Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Local Government & Housing Committee |
HB 1081
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. |
Brief Description: Authorizing local improvement district financing of railroad crossing protection devices.
Sponsors: Representatives Wallace, Ericksen, Clibborn, Armstrong, Moeller and Jacks.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 1/15/09
Staff: Thamas Osborn (786-7129)
Background:
Cities and towns are granted broad authority to create a local improvement district for the purpose of constructing, reconstructing, or repairing a wide range of publicly owned structures, facilities, and infrastructure, including:
specified types of public buildings;
community facilities for recreation, entertainment, and cultural activities;
bridges and trestles;
dikes and embankments;
parks and playgrounds;
street lighting systems;
infrastructure for public transportation systems; and
water and sewer system infrastructure.
A local improvement district may be created by an ordinance passed by the city or town council in accordance with specified statutory procedures. The passage of the ordinance must be in response to either a petition or resolution proposing the creation of the district and which is subject to a public hearing. Under certain circumstances the proceedings necessary to establish a local improvement district must be initiated by the petition of the affected property owners.
The costs of creating a local improvement district are financed, in whole or in part, through special assessments on property that is specially benefited by the improvement.
Summary of Bill:
A city or town is authorized to create a local improvement district for financing the construction of railroad crossing protection devices.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.