A number of city interests were advanced, some died, and others remain tied to the operating, transportation or capital budget and, hence, are still alive.

The House approved HB 1903 regarding infrastructure financing associated with job growth or retention. Cities began the session asking for a variety of economic development tools including direct financial assistance for the largest infrastructure projects. This bill will provide such assistance.

The Senate passed SB 5370 regarding the economic development strategic reserve account. This account is intended to support the Economic Development Commission. Funds may also be used for public infrastructure improvements associated with job creation or retention. Unfortunately, the revenue stream was stripped from the bill late in the Senate process. We will work to secure funding for this proposal.

HB 2196 providing additional REET taxing authority in lieu of impact fees was not approved by the House and is considered dead for the year. We will continue to work this issue in an attempt to find agreement with key parties. Agreed upon bills seem to be able to avoid deadlines.

Transportation proposals including our local options bills, HB 1989 and SSB 6016, have been deemed necessary to implement the budget. This simply means they are still "in play." There is a great deal of work to do and passage will be difficult, but they are still alive, as are our efforts to secure money from a statewide package.

SB 6050 was approved by the Senate on Wednesday, March 16 by a 34–14 vote. This legislation will provide the smallest cities and counties direct financial aid. AWC offers a special thanks to Senator Doumit (D-Dist.19) and Senator Parlette (R-Wenatchee) for their assistance in advancing this bill.

We face a very difficult road in the House - city officials who benefit from the bill need to contact their representative and express support for this legislation. Please see the write-up on the bill in the Municipal Finance section of this Bulletin.

A number of city officials made calls and sent emails over the last week as we requested assistance—thank you. You will probably hear more from us during the coming weeks. Please respond as quickly as you can, as it does make a significant difference. Thanks for all of your help.