SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5081

BYSenators Bluechel, Bottiger and Conner

Reestablishing the winter recreation commission.

Senate Committee on Parks & Ecology

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5081 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Kreidler, Chairman; Bluechel, Hansen, Kiskaddon.

Senate Staff:Henry Yates (786-7708)

                  February 5, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON PARKS & ECOLOGY, FEBRUARY 5, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The Legislature created the Winter Recreation Commission to promote winter recreation in the state in 1982.  The Commission terminated January 1, 1987.

With termination of the Commission, there is no singular entity in state government given specific authority to address the winter recreation industry of the state.

A 1984 report issued by the Winter Recreation Commission found that the state has under-utilized its potential for winter recreation facilities.  Several tasks were identified as necessary to allow the state to realize more of its winter recreation potential.

SUMMARY:

The Winter Recreation Commission is reestablished and includes two members of the Senate and two members of the House with one from each caucus of the respective body.  Also included are representatives from the Parks and Recreation Commission, the Departments of Trade and Economic Development and Natural Resources, two representatives of the environmental community, along with one representative of cities and one from counties.

The Commission is to study and identify potential sites for new winter recreation development, facilitate needed land trades with other government agencies, recommend state management structures to address winter recreation and consult with other government agencies.  It is also to hold necessary public hearings, propose changes to state law to carry out its purposes, and establish advisory committees.  The Commission is to submit a biennial report to the Legislature in 1989.  Current members are to continue their roles.

Fiscal Note:      requested

Appointments by Legislature Required:     The Winter Recreation Commission is reestablished and includes two members of the Senate and two members of the House with one from each caucus of the respective body.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The legislative members of the commission are to be subject to reappointment.  A $35,000 appropriation is to be provided.

Senate Committee - Testified: No one