SPOKANE, Wash. – At First Avenue Coffee, owner Doyle Wheeler says they’re connecting with the community, one cup of coffee at a time.
And one week into the implementation of the unanimous “Safe and Accessible Spaces Ordinance,” Wheeler explained they are already seeing positive effects: less people on the street and more people in his coffee shop.
“One lady moved in a year ago, and she didn’t come downtown,” Wheeler said. “Things change, so she came down. First time in our shop.”
Wheeler and others, noticing a significant change.
“You can definitely tell there is a new enthusiasm in downtown Spokane,” Wheeler said.
Gavin Cooley, CEO of the Spokane Business Association, says he walks through Spokane frequently. And in the places that he usually sees homeless individuals, he’s says there is less activity.
“What’s happening is people are being moved into services, and that’s a great outcome,” Cooley said.
Wheeler also says a large part of the ordinance’s success stems from the Spokane Police Officers offering services.
Chief Hall told Non Stop Local that in just the first week of the ordinance, his officers issued 125 citations, at least 12 of which that resulted in jail time, gave 200 warnings, and directed 34 people to services.
As for Wheeler and First Avenue Coffee, he says he is looking forward to increased business in the downtown corridor.
“What we’re excited about is that our city can come down and enjoy a clean, vibrant, happy downtown,” Wheeler said.
