AWC Legislative Bulletin - Volume 30, Interim No. 3
August 16, 2007  (Plain Text Version)

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In this issue:
From the Director: Streamlined Sales Tax Implementation
2007 Regional Meetings
Energy & Telecommunications
Environment & Water
General Local Government
Infrastructure, Transportation & Economic Development
Land Use & Housing
Law & Justice
Municipal Finance
Personnel & Labor Relations

Energy & Telecommunications

Crane Safety Rulemaking (ESHB 2171)

Last week, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) wrapped up their meetings to gather input that will be used to develop a new rule to certify crane inspectors and crane operators.

Thank you to the cities that attended and provided feedback.  Cities and utilities made it clear to the department that when a piece of equipment is used only periodically and that requiring a large number of hours of experience would place an undue burden on agencies to find and retain qualified operators.  This is a different position than provided by some of the labor groups and others who commented that the number of hours of experience should be increased for the smaller cranes.

The department will continue to take written comments, so cities still wishing to provide feedback can do so by contacting Cindy Ireland at L&I, 360-902-5522.

For additional information on this issue, contact Victoria Lincoln at victorial@awcnet.org.

Tree Trimming Roundtable

Representative Jeff Morris (D-Anacortes) held a roundtable discussion last week on the 2006 wind storm and utility tree trimming procedures.  He is exploring the possibility of changing statutes or government procedures as a result of some of the difficulties utilities experienced during that time.  A good representation of municipals, public utility districts, investor-owned utilities and cooperatives were in attendance and discussion was lively.  Representative Morris is looking for comments on five issues by the end of August:

  • Explore a streamlined process for valuing trees on private property.
  • Study restrictions on vegetation planted in ROWs.
  • Explore expanding immunity for utilities engaging in vegetation management.
  • Review state agency land practices.
  • Study the Forest Practices Act for transmission vs. distribution application.

For additional information or to provide comments, contact Victoria Lincoln at victorial@awcnet.org.