SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5084
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Elections, February 17, 2009
Title: An act relating to assessed valuation requirements for the direct petition method of annexation.
Brief Description: Regarding assessed valuation requirements for the direct petition method of annexation.
Sponsors: Senators Pridemore and Fairley.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/12/09, 2/17/09 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Oemig, Vice Chair; Roach, Ranking Minority Member; McDermott, Pridemore and Swecker.
Staff: Aaron Gutierrez (786-7448)
Background: Cities are organized under statute as either first or second class cities and towns (classified cities) or code cities. Classified cities are organized under Title 35. Code cities are organized under Title 35A. Classified and code cities have multiple processes to annex territory, including a resolution/election method, a petition/election method, a direct petition method, a resolution method, and an ordinance method. Each method of annexation must follow different processes as set forth in statute.Under the direct petition method of annexation, the petition for annexation must be signed by owners of a certain percentage of land included in the annexation. In classified cities, the petition must be signed by the owners of not less than 75 percent of the assessed value of the property subject to the annexation. In code cities, the petition must be signed by the owners of at least 60 percent of the assessed value of the property subject to annexation.
Summary of Bill: The property ownership signature requirement for annexation petitions under the direct petition method of annexation for classified cities is reduced from 75 percent to 60 percent.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill promotes fairness and equity. There is no reason why cities next to each other should have a different requirement.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Mark Brown, City of Vancouver; Dave Williams, Association of Washington Cities.