SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1225
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. |
As of March 10, 2011
Title: An act relating to clarification of the method of calculating public port district commissioner compensation.
Brief Description: Clarifying the method for calculating port commissioner compensation.
Sponsors: Representatives Angel, Takko, Warnick, Van De Wege and Fitzgibbon.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/14/11, 92-0.
Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 3/10/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
Background: Port districts, a type of special purpose district, build and operate shipping terminals, motor vehicle transfer and terminal facilities, marinas and docks, airports, railroads, industrial sites, and parks and recreational facilities.
A board of three or five elected commissioners, who serve four or six-year staggered terms of office, governs each port district.
Commissioner per diem compensation ranges from $90 a day to a maximum of $8,640 annually, or $10,800 in port district with a preceding annual gross operating income over $25 million. Additionally, commissioners in port districts with gross operating revenues in the preceding year that meet or exceed $25 million receive a monthly salary of $500. Commissioners receive $200 per month in port districts with gross operating revenues in the preceding year of at least $1 million and less than $25 million.
Summary of Bill: The method for determining port district commissioner compensation is modified to expressly provide that required salary and per diem thresholds must be adjusted for inflation by the Office of Financial Management.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Although port commissioners' per diem and salaries are already indexed, there is a concern that the language could be interpreted to include the gross operating revenues of the port and thus, this clarification is necessary. The bill passed the House unanimously.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Ginger Eagle, Washington Public Ports Association.