Frequently Asked Questions
Crime & Homelessness in Spokane FAQ
What are some other states that allow camping on public property?
Oregon, California, and Washington
What are the effects caused by Spokane’s surge in homelessness?
Escalated crime rates, business closures, and compromised public safety.
What city allows camping on public property?
Spokane
Which city has the highest population of homeless people among Spokane, Boise, Nashville, and Wichita?
Spokane
In what year did Spokane City Council change policy to allow camping on public property?
2017
What was the name of the largest homeless encampment in Washington?
Camp Hope
In which neighborhood is Camp Hope located?
In the East Central neighborhood.
How many homeless centers are located in low-income neighborhoods and areas surrounding downtown Spokane?
18
How many homeless centers are located in middle- and upper-class neighborhoods?
None
By how much has the national average of homelessness increased in the last six years?
Less than 2%
By how much has homelessness increased in Spokane in the last six years?
92%
Does having more beds decrease the number of homeless people?
No
Are many homeless people in Spokane from different states?
Yes
What are some of the benefits Spokane provides to the homeless?
Free phones, two free meals each day, free needle exchange, & free shower and laundry.
What causes the early release of criminals from Spokane’s jail?
The jail is too small and overcrowded to hold criminals.
Where should the new proposed jail be located?
The new jail should be constructed away from Spokane’s populated areas in a place such as Geiger.
What is the minimum number of beds this new jail should hold?
1000
Which issues must be tackled to reshape the future of Spokane?
Ending camping on public property, replacing the current jail with a new 1000 bed facility outside downtown. Relocating and modernizing the bus transfer facility, and increasing police staffing from 1.6 to 2.6 officers per 1000 residents.