SENATE BILL REPORT
E2SHB 2667
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 Second Reading
Title: An act relating to concerning administrative processes of the state parks and recreation commission that require a majority vote of the commission.
Brief Description: Concerning administrative processes of the state parks and recreation commission that require a majority vote of the commission.
Sponsors: House Committee on Capital Budget (originally sponsored by Representatives Farrell, Holy, Pollet, Shea, Nealey, Walsh, Scott, Kagi, Senn, Johnson and Short).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/08/16, 93-3.
Committee Activity:
Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)
Background: State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission). The Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. A majority of Commission members constitute a quorum.
Under the Commission's procedural rules, a majority vote of the Commissioners present is required to pass an item brought to vote unless the law requires a unanimous vote. By statute, several Commission decisions must be unanimous votes. These include leases in excess of 20 years, land sales or exchanges, and the disposal of real property to resolve boundary and ownership issues with adjacent landowners.
State Parks Long Term Lease Authority. The Commission has broad authority over the management of state parks, including the management, policy, and rulemaking authority. Among these authorities, the Commission is specifically authorized to grant concessions and leases in state parks. The maximum lease term under current law is 50 years, and any lease of more than 20 years requires a unanimous vote of the Commission. Long-term concession or lease rates must be renegotiated every five years.
Summary of Bill: Feasibility Study Is Established. The Department of Commerce must study the economic feasibility of public or nonprofit uses of the seminary building at Saint Edward State Park, including considerations of renovation costs, maintenance, and traffic implications. This study must be completed by July 31, 2016, in coordination with the Commission.
Specific Saint Edward State Park Lease Authority Is Created. If the Commission finds that the study does not identify an economically viable public or nonprofit use for the property that is consistent with the agency's mission and could proceed on a reasonable timeline, then the following specific authority takes effect:
the Commission may enter into a lease for certain parts of Saint Edward State Park, including the seminary, pool, gymnasium, and nearby parking lots;
the maximum duration of a lease under this authority is 62 years; and
approval of a lease under this authority requires the vote of at least five of the seven Commissioners.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.