Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Housing, Community Development & Veterans Committee |
HB 2601
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: Concerning the authority of the parks and recreation commission to approve leases.
Sponsors: Representatives Tharinger, Barkis, Leavitt and Ryu; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/29/20
Staff: Serena Dolly (786-7150).
Background:
The State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) consists of seven members appointed by the Governor. A majority of Commission members constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Under the Commission's procedural rules, a majority vote of the Commissioners present is required to pass an item brought to vote unless the law requires a unanimous vote. By statute, several Commission decisions require unanimous votes including leases in excess of 20 years, land sales or exchanges, and the disposal of real property to resolve boundary and ownership issues with adjacent landowners.
The Commission has broad authority over the management of state parks, including the power to grant concessions and leases in state parks. Generally, the maximum lease term under current law is 50 years, and any lease of more than 20 years requires a unanimous vote of the Commission.
Summary of Bill:
The maximum lease term for state park properties is increased from 50 to 80 years. Property leases exceeding 20 years require approval of at least four commission members instead of unanimous vote.
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.