SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2483
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Elections, February 26, 2008
Title: An act relating to assessed valuation requirements for the direct petition method of annexation.
Brief Description: Modifying assessed valuation requirements for the direct petition method of annexation.
Sponsors: Representatives Moeller and Dunn.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/13/08, 61-36.
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/25/08, 2/26/08 [DP, DNP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Oemig, Vice Chair; Kline, McDermott and Pridemore.
Minority Report: Do not pass.Signed by Senators Roach, Ranking Minority Member; Benton and Swecker.
Staff: Khalia Gibson (786-7460)
Background: Cities are organized under statute as either first or second class cities and towns
(classified cities) or code cities. Classified cities are organized under Title 35. Code cities are
organized under Title 35A. Classified and code cities have multiple processes to annex territory,
including a resolution/election method, a petition/election method, a direct petition method, a
resolution method, and an ordinance method.
Each method of annexation must follow different processes as set forth in statute. Under the
direct petition method of annexation, the petition for annexation must be signed by owners of a
certain percentage of land included in the annexation. In classified cities, the petition must be
signed by the owners of not less than 75 percent of the assessed value of the property subject to
the annexation. In code cities, the petition must be signed by the owners of at least 60 percent
of the assessed value of the property subject to annexation.
Summary of Bill: The property ownership signature requirement for annexation petitions under the direct petition method of annexation for classified cities is reduced from 75 percent to 60 percent.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: There is no justification for differing signature thresholds. The two tier system is unfair and needs to be changed. There is no explanation why second class cities have a different signature requirement, it makes cities subject to a tyranny of the minority.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Jim Moeller, prime sponsor; Dave Williams, Association of Washington Cities; Dick Davis, citizen; Ray McGovern, McCormick Woods Homeowners Association.