Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Local Government & Housing Committee |
HB 2517
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Exempting housing authorities from laws governing the construction, alteration, repair, or improvement of property by other public bodies.
Sponsors: Representatives Dammeier and Haigh.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/14/10
Staff: Thamas Osborn (786-7129)
Background:
Each city and county is authorized to create a local "Housing Authority" (Authority) for the purpose of addressing housing issues within the community, especially those affecting low income and elderly persons. Specifically, an Authority may be created to address myriad housing issues, including:
the existence of unsafe or unsanitary housing conditions;
the shortage of affordable, safe, and sanitary housing for low-income persons; and
the shortage of appropriate, affordable housing for senior citizens.
The powers granted to an Authority include the power to:
enter into contracts, partnerships, and joint ventures;
sue and be sued;
create, acquire, operate, manage, and/or lease housing projects;
invest surplus funds;
investigate, study, or examine housing conditions within its jurisdiction;
buy and sell property; and
participate in the organization or operation of a nonprofit entity whose purpose is to provide housing to low income persons.
Provisions of law pertaining to the acquisition, operation or disposition of property, and which are applicable to other public entities, do not apply to an Authority absent an explicit legislative determination to the contrary.
Summary of Bill:
Provisions of law pertaining to the construction, alteration, repair, or improvement of property, and which are applicable to other public entities, do not apply to an Authority absent an explicit legislative determination to the contrary.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.