WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Millions in construction projects to benefit the 48th LD after capital budget passage

OLYMPIA – Last year, the Legislature adjourned without a capital budget for the first time in history, which resulted in stalled projects and thousands of jobs lost.

Today the House passed the much delayed capital budget with a 95-1 vote.

“This budget will put people to work in our district and around the state on much needed projects,” said Rep. Joan McBride (D-Kirkland). “I’m thankful that we have been able to break through the partisan discord on this issue.”

The capital budget pays for buying, constructing and repairing infrastructure projects including schools, parks, community centers, clean air and water systems,hospitals, housing and higher education facilities, among others.

The legislature also passed a fix to the Supreme Court’s Hirst decision. In the Hirst decision, The Supreme Court ruled counties need to ensure water is available for permit-exempt wells. Making this determination can be costly to the landowner and the county. As a result, some counties are no longer issuing building permits.

“Fixing Hirst will allow for more predictable development around the state,” said McBride. “It also commits the state to important water quality standards that will promote salmon restoration and recovery. I’m pleased we were able to move both these measures in a bipartisan fashion.”

Construction projects benefitting the 48th LD include:

Department of Commerce
2017-19 Building for the Arts Grant Program – PNW Ballet School  $1,520,000
2017-19 Housing Trust Fund Program – Highland Village Preservation  $1,500,000
2018 Local and Community Projects – Youth Eastside Services  $26,000
2018 Local and Community Projects – Willows Rd Regional Trail  $1,442,000
2018 Local and Community Projects – NW Kidney Centers  $499,000

Community & Technical College System
Repairs, Maintenance, and Minor Works at Bellevue College  $535,000
Total 48th Legislative District  $5,522,000