SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5114

As of January 30, 2003

Title: An act relating to making the construction, development, or major rehabilitation of public parks eligible for loans or guarantees through the public works assistance account.

Brief Description: Making the construction, development, or major rehabilitation of public parks eligible for loans or guarantees through the public works assistance account.

Sponsors: Senators Oke, Jacobsen, Sheahan, Regala, Swecker, Kohl-Welles, Haugen and Esser.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Parks, Fish & Wildlife: 2/4/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON PARKS, FISH & WILDLIFE

Staff: Kari Guy (786-7437)

Background: The Public Works Assistance Account, commonly known as the Public Works Trust Fund, was created by the Legislature in 1985 to provide a source of loan funds to assist local governments and special purpose districts with infrastructure projects. The Public Works Board, within the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development, is authorized to make low-interest or interest-free loans from the account to finance the repair, replacement, or improvement of the following public works systems: bridges, roads, water and sewage systems, and solid waste and recycling facilities. All local governments except port districts and school districts are eligible to receive loans. The account receives dedicated revenue from utility and sales taxes on water, sewer service, and garbage collection; a portion of the real estate excise tax; and loan repayments.

The State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Funding Task Force recommended that the uses of the Public Works Trust Fund be expanded to include the construction, development and major rehabilitation of public parks.

Summary of Bill: The construction, development, or major rehabilitation of a public park is eligible for loans from the Public Works Assistance Account.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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