Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Environment Committee

HB 1106

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 Summary of Bill

Allows the State Parks and Recreation Commission to dispose of land within the Seashore Conservation Area to resolve property ownership disputes, if certain conditions are met.

Background:

Seashore Conservation Area.

The Seashore Conservation Area (Seashore) was established in 1967, dedicating the public beaches on the Pacific Ocean to public recreation. The State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) is authorized to oversee the Seashore under principles established in statute. Except for specific authorized purposes, lands within the Seashore may not be sold or leased. The Commission may exchange land within the Seashore to settle property disputes.

Parkland Acquisition Account.

The Parkland Acquisition Account is an appropriated account to be used solely for the purchase or acquisition of property for use as state park property by the Commission, as directed by the Legislature [RCW 79A.05.170].

Summary of Bill:

The Commission may directly dispose of up to five contiguous acres of land within the Seashore, without public auction, to resolve trespass, property ownership disputes, and boundary adjustments with adjacent property owners. Land may only be disposed of after appraisal and for at least fair market value, and only if the transaction is in the best interest of the state. Conveyance documents must be executed by the Governor.

All proceeds from land disposal within the Seashore must be paid into the Parkland Acquisition Account for reinvestment in land located inside or within one mile of the Seashore.