d’Alene,” he said. “As kids, we grew up riding bikes, swimming, fishing and spending a lot of time in the mountains.”

Kramer was one of four seniors in his high school’s graduating class.

He went on to attend LeTourneau University, a Christian polytechnic university in Longview, Texas. After graduating in 1989, Kramer began working his way up the insurance industry ladder, first as a claims adjuster with Farmers and later with Safeco. He came back to Farmers in order to cut down on the busy travel schedule and spend more time with his family.

Kramer said his time in the insurance field was rewarding.

After an opening emerged in Florida with a commercial kitchen solutions company. Kramer went as far as to put money down. The opportunity would have meant overseeing an enterprise in the greater Spokane area. His wife wasn’t completely sold on the idea, however.

“I enjoyed making situations better,” he said.

difficult

These days, Kramer and his team at Christian Brothers are focused on a similar objective, helping motorists get safely back on the road. Christian Brothers now features over 250 locations across the country and has never had a shop go out of business since the brand premiered in 1982.

“We met with our pastor and he asked, ‘What can we do to help?’”

Kramer said. “We wanted to be faithful to God and go where He was leading us.”

Kramer is looking forward to opening up a second shop, this one in Hayden, Idaho on Highway 95.

The conversation led to Kramer taking a different job with Fix Auto in San Diego in June of 2013 that required travel across the U.S. and Canada including stops in the Inland Northwest where Kramer had extensive roots as a native of Post Falls.

In 2002, he and Anne had a home built in Spirit Lake.

While at Fix Auto, Kramer had a conversation with his financial advisor about a Texas-based company called

Kramer attended Grace Bible Academy in Hayden where he competed in soccer, basketball and track. Memories of his youth reflect a different North Idaho from today.

“My dad had become ill,” Kramer said. “I had time to spend with him before he passed.”

“I’d always been looking for that kind of opportunity and I was open to anything,” Kramer recalls.

“It was on 10 acres in the middle of the woods,” Kramer said.

learned the value of responsibility and hard work early as an employee for the company through high school. He earned enough to buy his own car, a Mustang with a V8 engine.

“We’re not here for a short-term win,” Kramer said. “We’re here for the long haul.”

Photo by Craig Howard Kris Kramer launched Christian Brothers Automotive in Liberty Lake seven years ago this month. The Post Falls native brought an extensive background in the insurance industry to his role as owner/operator of the local repair shop with a nationwide footprint.

Q: You had a pretty large area to pick from when deciding where to establish the first Christian Brothers Automotive in Washington. Why has Liberty Lake worked for you?

A: I was born in Idaho and grew up in the greater Post Falls/Coeur d’Alene area with deep ties to the See KRAMER, Page 5

MARCH 2024 • 3

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The Splash

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The Splash

NEWS

KRAMER

Continued from page 2 area with family and friends. My wife and I left ourselves open to go where a CBA opportunity would take us. The franchisor was very focused on finding us opportunities where we would be happy. The Liberty Lake community was a perfect spot for us with its central location between Coeur d’Alene and Spokane in an area of growing demographics.

Q: Owning and running your own company seems like it was a goal for you from early on. Has the experience turned out the way you had hoped?

A: We have been blessed with new friends, business neighbors and the community from the very beginning of our launch. I don’t know if I could say the experience turned out the way I had hoped, it took three years to get the location selected and built and then, before we knew it, COVID hit. However, it has been a fantastic journey full of great challenge and blessing. It, by far, has been the hardest project I have taken on but the most fulfilling when we can help turn someone’s life around.

Q: What did working for your dad’s janitorial company growing up teach you about having a good work ethic, being responsible and taking initiative?

A: At 8 years old I was paid 25 cents an hour to pick up garbage and staples out of the carpet. I learned it wasn’t about how much you get paid to do something for someone, it is about how well you do it, regardless of the pay. Whether it is cleaning a bathroom or managing a multimillion-dollar project it is critical to mind the details and communicate well and often with those involved.

Q: You are not timid when it comes to talking about how faith has impacted your life. What are some of the ways your belief system guides your personal and professional journey?

A: Scripture tells us that the greatest commandment is to love.

We need to function with Matthew 22:39 as our starting place. “…love thy neighbor as thyself.” This is the number one challenge with any relationship, whether it is personal or business. If we live by this, we have a greater awareness to serve. We work on our core values in the business culture to keep us on task with how we should help others through Joy, Being Neighborly, with Excellence

and Transparency.

Q: You’ve been involved with Rotary for a while now and Kiwanis before that. What are some of the most rewarding aspects of lending your time and talents to a service club?

A: Seeing the children of families find joy in being helped and helping others in many of our activities and events here and abroad. This can impact them for the rest of their lives to carry on “Service Above Self.”

Q: Anyone who’s ever had a car in need of repair can speak to the challenge of finding an auto mechanic they can trust. How do you address that concern at Christian Brothers?

A: Communication is the major issue in our industry. There are many good well-meaning repair places who are often misunderstood because they didn’t communicate well or didn’t clearly lay out the details of a repair need or solution. We do our best to provide a transparent digital vehicle inspection with notes, photos and video for our customers in order to help explain what we see, our reasoning for a repair or an approach toward a series of causes when several items may contribute to a problem.

Our goal is to help educate so a person can make an informed decision regarding maintenance or repairs.

Our goal is to do our best to serve well with a little grace and recover well with our customer when we fall short of perfect.

Q: How has your background in the insurance industry helped you in your role as an owner of a repair shop?

A: The insurance industry is like the automotive repair market in that we can have the opportunity to help people who are in an uncomfortable position, often facing a loss or expense that is not planned. Understanding our customer’s story helps to find a way through this with the customer.

Q: Finally, what have you enjoyed most about being part of the Liberty Lake community?

A: Being part of so many aspects of the small hometown community with the opportunity to know people by first names. Volunteering at the Farmers Market, RIM Ride and the Memorial Day activities. Helping supervise the luminaries at the park in the evening has been an awesome experience witnessing families solemnly teaching their children the meaning and history.

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MARCH 2024 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout

March 2024

As defined in RCW 41.12, each Meetings so far have been very short, work. Along the way, she’s been Meet the city’s law. city’s commission must have three with recent activities highlighted by an active volunteer with Spokane who are residents of the the certification of two new officers County Search and Rescue, a new Civil Service members city they are serving, and those in January and initializing a search member of the Drug and Substance members are appointed to staggered process for an attorney who would be Abuse Council of Bonner County Commission terms of six years. retained for the commission’s work. and part of Inland Northwest Honor Liberty Lake’s Civil Service Commission may appear to be the city’s newest commission, but it’s actually one of the oldest.

The city’s Civil Service Commission has resumed active service in recent months under a new three-person group of volunteer members. This trio is reviving the work of a group that that was originally created at the same time as the city’s Planning Commission in December of 2001.

Police Chief Damon Simmons has advocated for the Civil Service Commission’s return after the group had been out of operation for the last few years.

The three volunteers on the Civil Service Commission are assigned to monitor the procedures related to the city police department’s hires and promotions. The commission has a preliminary role in certifying newly hired members to the city’s police department and is the group that would conduct hearings and rulings on any complaints involving the rejection of applicants to the department.

Civil service commissions for city police are established by state

Derek Kosanke is the new Parks and Open Space supervisor

After helping drive work as the crew lead for the city’s Streets Department since January of 2022, Derek Kosanke has now shifted things into parks.

Kosanke began his duties in the city’s newly created position of Parks and Open Space supervisor at the start of February.

His more administrative roles with the new job involve overseeing the maintenance work for Liberty Lake’s parks and the Trailhead Golf Course and working with

The city opened up recruitment to reactivate the Liberty Lake Civil Service Commission during the initial months of 2023. After a review and selection process that was followed by some initial orientation sessions with the three chosen members, the new commissioners held their first official meetings at the end of this past year. Sgt. Mike Bogenreif serves as the police department’s liaison to the commission.

“The chief has got three people overlooking processes in this commission who care very much about law enforcement,” said commission Chairman Joe Mann.

“We want to help make sure hirings, promotions and dismissals are transparent and fair to the police department. Our primary focus is to make sure the police department is operating as it should be.”

The group now meets on the third Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. in the Liberty Lake City Hall’s Council Chambers. Those meetings are also attended by the city’s Human Resources Manager Heidi Workman, who serves as the commission’s secretary and chief examiner.

crew leads at those sites.

Explaining the reason behind the newly created position, Kosanke said: “As the city’s growing, some administrative tasks have been left on the crew leads, overwhelming them and not allowing them to focus primarily on parks and managing their crews. We’ll now be able to do more metrics for ensuring time is managed properly for parks and golf. And we’ll be working with the City Council to provide more staffing for this as the city continues to grow.”

Prior to first joining the city’s crew, Kosanke worked at golf courses throughout the area and was employed by cities of Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls. He earned his A.A. degree in horticulture from Spokane Falls Community College.

Meet the commissioners: • Joe Mann, chairman, is already familiar with sitting behind the table of the council chambers – and in serving on a civil service commission.

He’s currently a member of the city’s Planning Commission, which Mann joined a year following his 2018 move to Liberty Lake in.

Plus, he joined the Spokane Valley Fire Department’s Civil Service Commission last September.

Mann studied pre-medicine at the University of Alabama, then earned his master’s degree in the systems analysis field at the University of Southern California. He served in the Air Force, worked in the computer industry and retired as a Realtor in 2015. “I felt it important to give back to the community,” said Mann on his decision to apply for Liberty Lake’s Civil Service Commission.

“Law enforcement and public safety are the most important things a city does.”

• Maria Hatcher grew up in North Idaho and has been a Liberty Lake resident since 2005. She obtained her RN degree from North Idaho College and has a 25-year resume in nursing

Flight trips. “I believe in being part of the solution instead of part of the problem,” said Hatcher. “I want to help the community come together and feel safe and law enforcement and public safety go hand-in-hand with that.”

• Brittany Webster is a native of California’s Santa Barbara area who moved to Liberty Lake nine years ago and whose husband, Jason, is a Spokane firefighter.

Like Mann, she’s on the Spokane Valley Fire Department’s Civil Service Commission, having joined that group in January of 2022 and becoming its chair last August. Webster holds a BS in kinesiology and an MA in sports psychology from California State University-Fresno and earned her PhD in Biblical Counseling from Andersonville Theological Seminary online program out of Georgia. “I joined because I was hoping to be able to help have a bigger influence in my community,” said Webster. “I like laws. That sleuthing is fun for me. I didn’t know I have a love for that until I started win civil service with the fire department.”

Kosanke grew up moving around as part of a military family but has deep connections with Liberty Lake.

His parents, Rick and Karolyn, both graduated from Central Valley High School. As a child, he routinely spent time during the summer and winter visiting his grandfather, O.T. Thompson, who moved to Liberty Lake in 1943.

“I’ve always felt Liberty Lake is my home and always enjoyed coming back here,” he said. “I wanted to work for the city because my family has been here for so long and I think Liberty Lake has a lot that I’d like to see maintained.

As we forge ahead through 2024, we remain fully committed to delivering an exceptional level of services that are truly deserving of our community.”

https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa • www.libertylakewa.gov

8 • MARCH 2024

NEWS

The Splash

“We just don’t have the staff time on for another three years.”

City commissions offer to do all that,” she said.

Like many commissions, Parks The mayor points to the array and Arts meets once a month, chance to serve, enhance of projects completed by the Parks typically for around two hours, “I hope these recommendations and Arts Commission in just a few Hill said. All seats in the group community are recognized and given merit,” years of existence, including the are currently filled along with two Dunne said. “I love the notion that mural at Pavillion Park, utility box adjunct members and a student

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

When Danetta “Dg” Garcia’s bid for a Liberty Lake City Council seat fell short, she didn’t give up on the idea of serving the city she calls home.

A former member of council, Garcia pivoted quickly and threw her name into the ring for a Planning Commission seat.

“After the election, the mayor mentioned there were other opportunities to work on behalf of the city, so I thought, ‘Why not?’”

Garcia said.

Garcia is one of dozens of citizens who have found fulfillment volunteering their time as a commission member. Such opportunities have become more plentiful in recent years with the addition of the Parks and Arts and Community Engagement commissions as well as the revival of the Civil Service Commission.

“I appreciate the energy, time and attention these commission members provide,” said City Council Member Dan Dunne. “These are bite-sized ways to participate and contribute to the city.”

Before he joined council, Dunne spent three years on the Planning Commission, the grandfather of the city’s advisory groups. Planning and Civil Service were both established in December 2001, just four months after Liberty Lake’s incorporation date.

Dunne said his time on the Planning Commission prepared him for the variety of duties on the governing board and gave him increased appreciation for the importance of approaches to development that preserve the aesthetics and integrity of Liberty Lake.

“One of the biggest obligations the city has is how property is developed and land use development codes are the key to that,” Dunne said. “It’s how the city is poised for the future.”

As with other city commissions, the Planning Commission serves in an advisory role, offering recommendations to City Council which has the final say. Dunne said the input offered by each group should not be taken lightly.

we’re charging a set of community members to really take the time and energy to help determine what’s going to happen in the city.”

A visit to libertylakewa.gov under the “My Government” tab shows seven current commission/trustee/ committee opportunities, including the Library Board of Trustees, Parks and Arts Commission, Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, Planning Commission, Salary Commission, Civil Service Commission and the newest member of the lineup – the Community Engagement Commission.

Mayor Cris Kaminskas is responsible for interviewing each candidate for a commission and extending that appointment to City Council for confirmation. A staff liaison is also part of the interview process along with the commission/ trustee/committee chair if available.

When Kaminskas first joined council in 2010, only the Library Board of Trustees and the Planning Commission were actively participating in support of elected leaders around the dais. Kaminskas said the addition of volunteer-led groups has had a positive ripple effect on the ability of municipal government to get things done.

art wraps, sculpture at Rocky Hill Park, waste basket art wraps and the new basketball court and skate park murals at Pavillion Park as an example of concrete achievements by a commission.

“We probably wouldn’t have all those things without that commission,” Kaminskas said.

Kaminskas also said input from the Community Engagement Commission was one of the keys to the city securing ZenCity interactive software intended to improve channels of communication between City Hall and residents.

Nancy Hill just began her second year as chair of Parks and Arts.

Hill said she got involved as a way to make an impact after retiring as executive director of Spokane County Regional Animal Control Services (SCRAPS).

“I was looking for volunteer work and more specifically something local that was different and where I could make a difference,” Hill said.

Hill read in The Splash that the city was accepting applications and interviewed with then-Mayor Shane Brickner.

“It’s a gift of time,” Hill said.

“I’ve enjoyed it. That’s why I signed

Contributed photo The double full-court basketball mural at Pavillion Park is one of many initiatives tackled by Liberty Lake’s Parks and Arts Commission. The city has added several such commissions in recent years as a way to gather more input from residents and enhance the livability of the community.

volunteer.

“We’re going strong,” Hill said. “Everyone in our group is contributing.”

Hill and her colleagues have more on the docket for this year, including an historical display at Pavillion Park and a pair of blank slates at the renovated Trailhead golf facility that have been set aside as dedicated art walls. Hill said the grand opening of the Pavillion Park court and skate park murals will likely take place this spring.

Hill added that she is working with City Administrator Mark McAvoy to arrange a council workshop with Parks and Arts. The group will also be part of the master plan discussion for Twon Square Park.

The origins of the Community Engagement Commission go back nearly four years when Garcia brought up the need for the city to be more engaged with residents.

Council Member Annie Kurtz carried the baton and became the catalyst for the formation of the group which has become a respected liaison between citizens and City Hall. The commission will hold its second workshop with council on March 5.

Commission Vice-Chair Summer Darrow said the group has had success at community events like the Liberty Lake Farmers Market where members chat with residents, some of whom may be reticent to appear at a council meeting and voice concerns or provide feedback during public comments.

“I think when we’re at local events, that shows people they can talk to us a little bit more,” Darrow said. “We’re just trying as many avenues as we can to engage people.”

Darrow said the commission directs residents to new opportunities to learn about municipal government and how they can participate, like the City Academy and city podcast. She also points to post cards and mailers that have been utilized as another route to reach households.

“I like that we are trying other ways of communicating, even if it’s an old-school method,” Darrow said.

The Splash

NEWS

Prothmann, a company News and Notes retaining specializing in executive recruitment

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

• Council Member Dan Dunne gave a report on the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) board, Feb. 6, noting that the city of Liberty Lake is one of five “small cities” represented by one voting position on the board. Dunne and Liberty Lake hold the small city voting role until the end of 2024. Dunne recommended that Cheney Mayor Chris Grover be appointed by the City Council as the alternate if he was not able to attend a meeting and vote.

Currently, Liberty Lake Mayor Pro Tem Chris Cargill serves as Dunne’s alternate.

“I think it’s critical that we have someone from Liberty Lake that represents us as an alternate.” said Council Member Mike Kennedy, a former STA board member.

No final decision was made on the matter.

• Mayor Cris Kaminskas gave a report on legislative activities in Olympia, remarking that representation from Eastern Washington during the latest session was minimal. “It’s important for us to be here, not only reinforce the priorities the council has established but also to represent cities on the east side of the state,” Kaminskas said.

• Derek Kosanke was announced as the city’s new recreation director on Feb. 6.

• Liberty Lake Police Chief Damon Simmons presented council with the department’s 2023 annual report, emphasizing LLPD’s commitment to community involvement. An extensive list of civic activities supported by the department was included.

• Planning and Engineering Manager Lisa Key gave an update on the replacement of poles and netting at the Trailhead Golf Course that began in December with soil testing. “Things have been going pretty smoothly so far,” Key said. “It’s a process.” The completion date is set for March 15, although Key said the installation may be finished as early as March 1.

• City Administrator Mark McAvoy encouraged residents who have received the Community Satisfaction Survey to return the forms which went out in late January. Reminders were sent Feb. 26 as the percentage of returned surveys hovered around 20 percent. McAvoy said the return rate would need to be closer to 80 percent to determine “statistically significant results.”

• Civil Service Commission Chair Joe Mann gave a report to council, noting that the revitalized advisory group is in place to make sure that all hirings, promotions and firings in Liberty Lake Police Department are fair and transparent to the public.

• Council voted in favor of

services for cities, to pursue candidates for the open city engineer and Public Works director positions.

• The city terminated a lease agreement with Bentgrass LLC to be the restaurant vendor at Trailhead. The search has begun for another occupant for the open space.

• Former Council Member Tom Sahlberg, who serves on the Spokane Regional Transportation Council Advisory Committee, spoke in public comments on Feb. 20, describing the efforts of a steering committee that is working on a Safety Action Plan related to the goals of Target Zero, translating into no traffic deaths. “For you, for us, it means the potential for some transportation monies to help with pedestrian and bicycle transportation issues and projects and that might include some sidewalks,” Sahlberg said.

• Council Member Annie Kurtz who serves on Central Valley School District’s Balance Calendar Committee, said the group has been meeting since January and will have a recommendation to the school board by March 25. A quartet of potential calendars are under consideration.

• McAvoy gave his two cents on the city’s efforts in Olympia during the 60-day legislative session, noting that a proposed bill to place a ceiling on property tax appears to have lost traction.

The bill was at the top of the priority list for the Association of Washington Cities.

Another tax-related proposal would make changes to the Tax Increment Financing tool utilized by the city, though McAvoy said that “through some discussion and revision of the original bill, the revised version is less impactful than the original version.”

• Finance Manager Kyle Dixon provided a summary of 2023 finances on Feb. 20, telling council that income from property tax came in below budgeted projections. The city collected $2.48 million in property taxes, short of the $2.6 budgeted amount. Sales tax revenue, meanwhile, rang in at a robust $6.4 million, far exceeding the $5.1 million projection.

The 2023 amount was up $700,000 from 2022. On the permits/planning front, the city brought in $1.3 million, eclipsing the projected total of $1.1 million. The ending fund balance on Dec. 31, 2023 was $5.39 million.

• Nancy Hill, chair of the Parks and Arts Commission, told council on Feb. 20 that several options are being considered for the dedicated art walls at the Trailhead golf facility. Options discussed have included art from local students and a historical display with materials provided by Ross Schneidmiller and the Liberty Lake Historical Society.

MARCH 2024 • 9

10 • MARCH 2024

COVER STORY

The Splash

streets. Since the streets are private, patrols in HOA neighborhoods in includes three small neighborhood HOA’s have they are maintained by the HOA, a council meeting early this year. parks – Five Fingers, Little Bear the city, McAvoy said. That He said several residents had asked and Pumphouse Park. In the different rules not includes everything from filling him about the issue and he wanted Garden Ridge and Rocky Hill potholes to plowing snow. “That is to follow up. “I’m an elected public neighborhoods, the HOA pays to capital expense that falls on the official,” he said. “I represent the maintain all the common areas and what it means aproperty owner,” he said. “Most citizens of Liberty Lake. I can’t the streets, which are private. In gated communities, they’re ignore my constituents’ questions.” these neighborhoods, the HOA also for Police and in an HOA or not,whether the streets are maintains the front and back yard of Kennedy said that one of the key privately owned.” each home. streets questions brought up by people is

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

The city of Liberty Lake is known for its winding paths, street trees and homeowner’s associations.

Recently, however, residents of some neighborhoods have been questioning the services they receive from the city, particularly police patrols and traffic enforcement.

Many neighborhoods in Liberty Lake were built by Greenstone Corporation, which set up HOA’s for each neighborhood. Though the rules and services vary, generally the HOA collects assessments to take care of common areas and sets rules that can cover everything from house paint color to fencing to landscaping. The board of directors of most HOA’s have chosen to contract with a management company that collects assessments and hires contractors to perform the needed work on common areas.

City Administrator Mark McAvoy said the city has multiple agreements in place with HOA’s about the maintenance of common or border areas within or on the edge of an HOA. “That’s fairly common,” he said. “The agreements differ.”

The sticking point that has arisen recently is that some HOAs, and even some gated communities that are not in an HOA, have private

And if the residents of an HOA change their mind, they could try to negotiate a maintenance agreement with the city to maintain the streets or petition the city to take ownership of the streets, McAvoy said. However, the city would not be required to complete either of those options, he said.

Because some streets are private instead of being owned by the city, the police department does not provide traffic enforcement on those streets. “When it comes to traffic enforcement, it’s a little bit different,” McAvoy said. “It’s whether the street is public right of way.”

That does not mean that police will not respond if there is an emergency or a crime in neighborhoods with private streets, McAvoy said. Officers respond to those calls anywhere in the city limits.

City councilman Mike Kennedy first brought up the issue of police

that they pay property taxes, which help fund the police department, so why shouldn’t police provide traffic enforcement in their neighborhoods even if the streets are private? The city and the police department are preparing information for a report to address those questions that will be presented at a council meeting in the near future, Kennedy said. “As an elected official, I can bring it up to get it on the agenda,” he said.

The Meadowwood HOA, which also includes Garden Ridge and Rocky Hill, is one of the largest in the city. It, like several others, contracts with Rockwood Property Management to handle day-to-day operations of the HOA. The property management companies report to the boards of directors, which in turn gives direction and instruction to the management companies.

In the Meadowwood neighborhood, the streets are not private. HOA members pay to maintain common areas, which

While the smaller neighborhood parks are owned by the HOA’s, the larger parks in the city are owned and operated by the city, McAvoy said.

That includes Pavillion, Orchard, Rocky Hill and Town Square parks.

Kennedy lives in the Garden Ridge neighborhood, which includes 81 homes. Since the streets are private, they look different than city-owned streets. “Our streets are narrower than regular streets,” he said. “They don’t have the same requirements as regular roads.

Because of that, it becomes the responsibility of the homeowners.”

Kennedy said he pays an assessment of over $1,000 a year just for street maintenance and snow removal, which does not include the usual HOA dues.

He said he’s aware of one neighborhood, Legacy Ridge, that has private streets and contracted with the police department to have off-duty officers patrol the neighborhood.

While Legacy

The Splash

COVER STORY

Ridge is not an HOA, it is a gated community and has private streets.

Kennedy said he’s not aware of any other neighborhoods with similar arrangements with the police department or a private security company.

I know I drive through the private communities regularly.”

Each officer patrols differently and tries not to be predictable, so people won’t see police patrol at the same time every day, he said. “Everyone has their own way of doing things and catching criminals,” he said. “Honestly, our HOA’s around here are probably the least responsible for calls for criminal activity.”

The issue was addressed briefly at the February 6 city council meeting by Police Chief Damon Simmons while he was discussing the department’s annual report.

While officers can enforce laws that result in criminal charges anywhere, they’re limited in what traffic laws they can enforce on private property, including private streets, Simmons said. “There is a distinct difference and that’s traffic enforcement,” he said.

At one time the department had a contract with the Legacy Ridge neighborhood to provide traffic enforcement for issues such as speeding, though the contract is not currently in place, Simmons said. A contract is the only thing that will allow normal traffic enforcement on private property, Simmons said.

“That’s state law,” he said.

Officers can enforce only laws against driving under the influence, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, driving without insurance and negligent driving on private streets, he said. They cannot enforce laws against speeding or running stop signs. “Those are the five we can enforce on private property,” he said. “If it’s a private street, unless it’s one of the five I mentioned, we can’t enforce it.”

Simmons said has not received any complaints about the issue of officers not enforcing speeding and other traffic offenses on private streets. “We haven’t received any,” he said. “When it was brought up

by Councilman Kennedy, it was the first we heard of it.”

McAvoy said that if there are ever any questions about services and who provides them, people can reach out to the city or their HOA. “If you’re in an HOA, there is an HOA board and they’re obligated to provide you with information,” he said.

In a recent interview, Simmons said officers can and do patrol private streets, they just can’t do traffic enforcement for most issues.

“We patrol for criminal activity all throughout the city,” he said. “We do that as long as we have access.

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ROCKY ROCKY HILL HILL PARK PARK

25051

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I almost bought a home in an HOA, researched what it meant & vowed never to get involved with one. Our home is our home. We already answer to Federal, State, City, County & residual entities, plus our own welfare, responsibilities, obligations, hobbies, self-care, ultimate happiness & so much more. Why add what all too often turns out to be a load of stress???

-Lorie Vernon

MOLTER

232 17

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LIBERTY LIBERTY LAKE LAKE ELEMENTRY ELEMENTRY

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Regardless of the size, being on an HOA or COA Board can be challenging. As president of the Villas at Big Trout Condo Association, challenges or not, this has become the most rewarding volunteer opportunity to represent my community. The general health and overall well-being of the association are so important. The relationship between the community is an understatement. We need to hear the concerns in and out of the Board meetings. In general, Boards, not unlike a city government, tend to restrict the time community association members can tell us what is on their minds.

Yes, Boards can add much value. But so, too, does the membership.

Their participation can bring an abundance of good-quality ideas. Making for a better environment overall brings goodwill to the community.

-DG, Villas at Big Trout Condominium Association President

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1739 1719 1699 1679

1660 1659

1739 1740 24600 1719 1720 1699 1700

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#

S TA B LV D

1640 24500

C OUNTRY VI

24460 24479 24440 24459 24420 24439 24419 24400 24399 24380 24379 1720 24359 24480 24460 24440 24420 24400 24380 24360 24340

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24459 24439 24419 24399 24379 24359 1780

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1740 1720 1700 1680 1660

1659 24320

The Alpine shores homeowners association takes care of the common areas, our docks are privately owned by individual homeowners. Our HOA dues are some of the lowest anywhere, $350 per year. This pays for mowing, watering, electricity for security lights, insurance, backflow testing, port pottie, garbage service, etc. We proudly host the annual 4th of July community parade in our neighborhood!

-Betty Wolf

29

20

2009

24859

2060 2040

D

OC NR WI

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2080

I S TA

CARSON RANGE ST.

1759 1739 1719 1699 1679

Below are my thoughts related to why my family decided to purchase a home in an HOA and other comments related to the various choices buyers have when deciding on the best home to purchase for their family.

First, I think it’s important to point out that home buyers have choices and it’s important to do your research when deciding which home and community is right for you. There are legal requirements that dictate buyers must be made aware if the home they are purchasing is located in an HOA. If the home they are buying is in an HOA, they must be provided access to various HOA information such as the governing documents, rules and regulations and financial information related to the association. So, buyers have the choice to educate themselves and decide if they want to live in an HOA before buying. Most HOAs have websites with all the information necessary for a buyer to educate themselves. It’s been my experience, as someone in the real estate industry for over 30 years, that the majority of buyers do not read the governing documents or educate themselves on the financial status of the HOA in which they are purchasing a home. That’s unfortunate.

I’ve purchased six homes over my lifetime and all but one home was located in a homeowners association. It’s been my experience that the homes I purchased in HOA’s provided a stronger return on my investment. I believe this was in large part due to the rules and regulations required of the homeowners to maintain their properties to standards that are much higher than general city ordinances.

If buyers want to be able to park their RV in front of their home for extended periods of time or paint their home any color they want, then an HOA might not be the right choice for them. As someone who owns an RV, I can strongly say that I do NOT want to live on a street where multiple RV’s are parked in driveways and on the street all year long.

In addition, it’s important to me that exterior changes to homes in my community be cohesive. I visited a friend years ago, who did not live in an HOA, and her neighbor painted a huge American flag on her garage door. This did not violate any city or local ordinances, however, it impacted her ability to sell her home.

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About and for Liberty Lake seniors Babcock Chapter, has 78 members monuments, memorials, name for the chapter.

Daughters of have and markers.”

Carrie Adell Strahorn was, currently,” Victor explains about an important the members. “We are all very The Tomb of the Unknown nonetheless, The American Soldier Never Forget Garden figure in the Daughters of active members. The different American Revolution chapters collaborate together. began in 2018 across the nation the Revolution to pay living respect to the community. In 1900, she was a In fact, in the past few years we have received national awards

By Ashley Humbird Splash Contributor

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a volunteer women’s organization that has been dedicated to historical preservation, education, and patriotism for over a century.

Across the United States, there are over 3,000 chapters supporting an estimated current membership of 200,000, with over one million total members since their founding in 1890.

The greater Spokane area is home to four chapters with over 300 members currently enrolled. Ester Reed Chapter was founded in 1900 with Carrie Adell Strahorn being a notable member; Spokane Gary Chapter was founded in 1921 to honor Chief Gary; Jonas Babock Chapter was founded in 1970; and May Hutton Chapter founded in 1996 to honor May Hutton, a prominent suffragette and philanthropist.

With a commitment to preserving our cultural heritage, DAR members engage in projects such as restoring and maintaining historical sites, locating, and marking Revolutionary War patriot grave sites, and organizing major restorations and memorials.

RaeAnna Victor, Vice Regent of the Jonas Babcock Chapter member, has been involved in numerous memorial creations including the World War I monument near Argonne bridge and the recently dedicated Never Forget Garden honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at Orchard Park in Liberty Lake.

“Here in the Spokane area, we are just way high on historical preservation, patriotism and education too, but more so than any other part of the state, we

service members who have gave their life, the service members currently protecting out freedoms, and to those who have yet to serve out Country.

The marker that is placed in the garden is emblazoned with a message from the Declaration of Independence: “Our lives, our fortunes, and out sacred honor.”

They also preserve genealogical records, artifacts, and historical documents at DAR Headquarters in Washington D.C., making them accessible to the public.

Education is also a key focus for DAR, as members are passionate about educating the youth of America. They support five schools throughout the United States through donations and personal time and provide scholarships and funds to Native American children and schools.

DAR also promotes education and citizenship through youth programs, such as Children of the American Revolution, DAR Good Citizens, and Junior American Citizens. They even offer educational summer camps and cultural programs through the DAR Museum.

Each chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is given a name in honor of a notable figure from history who has ties to the Revolutionary War. In the case of the naming of the 1970 Spokane chapter, there was initially a plan to name it after Carrie Adell Strahorn.

Strahorn, being one of the original pioneer women in the Wild West and having settled in Spokane in 1898, seemed like an ideal candidate for recognition.

However, due to considerations about the perceived modernity of her contributions, the decision was made to select a different

founding member of the Ester Reed Chapter, which was the first chapter established in the greater Spokane area. Despite not having the Spokane chapter named after her, Strahorn’s significant contributions to the organization are still recognized.

Ultimately, the new chapter in Spokane was bestowed with the name of Strahorn’s patriot ancestor, her great-grandfather Jonas Babcock, ensuring that his legacy and connection to the Revolutionary War are honored and remembered.

Jonas Babcock was born in Stonington, Connecticut, on May 14, 1764 and came from a large family of ten children. “He went into the Revolutionary War at only fifteen years old,” Victor shares about the patriot who is the namesake of the chapter she belongs to. “One of the remaining family members still has a journal of his and he wrote in it ‘May peace forever remain between the United States and all other powers if possible. If not, may America subdue them and begin them to peace again.

Amen.’ Isn’t that cool?”

It’s worth noting that Jonas Babcock was a brave soldier who fought valiantly for his country over several years. He served three different terms in the war and was ultimately discharged in 1784 at the rank of sergeant, after the war had concluded. In the years after his service, he married twice.

Tragically, his first wife passed away at the young age of 26 after only two children. However, his second marriage was much more fruitful, and together they had ten children. Jonas Babcock lived a long life and passed away in 1847 at the age of 83.

“Our

Chapter,

the

Jonas

for when all four chapters work together. The first was in 2019 for the work on the Argonne Memorial. We all came together and raised around $15,000 dollars.”

The Daughters of the American Revolution across all the local Chapters are planning upcoming events this spring and welcome community members to come and join them in the events.

March 29 – Annual Vietnam Veterans ceremony - Spokane Valley City Hall at 1:00pm April 20 – Never Forget Garden Dedication - 11:00am Balfour Park – Veterans Plaza April 26 - Liberty Tree Dedication – 11:00am Balfour Park May 27 – Memorial Day Veterans Memorial Balfour Park – time to be announced Victor herself can trace her lineage back to 11 Revolutionary War patriots. “It makes me feel very proud and very excited.

Because with all the stuff going on in today’s society, its nice to know that we were founded on great principals.”

Victor’s mother, who is currently 96 years old, is also an active member of the Jonas Babcock Chapter and attends meetings whenever she can. Additionally, Victor’s granddaughter has become a member as well, boasting an impressive lineage that includes 23 patriots in her family tree.

People nationwide are still discovering their family history with support from the Daughters of the American Revolution. For more details, visit their website at DAR.org.

MARCH 2024 • 13

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Falcons get a taste of post season success

By John McCallum Splash contributor

Girls basketball The Falcon girls transitioned from a team that finished eighth in the Greater Spokane League in 2022 – 2023 at 2-7, 8-12 overall to one that not only made the 3A playoffs but earned a No. 3 seed and finished one game shy of making the second round in state competition.

After dropping back-to-back games to 3A top-ranked and GSL winner Mead and 4A Gonzaga Prep, Ridgeline rebounded with three consecutive wins. The Falcons beat Mt. Spokane and Lewis and Clark, then notched their first playoff win with a 77-48 home thumping of Hermiston.

Ridgeline just missed a chance at a District 8 title game appearance with a 59-55 road loss at Kennewick in the semifinals Feb. 13, but stayed alive with a 55-32 home win over Ferris and advanced to state with a 51-46 win over University in the third-seed game Feb.17.

Seeded 14th in the field of 20, the Falcons hosted Peninsula on Feb. 20, and gave their fans a lot to cheer about with a 49-39 win, outscoring the Seahawks 19-10 in the third quarter to overcome a 21-20 halftime deficit.

The win advanced Ridgeline to the round of 16 in state competition where they faced an old nemesis — Kennewick. The 11th-seeded Lions proved to too much for the Falcons this time, cruising to a 38-15 halftime lead enroute to the 63-42 win.

Ridgeline finished with a 15-11 mark overall, 6-3 in the GSL. Those three losses came against Mead, Gonzaga Prep and Central Valley — with the Panthers and Bullpups playing in the 4A state tournament.

“When we reflect on the season as a whole, it was a phenomenal year,” Falcons head coach Clyde Wood said.

“We played into the second to last possible week of the season and still wanted more. Making it to the playoffs again and making a little bit of a deeper

run, showed and taught us things that we could only get from the experience itself.”

Grace Sheridan led the Falcons in scoring at 16.8 points per game, with Madi Crowley next at 13.1 ppg. Crowley led the team in rebounding with 7.8 boards per game, followed by Cayce Paske at five rebounds ppg. Sheridan and Emma Myers led the team in assists with 3.8 and 2.3 respectively.

“We believe people are now aware of the girls basketball program at Ridgeline High School,” Wood said.

“We know we will have to work even harder, as we expect nothing will come easy for us.”

Sheridan was selected to the All-GSL first team, with Crowley and Myers named All-GSL honorable mentions.

Boys basketball The Falcon boys battled through a difficult season-ending stretch to find a way to make a deep playoff run. Sitting at 4-2 in the GSL after a 58-53 win over Mead on Jan. 26, Ridgeline dropped its next three games, losses to 4A schools Gonzaga Prep and Lewis and Clark and an 81-62 setback Feb. 2 against 3A and GSL winner Mt. Spokane.

Making the playoffs for the first time, Ridgeline landed a No. 4 seed, opening the District 8 playoffs with a tight 75-71 loss at Walla Walla. Knocked into the elimination bracket, the Falcons became road warriors, edging sixth-seeded Southridge 64-62 on Feb.13 and fifthseeded Spokane Valley rival University 65-47 on Feb. 15 to advance to the thirdplace game and a chance at state.

Needing a win to move on, Ridgeline found themselves against a familiar foe — second-seeded Walla Walla. This time, led by Caden Andreas 24 points, it was the Falcons who came out on top of the Blue Devils, 57-51.

Seeded 20th in the tournament, the Falcons traveled to Federal Way to face 13th-seed Todd Beamer in a state play-in game. Leading 25-21 at the half, Ridgeline couldn’t find a way to close out a win, ending its season with a 6357 loss to the Titans, who advanced to defeat 12th-seed Mount Vernon and awaited a matchup with fifth-seeded Montlake Terrace on Feb. 28 in the round of 12.

Ridgeline ended at 4-5 in the GSL and 16-9 overall, steady improvement from a 1-17 record its inaugural season and 8-12 last year. Head coach

Freddie Rehkow praised his squad’s performance, pointing out key moments such as a tournament title at the Doc Larson Roundball Classic in Wasilla, Alaska in December, some big wins and some losses to programs such Todd Beamer, Gonzaga Prep, Mt. Spokane and North Central.

“All of these teams were in their respective playoffs and North Central, Mt. Spokane, Todd Beamer, and Gonzaga Prep are still playing in the Washington State Tournament,” he added. “This was an amazing season for the Falcons and six seniors were sent out with a legacy of going to State in year three of the program’s existence.”

Sophomore Caden Andreas (team leader at 17.3 points per game) was named to the second-team All-GSL, with senior Easton Amend (11 ppg) and junior Brayden Allen (11 ppg) named as All-GSL honorable mentions.

Gymnastics Four Falcons qualified for state competition Feb. 23 – 24 at Sammamish High School in Bellevue: seniors Bella De La Rosa and Anabelle Frazier and juniors Trynity Van Gelder and Julianne Stevenson.

De La Rosa competed in the allaround competition, earning 33.450 points with an 8.275 on the vault, 9.1 on the beam, 7.050 on bars and 9.025 on the floor. Frazier competed on the vault and bars, earning scores of 8.275 and 7.450 respectively.

Stevenson competed on beam and floor, earning scores of 8.950 and 8.550 while Van Gelder competed on bars, earning a 7.50.

“As a team with only four gymnasts, Ridgeline earned 74.20 points and placed 11th out of 44 teams for the 3A division,” Falcons head coach Leah Grisafi said.

Fellow GSL school Mead placed second overall for the second consecutive year, scoring 176.8 points.

Lake Washington won its second 3A state title in four years, scoring 180.15 points.

De La Rosa and Stevenson were named to the All-GSL first team, De La Rosa on vault and all-around and Stevenson on vault.

Wrestling Ridgeline ended its GSL season in seventh place at 3-6, earning meet wins over Gonzaga Prep, Lewis and Clark

and North Central.

At 3A sub-regionals, Tyson Ramsey and Preston Wentling reached the championship finals, each finishing second. Ramsey lost a 15-11 decision to Cheney’s Mason Bennett at 144 pounds while Wentling lost an 8-5 decision to Mead’s Cole Schumacher at 190.

Gavin Shoemaker defeated Mead’s Evan Urann to finished third at 144 while Falcon teammates Cole Leach and Nicholas Felice battled each other for fifth and sixth at 157, Leach emerging victorious with an 8-5 decision.

Kaiden Montgomery-Jones pinned Mt. Spokane’s Liam Fletcher to place fifth at 133, and Dheyauldeen Alnajati pinned University’s Jaxon Barton for fifth at 285 Torren Northcutt, Owen Van Rossum, David Colby and Lance Hilton all advanced to regionals with sixthplace finishes at 126, 132, 165 and 190.

At regionals at University High School, it was Ramsey and Wentling who moved on to Mat Classic XXXV. After a first-round bye, Ramsey advanced to the semifinals with an 8-0 decision over Mead’s Tyler Vandeventer.

In the semis, Ramsey was pinned by eventual regional winner Daniel Garza of Hermiston, but rebounded in the consolation finals to finish third with a pin of Liberty’s (Issaquah) Gabriel Mendoza-Acoltz followed by a 6-4 decision over Urann of Mead.

Wentling decisioned Hazen’s Maximo Ruff, and advanced to the semis with a pin of Hermiston’s Ami Ruia. In the semifinals, Wentling lost a 12-3 major decision to Bellevue’s Ivan Salaverry.

In the consolations, Wentling lost by pin to Mercer Island’s Luke Myklebust but rallied to place fifth with a pin of Lake Washington’s Sveatogor Pinzari.

At Mat Classic in the Tacoma Dome Feb. 22 – 23, Ramsey again received a first-round bye, but lost a 3-1 decision to Bonney Lake’s Blake Miller in the second round. In the consolation bracket, Ramsey advanced with three straight wins, eventually facing Miller in a rematch for third, this time won by the Falcon senior in a 5-1 decision.

Wentling opened with a 2-0 decision over Shorecrest’s Carter Nichols but lost in the second round to Praire’s Seth Blick, 6-1.

Wentling advanced in the consolation bracket with a pair of wins before ending his run in a tight, 9-8 decision loss to River Ridge’s Gabriel Johnson, who eventually placed seventh.

MARCH 2024 • 17

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HISTORY

MARCH 2024 • 19

20 • MARCH 2024

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brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Grayson Nendel has been a catalyst when it comes to building a culture at Ridgeline High School. The senior serves as ASB co-spirit coordinator, helping organize events like Verde Loco, dances and assemblies. He is also a regular at a wide variety of Falcon sporting events and activities. “It’s important for me to support as many school activities as I can,” Nendel said. He has also been in every musical and play produced by the RHS Drama Department, taking on a number of lead roles, including Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz.” A Spokane Scholar nominee in Fine Arts, Nendel maintains a 3.57 grade point average and holds down a part-time job. He has participated in concert choir since last year.

“Seniors grow up with the school,” Nendel said. “It’s nice when you see students generating that school spirit.”

Eden Sander has emerged as one of the best basketball players in the region in three years at Central Valley. The junior averaged 16.2 points, 12 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.5 steals a game this season on her way to a second straight All-GSL first team selection. She tallied 27 points, 17 rebounds and four assists in a win over Ferris and was part of Bears’ squad that finished 17-7 and qualified for districts. She was named the GSL Co-Defensive Player of the Year and CV MVP. Sander is also a letter-winner in track, competing in the high jump, 200, 400 and relays. She was part of a 4 x 400 relay team that placed third at state last season. She also lettered twice in soccer. Sander maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of National Honor Society.

Those who know Jami Mauro will tell you she has at least one superpower – An ability to lend remarkable support as a school volunteer and fundraiser. Mauro is co-chair of the Parent Teacher Association at Liberty Lake Elementary and has helped raise nearly $80,000 for various projects through the Fall Flannel Fundraiser. The latest campaign is focused on adding accessible playground equipment for students with special needs. She also helped establish the “Patriot Pad” at LLES, a sensory room where kids can have healthy, quiet breaks. Mauro previously served as president of the Greenacres Middle School PTA. She and her husband Chris have two sons – one at LLES and one at Ridgeline High. Mauro also lends time to Active 4 Youth and Spokane Youth Lacrosse.

She was the recipient of a Central Valley School District Meritorious Service Award in 2022.

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The Splash

SVFD Report – Jan. 2024

NEWS

Splash news sources

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 2,196 emergency incidents for January 2024.

Emergency Incidents for Station 3 in Liberty Lake, 125.

Emergency Medical Services

1,738

79%

Building SVFD Report forAlarms the Splash – January 2024

179

8%

Service

51

2%

49

2%

Motor Vehicle Collisions Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total95 of 2,196 emergency incidents for4% January 2024.

Emergency Incidents for Station 3 in Liberty Lake, 125.

Fire

Incident Category CAReS Emergency Medical Services Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Building Alarms Motor Vehicle Collisions Vehicle Fires Service Fire Commercial Fires CAReS Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Auto vs Pedestrian Vehicle Fires Tech Rescue

Commercial Fires Auto vs Pedestrian Transport Only Tech Rescue Transport Only enroute Cancelled Cancelled enroute Incidents by Station Area

MARCH 2024 • 21

Incident40 Total Incident Percentage2% 1,738 79% 1% 179 20 8% 95 4% 8 0.4% 51 2% 49 2% 5 0.2% 40 2% 20 1% 4 0.2% 8 0.4% 3 0.1% 5 0.2% 4 0.2% 2 0.1% 3 0.1% 2 0.1% 2 0.1% 2 0.1%

Of Note: January 16 Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) units responded this morning at 5:04am to 911 reports of a fire in the 10700 block of East Montgomery, at Sunshine Disposal.

Multiple calls to 911 described 30ft high flames, and that the entire garbage pile was on fire.

Firefighters on the first arriving apparatus from Station 8, at Pines and Montgomery, arrived three minutes after being dispatched to find heavy fire conditions in what Sunshine Disposal staff described as 50tons of waste in a partially covered garbage collection area.

Engine 8 and Ladder 8 quickly attacked the fire using large volume nozzles and master stream devices.

Additional units assisted with water supply from three neighboring hydrants to support the 3000gal a minute of water being used. A total of 10 apparatus and support vehicles came to the scene. Resources from the Dept. of Ecology and Irvin Water District 6 were also called to assist with both water supply and evaluate any potential hazardous run-off of the 20 thousand plus gallons of water being used for fire control.

Firefighters cross-trained in heavy equipment operation were tasked with using Sunshine’s loader to separate the tonnage on the dump floor while still attacking the flames with fire streams. The cold also provided its own challenges with water freezing near instantly in the 7F temps, creating slick conditions for personnel, and a potential for mechanical issues with fire engines and frozen hoses. Fire personnel are likely to be on scene for the next few hours for clean-up and overhaul. Thankfully, no injuries were reported by responders or staff at Sunshine Disposal.

The cause of this fire is undetermined; however, a common cause of similar fires is improper disposal of household chemicals and/or batteries.

The Spokane Valley Fire Department would like to remind our citizens not to put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Separating and recycling batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, is always the best option.

January 24 Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) units were dispatched this afternoon at 1:09 pm to a 911 call of a residential house fire on the 18400 block of East Courtland Ave. The resident reported flames coming out of the front door of their mobile home.

Seeing a large column of smoke, responding firefighters upgraded to a working fire, adding additional resources. Arriving within seven minutes of being dispatched, firefighters from Engine 3, Engine 4, Engine 5, Ladder 8 and Ladder 10 attacked and quickly extinguished the fire in the one story single wide manufactured home, keeping it from spreading to surrounding structures with assistance from additional units. Fortunately, there were no occupants or pets inside and no injuries reported. Due to significant fire and water damage, the house is believed to be a total loss.

The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The Spokane Valley Fire Department would like to remind our citizens to use only approved heating devices. Make sure they are at least 3 feet away from anything combustible. Plug them directly into wall outlets, not extension cords or power strips. And always make sure they are off if you are not in the room.

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ON THAT NOTE

MARCH 2024 • 23

in Spokane Valley, just seven location.

The Liberty Lake TT’s will have TT's Brewery 2019 months before the pandemic shut their rotating brews on tap as well “All the meats are smoked at our down all restaurants. “It’s burned Valley location,” Travis explains as their classics, like a Hazy IPA, a and Barbecue in my brain,” the rocky start to about the Liberty Lake TT’s. “It’s Mexican Lager, and a Blonde Ale. TT’s didn’t stop Travis though, “It a smaller kitchen, but we inherited They fill their growlers to-go or Expands to was going like gang busters, and a hood, so we were able to add a pour a cold pint for customers to we could do no wrong. Then all of fryer and a flat top grill out here in enjoy with their dinner. we had to shut it down. Liberty Lake, which we do not have Neighborhood aButsudden, “We’re open but be patient it forced us to adapt and start at the Valley location. We added a with us! We are enjoying our time online ordering and at the end good special Saucy Ribs option, where out here in Liberty Lake and look Liberty Lake things came from it.” we take single ribs and quickly forward to the warm weather and Location With the first location garnering dunk them in the fryer to give just patio season,” Travis mentions

By Ashley Humbird Splash contributor

In the smoky realm of barbecue, TT's BBQ has carved a niche for itself as a beacon of mouth watering flavors and culinary expertise for both their beer and food. The sizzle of meat on the grill, the wafting aroma of seasoned wood smoke, and a pint of ice-cold brew have all contributed to the success of TT's BBQ. Now, as the beloved establishment expands to a second location, patrons can look forward to a double dose of delectable dishes and some new creations at the neighborhood spot.

TT's Brew & BBQ emerged from its humble origins after being the backyard/garage hobby of namesake Travis Thosath. As a Spokane native, Travis began as a home brewer in his late 20’s, experimenting with different grains and flavors for family and friends while working at Frito Lay. In 2017, Travis had the opportunity to try and brew on a larger scale at the Incubator Brewery at the Steel Barrel in downtown Spokane. The Incubator Brewery provides all the equipment and space needed for brewing, Travis just had to pay rent and obtain the necessary ingredients. “I wasn’t always good at it,” Travis shares about his beginnings, “But after my two-year rent commitment was up, I decided to quit my job and start a brewery. That’s where I met my business partner Chad White. We decided to partner up and that’s how it became the TT’s as we know today.” From starting out with brewing ten gallons of beer per batch in his garage to now brewing two hundred and ten gallons per batch, it’s a significant increase.

“We’re brewing once a week, which is close to one thousand gallons a month on average. It’s wild!”

The first location opened in

a loyal following quickly, the decision to open a second spot was a natural progression, a testament to the unwavering popularity of TT's unique brew and barbecue style and the overwhelming demand and the desire to bring the distinctive flavors of TT's BBQ to a broader audience.

The new location, nestled in the vibrant Liberty Lake Orchard neighborhood opened its doors on October 31st and promises the same dedication to quality and inviting atmosphere that patrons have come to associate with TT's.

They have kept many of the triedand-true delicious smoked meats and outstanding sides but added a few special menu items for the new

a little bit of a crunch and then toss them in a blackberry chipotle BBQ sauce. They are really, really good!”

Included on their menu are their famous meat platters, which are a great option for entertaining during the holiday season. The Small Block Platter is a half-pound of each of their six smoked meats which includes brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, chicken, and spicy sausage.

To finish off the sampling of meats, the platter comes with one pint each of coleslaw, smoked pinto beans, and their famous mac and cheese.

To round out the meal, try their banana pudding. It’s a unique take on a Southern classic that provides a nice, sweet touch to an otherwise savory meal.

about the additional seating warm weather will bring.

They are currently open for dinner service daily from 4pm to 8pm, but new hours will be coming with extended hours on the weekend to cover lunch service, and will be closed Mondays.

The Liberty Lake location has a wonderful wrap-around patio that will be great for parents when the weather warms up and children play at the park.

Online orders can be placed on their website at ttsbewbbq.com or by calling the location directly.

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram using their handle TT’s Brew BBQ.

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