SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6774

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 of February 1, 2010

Title: An act relating to transportation benefit district governance.

Brief Description: Addressing transportation benefit district governance.

Sponsors: Senator Marr.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/01/10.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: A transportation benefit district (TBD) is a quasi-municipal corporation and independent taxing authority that may be established by a county or city for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, improving, providing, and funding transportation improvements within the district. Various revenue options are available to a TBD in order to finance the improvements, most of which are subject to voter approval.

A TBD is governed by the legislative authority of the jurisdiction proposing to create it, or by a governance structure prescribed in an interlocal agreement among multiple jurisdictions. If a TBD includes an area within more than one jurisdiction, the governing body must have at least five members, including at least one elected official from each of the participating jurisdictions. Port districts and transit districts may participate in the establishment of a TBD but may not initiate TBD formation.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute):

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: Various regions around the state, including the Spokane region, are becoming increasingly interested in creating a TBD to fund transportation improvements within their region. The current law regarding multi-jurisdiction TBD governance structures may be problematic for certain regions, particularly rural areas of the state. This bill simplifies the governance structure of TBDs that include multiple local jurisdictions within the TBD area.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Marr, prime sponsor; Mike Burgess, Spokane County