A Spokane dad, veteran, and business leader who believes in showing up for his community

My name is John Kness. I’m 46 years old, and while I grew up in Alaska, Spokane has been home for more than nineteen years. It’s where I raised my two sons, watched them graduate from North Central High School, and saw them continue their education at EWU and SFCC. This city shaped them — and it shaped me too.

I’ve lived in Spokane long enough to see it grow, change, struggle, and rise again. I know what it feels like to walk downtown on a crisp fall morning, to watch the river run high in the spring, and to see neighborhoods come alive in the summer. I’ve spent years talking with families, business owners, and workers across the city — from the Northside to the South Hill, from Hillyard to West Central — and I’ve learned that Spokane’s strength comes from the people who quietly keep it moving every day.

Before building my career here, I served eight years in the United States Army Reserve. The Army taught me discipline, accountability, and the importance of taking care of the people around you. Those lessons stayed with me long after I hung up the uniform.

For my entire professional life, I’ve worked in the automotive industry, managing and growing local businesses. Today, I oversee five stores in Spokane and four in the Tri‑Cities. I work alongside people who get up early, stay late, and take pride in doing things the right way. I understand what it takes to keep a business running, support employees, and serve customers with honesty and respect. Spokane’s small businesses are the backbone of this community, and I’ve spent decades in the middle of that work.

Service has always been part of my life. I’ve been a Boy Scout leader and a youth leader at my church, helping young people build confidence, character, and a sense of direction. Those experiences reminded me that strong communities don’t happen by accident — they’re built by people who care enough to show up, listen, and lend a hand.

Outside of work, I love everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Whether it’s hiking local trails, riding ATVs, camping with friends, or getting out to enjoy Spokane’s arts, culture, and concerts, this region is where I feel grounded. I know the feeling of a summer night at the Pavilion, the energy of a packed local show, and the quiet peace of a trail just outside the city. The outdoors isn’t just something I enjoy — it’s part of who I am.

After years of working with families, businesses, and community organizations, I’ve seen firsthand what Spokane does well and where we can do better. I know the challenges local families face, and I know the potential this city has when we work together. Spokane has given a lot to me and my family, and I’m ready to give back in a bigger way.