Governor signs legislation that will allow for the creation of a port district within Kittitas County

Governor signs legislation that will allow for the creation of a port district within Kittitas County

Legislation allowing Kittitas County the opportunity to create a less than countywide port district was signed by Gov. Jay Inslee today.

13th District Reps. Matt Manweller and Judy Warnick co-sponsored the legislation. 

Under House Bill 2547, Kittitas County would be eligible to create a less than countywide port district if the voters act before Dec. 31, 2020. A ballot proposition would have to be submitted to the voters authorizing the creation of the port district. If approved, the initial port commissioners may be elected at the next general election.

“Rural economies like Kittitas County are in continual need for ways to promote economic opportunity. A port district is one way to potentially provide an additional tool for local governments to support or promote economic development,” said Manweller, R-Ellensburg. “Kittitas County will have that option under this new law, but it is a decision that will also go to local voters.”

The law allows the creation of a port district in just one of the urban centers of a county, ensuring that those who benefit the most would also bear the costs and not have to rely on rural residents who may possibly be opposed to the creation of a district.

The bill becomes effective 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

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PHOTO: Gov. Jay Inslee signs House Bill 2547, co-sponsored by Reps. Matt Manweller and Judy Warnick. Photo credit: Washington State House of Representatives.

For more information about Rep. Manweller, visit: www.representativemattmanweller.com.

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