Leonard v. City of Spokane

The City of Spokane seeks reversal of a trial court decision ruling that the Community Redevelopment Financing Act of 1982 (RCW 39.88) violates the Washington State Constitution.

In an effort to stimulate economic development in decay ing urban areas, the Legislature enacted the Community Redevelopment Financing Act of 1982 (Act). The Act endeavors to accomplish the Legislature’s objective by encouraging cities to construct public improvements, which, it is believed, will spawn private investment and job growth.

The Act authorizes a city to issue bonds to finance public improvements. To repay…