SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 2704
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 of February 19, 2010
Title: An act relating to transferring the Washington main street program to the department of archaeology and historic preservation.
Brief Description: Transferring the Washington main street program to the department of archaeology and historic preservation.
Sponsors: House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Takko, Hinkle, Appleton, Haler, Rolfes, Van De Wege, Quall, Warnick and Morris).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/15/10, 91-7.
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/25/10.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Karen Epps (786-7424)
Background: The Main Street Program is a community-driven, comprehensive strategy used to revitalize downtown and neighborhood business districts throughout the United States. On the national level, the Main Street Program is housed at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Statewide Main Street coordinating programs assist cities and towns within the state with downtown and neighborhood business district revitalization.
The Washington Main Street Program (Program) in the Department of Commerce (Commerce) provides technical assistance to communities undertaking a comprehensive downtown or neighborhood commercial district revitalization initiative and management strategy. Commerce operates the Program in consultation with an advisory committee. Financial assistance may be provided to communities for certain Program costs. Commerce was directed to develop the criteria for selecting the recipients of assistance and provides the designation of local projects. Priority for technical and financial assistance is given to downtown or neighborhood revitalization programs located in a rural county. Commerce may not provide assistance to cities with populations of 190,000 or more. The Program helps downtown organizations take advantage of the Main Street Tax Credit Incentive Program.
Summary of Bill: The administration of the Washington Main Street Program is moved from the Department of Commerce to the Department of Archeology and Historic Preservation.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2010.