FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 2635

C 78 L 04

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Authorizing port districts to provide limited consulting services.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Representatives Pettigrew, Skinner, Jarrett, Clibborn, McDonald, Veloria, Anderson, Chase, Morrell and Rockefeller).

House Committee on Trade & Economic Development

Senate Committee on Economic Development

Background:

Washington has the largest locally controlled port system in the world with 76 ports in 33 of the state's 39 counties. The primary purpose of a port district is to promote economic development. Port districts are authorized to acquire, construct, maintain, operate, develop and regulate within the district: harbor improvements; rail or motor vehicle transfer and terminal facilities and other commercial transportation, transfer, handling, storage and terminal facilities; and industrial improvements.

The port districts are authorized to levy a tax of up to $0.45 per $1,000 of assessed value on property in the port district. The port district may also generate revenue through the lease or rental of warehouses or office buildings, proceeds from bond sales for capital project construction, grants, and gifts.

Summary:

A port district is authorized to provide consulting services on matters within its statutory jurisdiction to governments and public agencies; however, direct competition with private business is not allowed. The port district may receive compensation for these consulting services. In addition, the port district must maintain a roster of firms interested in taking advantage of the opportunities that result from the consultant work. The act expires July 1, 2008.

Votes on Final Passage:

House 95  0

Senate 45  0    (Senate amended)

House 95  0    (House concurred)

Effective: June 10, 2004