SB 6617.E - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/15/00)

     Finds that economic development, work force training, international trade, tourism development, housing assistance, assistance to local governments, and other programs and services provided by the department of community, trade, and economic development are vital to all regions of the state.  The legislature further finds that program development and service delivery to the eastern region of the state could be significantly enhanced by a continuous, full-time physical staff presence in that region.

     Provides that, in order to more effectively respond to the needs of eastern Washington communities, the department shall, as soon as practicable, establish a field office and a full-time staff presence in eastern Washington.  If practicable, the office shall be colocated with one or more existing state agencies in the Tri-Cities area to facilitate the urgent economic development needs of southeastern Washington.

     Provides that program activities and priorities for this office serving eastern Washington shall be determined by the director, in consultation with local government officials, business, labor, and educational advisors from the region.