VETO MESSAGE ON HB 2091
May 19, 1997
To the Honorable Speaker and Members,
The House of Representatives of the State of Washington
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I am returning herewith, without my approval, House Bill No. 2091 entitled:
"AN ACT Relating to industrial land banks;"
House Bill No. 2091 would allow counties, after consulting with cities (but not necessarily obtaining their consent) and amending their comprehensive plans, to designate up to two sites outside existing urban growth areas for use by industrial, manufacturing, commercial, or high technology businesses.
I am concerned that the bill does not require the consent of cities in the county decision-making process. The impacts of establishing an industrial land bank are potentially too significant to not require the agreement of cities. I am also concerned that no size limitations were place upon the industrial land banks.
I agree with the concept of industrial land banks as an additional economic development tool under the Growth Management Act. I look forward to working with the legislature and with interested parties to address my concerns during the next legislative session.
For these reasons, I have vetoed House Bill No. 2091 in its entirety.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary Locke
Governor