SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 5563

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 19, 1991

Brief Description:  Providing matching funds for the purchase of Martha lake park.

SPONSORS:Senator Erwin.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES

Staff:  Gabrielle Horner (786‑7717)

Hearing Dates:February 21, 1991

BACKGROUND:

In response to community and lake property owner efforts, Snohomish County has proposed the Martha Lake Tavern and Resort property be acquired as a public fresh water recreation site.  The privately owned property has provided a wide range of recreation opportunities for half a century, but is presently for sale as a highly developed, commercial business venture.  The available property includes 6.8 acres comprised of lake shoreline, wetlands, and commercial real estate.

The proposed county park would be located on the shoreline of Martha Lake, near the city of Mill Creek.  The lake currently has a Department of Wildlife boat launch, and the site has been historically used as a boating, fishing, swimming and picnic area. 

The total estimated cost of the project is $3.2 million; $2.6 million for land acquisition, and $600,000 for future county development and operation costs.  The county has appropriated half the funds ($1.6 million) needed for the project, contingent upon matching assistance from the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program Fund (WWRP) which is administered by the Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC).

The project has been evaluated by the IAC and has been included in the Governor's approved list of proposed acquisition projects for state outdoor recreation, wildlife, and conservation needs.  IAC staff has determined the county may receive some of the requested funding as the project now ranks; however, WWRP funding is dependent upon on the approved 1991-1993 biennial budget.

SUMMARY:

A general fund appropriation of $1.6 million is made to the IAC as matching funds to Snohomish County for the Martha Lake park project.  The IAC shall hold the matching funds until the IAC has approved the final project plans and concludes the that the county has committed sufficient funds to complete the project.

If the project is provided funding under any other legislation, this appropriation is null and void.  

Appropriation:  $1.6 million to the IAC

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested February 19, 1991