Spokane Fire Response, Legislative Shakeup and Water Safety Plan Lead Local Headlines
Spokane, WA – March 13, 2026 – Fire crews contain Spokane Valley blaze, Jenny Graham steps aside, and PFAS cleanup plan looms.
It has been a busy stretch of days across Spokane and Spokane Valley, with breaking news ranging from a fast-moving fire to major political changes and ongoing concerns about drinking water safety.
Shop Fire Quickly Contained in Spokane Valley
Crews responded to a structure fire in the 4700 block of North Barker Road earlier this week. Firefighters from Spokane Valley worked to contain flames inside a commercial shop building, keeping the blaze from spreading to nearby properties.
Officials urged residents to avoid the area during the response. No major injuries were reported, and investigators are reviewing what sparked the fire. The quick containment is being credited with preventing more significant damage.
Rep. Jenny Graham Will Not Seek Re-election
In local political news, State Rep. Jenny Graham announced she will not run for re-election in Washington’s 6th Legislative District. The district includes Airway Heights, Medical Lake and much of Spokane County.
Her decision opens the door for a competitive race this fall. Former Spokane City Councilmember Jonathan Bingle has already announced a campaign for the seat, setting up what could be a closely watched contest in the region.
State Orders PFAS Drinking Water Plan
The Washington Department of Ecology has directed Spokane County and the City of Spokane to develop a plan to provide clean drinking water to residents in the West Plains area affected by PFAS contamination.
The order requires officials to outline how they will supply bottled water or filtration systems to impacted households with private wells. The move follows ongoing concerns about long-term exposure and public health impacts tied to the chemicals.
Local leaders say they are working to meet state deadlines while coordinating with community members in the affected area.
Sources
https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2026/feb/17/spokane-rep-jenny-graham-will-not-run-for-re-election/
