SENATE BILL REPORT

2SHB 1450

As of March 17, 2009

Title: An act relating to modifying the definition of "public facilities".

Brief Description: Modifying the definition of "public facilities.".

Sponsors: House Committee on Capital Budget (originally sponsored by Representatives Takko and Blake).

Brief History: Passed House: 3/11/09, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 3/19/09.

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: The Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) is a statutorily authorized state board charged with financing publicly-owned economic development infrastructure improvements that encourage new business development and expansion in areas where growth is desired. Staffing for CERB is provided by the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development. The CERB program provides local governments low-interest loans and grants to help finance public facility projects. Assistance is primarily targeted to rural communities.

Counties, cities, towns, port districts, federally-recognized Indian tribes, special purpose districts, municipal corporations, and quasi-municipal corporations with economic development purposes are eligible to apply for funds. CERB financing can be used for public facilities including bridges, roads, domestic and industrial water projects, sanitary and storm sewers, railroad spurs, and port facilities. The definition of public facilities in the CERB statute does not include capital equipment for maritime transportation and harbor maintenance.

Summary of Bill: The definition of "public facilities" within the CERB statute specifies that "port facilities" include capitalized equipment valued greater than $400,000 that is used for maintenance of maritime transportation facilities by a consortium of three or more ports.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.