SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2438

As of February 23, 2004

Title: An act relating to elections for changing a municipal plan of government.

Brief Description: Revising provision for elections for changing a municipal plan of government.

Sponsors: Representatives Buck, Kessler, Schoesler, Haigh, Eickmeyer, Hatfield and Blake.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/24/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)

Background: There are four types of incorporation classifications in the RCWs: first-class cities; second-class cities; towns; and code cities. Depending on population, code cities have the authority to adopt a charter, but are not required to do so. All code cities, whether charter or noncharter, may operate with one of three different plans of government: council-manager, mayor-council, or commission.

Changing the government plan of a noncharter code city requires the approval of a majority of the voters residing in the city at a special election or at the next general election, provided the general election is held within 180 days of the passage of either the resolution or petition calling for the change of government plan.

Summary of Bill: The authority to hold a special election to change the plan of government of a noncharter code city is eliminated. The requirement that if the change is to be voted on at a general election, it must take place within 180 days following the passage of the resolution or petition calling for such change of government is eliminated. Consequently, a proposal for a change in the government plan of a noncharter code city must be voted upon at the next general election.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.