SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5212
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 1, 2013
Title: An act relating to the Washington state horse park authority.
Brief Description: Expanding membership of the Washington state horse park authority.
Sponsors: Senators Holmquist Newbry, Becker and Roach.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Parks: 1/31/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS |
Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)
Background: The Legislature authorized the establishment of the Washington State Horse Park Authority (Authority) in 1995. The Authority is a nonprofit corporation responsible for developing, promoting, operating, managing, and maintaining the Washington State Horse Park located on a 112-acre site in Cle Elum. The Authority is a public-private partnership governed by a seven member volunteer board of directors appointed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) comprised of the following:
one representative of the interests of the Commission;
one representative of the interests of the county in which the horse park is located; and
five representatives of different horse disciplines, activities, and professions, with at least one board member having business experience relevant to the organization of horse shows or operation of a horse show facility.
Summary of Bill: The board of directors of the Authority is expanded from seven to 11 members and initial term lengths for the new members are prescribed. All four new members represent the geographic and sports discipline diversity of equestrian interests. The number of board members having business experience relevant to the organization of horse shows or operation of a horse show facility is increased from one to three.
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 are three justifications for expanding the membership of the board – operational efficiency, improved fundraising, and greater engagement of the public. Currently there is an 11 member foundation board and a seven member authority board with a significant amount of redundancy between the two. Expansion of the authority board would allow the boards to be merged, streamlining operations. Currently, the authority board does most of the fundraising. Increasing the membership would increase opportunities for fundraising. Lastly, more representation from different disciplines is needed to improve interest from different public sectors.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Leslie Thurston, Executive Director for the WA State Horse Park Authority.