HB 1692-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS PASSED LEGISLATURE)
Provides that the lands that may be included in a port district aquatic lands management agreement are those state-owned aquatic lands abutting or used in conjunction with and contiguous to uplands owned, leased, or otherwise managed by a port district.
Provides that, upon request of a city, the department and city may enter into an agreement authorizing the city to manage state-owned aquatic lands for the purpose of operating a publicly owned marina.
VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1692-S
March 31, 1998
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, Substitute House Bill No. 1692 entitled:
"AN ACT Relating to management of state-owned aquatic lands;"
Substitute House Bill No. 1692 would change the authority of certain port districts to manage some state-owned aquatic lands, and provide new authority for cities to manage such lands. In both instances, the state would no longer receive lease payments for use of those aquatic lands managed by the ports or cities.
SHB 1692 raises significant issues regarding the management of state-owned aquatic lands, including the loss of lease revenue available for all of the people of the state, and whether it is appropriate to divest management responsibilities over significant portions of these public trust lands to cities and ports.
In light of changing economic circumstances that have increased lease rates, the Legislature has recognized the need for a comprehensive examination of management of state-owned aquatic lands, and specifically the issue of lease rates. I urge the Legislature to also review the issue of delegation of management authority for state-owned aquatic lands occupied by ports and cities.
For these reasons, I have vetoed Substitute House Bill No. 1692 in its entirety.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary Locke
Governor