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Larry Stone Launches Spokane Business Association to Advocate for City Businesses and Address Safety Concerns
Larry Stone, a prominent Spokane businessman and developer, is taking matters into his own hands by creating a new organization to represent Spokane businesses. After years of frustration with city leaders’ response to issues like homelessness and crime, Stone is forming the Spokane Business Association (SBA) to advocate for the concerns of local businesses.
The SBA, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, will hire a CEO, host fundraisers, and lobby elected leaders on behalf of businesses across the city. Stone, who has been a major donor to conservative political causes, plans to launch the organization this week and is already in talks with potential CEO candidates.
Stone’s motivation for creating the SBA stems from his belief that Spokane businesses lack a unified voice in city matters. He hopes to address issues such as public safety, crime, graffiti, and homelessness through the new organization. The SBA aims to have over 600 members and will focus on political advocacy initially.
At a recent meeting with business leaders from east Spokane, Stone presented his plans for the SBA and outlined 15 early initiatives, including increasing the size of the police force, enforcing drug laws, and promoting affordable housing. The gathered business leaders expressed enthusiasm for the proposal and hope that the SBA can present a unified front to city leaders.
While Spokane already has business organizations like Greater Spokane Incorporated and Downtown Spokane Partnership, Stone believes the SBA is necessary to represent businesses across the city and focus specifically on local issues. The organization will be funded through membership dues and donations, with an operating budget of $750,000 in 2025.
Mayor Lisa Brown responded to Stone’s initiative by stating that she and other elected leaders do listen to business owners’ concerns through existing avenues like GSI and DSP. However, Stone believes a new organization like the SBA is needed to address the specific needs of Spokane businesses and provide a platform for advocacy.
Overall, the creation of the Spokane Business Association marks a significant development in the local business community, as Larry Stone seeks to give businesses a stronger voice in shaping the future of Spokane.
