Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown

SPOKANE — Agriculture is a critical part of the new Spokane mayor’s plans for a “resilient future.”

Mayor Lisa Brown told the Capital Press her administration wants to strengthen the city’s partnership with the industry.

Brown, a Democrat, began her term as mayor Jan. 1. She was previously both minority leader and majority leader in the Washington State Senate, ran for Congress in Washington’s 5th District and was chancellor of Washington State University’s Spokane health sciences campus, which included work to establish WSU’s Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine.

Most recently, she was director of the state Department of Commerce.

Brown responded to questions from the Capital Press through email.

CP: What are your agricultural priorities as you come into office?

Brown: One of my five main priorities as I take office is building a resilient future, and I believe agriculture is a critical component of that. We have enormous strides we need to make to achieve our sustainability goals and I believe our agricultural businesses and workers need to be a part of those conversations and solutions.

CP: How much is ag on your radar?

Brown: I believe agriculture is interconnected with the work I am doing to enhance sustainability, but it also plays a role in the success and promotion of our local economy. My administration is looking to strengthen its partnership with the industry.

CP: Is there a biggest need you see?

Brown: I think the biggest need I see is to improve public understanding of the role the agriculture industry plays in our economy and quality of life.

CP: What role do you see agriculture and farmers/ranchers playing for the city?

Brown: Agriculture is one of our region’s largest industries, and it’s something all people rely on. When I think about the role of farmers and ranchers, specifically here inside the city limits, one of the first things I think about is our rich and growing food scene. This would not be possible without the agricultural workers who grow our fruits and vegetables, and raise cattle and poultry.

Farmers and ranchers also play a great role in educating our community. My mind goes directly to our local farmers markets, where the community can meet those growing their food, learn where it comes from, and discover the process it takes to get from the farm to their table.

Agriculture is also instrumental to a successful economy. Not only does our community benefit from local exports like canola and wheat, but the industry supports a tremendous number of jobs in our region.

CP: Any message for farmers/ranchers? What are you looking for from them?

Brown: You play an important role in the lives of every Spokanite. When you come across issues, I want to know and I welcome your solutions. I want you to be a part of the conversation and I want to hear your ideas so that we can collaborate to make Spokane even better.