Campaign Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Kris Pockell
(509) 607-2312
email: vote@votepockell.com
KRIS POCKELL ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN FOR CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
*Official campaign photo available here*
MARCH 17, 2025 – SPOKANE VALLEY, WA – Kris Pockell [Poh-KEHL], age 37, of the Opportunity Neighborhood of the City of Spokane Valley is announcing his 2025 campaign for city council in the open seat being vacated by council member Rod Higgins.
Pockell recently met with Spokane Valley council member Rod Higgins, who confirmed that he is not seeking reelection.
Kris Pockell states, “I am inspired to serve our community that has given me so much.” Pockell continues, “From the fourth generation family to the young couple who just moved here, the Spokane Valley is a growing, special place with a celebrated history and a bright future.”
Pockell will focus on:
- Citizen Safety – especially focusing on supporting first responders, who protect and serve in a cost-effective and efficient way. Kris applauds the city’s co-response efforts, and wants to continue to support the Spokane Valley Police Department in these efforts.
- Economic Development – small and big businesses alike must be able to thrive and drive our future. Our success is tied to entry-level jobs, skilled workforce and industry innovation. A cornerstone to our plans must include attainable housing for people from all walks of life, reinforcing job-retention and retirees alike.
- Infrastructure – We are not just a drive-by community, and yet thousands of commerce and commuter vehicles do pass by I-90 every day. This dynamic provides on and off-ramp access that must not compromise our local connectivity. This cannot be a patchwork process – instead, we need to continue our local planning that respects Spokane Valley citizens and commerce connectivity.
Preparing for the Post
Kris regularly attends Spokane Valley council meetings and study sessions. He states, “At a recent City budget briefing, I was impressed with the staff presentations and realistic vision of our financial future.” Pockell continues, “While finding a good financial path forward won't be easy, I am confident that the city can continue to provide excellent service to the citizens, while maintaining our tradition of fiscal responsibility.”
Reaching Out
On reaching out to voters, Pockell shares, “With frost still on our morning lawns, it is too early to go door-to-door, but we have begun the ‘Coffee with Kris’ outreach effort that focuses on small group gatherings at local locations.” Pockell continues, “This is proving to be a great way to share, listen and learn what’s on the mind of our neighbors.”
Committed to the Campaign
Along with registering with the WA Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) in January, Kris has donated $5,000 of his personal funds to begin his campaign. He states, “I'm able to provide some of the money the campaign requires, and I'm willing to do so because I believe my message is a positive one and that I can make a difference for Spokane Valley. But a campaign is a community effort, so I'm asking for donations to help get my message out to more people in our community.”
Campaign Experience
In 2024 Kris ran for Washington State legislature in Eastern Washington’s 4th legislative district. He prevailed to the general election. Rep. Suzanne Schmidt won the election.
On his 2024 campaign, Pockell states, “I learned so much during last year’s campaign and enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life.” Pockell continues, “I’m honored to announce that my campaign opponent last year has become my friend.”
Son of Spokane Valley
Kris Pockell was raised in the City of Spokane Valley, and has lived here for over 30 years. He attended Adams Elementary, Evergreen Jr. High, and graduated from Central Valley H.S. ‘06. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Software Development and Masters of Business Administration in IT Management from Western Governors University.
During high school, Kris worked at his parents’ saltwater aquarium store which they owned and operated from 2004-2015. His entrepreneurial spirit was inspired by his parents, who taught him what it takes to run a successful small business.
Kris owns a small business with his wife Rebekah (elixirsauce.com), is a member of the Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, and also works as an Information Technology (IT) professional with a local company.
