FINAL BILL REPORT

ESSB 5704

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.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections (originally sponsored by Senators Swecker, Becker, Stevens and Roach).

Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections

House Committee on Local Government & Housing

Background: Special districts are created to provide diking, drainage, and flood control in a defined area. Some of the many allowed activities are flood control; drainage control; protecting life and property from flood water; acquiring, purchasing, or leasing property; restoring lake or river environments; controlling aquatic plants; and enhancing water quality.

The district is government by three members who serve staggered six-year terms. An exception is made whenever five or more special districts consolidate and have five members in its governing body. Such districts may adopt a resolution to retain the five members or reduce its governing body to three members.

Summary: Flood districts that contain three or more counties must have a governing body comprised of one member from each county and two additional members. The legislative authority of each county will select one member for initial appointment. The two most populous counties will each choose an additional member; however, no more than two members may be from the same county. The appointed or elected member must be a registered voter of the district and must reside in the district at least 30 days before the election. Land ownership, however, is not a requirement for serving on the governing body of the flood control district.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	48
House	94	(House amended)
Senate	47	(Senate concurred)