SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2508

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 February 20, 2020

Title: An act relating to simplifying the process for donating low-value surplus property owned by a city-owned utility.

Brief Description: Simplifying the process for donating low-value surplus property owned by a city-owned utility.

Sponsors: Representatives Wylie and Vick.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/12/20, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Local Government: 2/20/20.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows surplus personal property or equipment with an estimated value of $50,000 or less, that was originally acquired for public utility purposes and is not required for continued public utility service, to be disposed of without a resolution or public hearing.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff: Bonnie Kim (786-7316)

Background: When a city determines by resolution of its legislative authority that any lands, property, or equipment originally acquired for public utility purposes is surplus to the city's needs and is not required for providing continued public utility service, the legislative authority may by resolution and after public hearing lease, sell, or convey the lands, property, or equipment. The resolution must state the fair market value or the rent or consideration to be paid, as well as other terms and conditions for disposition as the legislative authority deems to be in the best public interest.

Summary of Bill: Personal property or equipment with an estimated value of $50,000 or less, that was originally acquired for public utility purposes and is surplus to the city's needs and not required for providing continued public utility service, may be disposed of without a resolution or public hearing.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a bill requested by the City of Vancouver. Cities have adjusted thresholds for disposing surplus properties but those adjustments do not apply to any utility that the city might own. This bill allows utilities to follow the same efficiency rules as the cities.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Sharon Wylie, Prime Sponsor; Brian Enslow, City of Vancouver.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.