Spokane Valley officials reported a slight dip in hotel occupancy rates during the latest TPA Commission meeting held on July 17, 2025. The financial update revealed that the city collected approximately $478,000 in TPA revenue through May 31, which is about $3,650 less than the previous month. This revenue aligns closely with figures from the previous year, indicating stability despite fluctuations.

Leslie, the financial officer, noted that the revenue collection process may experience delays, particularly due to the busy nature of March, which could affect the accuracy of monthly reports. The commission discussed the importance of understanding these timing issues as they relate to hotel payments.

In terms of occupancy, Spokane Valley's hotels saw a decrease of about 1.9% in May compared to the same month last year. This trend mirrors regional patterns, with Spokane's overall hotel occupancy down by 0.2%, while nearby Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene reported declines of 7.3% and 2%, respectively. These statistics highlight ongoing challenges in the hospitality sector, prompting discussions on marketing strategies to boost tourism.

The meeting also included updates on various administrative matters, including a marketing report from 116 and West, which outlined new strategies for destination marketing. Additionally, the commission addressed the status of the cross-country course construction project, which is currently on hold pending further funding discussions.

As Spokane Valley navigates these financial and operational challenges, officials remain focused on enhancing the local tourism landscape and ensuring the community's economic resilience. The next steps will involve closely monitoring revenue trends and exploring effective marketing initiatives to attract visitors throughout the summer months.