Spokane business fed up with ongoing trash and drug paraphernalia cleanup

SPOKANE, Wash. — A Spokane business is tired of routinely cleaning trash and drug paraphernalia left in front of their business.

“This specifically is probably one of the worst ones we’ve had in the last few months,” said Missy Brum, operations manager at Absolute Drug Testing.

According to Brum, this issue has been steadily getting worse.

“We’ve done numerous police reports because that’s what we’re told to do to keep a record of that,” said Brum.

Brum said, they have tried to catch the trespassers on surveillance, but these incidents typically occur late at night when the office is closed, making it difficult for police to respond promptly.

Brum has contacted the city council but feels her concerns have not been addressed.

“I think if the city would reach out to the smaller businesses that are trying to contribute to the community, it would be helpful. Right now, it’s just falling on deaf ears,’ said Brum.

In order to enhance security, Absolute Drug Testing said they have invested between $20,000 and $30,000 in equipment such as gates, locks, and cameras.

“I just don’t know when it’s going to end. What is the deciding factor or what is the worst factor that’s going to happen to our building or my staff before somebody actually comes out and says, ‘OK, we have an issue?’,” said Brum

Brum has discussed relocating with the owners of Absolute Drug Testing, as she believes filing police reports is not making a significant difference.

Brum hopes the business will receive the support it needs before they feel compelled to move.