Brief Description: Expanding membership on the community economic revitalization board.

Sponsors: Senators T. Sheldon, Hale, Kohl-Welles, Swecker, Eide, Thibaudeau, Finkbeiner, Brown, B. Sheldon, Shin, Franklin, Regala, Keiser, Doumit, Prentice, McAuliffe, Fraser, Kline, Winsley, Mulliken and Rasmussen.

Hearing Date: 2/24/04

Staff: Tracey Taylor (786-7196).

Background:

The Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) program was created in 1982 to provide direct loans and grants to counties, cities, and special purpose districts for economic development-related infrastructure improvements. The CERB financing is available for public improvements that include the acquisition, construction, or repair of domestic and industrial water, sewer and storm water infrastructure; bridge, railroad, electricity, telecommunication, and road improvements; buildings and structures; port facilities; and feasibility studies. The CERB financing must be necessary to either bring a new business into a community or expand or retain an existing business that is already located in the community.

The board membership is composed of 11 members appointed by the Governor, four nonvoting ex officio members, and one member from each of the two major caucuses in the Senate and the House of Representatives.

In 2002, the Legislature expanded the CERB program eligibility to include federally recognized Indian Tribes.

Summary of Bill:

A twelfth member of the CERB is added to include a representative of a federally recognized Indian Tribe who is appointed by the Governor.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.