SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5337

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

           Government Operations, February 20, 1997

Title:  An act relating to formation of less than county‑wide port districts.

Brief Description:  Extending less than county‑wide port districts.

Sponsors:  Senators Stevens, Deccio and Swecker.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations:  2/14/97, 2/20/97 [DPS, DNP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5337 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

  Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chair; Hale, Vice Chair; Haugen, Horn and Swanson.

Minority Report:  Do not pass.

  Signed by Senator Patterson.

Staff:  Eugene Green (786-7405)

Background:  In 1992, for the third time since port districts were authorized, legislation was enacted allowing less than countywide port districts to be created.  Presently, a less than countywide port district with an assessed valuation of at least $75 million may be created in a county that already has a less than countywide port district located within its boundaries.  This authorization expires on July 1, 1997.

Summary of Substitute Bill:  The expiration date beyond which a less than countywide port district may not be formed is eliminated.

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:  The substitute bill raises the minimum assessed valuation from $75 million to $150 million.  The emergency clause is eliminated.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 20, 1997.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  A number of groups, including the Historic Snohomish Business Community, are discussing the possibility of forming a less than countywide port district, but we need more time.  It could be a great economic enhancement for the community.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  PRO:  John Hager; Ray Cook, Snohomish Chamber; Pat Jones, WA Public Ports Association.