Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Local Government Committee
HB 1159
Brief Description: Concerning the number of fire protection district commissioners.
Sponsors: Representatives Berg, Bronoske, Griffey and Pollet.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Allows a fire protection district board of commissioners with five members to increase to seven members if approved by a majority of voters.
Hearing Date:
Staff: Elizabeth Allison (786-7129).
Background:

Fire protection districts are established for the provision of fire prevention services, fire suppression services, and emergency medical services for the protection of life and property.  Fire protection districts are formed through a petition from the residents of a proposed district, a public hearing, and three-fifths voter approval.
 
The affairs of the district are managed by a board of elected fire commissioners initially composed of three commissioners.  Three member boards of commissioners may be increased from three to five or seven commissioners through a resolution or petition signed by 10 percent of voters which is submitted to the county legislative authority.  After the resolution is submitted, the county legislative authority must call a special election proposing an increase from three members to five or seven members.  A majority of voters must approve the increase.
Summary of Bill:

A fire protection district board of commissioners with five members may increase from five to seven members if approved by a majority of voters.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.