Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Spokane Public Library will keep its services unchanged until later in 2026 due to wildfire recovery and budget uncertainty.

The Board of Trustees said the delay in cuts — originally planned for summer and fall — helps meet the community’s current needs.

After the Old Trails fire destroyed their home, the Herzog family spent days digging through ashes (with donated hazmat gear) to recover a treasured wedding ring and vital belongings, while meeting with an insurance adjuster Tuesday and preparing for a fresh start with college-bound Ben Herzog.

Shalom Ministries announced it will temporarily shut down after receiving notice from Zeal Church that its lease has been terminated.

The ministry will update community members on its future plans soon.

A vehicle is on fire near Liberty Lake exit 296 on I-90 eastbound and drivers are slowing down in the area, according to the Spokane Regional Travel Management Center.

Spokane Public Schools is urging families to register early for preschool and kindergarten as students return to class in one week.

Children 3 and 4 may join preschool while those turning 5 by Aug. 31 can enroll, giving parents time to meet teachers and tour schools.

Freeman School District welcomed students back today with smiles and energy — teachers and Superintendent Lisa Phelan celebrated a fresh start for the school year.

The district is using a new 100-kilowatt solar system to help offset next year’s budget challenges — funding will drop because rising property values reduced Local Effort Assistance.

EPA crews removed hazardous materials from fire-damaged homes in the Rifle Club neighborhood yesterday, targeting 30-40 properties per day by collecting items like propane tanks, paint, and chemicals to lower risks for returning homeowners.

Local crews are clearing burned trees from lands near homes affected by recent fires to reduce hazards.

The cleanup is ongoing today to improve safety in the community.

Recent reports show that bear encounters in local parks have increased + wildlife experts advise residents to secure food trash and maintain caution when in outdoor spaces.

Following Gov Bob Ferguson's emergency declaration, state and Red Cross cash assistance are available for those with fire-damaged homes (Photo ID and proof of residency required), offering $750 for individuals and higher amounts for households; applications can be made in person or online at designated sites in Spokane and Stevens County.

State officials expect wildfire-fighting costs to top last fiscal year's $285.9M record as agencies have spent over $207M on 20 wildfires since July 1 including $14.6M on the Spokane Complex Fires.

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking federal help while planning a new budget for operational costs.

Avista has proposed a four-year rate increase that would raise electric bills by $17.21 and gas bills by $4.14 starting Jan.

1, 2027. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission will hear comments at 6:30 p.m. on Thurs, Aug. 27 (via Zoom) as the Attorney General's office contests the proposal.

Gonzaga is set to host Eastern Oregon (an NAIA team) in a nonconference game on Dec.

2 at McCarthey Athletic Center. The game counts toward Gonzaga’s record as an exhibition and comes after tournament play in Las Vegas and before a match at Anaheim (at the Honda Center).