Council Member Cathcart Selected As Chair of SRHD Board of Health

City Council Member Michael Cathcart Selected As Chair of Spokane Regional Health District Board of Health

Lisa Gardner, [email protected]

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 4:44 p.m.

SPOKANE, Wash. - Spokane City Council is proud to announce that Council Member Michael Cathcart has been unanimously selected by the Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) Board of Health as the incoming Chair. His one year term will begin January 1, 2026. Council Member Cathcart currently serves as Vice Chair and has been an active member of the Board since 2024.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Spokane Regional Health District Board of Directors in 2026, and I truly look forward to working alongside my fellow board members and staff to keep SRHD moving forward," said Council Member Michael Cathcart. "With uncertain financial times ahead, we will need to be even more disciplined and thoughtful with our fiscal stewardship while prioritizing and delivering essential public health services for our community. At the same time, the fentanyl crisis is an urgent and escalating threat that requires a strengthened response through our work, not only in treatment, but also in prevention."

In accepting his new role, Cathcart expressed gratitude for the support he received and reaffirmed his commitment to the community. Additionally, acknowledging the contributions of outgoing Chair Commissioner Amber Waldref and the Board's accomplishments under her leadership, including fiscal stability and an increased focus on mental health and substance abuse services.

"I want to sincerely thank Commissioner Waldref for her service and leadership as board chair during this pivotal time," said Council Member Cathcart. "This past year hasn't been without both changes and challenges, but through careful navigation and thoughtful decision making, SRHD has remained resilient."

Spokane County Commissioner Chris Jordan has been selected as the incoming Vice Chair, bringing new perspectives to Board leadership.

The SRHD Board of Health plays a vital role in shaping health policy, ensuring compliance with state laws, and approving the agency's budget, all aimed at promoting public health across the region.

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