SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1075

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 March 1, 2011

Title: An act relating to the sale of water-sewer district real property.

Brief Description: Concerning the sale of water-sewer district real property.

Sponsors: Representatives Takko, Angel, Springer, Upthegrove and Fitzgibbon.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/07/11, 87-1.

Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections:

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Karen Epps (786-7424)

Background: Water-sewer districts provide water and sewer services to incorporated and unincorporated areas. Districts are established through a petition, public hearing, and voter approval process and are each managed by a board of three or five elected commissioners who serve staggered six-year terms.

District powers include the authority to purchase, construct, maintain, and supply waterworks to furnish water to inhabitants within and outside of the district, and to develop and operate systems of sewers and drainage. In addition, a district has broad authority to create facilities, systems, and programs for the collection, interception, treatment, and disposal of wastewater, and for the control of pollution from such wastewater. A district is prohibited from engaging in the private sale of real property if the appraised value exceeds $2,500.

The sale of real property by a district is subject to the following requirements:

Summary of Bill: A district may engage in the private sale of real property provided the estimated value is $5,000 or less. In conducting such a sale, a district's board of commissioners is authorized to determine the estimated value based upon the advice of brokers and appraisers, as the board deems appropriate. Formal written appraisals are not required.

The sale price must be determined through a formal property valuation process if the estimated value of the sale property exceeds $5,000. This process must include either a written broker price opinion from three real estate brokers or an appraisal by one professionally designated real estate appraiser.

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.