Noise Ordinance to Protect Health Care Facilities - Letter of Support

BHT wrote the Spokane City Council members in support of the changes to the noise ordinance being considered on Monday, March 2, 2020. Please see the letter, copied below.

RE: Proposed Noise Ordinance to Protect Health Care Facilities

Dear City Council Members:

We support the proposed changes before City Council give the City of Spokane greater authority to enforce the City’s noise ordinance and protect health care patients and staff.

As the Accountable Community of Health (ACH) organization responsible for the Medicaid Transformation efforts in Eastern Washington, BHT is charged with implementing efforts to improve the health of our region. For the past five years, we’ve connected, convened, and financially supported health care providers in our region to accomplish this goal.

We strongly believe that reproductive health care is health care. Better Health Together is proud to partner with Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho to improve the health of our Spokane community. In addition to the critical work they do for reproductive health, in the last year Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho has expanded to offer mental health services, a severe shortage in our community, as well as increased primary care services.

City Council member Lori Kinnear’s ordinance to address noise at health care facilities will help protect the health and safety of our community members accessing health care in Spokane. The proposed changes before City Council give the City of Spokane greater authority to enforce the City’s noise ordinance and a private right of action for impacted staff and patients.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alison Poulsen
Executive Director
Better Health Together