SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5865

As Passed Senate, March 11, 2003

Title: An act relating to recreation facilities.

Brief Description: Including recreation facilities under certain public facilities districts' authority.

Sponsors: Senators B. Sheldon and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Parks, Fish & Wildlife: 3/4/03 [DP].

Passed Senate: 3/11/03, 39-10.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON PARKS, FISH & WILDLIFE

Majority Report: Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Oke, Chair; Sheahan, Vice Chair; Doumit, Jacobsen, Morton and Swecker.

Staff: Kari Guy (786-7437)

Background: A public facilities district may be created in any county by resolution of the county legislative authority. Public facilities districts are governed by a board of directors appointed by the county and largest city in the county. Districts formed prior to 2002 may impose a .33 percent sales tax that is deducted from the state sales tax and is not an increase to taxpayers. Public facilities districts also may levy a .2 percent sales tax and a 2 percent lodging tax if approved by a majority of voters in the district.

Public facilities districts are authorized to acquire, construct, maintain, and operate sports facilities, entertainment facilities, convention facilities, or regional centers.

Summary of Bill: In addition to existing authorities, public facilities districts formed after January 1, 2000, may acquire, construct, maintain, and operate recreation facilities.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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

Testimony For: This will help address a statewide need for noncompetitive recreation facilities such as trails and playgrounds. Citizens want public facilities districts to be able to offer a choice of recreation and sports facilities.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: PRO: Senator Betti Sheldon, prime sponsor; Anne Blair, Rick Smith, Kitsap Public Facilities.

House Amendment(s): Ski areas are excluded from the types of recreation facilities a public facilities district may acquire, construct, and operate.