SPOKANE, Wash. – Mayor Lisa Brown has recommended former Spokane Valley Housing and Homelessness Coordinator Arielle Anderson to serve as a top policy official tackling housing issues across the city.
Anderson’s nomination to serve at the Lilac City’s Community, Housing and Human Services Director will be considered by the City Council on April 8.
Brown pointed to Anderson’s policy and advocacy experience
“Her relationships with local partners will also be valuable as the City and community together explore new fiscally responsible solutions to tackle homelessness and removes barriers related to diversity and equity,” Brown said.
If confirmed by the City Council, Anderson will begin work immediately. She would replace Jenn Cerecedes, who stepped down from the director position in late 2023.
“I am passionate about finding innovative solutions to address housing insecurity and advocating for policies that promote equal access to homeless and housing provisions,” Anderson said.
Housing insecurity has been a consistent policy priority of the City Council and Mayor’s office for several years.
Mayor Brown declared a state of emergency during harsh weather conditions in January to direct more resources to providing temporary shelter for the unhoused. Chronic homelessness rose by 19 percent from 2022 to 2023 in Spokane as the overall population also increased.
