Total employment in the Spokane-Spokane Valley metropolitan statistical area continues to tick upward, although the unemployment rate also is rising as more people are looking for work here. 

A “bad actor” lawsuit filed against Coeur d’Alene-based Hecla Mining Co. by a coalition of tribes and environmental groups has been voluntarily dismissed.

Two Spokane-area supermarkets are expected to change hands as part of a divestiture related to Kroger Co.'s planned acquisition of Boise-based Albertsons Companies Inc.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown is proposing a sales-tax increase that's due to appear on the general-election ballot in November.

The Downtown Spokane Partnership applauds a ruling issued Friday by the U.S. Supreme Court that allows cities to ban camping in public places, while Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown calls for further investment in programs and services.