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 of January 19, 2011
Title: An act relating to sale, lease, and disposal of lands within the Seashore Conservation Area.
Brief Description: Authorizing disposal of property within the Seashore Conservation Area to resolve boundary disputes.
Sponsors: Senators Regala, Morton and Chase; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Marine Waters: 1/19/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & MARINE WATERS |
Staff: Sherry McNamara (786-7402)
Background: In 1967 the Legislature established the Seashore Conservation Area (Seashore) on the Pacific Ocean to dedicate the use of the ocean beaches to public recreational use. The Seashore is managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks) in cooperation with federal agencies, other state agencies, and local governments. State Parks is responsible for surveying the area every ten years. Except for specific authorized purposes, lands within the Seashore may not be sold or leased.
Currently, State Parks has the authority to exchange state park lands in the Seashore for lands of equal value.
Summary of Bill: State Parks is authorized to dispose of up to five acres of real property without public auction to adjacent property owners as needed to resolve property trespasses or boundary line disputes. The property may be disposed of only after an appraisal and for at least fair market value.
Proceeds from the disposal of the property must be deposited into the Parkland Acquisition Account and reinvested in real property located inside or within one mile of the Seashore.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
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: The Seashore covers approximately 60 miles of seashore. This bill will save time and money, as well as, save citizen's heartache and headaches by allowing State Parks to sell small parcels of land rather than trying to exchange the property for a similar piece of land that is equal in value. The land exchange process is a very cumbersome process. The typical piece of property that State Parks is dealing with is from 2,000 to 4,000 sq. ft. and mostly relating to fence lines, gardens, or small structures that are unintentional or inadvertently located in the Seashore.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Brian Hovis, Steve Hahn, State Parks and Recreation Commission.