SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5273

BYSenators Warnke, Smitherman, Garrett and Wojahn

Authorizing the use of lottery proceeds for urban area parks.

Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1987; February 13, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Warnke, Chairman; Smitherman, Vice Chairman; Tanner, Vognild, Williams, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:Bill Lynch (786-7427)

                  February 17, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR, FEBRUARY 13, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In 1980 the Legislature authorized the establishment of urban area parks.  The Legislature recognized the following factors when it stated that a high priority should be placed on their establishment: (1)Urban parks are more accessible to senior citizens, the handicapped, and persons of low income; (2) the demand for park services is highest in urban areas; (3) few state parks are located on or near urban areas; (4) locating state parks near urban areas would reduce travel and conserve energy; and (5) local governments cannot afford extensive park systems to service their populations.

An "urban area" is defined as any city with a population of 5,000 or more and any county with a population of 250 persons or more per square mile.

The Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation rates each project application for funding.  The Legislature appropriates monies from the outdoor recreation account for urban parks in accordance with the Budget and Accounting Act.

Governor Spellman's Resource Advisory Committee in 1984 reported that recreation resources were a significant factor in attracting new industries and a stable work force.  It has been suggested that since the demand for park services continues to be great, a funding source which does not impact the general fund should be identified.

SUMMARY:

The Lottery Commission is authorized to conduct one game each year for the benefit of urban parks.  The net proceeds from the game are transferred into the outdoor recreation account.  The proceeds may only be used for the acquisition, development, redevelopment, and renovation of urban parks.

The Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation would continue to review and rate project applications for funding.  The Legislature would continue to appropriate the monies from the outdoor recreation account for park projects.

Any county of the second class, or greater, and any city with a population of 5,000 or more would constitute an "urban area".

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Mike Reed, State Parks and Recreation Commission; Bob Wilder, Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation; Doug Baker, Association of Washington Cities; Pam Earle, Washington Recreation and Park Association