Brief Description: Restricting the rate charged mobile home parks for storm or surface water sewer system service.

Sponsors: Representatives O'Brien, Holmquist, McCune and Campbell.

Hearing Date: 2/1/05

Staff: Robyn Dupuis (786-7166).

Background:

City and county operated sanitary sewers, storm or surface water sewers, solid waste facilities, and combined water and sewer systems are required to charge uniform rates for the same class of customers. No particular classification is mandated for any particular type or kind of customer. Rather, in classifying customers, the legislative authorities of these local governments are specifically granted discretion to consider any or all of several factors, including:

• the difference in cost of service and facilities;
• the location of customers within or without the city or area;
• the quantity and quality of the sewage delivered and the time of its delivery;
• the nonprofit public benefit status of the land user; and
• any other factors that present a reasonable difference as a ground for distinction.

Summary of Bill:

In classifying customers, city and county operated sanitary sewers, storm or surface water sewers, solid waste facilities, and combined water and sewer systems must classify mobile home parks the same as multifamily residential housing. The city and county legislative authorities retain discretion in classifying all other customers.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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