Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Local Government Committee
SSB 5365
Brief Description: Concerning alternate funding for libraries.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Local Government (originally sponsored by Senator Wilson, J.).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill
  • Expands the definition of "recreational facilities" for purposes of the formation of a park and recreation district to include community centers which could include public libraries within less than 50 percent of the usable space. 
Hearing Date: 3/25/25
Staff: Michelle Rusk (786-7153).
Background:

A park and recreation district (district) is a type of special purpose district that may be formed for purposes of providing leisure time activities and facilities and recreational facilities as a public service for residents of the geographical areas included within a district's boundaries.

 

The term "recreational facilities" means parks, playgrounds, gymnasiums, swimming pools, field houses, bathing beaches, stadiums, golf courses, automobile racetracks and drag strips, coliseums for the display of spectator sports, public campgrounds, boat ramps and launching sites, public hunting and fishing areas, arboretums, bicycle and bridle paths, senior citizen centers, community centers, and other recreational facilities.

 

Formation.  District formation must be initiated by submitting a petition to the county that designates the potential district boundary, describes how the district will benefit the public welfare, and is signed by at least 15 percent of the registered voters within the proposed district's boundary.  After a hearing on a petition before the board of county commissioners, and the board's designation of the name and district boundary, the matter must be presented to the voters for approval, together with any funding obligations.  

 

Powers.  A district has such powers as are necessary to carry out its purpose, including but not limited to:  acquiring real property; making contracts; borrowing money; establishing charges, fees, rates, and the like for the use of its facilities; and acquiring, constructing, maintaining, repairing, and operating recreational facilities.  A district may also issue general obligation bonds for capital purposes and impose a regular property tax levy.  
Summary of Bill:

The definition of "recreational facilities," for purposes of forming a park and recreation district, is modified to include community centers which could include public libraries within less than 50 percent of the usable space.  
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.