SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5307
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 3, 2019
Title: An act relating to adding the treasurer to the public works board.
Brief Description: Adding the treasurer to the public works board.
Sponsors: Senators Wellman, Braun, Mullet, Short, Takko, Hobbs, Wagoner and Wilson, L.; by request of State Treasurer.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: State Government, Tribal Relations & Elections: 2/01/19.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Melissa Van Gorkom (786-7491)
Background: The Public Works Board (Board) administers the public works assistance account to provide loans to local governments and special purpose districts with infrastructure projects. The Board is staffed by the Department of Commerce and includes 13 voting members appointed by the Governor: two elected officials and one public works manager representing cities; two elected officials and one public works manager representing counties; three members representing public utility and water-sewer districts; and four members representing the general public. Members appointed by the Governor serve a four year term and may be removed by the Governor for cause. If a vacancy occurs by death, resignation, or otherwise the Governor will fill the vacant position for the unexpired term.
Summary of Bill: Board membership is increased from 13 to 14 members by adding the state treasurer, or the state treasurer's designee.
The authority of the Governor to remove a member of the board or fill a vacancy is clarified to only pertain to members of the board appointed by the Governor, not the state treasurer.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: In its 30 years of history, the public works board has awarded almost $3 billion to local government. The treasurer is in charge of keeping the books and managing taxpayer money from the time it is collected until the time spent on programs. Adding the treasurer to the board could not be more fitting and would bring a valuable statewide perspective to the board. The treasurer would also provide more municipal finance knowledge along with the expertise of financial and fiscal staff.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Scott Hutsell, Public Works Board; Catherine Mele, Office of the State Treasurer.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.