HB 1801 - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/12/03)

Finds that the inability of cities and towns to continue to utilize the petition method of annexation established by RCW 35.13.125 through 35.13.160 and 35A.14.120 through 35A.14.150 poses a threat to the public peace, health, and safety, and to the support of the state government and its existing public institutions.

Finds that this threat results from the decision of the Washington state supreme court in Grant County Fire Protection District No. 5 v. City of Moses Lake, 145 Wn.2d 702 (2002), holding that the petition method of annexation authorized by RCW 35.13.125 through 35.13.160 and 35A.14.120 through 35A.14.150 is unconstitutional.

Declares an intent to provide for a limited method of annexation by cities and towns based on utility service or utility agreements with property owners.