SB 6717-S.E - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/17/98)

     Provides that the higher education coordinating board shall manage an assessment that determines the current higher education resources of the greater Spokane area and the current and future capital and programmatic higher education needs of the Spokane area, including the balance among anticipated, unmet, and fully met higher education needs.  This assessment shall be coordinated with an economic analysis of the greater Spokane area.

     Provides that by December 1, 1998, based on the findings of the assessments, the higher education coordinating board shall evaluate and develop a plan for the disposition of the Eastern Washington University Spokane Center Building.

     Provides that, by December 1, 1998, based on the findings of the assessments, Washington State University shall develop and deliver to the higher education coordinating board for approval a plan for the management of the Riverpoint Higher Education Park, excluding the land and the Spokane Intercollegiate Research and Technology Institute.

     Provides that Eastern Washington University, in consultation with the higher education coordinating board, shall write a new mission statement and operations plan for Eastern Washington University as a comprehensive, Cheney-based public baccalaureate institution.

     Declares that, on July 1, 1998, title to or all interest in real estate and other assets, including but not limited to assignable contracts, cash equipment, buildings, facilities, and appurtenances related to Riverpoint park, except for the area of real property defined as the approximate two and one-half acres bounded by the Spokane river, Trent Avenue, and Riverpoint Boulevard that is reserved for the Spokane intercollegiate research and technology institute and its expansion shall be transferred from the joint center for higher education to Washington State University.

     Declares that housing or a housing allowance may only be provided for the president of a public four-year institution of higher education who resides in the location where the institution is designated under RCW 28B.20.010, 28B.30.010, 28B.35.010, and 29B.40.010.