SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SHB 2676

             AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS,

                               FEBRUARY 27, 1992

Brief Description:  Concerning economic development related projects.

SPONSORS: House Committee on Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Representatives Sheldon, Forner, Cantwell, Rasmussen, Ferguson, Wynne, Jacobsen and Carlson)

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRADE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

      Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Madsen, Vice Chairman; and Sutherland.

Staff:  Eugene Green (786‑7405)

Hearing Dates:  February 27, 1992

BACKGROUND:

Counties and cities in Washington State can choose or be required to plan under four different planning laws or under inherent authority under their charter.

A majority of counties in Washington State, and cities in these counties, are planning under the Growth Management Act.  The comprehensive plans required under this act are intended to enable the local governments to accommodate expected growth within the jurisdiction.  The local comprehensive plans are also required to be consistent with the plans of adjacent jurisdictions and coordinated regarding regional issues.

SUMMARY:

Counties and cities, as part of their planning process, may identify economic development related projects of regional or state significance.  The county or city may request that the region plan for the project.  The county or city may seek state technical or financial assistance to help offset the impacts of the project, particularly infrastructure impacts.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill encourages all cities and counties to identify regional economic development projects early in the planning process.  State technical and financial assistance may help offset impacts.  May save local units of government and developer some substantial costs.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Representative Sheldon (pro)