HB 2091 - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS PASSED LEGISLATURE)

     Authorizes counties planning under the growth management act to establish industrial land banks as permissible urban growth outside of an urban growth area.

     Provides that, in order to designate an industrial land bank characterized by a unique location or unique physical characteristics, the county must make findings that:  (1) The location of the industrial land bank is unique or is characterized by unique physical characteristics such as size, or proximity to transportation facilities, natural resources, or related industries that support its designation as an industrial land bank; and (2) the necessary infrastructure to support the industrial land bank is available or can be provided by private or public sources in a reasonable manner and time frame.

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