title: RCW 53.08.470

text:
(1) Following the inspection required under RCW 53.08.460 and prior to transferring ownership of a port district-owned vessel, a port district shall obtain the following from the transferee:
(a) The purposes for which the transferee intends to use the vessel; and
(b) Information demonstrating the prospective owner's intent to obtain legal moorage following the transfer, in the manner determined by the port district.
(2)(a) The port district shall remove any containers or other materials that are not fixed to the vessel and contain hazardous substances, as defined under RCW 70A.305.020.
(b) However, the port district may transfer a vessel with:
(i) Those containers or materials described under (a) of this subsection where the transferee demonstrates to the port district's satisfaction that the container's or material's presence is consistent with the anticipated use of the vessel; and
(ii) A reasonable amount of fuel as determined by the port district, based on factors including the vessel's size, condition, and anticipated use of the vessel including initial destination following transfer.
(c) The port district may consult with the department of ecology in carrying out the requirements of this subsection.
(3) Prior to sale, and unless the vessel has a title or valid marine document, the port district is required to apply for a certificate of title for the vessel under RCW 88.02.510 and register the vessel under RCW 88.02.550.
[ 2021 c 65 s 59; 2013 c 291 s 22.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.

catchline: Transfer of ownership of port district-owned vessel—Further requirements.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 53.08.480

text:
(1) Every moorage facility operator must:
(a) Obtain and maintain insurance coverage for the moorage facility;
(b) Require, as a condition of moorage, all vessels other than transient vessels to provide proof of marine insurance to the moorage facility.
(2) Unless rules adopted by the department of natural resources require otherwise, insurance maintained by moorage facility operators and required of moored vessels must:
(a) Provide coverage at liability limits of at least three hundred thousand dollars per occurrence; and
(b) Include, at a minimum, general, legal, and pollution liability coverage.
(3) The purchaser of marine insurance under this section may satisfy the requirements of this section through the purchase of multiple policies as necessary.
(4) The requirement under this section for moorage facility operators to require proof of marine insurance from mooring vessels applies whenever a moorage facility operator enters an initial or renewal moorage agreement after June 12, 2014. The moorage facility operator is not required to verify independently whether a mooring vessel's insurance policy meets the requirements of this section and is not responsible for any change in insurance coverage applicable to the vessel that occurs after the initial agreement is entered into or in the time period between agreement renewals.
(5) Any moorage facility operator that the department has determined has failed to satisfy the requirements of this section is not eligible for reimbursement from the derelict vessel removal account under RCW 79.100.100.
[ 2014 c 195 s 203.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2014 c 195: See notes following RCW 79.100.170 and 79.100.180.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Insurance requirements.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 53.08.490

text:
(1) Before entering into any contract for the construction of or replacement of any bridge on port controlled land, the port's executive officer must consider whether to require the installation of informational signs that address the hazards of diving or jumping off the bridge as part of the contract. These signs are meant to provide more information than just a "no jumping" sign so that people can better understand the hazards related to a particular location. Signs with information on the hazard of cold-water shock that leads to drowning are encouraged to be installed in locations where people might otherwise think a location is safe for swimming. Signs under this section may include the statewide 988 suicide prevention hotline.
(2) Signs created under this section for placement within the right-of-way of the state highway system may not conflict with provisions of the manual on uniform traffic control devices or existing state laws related to placement and design of signs that are placed along transportation corridors.
(3) This section does not create a private right of action by, or a legal duty to, any party, and may not be used to impose liability on the port if a sign has or has not been erected on its property. The state of Washington, including all of its agencies, subdivisions, employees, and agents, shall not be liable in tort for any violation of chapter 54, Laws of 2023, notwithstanding any other provision of law.
[ 2023 c 54 s 9.]
Notes:
Short title—Intent—Finding—2023 c 54: See notes following RCW 35.21.095.

catchline: Bridge jumping hazard signs.


title: RCW 53.08.500

text:
(1) Two or more port districts, operating under a mutual agreement pursuant to RCW 53.08.240, may levy and collect jointly the property tax assessments authorized under RCW 53.36.020 under the following conditions:
(a) The port districts are adjacent, and the boundaries of the port districts are coextensive with county boundaries;
(b) The commissioners of each port district have, no later than July 1st, and by at least a two-thirds margin, voted to conduct a joint property tax levy for collection in the following year and for subsequent years, until such time as the commissioners of each port district have voted to discontinue the joint property tax levy;
(c) The joint property tax levy has been approved by a majority of voters at general elections called under RCW 29A.04.330 by the port district commissioners of the port districts that propose to conduct the joint property tax levy. The general elections within each port district must be held on the same day. If the certified election results show that a majority of the total votes cast among all the port districts participating in the general elections approve the joint property tax levy, then the joint levy shall be deemed approved. Once voters have approved the conduct of a joint property tax levy, the conduct of a joint levy in subsequent consecutive years does not require voter approval; and
(d) The joint property tax rate imposed is the same in each participating port district.
(2) The respective port districts are encouraged and authorized to share information with residents of each county, including mailed items to households, related to the ballot measure.
(3)(a) Two or more port districts that are jointly levying and collecting property taxes as provided for under subsection (1) of this section are considered a "taxing district" under RCW 84.04.120.
(b) The commissioners of the port districts that are jointly levying and collecting property taxes under subsection (1) of this section are considered the governing body of the districts for the purposes of RCW 84.55.120.
(4)(a) Port districts that are jointly levying and collecting property taxes as provided for in subsection (1) of this section may not independently conduct a property tax levy under RCW 53.36.020, except as provided in (b) of this subsection.
(b) Port districts conducting a joint levy may independently approve a property tax levy under RCW 53.36.020 to the extent needed to provide for payment of principal and interest on general bonded indebtedness.
(5)(a) Notwithstanding RCW 84.55.035, when conducting a joint property tax levy, the first joint levy amount must be set as provided for in RCW 84.55.020 as if the port districts had consolidated. Subsequent joint levies are subject to the limitations in RCW 84.55.010.
(b) Any increase in the property tax revenue by the jointly taxing port districts may only be authorized pursuant to RCW 84.55.120, except that any such increase must be approved by at least two-thirds of the commissioners of each of the port districts.
(c) Port districts that are jointly levying and collecting property taxes may conduct a levy in an amount exceeding the limitations provided for in chapter 84.55 RCW as provided for in RCW 84.55.050, except that such a levy may only be conducted if approved by a majority of voters in each port district participating in the joint property tax levy.
(6) The separate obligations of each of the port districts conducting a joint property tax levy shall not be affected by the conduct of the joint levy, and shall remain the responsibility of the individual port district subject to the obligation. Taxes and assessments for payment of such obligations shall continue to be levied and collected as provided for in subsection (4)(b) of this section in each port district notwithstanding the joint property tax levy. While any such obligations remain outstanding, funds subject to such obligations shall be kept separate.
(7)(a) In the event that two or more port districts operating under a mutual agreement pursuant to RCW 53.08.240 cease to operate under the agreement, the joint debts and assets of the port districts must be divided as provided for in the agreement. If no provision for such division was made, the debts and assets must be divided amongst the port districts in the same proportion as the property tax assessments were divided amongst the districts.
(b) The first property tax levy conducted by a port district after it ceases to conduct a joint property tax levy with another port district must be set so that the levy does not exceed the port district's proportional share of the last levy jointly conducted with one or more other port districts plus additional increases allowed under RCW 84.55.010.
[ 2023 c 215 s 1.]

catchline: Joint levy.


title: RCW 53.08.510

text:
(1) For the purpose of this section, "qualified cargo and passenger port" means a Washington public port district that: (a) Provides or seeks to provide wharfage, dock, warehouse, or other marine terminal facilities to marine carriers; and (b) participates in a meeting of other cargo and passenger ports where discussion of wharfage, dockage, warehouse, and other issues affecting marine terminal facilities are held under an agreement filed with the federal maritime commission under 46 U.S.C. Sec. 40301(b) and 40302(a).
(2) Qualified cargo and passenger ports have the power to coordinate, reach agreement on, and implement all actions under their authority with other qualified cargo and passenger ports. This includes the power to meet with qualified cargo and passenger ports and other port authorities to discuss and agree on issues of mutual interest relating to maritime operations, including:
(a) Rates and charges to be assessed at the qualified cargo and passenger ports;
(b) Rules, practices, and procedures relating to cargo and passenger service operations;
(c) Matters concerning the planning, development, management, marketing, operation, and use of their facilities; and
(d) Any other matters relating to cargo and passenger service operations.
(3) This section expires 10 years after July 23, 2023.
[ 2023 c 347 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2023 c 347: "(1) Washington state ports were created to preserve public ownership of public resources, giving local governments the ability and statutory authority to support economic development for the public benefit.
(2) The legislature finds and declares that Washington public port districts that carry out or seek to carry out operations involving the movement of cargo or passengers are a vital part of the economy and trade infrastructure within the state.
(3) The legislature further finds that there is an important public purpose for qualified cargo and passenger ports to coordinate, reach agreement on, and implement all actions under their authority with other qualified cargo and passenger ports. The legislature intends by this act to grant qualified cargo and passenger ports with the authority to operate in furtherance of this public purpose, including the specified powers granted in this act relating to cargo and passenger transportation, without liability under federal antitrust laws.
(4) The legislature further intends to restore parity between qualified cargo and passenger ports and the marine carrier industry. The marine carrier industry can create an exemption from federal antitrust law liability and with this act the legislature intends to allow the same protection to the qualified cargo and passenger ports they serve." [ 2023 c 347 s 1.]

catchline: Coordination with other ports. (Expires July 23, 2033.)


title: RCW 53.12.005

text:
For purposes of this chapter, "gross operating revenue" means the total of all revenues received by a port district.
[ 1992 c 147 s 5.]
Notes:
Severability—1992 c 147: See note following RCW 53.04.020.

catchline: Definition—"Gross operating revenue."


title: RCW 53.12.010

text:
(1) The powers of the port district shall be exercised through a port commission consisting of three or, when permitted by this title, five members. Every port district that is not coextensive with a county having a population of five hundred thousand or more shall be divided into the same number of commissioner districts as there are commissioner positions, each having approximately equal population, unless provided otherwise under subsection (2) of this section. Where a port district with three commissioner positions is coextensive with the boundaries of a county that has a population of less than five hundred thousand and the county has three county legislative authority districts, the port commissioner districts shall be the county legislative authority districts. In other instances where a port district is divided into commissioner districts, the port commission shall divide the port district into commissioner districts unless the commissioner districts have been described pursuant to RCW 53.04.031. The commissioner districts shall be altered as provided in chapter 53.16 RCW.
Commissioner districts shall be used as follows: (a) Only a registered voter who resides in a commissioner district may be a candidate for, or hold office as, a commissioner of the commissioner district; and (b) only the voters of a commissioner district may vote at a primary to nominate candidates for a commissioner of the commissioner district. Voters of the entire port district may vote at a general election to elect a person as a commissioner of the commissioner district.
(2)(a) In port districts with five commissioners, two of the commissioner districts may include the entire port district if approved by the voters of the district either at the time of formation or at a subsequent port district election at which the issue is proposed pursuant to a resolution adopted by the board of commissioners and delivered to the county auditor.
(b) In a port district with five commissioners, where two of the commissioner districts include the entire port district, the port district may be divided into five commissioner districts if proposed pursuant to a resolution adopted by the board of commissioners or pursuant to a petition by the voters and approved by the voters of the district at the next general or special election occurring sixty or more days after the adoption of the resolution. A petition proposing such an increase must be submitted to the county auditor of the county in which the port district is located and signed by voters of the port district at least equal in number to ten percent of the number of voters in the port district who voted at the last general election.
Upon approval by the voters, the commissioner district boundaries shall be redrawn into five districts prior to the first day of January in the year in which the two additional commissioners shall be elected and submitted to the county auditor pursuant to RCW 53.16.015. The new commissioner districts shall be numbered one through five and the three incumbent commissioners representing the three former districts shall represent commissioner districts one through three. The two at large incumbent commissioners shall represent commissioner districts four and five. If, as a result of redrawing the district boundaries more than one of the incumbent commissioners resides in one of the new commissioner districts, the commissioners who reside in the same commissioner district shall determine by lot which of the numbered commissioner districts they shall represent for the remainder of their respective terms.
[ 2022 c 47 s 1; 2002 c 51 s 1; 1994 c 223 s 81; 1992 c 146 s 1; 1991 c 363 s 128; 1965 c 51 s 1; 1959 c 17 s 3. Prior: 1913 c 62 s 2; 1911 c 92 s 3; RRS s 9690.]
Notes:
Purpose—Captions not law—1991 c 363: See notes following RCW 2.32.180.

catchline: Port commission—Number of commissioners, districts.


title: RCW 53.12.021

text:
Any less than countywide port district that uses commissioner districts may cease using commissioner districts as provided in this section.
A ballot proposition authorizing the elimination of commissioner districts shall be submitted to the voters of a less than countywide port district that is divided into commissioner districts if (1) a petition is submitted to the port commission proposing that the port district cease using commissioner districts, that is signed by registered voters of the port district equal in number to at least ten percent of the number of voters who voted at the last district general election; or (2) the port commissioners adopt a resolution proposing that the port district cease using commissioner districts. The port commission shall transfer the petition or resolution immediately to the county auditor who shall, when a petition is submitted, review the signatures and certify its sufficiency. A ballot proposition authorizing the elimination of commissioner districts shall be submitted at the next district general election occurring sixty or more days after a petition with sufficient signatures was submitted. If the ballot proposition authorizing the port district to cease using commissioner districts is approved by a simple majority vote, the port district shall cease using commissioner districts at all subsequent elections.
[ 1994 c 223 s 82.]

catchline: Elimination of commissioner districts.


title: RCW 53.12.061

text:
All elections relating to a port district shall conform with general election law, except as expressly provided in Title 53 RCW.
[ 1992 c 146 s 5.]

catchline: Elections to conform with general election law.


title: RCW 53.12.115

text:
A ballot proposition shall be submitted to the voters of any port district authorizing an increase in the number of port commissioners to five whenever the port commission adopts a resolution proposing the increase in number of port commissioners or a petition proposing such an increase has been submitted to the county auditor of the county in which the port district is located that has been signed by voters of the port district at least equal in number to ten percent of the number of voters in the port district who voted at the last general election. The ballot proposition shall be submitted at the next general or special election occurring sixty or more days after the petition was submitted or resolution was adopted.
At the next general or special election following the election in which an increase in the number of port commissioners was authorized, candidates for the two additional port commissioner positions shall be elected as provided in RCW 53.12.130, and the voters may be asked to approve the nomination of commissioners from district-wide commissioner districts as permitted in RCW 53.12.010(2).
[ 1994 c 223 s 86; 1992 c 146 s 7.]

catchline: Increasing number of commissioners—Resolution, petition—Ballot proposition.


title: RCW 53.12.120

text:
When the population of a port district that has three commissioners reaches five hundred thousand, in accordance with the latest United States regular or special census or with the official state population estimate, there shall be submitted to the voters of the district, at the next district general election or at a special port election called for that purpose, the proposition of increasing the number of commissioners to five.
At the next district general election following the election in which an increase in the number of port commissioners was authorized, candidates for the two additional port commissioner positions shall be elected as provided in RCW 53.12.130.
[ 1994 c 223 s 87; 1992 c 146 s 8; 1982 c 219 s 1; 1965 c 51 s 7; 1959 c 175 s 3; 1959 c 17 s 10. Prior: 1953 c 198 s 1; 1913 c 62 s 2, part; 1911 c 92 s 3, part; RRS s 9690, part.]

catchline: Increasing number of commissioners—Population requirements—Ballot proposition—Election of added commissioners.


title: RCW 53.12.130

text:
Two additional port commissioners shall be elected at the next district general election following the election at which voters authorized the increase in port commissioners to five members.
The port commissioners shall divide the port district into five commissioner districts prior to the first day of January in the year in which the two additional commissioners shall be elected, unless the voters approved the nomination of the two additional commissioners from district-wide commissioner districts as permitted in RCW 53.12.010(2). The new commissioner districts shall be numbered one through five and the three incumbent commissioners shall represent commissioner districts one through three. If, as a result of redrawing the district boundaries two or three of the incumbent commissioners reside in one of the new commissioner districts, the commissioners who reside in the same commissioner district shall determine by lot which of the first three numbered commissioner districts they shall represent for the remainder of their respective terms. A primary shall be held to nominate candidates from districts four and five where necessary and commissioners shall be elected from commissioner districts four and five at the general election. The persons elected as commissioners from commissioner districts four and five shall take office immediately after qualification as defined under RCW 29A.04.133.
In a port district where commissioners are elected to four-year terms of office, the additional commissioner thus elected receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to a four-year term of office and the other additional commissioner thus elected shall be elected to a term of office of two years, if the election is held in an odd-numbered year, or the additional commissioner thus elected receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to a term of office of three years and the other shall be elected to a term of office of one year, if the election is held in an even-numbered year. In a port district where the commissioners are elected to six-year terms of office, the additional commissioner thus elected receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to a six-year term of office and the other additional commissioner shall be elected to a four-year term of office, if the election is held in an odd-numbered year, or the additional commissioner receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to a term of office of five-years and the other shall be elected to a three-year term of office, if the election is held in an even-numbered year. The length of terms of office shall be computed from the first day of January in the year following this election.
Successor commissioners from districts four and five shall be elected to terms of either six or four years, depending on the length of terms of office to which commissioners of that port district are elected.
[ 2022 c 47 s 2; 2015 c 53 s 79; 1994 c 223 s 88; 1992 c 146 s 9; 1965 c 51 s 8; 1959 c 17 s 11. Prior: 1953 c 198 s 2; 1913 c 62 s 2, part; 1911 c 92 s 3, part; RRS s 9690, part.]
Notes:

catchline: Increasing number of commissioners—Election of additional commissioners—Commencement and terms of office.


title: RCW 53.12.135

text:
The port commission may authorize a change to its electoral system pursuant to RCW 29A.92.040.
[ 2018 c 113 s 209.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Short title—2018 c 113: See RCW 29A.92.005 and 29A.92.900.

catchline: Voluntary change to electoral system.


title: RCW 53.12.140

text:
A vacancy in the office of port commissioner shall occur as provided in chapter 42.12 RCW or by nonattendance at meetings of the port commission for a period of sixty days unless excused by the port commission. A vacancy on a port commission shall be filled as provided in chapter 42.12 RCW.
[ 1994 c 223 s 54; 1959 c 17 s 9. Prior: 1913 c 62 s 2, part; 1911 c 92 s 3, part; RRS s 9690, part.]

catchline: Vacancies.


title: RCW 53.12.172

text:
(1) In every port district the term of office of each port commissioner shall be four years in each port district that is countywide with a population of one hundred thousand or more, or either six or four years in all other port districts as provided in RCW 53.12.175, and until a successor is elected and qualified and assumes office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280.
(2) The initial port commissioners shall be elected at the same election as when the ballot proposition is submitted to voters authorizing the creation of the port district. If the port district is created the persons elected at this election shall serve as the initial port commission. No primary shall be held. The person receiving the greatest number of votes for commissioner from each commissioner district shall be elected as the commissioner of that district.
(3) The terms of office of the initial port commissioners shall be staggered as follows in a port district that is countywide with a population of one hundred thousand or more: (a) The two persons who are elected receiving the two greatest numbers of votes shall be elected to four-year terms of office if the election is held in an odd-numbered year, or three-year terms of office if the election is held in an even-numbered year, and shall hold office until successors are elected and qualified and assume office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280; and (b) the other person who is elected shall be elected to a two-year term of office if the election is held in an odd-numbered year, or a one-year term of office if the election is held in an even-numbered year, and shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified and assumes office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280.
(4) The terms of office of the initial port commissioners in all other port districts shall be staggered as follows: (a) The person who is elected receiving the greatest number of votes shall be elected to a six-year term of office if the election is held in an odd-numbered year or to a five-year term of office if the election is held in an even-numbered year, and shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified and assumes office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280; (b) the person who is elected receiving the next greatest number of votes shall be elected to a four-year term of office if the election is held in an odd-numbered year or to a three-year term of office if the election is held in an even-numbered year, and shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified and assumes office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280; and (c) the other person who is elected shall be elected to a two-year term of office if the election is held in an odd-numbered year or a one-year term of office if the election is held in an even-numbered year, and shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified and assumes office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280.
(5) The initial port commissioners shall take office immediately after being elected and qualified, but the length of their terms shall be calculated from the first day in January in the year following their elections.
[ 2015 c 53 s 80; 1994 c 223 s 85. Prior: 1992 c 146 s 2; (1992 c 146 s 14 repeal deleted by 1994 c 223 s 93); 1979 ex.s. c 126 s 34; 1951 c 68 s 2; prior: (i) 1935 c 133 s 2; RRS s 9691A-2. (ii) 1935 c 133 s 3; RRS s 9691A-3. (iii) 1935 c 133 s 4; RRS s 9691A-4. (iv) 1935 c 133 s 5; RRS s 9691A-5. (v) 1935 c 133 s 6; RRS s 9691A-6. (vi) 1935 c 133 s 7; RRS s 9691A-7.]
Notes:
Purpose—1979 ex.s. c 126: See RCW 29A.60.280(1).

catchline: Port commissioner terms of office.


title: RCW 53.12.175

text:
A ballot proposition to reduce the terms of office of port commissioners from six years to four years shall be submitted to the voters of any port district that otherwise would have commissioners with six-year terms of office upon either resolution of the port commissioners or petition of voters of the port district proposing the reduction in terms of office, which petition has been signed by voters of the port district equal in number to at least ten percent of the number of voters in the port district voting at the last general election. The petition shall be submitted to the county auditor. If the petition was signed by sufficient valid signatures, the ballot proposition shall be submitted at the next general election that occurs sixty or more days after the adoption of the resolution or submission of the petition.
If the ballot proposition reducing the terms of office of port commissioners is approved by a simple majority vote of the voters voting on the proposition, the commissioner or commissioners who are elected at that election shall be elected to four-year terms of office. The terms of office of the other commissioners shall not be reduced, but each successor shall be elected to a four-year term of office.
[ 2013 c 160 s 1; 1994 c 223 s 89; 1992 c 146 s 3.]

catchline: Reducing port commissioner terms—Ballot proposition.


title: RCW 53.12.176

text:
(1) A ballot proposition to lengthen the terms of office of port commissioners from four years to six years must be submitted to the voters of any port district upon either resolution of the port commissioners or petition of voters of the port district proposing the increase in terms of office, which petition has been signed by voters of the port district equal in number to at least 10 percent of the number of voters in the port district voting at the last general election.
(2) The petition must be submitted to the county auditor. If the petition was signed by sufficient valid signatures, the ballot proposition must be submitted at the next general election that occurs 60 or more days after the adoption of the resolution or submission of the petition.
(3) If the ballot proposition lengthening the terms of office of port commissioners is approved by a simple majority vote of the voters voting on the proposition, the commissioner elected at that election is elected to a six-year term of office. The terms of office of the other commissioners are not lengthened.
(4) If two commissioners are elected in that election or the next subsequent general election, the commissioner thus elected receiving the highest number of votes is elected to a six-year term of office and the other commissioner is elected to a four-year term of office. Each successor commissioner is elected to six-year terms.
(5) This section does not apply to a port district that is required to maintain four-year terms under RCW 53.12.172 or to a port district that has five port commissioners.
[ 2025 c 336 s 1.]

catchline: Lengthening port commissioner terms—Ballot proposition.


title: RCW 53.12.221

text:
Port commissioners of countywide port districts with populations of one hundred thousand or more who are holding office as of June 11, 1992, shall retain their positions for the remainder of their terms until their successors are elected and qualified, and assume office in accordance with RCW 29A.60.280. Their successors shall be elected to four-year terms of office except as otherwise provided in RCW 53.12.130.
[ 2015 c 53 s 81; 1992 c 146 s 4.]
Notes:

catchline: Terms—Districts covering entire county with populations of one hundred thousand or more.


title: RCW 53.12.245

text:
The port commission shall organize by the election of its own members of a president and secretary, shall by resolution adopt rules governing the transaction of its business and shall adopt an official seal. All proceedings of the port commission shall be by motion or resolution recorded in a book or books kept for such purpose, which shall be public records.
[ 1955 c 348 s 6.]
Notes:
Severability—1955 c 348: See note following RCW 53.08.120.
Public records: Title 40 RCW, chapter 42.56 RCW.

catchline: Organization of commission—Powers and duties—Record of proceedings.


title: RCW 53.12.246

text:
A majority of the persons holding the office of port commissioner at any time shall constitute a quorum of the port commission for the transaction of business, and the concurrence of a majority of the persons holding such office at the time shall be necessary and shall be sufficient for the passage of any resolution, but no business shall be transacted unless there are in office at least a majority of the full number of commissioners fixed by law.
[ 1959 c 17 s 12. Prior: 1913 c 62 s 2, part; 1911 c 92 s 3, part; RRS s 9690.]

catchline: Quorum.


title: RCW 53.12.260

text:
(1) Each commissioner of a port district shall receive ninety dollars, as adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management in subsection (4) of this section, per day or portion thereof spent (a) in actual attendance at official meetings of the port district commission, or (b) in performance of other official services or duties on behalf of the district. The total per diem compensation of a port commissioner shall not exceed eight thousand six hundred forty dollars in a year, as adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management in subsection (4) of this section, or ten thousand eight hundred dollars in any year, as adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management in subsection (4) of this section, for a port district with gross operating income of twenty-five million or more in the preceding calendar year.
(2) Port commissioners shall receive additional compensation as follows: (a) Each commissioner of a port district with gross operating revenues of twenty-five million dollars or more in the preceding calendar year shall receive a salary of five hundred dollars per month, as adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management in subsection (4) of this section; and (b) each commissioner of a port district with gross operating revenues of from one million dollars to less than twenty-five million dollars in the preceding calendar year shall receive a salary of two hundred dollars per month, as adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management in subsection (4) of this section.
(3) In lieu of the compensation specified in this section, a port commission may set compensation to be paid to commissioners.
(4) For any commissioner who has not elected to become a member of public employees retirement system before May 1, 1975, the compensation provided pursuant to this section shall not be considered salary for purposes of the provisions of any retirement system created pursuant to the general laws of this state nor shall attendance at such meetings or other service on behalf of the district constitute service as defined in RCW 41.40.010(37): PROVIDED, That in the case of a port district when commissioners are receiving compensation and contributing to the public employees retirement system, these benefits shall continue in full force and effect notwithstanding the provisions of this section and RCW 53.12.265.
The dollar thresholds for salaries and per diem compensation established in this section must be adjusted for inflation by the office of financial management every five years, beginning January 1, 2024, based upon changes in the consumer price index during that time period. "Consumer price index" means, for any calendar year, that year's annual average consumer price index, for Washington state, for wage earners and clerical workers, all items, compiled by the bureau of labor and statistics, United States department of labor. If the bureau of labor and statistics develops more than one consumer price index for areas within the state, the index covering the greatest number of people, covering areas exclusively within the boundaries of the state, and including all items shall be used for the adjustments for inflation in this section. The office of financial management must calculate the new dollar threshold and transmit it to the office of the code reviser for publication in the Washington State Register at least one month before the new dollar threshold is to take effect.
A person holding office as commissioner for two or more special purpose districts shall receive only that per diem compensation authorized for one of his or her commissioner positions as compensation for attending an official meeting or conducting official services or duties while representing more than one of his or her districts. However, such commissioner may receive additional per diem compensation if approved by resolution of all boards of the affected commissions.
[ 2020 c 83 s 3; 2011 c 152 s 1; 2007 c 469 s 3; 1998 c 121 s 3; 1992 c 146 s 12; 1985 c 330 s 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 187 s 1.]

catchline: Compensation.


title: RCW 53.12.265

text:
A commissioner of any port district may waive all or any portion of his or her compensation payable under RCW 53.12.260 as to any month or months during his or her term of office, by a written waiver filed with the secretary of the commission. The waiver, to be effective, must be filed any time after the commissioner's election and prior to the date on which said compensation would otherwise be paid. The waiver shall specify the month or period of months for which it is made.
[ 2010 c 8 s 16004; 1975 1st ex.s. c 187 s 2.]

catchline: Waiver of compensation.


title: RCW 53.12.270

text:
(1) The commission may delegate to the managing official of a port district such administerial powers and duties of the commission as it may deem proper for the efficient and proper management of port district operations. Any such delegation shall be authorized by appropriate resolution of the commission, which resolution must also establish guidelines and procedures for the managing official to follow.
(2) The commission shall establish, by resolution, policies to comply with RCW 39.04.280 that set forth the conditions by which competitive bidding requirements for public works contracts may be waived.
[ 2008 c 130 s 18; 1975 1st ex.s. c 12 s 1.]

catchline: Delegation of powers to managing official of port district—Waiver of competitive bidding requirements.


title: RCW 53.16.015

text:
The port commission of a port district that uses commissioner districts may redraw the commissioner district boundaries as provided in chapter 29A.76 RCW or RCW 29A.92.040 or 29A.92.110 at any time and submit the redrawn boundaries to the county auditor if the port district is not coterminous with a county that has the same number of county legislative authority districts as the port has port commissioners. The new commissioner districts shall be used at the next election at which a port commissioner is regularly elected that occurs at least one hundred eighty days after the redrawn boundaries have been submitted. Each commissioner district shall encompass as nearly as possible the same population.
[ 2019 c 454 s 9; 2015 c 53 s 82; 1994 c 223 s 90; 1992 c 146 s 10.]
Notes:
Retroactive application—Effective date—2019 c 454: See notes following RCW 29A.92.050.

catchline: Redrawing commissioner district boundaries—Conditions.


title: RCW 53.16.020

text:
The revision of boundary lines provided for in this chapter shall be made only at a meeting of the board of port commissioners with attendance of all of the members of the commission, which meeting shall be public, following notice of said meeting, and the purpose thereof published in a newspaper of general circulation within the port district, or, if there be no such newspaper published within the district, in a newspaper published at the county seat of the county in which such port district is located. Such notice shall be published not less than twice, the date of the first publication to be not less than fifteen nor more than twenty days prior to the date fixed for said hearing, and shall state the time, place and purpose of the hearing.
[ 1933 c 145 s 3; RRS s 9708-3.]

catchline: Notice of hearing on revision.


title: RCW 53.16.030

text:
Any change of boundary lines provided for in this chapter shall not affect the term for which a commissioner shall hold office at the time the change is made. If the port district commission is redrawing the commissioner district boundaries pursuant to RCW 29A.92.040 or 29A.92.110, each commissioner position is subject to election at the next general election.
[ 2019 c 454 s 10; 1992 c 146 s 11; 1933 c 145 s 4; RRS s 9704-8.]
Notes:
Retroactive application—Effective date—2019 c 454: See notes following RCW 29A.92.050.

catchline: Change of district boundaries—Effect on term of office.


title: RCW 53.18.010

text:
"Port district" shall mean a municipal corporation of the state of Washington created pursuant to Title 53 RCW. Said port districts may also be hereinafter referred to as the "employer."
"Employee" shall include all port employees except managerial and administrative personnel, and their confidential assistants.
"Employee organization" means any lawful association, labor organization, union, federation, council, or brotherhood, having as its primary purpose the representation of employees on matters of employment relations.
"Employment relations" includes, but is not limited to, matters concerning wages, salaries, hours, vacation, sick leave, holiday pay and grievance procedures.
[ 2018 c 251 s 1; 1967 c 101 s 1.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 53.18.015

text:
Port districts and their employees shall be covered by the provisions of chapter 41.56 RCW except as provided otherwise in this chapter.
[ 1983 c 287 s 1.]
Notes:
Severability—1983 c 287: See note following RCW 41.56.521.

catchline: Application of public employees' collective bargaining act.


title: RCW 53.18.020

text:
Port districts may enter into labor agreements or contracts with employee organizations on matters of employment relations: PROVIDED, That nothing in this chapter shall be construed to authorize any employee, or employee organization to cause or engage in a strike or stoppage of work or slowdown or similar activity against any port district.
[ 1967 c 101 s 2.]

catchline: Agreements authorized.


title: RCW 53.18.030

text:
In determining which employee organization will represent them, employees shall have maximum freedom in exercising their right of self-organization.
Controversies as to the choice of employee organization within a port shall be submitted to the public employment relations commission. Employee organizations may agree with the port district to independently resolve jurisdictional disputes: PROVIDED, That when no other procedure is available the procedures of RCW 49.08.010 shall be followed in resolving such disputes. In such case the chair of the public employment relations commission shall, at the request of any employee organization, arbitrate any dispute between employee organizations and enter a binding award in such dispute.
[ 2010 c 8 s 16005; 1975 1st ex.s. c 296 s 38; 1967 c 101 s 3.]
Notes:
Powers and duties of public employment relations commission: Chapter 41.58 RCW.

catchline: Criteria for choice of employee organization—Procedures for resolution of controversy.


title: RCW 53.18.040

text:
Port districts exercising the authority granted by RCW 53.18.020 may take any of the following actions as incidental thereto: Make necessary expenditures; act jointly with other ports or employers; engage technical assistance; make appearances before and utilize the services of state or federal agencies, boards, courts, or commissions; make retroactive payments of wages where provided by agreements; and exercise all other necessary powers to carry this chapter into effect, including the promulgation of rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this chapter.
[ 1967 c 101 s 4.]

catchline: Incidental powers of district.


title: RCW 53.18.050

text:
A labor agreement signed by a port district may contain:
(1) Provisions that the employee organization chosen by a majority of the employees in a grouping or unit will be recognized as the representative of all employees in the classification included in such grouping or unit;
(2) Maintenance of membership provisions including dues cross-check arrangements as provided in RCW 41.56.231; and
(3) Provisions providing for binding arbitration, the expenses being equally borne by the parties, in matters of contract interpretation and the settlement of jurisdictional disputes.
[ 2019 c 230 s 24; 1967 c 101 s 5.]

catchline: Agreements—Authorized provisions.


title: RCW 53.18.060

text:
No labor agreement or contract entered into by a port district shall:
(1) Restrict the right of the port district in its discretion to hire;
(2) Limit the right of the port to secure its regular or steady employees from the local community;
(3) Include within the same agreements: (a) Port security personnel and (b) port supervisory personnel; and
(4) Include within the same bargaining unit: (a) Port professional personnel and (b) port supervisory personnel.
[ 2018 c 251 s 2; 1967 c 101 s 6.]

catchline: Restraints on agreement.


title: RCW 53.18.070

text:
The privilege established by RCW 5.60.060(11) shall apply to all employee organizations covered by this chapter and in all proceedings authorized by this chapter.
[ 2023 c 202 s 10.]
Notes:
Findings—2023 c 202: See note following RCW 5.60.060.

catchline: Certain communications—Privilege from examination and disclosure.


title: RCW 53.19.005

text:
The legislature hereby establishes a policy of open competition for all personal service contracts entered into by port districts unless specifically exempted under this chapter. It is further the intent to provide differentiation between the competitive procurement procedures for personal and professional services contracts.
[ 2008 c 130 s 5.]

catchline: Intent.


title: RCW 53.19.010

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Commission" means the elected oversight body of an individual port.
(2) "Competitive solicitation" means a documented formal process providing an equal and open opportunity to qualified parties and culminating in a selection based on criteria, in which criteria other than price may be the primary basis for consideration. The criteria may include such factors as the consultant's fees or costs, ability, capacity, experience, reputation, responsiveness to time limitations, responsiveness to solicitation requirements, quality of previous performance, and compliance with statutes and rules relating to contracts or services.
(3) "Consultant" means an independent individual or firm contracting with a port to perform a service or render an opinion or recommendation according to the consultant's methods and without being subject to the control of the port except as to the result of the work. The port monitors progress under the contract and authorizes payment.
(4) "Emergency" means a set of unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the port that either:
(a) Present a real, immediate threat to the proper performance of essential functions; or
(b) May result in material loss or damage to property, bodily injury, or loss of life if immediate action is not taken.
(5) "Evidence of competition" means documentation demonstrating that the port has solicited responses from multiple firms in selecting a consultant.
(6) "Personal service" means professional or technical expertise provided by a consultant to accomplish a specific study, project, task, or other work statement which may not reasonably be required in connection with a public works project meeting the definition in *RCW 39.04.010(4). "Personal service" does not include purchased services as defined under subsection (8) of this section or professional services procured using the competitive selection requirements in chapter 39.80 RCW.
(7) "Personal service contract" means an agreement, or any amendment thereto, with a consultant for the rendering of personal services to the port.
(8) "Purchased services" means services provided by a vendor to accomplish routine, continuing, and necessary functions. "Purchased services" includes, but is not limited to, services for equipment maintenance and repair; operation of a physical plant; security; computer hardware and software maintenance; data entry; key punch services; and computer time-sharing, contract programming, and analysis.
(9) "Sole source" means a consultant providing professional or technical expertise of such a unique nature that the consultant is clearly and justifiably the only practicable source to provide the service. The justification shall be based on the uniqueness of the service, sole availability at the location required, or warranty or defect correction service obligations of the consultant.
[ 2008 c 130 s 6.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 39.04.010 was amended by 2023 c 395 s 2, changing subsection (4) to subsection (5), effective July 1, 2024.


title: RCW 53.19.020

text:
All personal service contracts shall be entered into pursuant to competitive solicitation, except for:
(1) Emergency contracts;
(2) Sole source contracts;
(3) Contract amendments;
(4) Contracts between a consultant and a port of less than fifty thousand dollars. However, contracts of fifty thousand dollars or greater but less than two hundred thousand dollars shall have documented evidence of competition. Ports shall not structure contracts to evade these requirements; and
(5) Other specific contracts or classes or groups of contracts exempted from the competitive solicitation process by the commission when it has been determined that a competitive solicitation process is not appropriate or cost-effective.
[ 2008 c 130 s 7.]

catchline: Exceptions.


title: RCW 53.19.030

text:
Emergency contracts shall be filed with the commission and made available for public inspection within seven working days following the commencement of work or execution of the contract, whichever occurs first. Documented justification for emergency contracts shall be provided to the commission when the contract is filed.
[ 2008 c 130 s 8.]

catchline: Emergency contracts.


title: RCW 53.19.040

text:
(1) Sole source contracts shall be filed with the commission and made available for public inspection prior to the proposed starting date of the contract. Documented justification for sole source contracts shall be provided to the commission when the contract is filed. For sole source contracts of fifty thousand dollars or more, documented justification shall include evidence that the port attempted to identify potential consultants.
(2) The commission shall ensure that the costs, fees, or rates negotiated in filed sole source contracts of fifty thousand dollars or more are reasonable.
[ 2008 c 130 s 9.]

catchline: Sole source contracts.


title: RCW 53.19.050

text:
A port commissioner or employee shall not expend any funds for personal service contracts subject to this chapter unless the port has complied with the competitive procurement and other requirements of this chapter. The port commissioner or employee executing the personal service contracts is responsible for compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Willful and intentional failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter subjects the port commissioner or employee to a civil penalty in the amount of three hundred dollars. A consultant who knowingly violates this chapter in seeking or performing work under a personal services contract is subject to a civil penalty of three hundred dollars or twenty-five percent of the amount of the contract, whichever is greater. The state auditor is responsible for auditing violations of this chapter through its regular financial and accountability audits. The attorney general is responsible for prosecuting violations of this chapter.
[ 2008 c 130 s 10.]

catchline: Compliance with chapter—Civil penalties—Auditing—Prosecution.


title: RCW 53.19.060

text:
(1) Substantial changes in the scope of work specified in the contract or which are substantial additions to the scope of work specified in the formal solicitation document shall be submitted to the commission for a determination as to whether the change warrants the work to be awarded as a new contract.
(2) An amendment or amendments to personal service contracts, if the value of the amendment or amendments, whether singly or cumulatively, exceeds fifty percent of the value of the original contract must be filed with the commission and made available for public inspection prior to the proposed starting date of services under the amendments.
[ 2008 c 130 s 11.]

catchline: Changes in scope of work—Amendments to contracts.


title: RCW 53.19.070

text:
This chapter does not apply to:
(1) Contracts specifying a fee of less than fifty thousand dollars;
(2) Contracts awarded to companies that furnish a service where the tariff is established by the utilities and transportation commission or other public entity;
(3) Intergovernmental agreements awarded to any governmental entity, whether federal, state, or local and any department, division, or subdivision thereof;
(4) Contracts awarded for services to be performed for a standard fee, when the standard fee is established by the contracting agency or any other governmental entity and a like contract is available to all qualified applicants;
(5) Contracts for services that are necessary to the conduct of collaborative research if prior approval is granted by the funding source;
(6) Contracts for professional services which are entered into under chapter 39.80 RCW; and
(7) Contracts for the employment of expert witnesses for the purposes of litigation or legal services to supplement the expertise of port staff.
[ 2008 c 130 s 12.]

catchline: Application of chapter restricted.


title: RCW 53.19.080

text:
(1) The municipal research [and] services center, in cooperation with the Washington public ports association, shall develop guidelines for the effective and efficient management of personal service contracts by all ports. The guidelines must, at a minimum, include:
(a) Accounting methods, systems, measures, and principles to be used by ports and consultants;
(b) Precontract procedures for selecting potential consultants based on their qualifications and ability to perform;
(c) Incorporation of performance measures and measurable benchmarks in contracts, and the use of performance audits;
(d) Uniform contract terms to ensure contract performance and compliance with port, state, and federal standards;
(e) Proper payment and reimbursement methods to ensure that the port receives full value for taxpayer moneys, including cost settlements and cost allowance;
(f) Postcontract procedures, including methods for recovering improperly spent or overspent moneys for disallowance and adjustment;
(g) Adequate contract remedies and sanctions to ensure compliance;
(h) Monitoring, fund tracking, risk assessment, and auditing procedures and requirements;
(i) Financial reporting, record retention, and record access procedures and requirements;
(j) Procedures and criteria for terminating contracts for cause or otherwise; and
(k) Any other subject related to effective and efficient contract management.
(2) The municipal research [and] services center shall submit a status report on the guidelines required by subsection (1) of this section to the governor and the appropriate standing committees of the legislature no later than December 1, 2008.
(3) The Washington public ports association shall publish a guidebook for use by ports containing the guidelines developed under subsection (1) of this section.
(4) The municipal research [and] services center and the Washington public ports association shall each make the guidelines available on their websites.
[ 2008 c 130 s 13.]

catchline: Management of contracts—Guidelines.


title: RCW 53.19.090

text:
(1) A port entering into or amending personal service contracts shall follow the policies adopted by the commission, which shall be based on guidelines developed pursuant to RCW 53.19.080.
(2) This section applies to ports entering into or renewing contracts after January 1, 2010.
[ 2008 c 130 s 14.]

catchline: Commission policies—Ports to follow.


title: RCW 53.19.100

text:
The Washington public ports association shall provide a training course for port personnel responsible for executing and managing personal service contracts. The course must contain training on effective and efficient contract management under the guidelines established under RCW 53.19.080. Port districts shall require port employees responsible for executing or managing personal service contracts to complete the training course to the satisfaction of the commission.
[ 2008 c 130 s 15.]

catchline: Training course.


title: RCW 53.20.010

text:
It shall be the duty of the port commission of any port district, before creating any improvements hereunder, to adopt a comprehensive scheme of harbor improvement in the port district, after a public hearing thereon, of which notice shall be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the port district, and no expenditure for the carrying on of any harbor improvements shall be made by the port commission other than the necessary salaries, including engineers, clerical and office expenses of the port district, and the cost of engineering, surveying, preparation and collection of data necessary for the making and adoption of a general scheme of harbor improvements in the port district, unless and until the comprehensive scheme of harbor improvement has been so officially adopted by the port commission.
[ 1985 c 469 s 51; 1943 c 166 s 3; 1913 c 62 s 6; 1911 c 92 s 6; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 9694.]

catchline: Adoption of harbor improvement plan.


title: RCW 53.20.020

text:
When such general plans shall have been adopted or approved, as aforesaid, every improvement to be made by said commission shall be made substantially in accordance therewith unless and until such general plans shall have been officially changed by the port commission after a public hearing thereon, of which at least ten days' notice shall be published in a newspaper in general circulation in such port district.
[ 1947 c 24 s 1; 1913 c 62 s 7; 1911 c 92 s 7; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 9695.]

catchline: Improvement to follow plans adopted.


title: RCW 53.20.030

text:
No improvements shall be acquired or constructed, by the port district, unless such improvements shall, when completed, be the property of such port district, the county in which such port district is located, any city within such port district, the state of Washington or the United States of America, and the funds of such port district may be expended in the acquirement or construction of any harbor improvement embraced in such general plan adopted as in this chapter provided in conjunction with the county in which such port district is located, any city in such port district, the state of Washington or the United States of America, or all or any of them.
[ 1979 ex.s. c 30 s 9; 1913 c 62 s 8; 1911 c 92 s 8; RRS s 9696.]

catchline: Improvements—Ownership of.


title: RCW 53.20.040

text:
Whenever any improvement shall be ordered, payment for which shall be made in part from assessments against property specially benefited, not more than fifty percent of the cost thereof shall ever be borne by the entire port district, nor shall any sum be contributed by it to any improvement acquired or constructed with or by any other body, exceed [exceeding] such amount, unless a majority vote of the electors of the port district shall consent to or ratify the making of such expenditure.
[ 1911 c 92 s 11; RRS s 9698.]

catchline: Fifty percent of cost of local improvement may be paid from general fund.


title: RCW 53.20.050

text:
Whenever a petition signed by one hundred freeholders in the district to be therein described, shall be filed with the port commission, asking that any portion of the general plan adopted be ordered, and defining the boundaries of a local improvement district to be assessed in whole or in part to pay the cost thereof, it shall be the duty of the port commission to fix a date for hearing on the petition, after which it may alter the boundaries of the proposed district and prepare and adopt detail plans of any such local improvement, declare the estimated cost thereof, what proportion of the cost shall be borne by the proposed local improvement district, and what proportion of the cost, if any, but in any event not to exceed fifty percent, shall be borne by the entire port district. At any time within two years thereafter, upon petition of the owners of a majority of the lands in the proposed local improvement district, fixed by the port commission, as shown in the office of the auditor of the county, asking that the improvement be ordered, the port commission shall forthwith by resolution order the improvement, provide the general funds of the port district to be applied thereto, acquire all lands necessary therefor, pay all damages caused thereby, and commence in the name of the port district such eminent domain proceedings and supplemental assessment or reassessment proceedings to pay all eminent domain awards as may be necessary to entitle the port district to proceed with such work, and shall thereafter proceed with the work, and shall make and file with the county treasurer its roll levying special assessments in the amount to be paid by special assessment against the property situated within the local improvement district in proportion to the special benefits to be derived by the property in the local improvement district from the improvement. Before the approval of the roll a notice shall be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in one or more newspapers of general circulation in the local improvement district, stating that the roll is on file and open to inspection in the office of the clerk of the port commission, and fixing a time not less than fifteen nor more than thirty days from the date of the first publication of the notice within which protests must be filed with the clerk of the port commission against any assessments shown thereon, and fixing a time when a hearing shall be held by the commission on the protests. After the hearing the port commission may alter any and all assessments shown on the roll and may then by resolution approve the same, but in the event of any assessment being raised a new notice similar to the first notice shall be given, after which final approval of the roll may be made by the port commission. Any person feeling aggrieved by any such assessments shall perfect an appeal to the superior court of the county within ten days after the approval in the manner now provided by law for appeals from assessments levied by cities of the first class in this state. Engineering and office expenses in all cases shall be borne by the general district.
[ 1985 c 469 s 52; 1911 c 92 s 10; RRS s 9697. Formerly RCW 53.20.050 through 53.20.080.]
Notes:
Appeal from assessments: RCW 35.44.200 through 35.44.270.
Special assessments for local improvement: State Constitution Art. 7 s 9.

catchline: Local improvements upon majority petition.


title: RCW 53.20.055

text:
Any port district may adopt and amend a freight development plan as an amendment to the port's comprehensive scheme of harbor improvements, pursuant to RCW 53.20.020. Port districts in the state shall submit their freight development plans to the relevant regional transportation planning organization or metropolitan planning organization, the Washington state department of transportation, the freight mobility strategic investment board, and affected cities and counties to better coordinate the development and funding of freight mobility projects.
[ 2023 c 167 s 10; 1998 c 175 s 9. Formerly RCW 47.06A.080.]

catchline: Freight development plans.


title: RCW 53.20.090

text:
(1) The port district equity fund is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Moneys to the account may consist of appropriations by the legislature, contributions from county and local governments and port districts, and private contributions. Expenditures from the account may only be used to make grants to port districts under RCW 43.330.610. Only the director of the department of commerce or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to the allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
(2) The department of commerce shall provide management services for the port district equity fund. The department shall establish procedures for fund management. The department shall develop the grant criteria, monitor the grant program, and select grant recipients.
(3) The department of commerce shall prepare and publish an annual report on its website detailing grants made under this section, the uses to which the grants have been put, and the benefits that have been realized.
(4) During the 2023-2025 fiscal biennium, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to transfer money in the port district equity fund to the state general fund.
[ 2025 c 424 s 1911; 2024 c 194 s 6.]
Notes:
Reviser's note—Sunset Act application: The port district noise mitigation grant program is subject to review, termination, and possible extension under chapter 43.131 RCW, the Sunset Act. See RCW 43.131.429. RCW 53.20.090 is scheduled for future repeal under RCW 43.131.430.
Effective date—2025 c 424: See note following RCW 9.46.100.
Legislative findings—Intent—2024 c 194: See note following RCW 53.54.030.

catchline: Port district equity fund.


title: RCW 53.25.010

text:
It is hereby declared to be the public policy of the legislature of the state of Washington, that it is in the public interest to employ the power of eminent domain and advance and expend public moneys for the purposes herein contained, and to provide for means by which marginal area properties may be developed or redeveloped in accordance with the legislative policies hereinafter stated:
(1) A sound development of the economic security of the peoples of the state of Washington is dependent upon proper development and redevelopment of marginal properties, and the general welfare of the inhabitants of the port districts in which they exist require the remedying of such injurious conditions marginal properties are now subjected to.
(2) The development and redevelopment of such marginal area properties cannot be accomplished by private enterprise alone without public participation and assistance in the acquisition of land and planning and in the financing of land assembly in the work of clearance, development and redevelopment, and in the making of improvements necessary therefor.
(3) To protect and promote sound development and redevelopment of marginal lands as hereinafter defined, and the general welfare of the inhabitants of the port districts in which they exist, to remedying such injurious conditions through the employment of all appropriate means.
(4) That whenever the development or redevelopment of such marginal lands cannot be accomplished by private enterprise alone, without public participation and assistance in the acquisition of land and planning and in financing of land assembly in the work of clearance, development and redevelopment, and in the making of improvements necessary therefor, it is in the public interest to employ the power of eminent domain, to advance and expend public moneys for those purposes, and to provide for means by which such marginal lands may be developed or redeveloped.
(5) That the development or redevelopment of such marginal lands and the provision of appropriate continuing land use constitute public uses and purposes for which public moneys may be advanced or expended and private property acquired, and are governmental functions and are of state concern in the interest of health, safety and welfare of the state of Washington, and of the communities in which such areas exist.
(6) That the necessity in the public interest for the provision of this chapter is declared to be a matter of legislative determination.
[ 1955 c 73 s 1.]

catchline: Marginal lands—Declaration of policies and purposes.


title: RCW 53.25.020

text:
It is further found and declared that:
(1) The existence of such marginal lands characterized by any or all of such conditions constitutes a serious and growing menace which is condemned as injurious and inimical to the public health, safety, and welfare of the people of the communities in which they exist and of the people of the state.
(2) Such marginal lands present difficulties and handicaps which are beyond remedy and control solely by regulatory processes in the exercise of the police power.
(3) They contribute substantially and increasingly to the problems of, and necessitate excessive and disproportionate expenditures for, crime prevention, correction, prosecution, and punishment, the treatment of juvenile delinquency, the preservation of the public health and safety, and the maintaining of adequate police, fire and accident protection, and other public services and facilities.
(4) This menace is becoming increasingly direct and substantial in its significance and effect.
(5) The benefits which will result from the remedying of such conditions and the redevelopment of such marginal lands will accrue to all the inhabitants and property owners of the communities in which they exist.
(6) Such conditions of marginal lands tend to further obsolescence, deterioration, and disuse because of the lack of incentive to the individual landowner and his or her inability to improve, modernize, or rehabilitate his or her property while the condition of the neighboring properties remains unchanged.
(7) As a consequence the process of deterioration of such marginal lands frequently cannot be halted or corrected except by redeveloping the entire area, or substantial portions of it.
(8) Such conditions of marginal lands are chiefly found in areas subdivided into small parcels, held in divided and widely scattered ownerships, frequently under defective titles, and in many such instances the private assembly of the land areas for redevelopment is so difficult and costly that it is uneconomic and as a practical matter impossible for owners to undertake because of lack of the legal power and excessive costs.
(9) The remedying of such conditions may require the public acquisition at fair prices of adequate areas, the redevelopment of the areas suffering from such conditions under proper supervision, with appropriate planning, and continuing land use.
(10) The development or redevelopment of land, or both, acquired under the authority of this chapter constitute a public use and are governmental functions, and that the sale or leasing of such land after the same has been developed or redeveloped is merely incidental to the accomplishment of the real or fundamental purpose, that is, to remove the condition which caused said property to be marginal property as in this chapter defined.
[ 2010 c 8 s 16006; 1955 c 73 s 2.]

catchline: Marginal lands—Further declaration.


title: RCW 53.25.030

text:
"Marginal lands" is defined and characterized by any one or more of the following described conditions:
(1) An economic dislocation, deterioration, or disuse resulting from faulty planning.
(2) The subdividing and sale of lots of irregular form and shape and inadequate size for proper usefulness and development.
(3) The laying out of lots in disregard of the contours and other physical characteristics of the ground and surrounding conditions.
(4) The existence of inadequate streets, open spaces, and utilities.
(5) The existence of lots or other areas which are subject to being submerged by water.
(6) By a prevalence of depreciated values, impaired investments, and social and economic maladjustment to such an extent that the capacity to pay taxes is reduced and tax receipts are inadequate for the cost of public services rendered.
(7) In some parts of marginal lands, a growing or total lack of proper utilization of areas, resulting in a stagnant and unproductive condition of land potentially useful and valuable for contributing to the public health, safety and welfare.
(8) In other parts of marginal lands, a loss of population and reduction of proper utilization of the area, resulting in its further deterioration and added costs to the taxpayer for the creation of new public facilities and services elsewhere.
(9) Property of an assessed valuation of insufficient amount to permit the establishment of a local improvement district for the construction and installation of streets, walks, sewers, water and other utilities.
(10) Lands within an industrial area which are not devoted to industrial use but which are necessary to industrial development within the industrial area.
[ 1955 c 73 s 3.]

catchline: "Marginal lands" defined.


title: RCW 53.25.040

text:
(1) A port commission may, after a public hearing thereon, of which at least ten days' notice must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the port district, create industrial development districts within the district and define the boundaries thereof, if it finds that the creation of the industrial development district is proper and desirable in establishing and developing a system of harbor improvements and industrial development in the port district.
(2)(a) The boundaries of an industrial development district created by subsection (1) of this section may be revised from time to time by resolution of the port commission, to delete land area therefrom, if the land area to be deleted was acquired by the port district with its own funds or by gift or transfer other than pursuant to RCW 53.25.050 or 53.25.060.
(b) As to any land area to be deleted under this subsection that was acquired or improved by the port district with funds obtained through RCW * 53.36.100 or 53.36.160, the port district must deposit funds equal to the fair market value of the lands and improvements into the fund for future use described in RCW * 53.36.100 or 53.36.160 and such funds are thereafter subject to RCW * 53.36.100 or 53.36.160. The fair market value of the land and improvements must be determined as of the effective date of the port commission action deleting the land from the industrial development district and must be determined by an average of at least two independent appraisals by professionally designated real estate appraisers or licensed real estate brokers. The funds must be deposited into the fund for future use described in *RCW 53.36.100 within ninety days of the effective date of the port commission action deleting the land area from the industrial district. Land areas deleted from an industrial development district under this subsection are not further subject to the provisions of this chapter. This subsection applies to presently existing and future industrial development districts. Land areas deleted from an industrial development district under this subsection that were included within such district for less than two years, if the port district acquired the land through condemnation or as a consequence of threatened condemnation, must be offered for sale, for cash, at the appraised price, to the former owner of the property from whom the district obtained title. Such offer must be made by certified or registered letter to the last known address of the former owner. The letter must include the appraised price of the property and notice that the former owner must respond in writing within thirty days or lose the right to purchase. If this right to purchase is exercised, the sale must be closed by midnight of the sixtieth day, including nonbusiness days, following close of the thirty-day period.
[ 2015 c 135 s 2; 1989 c 167 s 1; 1985 c 469 s 53; 1955 c 73 s 4. Prior: 1943 c 166 s 1; 1939 c 45 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 9709-1; RCW 53.24.010.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 53.36.100 was repealed by 2015 c 135 s 5, effective January 1, 2026.

catchline: Industrial development districts authorized—Boundaries—Deletion of land area.


title: RCW 53.25.050

text:
Any lands in an industrial development district acquired by the county by tax foreclosure, may, if the county commissioners deem the lands chiefly valuable for industrial development purposes, be conveyed to the port district. The lands shall be held in trust by the port district and may be managed, developed, leased, or sold by it as provided in this chapter.
From the proceeds of the sale or lease of the lands, the district shall first reimburse itself for any expense incurred by it in managing and developing the lands and any balance shall be paid to the county, which shall distribute it the same as general taxes collected in that year.
[ 1955 c 73 s 5. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 2; RRS s 9709-2; RCW 53.24.020.]

catchline: Tax title lands may be conveyed to district.


title: RCW 53.25.060

text:
With the approval of the county commissioners, any lands in an industrial development district, owned privately, which the port commission deems valuable for industrial development purposes, may be deeded to and accepted by the port district, subject to delinquent general taxes thereon. When the commission has recorded the deed and notified the county commissioners thereof, the county commissioners shall order all taxes assessed against the lands canceled and the county treasurer shall record the cancellation, and remove the lands from the tax rolls. Thereafter the lands shall be held in trust, managed, developed, leased, and sold by the district, and the proceeds therefrom disposed of in the same manner as hereinabove provided.
[ 1955 c 73 s 6. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 3; RRS s 9709-3; RCW 53.24.030.]

catchline: Private lands may be conveyed to district—Cancellation of taxes.


title: RCW 53.25.070

text:
With the approval of the county commissioners, a port district may free any lands acquired by it pursuant to this chapter from the trust imposed upon it herein, by paying to the county the amount of the delinquent taxes against the land at the time the county acquired it by tax foreclosure, or the amount of the delinquent taxes against it when it was conveyed to the district by the private owner.
[ 1955 c 73 s 7. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 4; RRS s 9709-4; RCW 53.24.040.]

catchline: Discharge of trust.


title: RCW 53.25.080

text:
Ten years from the date of its acquisition, property acquired by a port district pursuant to this chapter shall revert to the county to be used the same as property acquired by tax foreclosure, and upon demand by the county commissioners the port commission shall convey the property to the county, unless before the expiration of the ten year period, the port district has adopted a comprehensive plan of harbor improvement which provides for the improvement of an industrial development district which includes such lands or the district has freed the land from the trust imposed upon it as provided in this chapter.
[ 1955 c 73 s 8. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 8; RRS s 9709-8; RCW 53.24.050.]

catchline: When lands revert to county.


title: RCW 53.25.090

text:
No expenditure for improvement of property in an industrial development district, other than the expense of preparing and submitting a plan of improvement shall be made by a port district, and no property shall be acquired by it therefor except as provided for hereinbefore until it has been made a part of the comprehensive scheme of harbor improvements and industrial developments or amendments thereto.
That said comprehensive scheme or amendments thereto shall provide for the development or redevelopment of those marginal lands acquired and a provision for the continuing of the land uses which are hereby declared to constitute public uses and the purposes for which public moneys may be advanced and provide property acquired.
[ 1955 c 73 s 9. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 5; RRS s 9709-5; RCW 53.24.060.]

catchline: Conditions precedent to making improvements.


title: RCW 53.25.100

text:
All port districts wherein industrial development districts have been established are authorized and empowered to acquire by purchase or condemnation or both, all lands, property and property rights necessary for the purpose of the development and improvement of such industrial development district and to exercise the right of eminent domain in the acquirement or damaging of all lands, property and property rights and the levying and collecting of assessments upon property for the payment of all damages and compensation in carrying out the provisions for which said industrial development district has been created; to develop and improve the lands within such industrial development district to make the same suitable and available for industrial uses and purposes; to dredge, bulkhead, fill, grade, and protect such property; to provide, maintain, and operate water, light, power and fire protection facilities and services, streets, roads, bridges, highways, waterways, tracks, and rail and water transfer and terminal facilities and other harbor and industrial improvements; to execute leases of such lands or property or any part thereof; to establish local improvement districts within such industrial development districts which may, but need not, be coextensive with the boundaries thereof, and to levy special assessments, under the mode of annual installments, over a period not exceeding ten years, on all property specially benefited by any local improvement, on the basis of special benefits, to pay in whole or in part the damages or costs of any improvement ordered in such local improvement district; to issue local improvement bonds in any such local improvement district; to be repaid by the collection of local improvement assessments; and generally to exercise with respect to and within such industrial development districts all the powers now or hereafter conferred by law upon port districts in counties with a population of one hundred twenty-five thousand or more: PROVIDED, That the exercise of powers hereby authorized and granted shall be in the manner now and hereafter provided by the laws of the state for the exercise of such powers by port districts under the general laws relating thereto insofar as the same shall not be inconsistent with this chapter.
[ 1991 c 363 s 132; 1955 c 73 s 10. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 6; RRS s 9709-6; RCW 53.24.070.]
Notes:
Purpose—Captions not law—1991 c 363: See notes following RCW 2.32.180.
Eminent domain: State Constitution Art. 1 s 16 (Amendment 9); Title 8 RCW.

catchline: Powers as to industrial development districts.


title: RCW 53.25.110

text:
When a port commission deems it for the best interests of the district and the people thereof and in furtherance of its general plan of harbor improvement, or industrial development, or both, it may sell and convey any property or part thereof owned by it within an industrial district. This section shall not be limited by chapter 53.08 RCW, pertaining to powers of port districts.
[ 1955 c 73 s 11. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 9; RRS s 9709-9; RCW 53.28.010.]
Notes:
Harbor improvement plan: RCW 53.20.010.

catchline: Sale authorized in industrial development district.


title: RCW 53.25.120

text:
The port commission shall give notice of the proposed sale by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, and by posting in three public places in the port district at least ten days before the date fixed for the hearing thereon.
The notice shall describe the property to be sold and state that at the time and place specified therein, the commission will meet at its usual meeting place, designating it, to hear and determine the advisability of the sale.
The hearing shall be held not more than twenty days from the publication of notice. At the hearing the commission shall hear the reasons of any taxpayer in the port district, for or against the sale.
No sales shall be made, however, of the property of any industrial development district until the purchaser thereof shall have submitted to the port commission plans and specifications for the development of the property, and the plans and specifications shall be approved in writing before the property shall be conveyed, and the conditions upon which the properties are conveyed shall be set forth in the instrument conveying title thereof with the further condition that all of the conditions set forth shall be covenants running with the land. All properties acquired in the manner herein set forth shall be devoted to the public use herein provided for.
[ 1985 c 469 s 54; 1963 c 138 s 1; 1955 c 73 s 12. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 10; RRS s 9709-10; RCW 53.28.020.]
Notes:
Validating—1963 c 138: "All sales made prior to the effective date of this amendatory act which are otherwise valid except for compliance with the limitation in section 12, chapter 73, Laws of 1955, which provided that the hearing shall be held not more than ten days from the publication of notice, are hereby ratified and validated.
All sales made prior to the effective date of this amendatory act under the provisions of section 18, chapter 73, Laws of 1955 and RCW 53.25.180 are hereby ratified and validated." [ 1963 c 138 s 3.]

catchline: Notice of hearing on sale—Hearing—Plans and specifications—Conditions—Devotion of property to public use.


title: RCW 53.25.130

text:
Within three days after the hearing the commission shall make its findings and determination on the advisability of making the sale and enter its determination in its records. Any aggrieved party may appeal the determination of the commission by filing appeal with the superior court of the county in which the district is located within twenty days of the entry of the determination but no appeal shall be allowed except on the grounds that the action of the commission was arbitrary, capricious, or unlawful.
[ 1955 c 73 s 13. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 11; RRS s 9709-11; RCW 53.28.030.]


title: RCW 53.25.140

text:
If the determination is against the sale, all proceedings thereon shall terminate. If the commission determines in favor of the sale by at least a two-thirds vote of the full commission, it shall in its discretion, either enter an order fixing a period, not less than twenty nor more than thirty days from the date of the order, during which bids will be received for the property or any part thereof, and give notice thereof in the same manner as for the hearing on the proposal to sell or negotiate the sale with an appropriate purchaser, provided that in any such negotiated sale the purchase price must not be less than the fair market value of the property which shall be determined by an average of at least two independent appraisals performed by licensed real estate brokers or professionally designated real estate appraisers as defined in *RCW 74.46.020. Whether the property is sold by competitive bidding or negotiation, other real property conveyed by the purchaser to the commission may constitute all or a portion of the consideration for the sale.
[ 1984 c 195 s 1; 1955 c 73 s 14. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 12; RRS s 9709-12; RCW 53.28.040.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 74.46.020 was amended by 2010 1st sp.s. c 34 s 2, deleting the definition of "professionally designated real estate appraiser."

catchline: Action on determination—Sale by competitive bid or negotiation.


title: RCW 53.25.150

text:
If the commission chooses to sell the property through competitive bidding under RCW 53.25.140:
(1) Bids may be submitted for the property or any part of it, shall state the use which the bidder intends to make of it, and the commission may require the successful bidder to file additional information as to the intended use, and may require of him or her security as assurance that the property will be used for that purpose;
(2) All sales shall be made to the best bidder, and in determining the best bid, the commission may also consider the nature of the proposed use and the relation thereof to the improvement of the harbor and the business and facilities thereof;
(3) Within thirty days after the last day for submitting bids, the commission shall decide which if any bids it accepts. All sales shall be made upon such terms and conditions as the commission may prescribe.
[ 2010 c 8 s 16007; 1984 c 195 s 2; 1955 c 73 s 15. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 13, part; RRS s 9709-13, part; RCW 53.28.050.]

catchline: Competitive bids—Conditions—Acceptance.


title: RCW 53.25.160

text:
The purchaser shall, within one year from the date of purchase, devote the property to its intended use, or shall commence work on the improvements thereon to devote it to such use, and if he or she fails to do so, the port commission may cancel the sale and return the money paid on the purchase price, and title to the property shall revert to the district. This remedy shall be in addition to any other remedy under the terms of the sale. No purchaser shall transfer title to such property within one year from the date of purchase.
[ 2010 c 8 s 16008; 1955 c 73 s 16. Prior: 1939 c 45 s 13, part; RRS s 9709-13, part; RCW 53.28.060.]

catchline: Devotion of property to intended use—Remedy—Restraint on alienation.


title: RCW 53.25.170

text:
All sales made in accordance with the provisions of this chapter shall have incorporated in the instrument of conveyance of title the conditions of this chapter relating to the use of the land as a covenant running with the land. Any violation of such covenant shall result in a right by the commission, as grantee, to forfeit the land.
[ 1955 c 73 s 17.]

catchline: Covenant running with the land—Forfeiture.


title: RCW 53.25.190

text:
All port districts of the state of Washington which have created or may hereafter create industrial development districts in the manner provided by law, in addition to all powers possessed by such port districts, be and are hereby granted power of eminent domain to acquire real property within the limits of such industrial development district which property is marginal lands as the term is herein defined. The exercise of the power granted in this section shall be exercised in the same manner and by the same procedure as in or may be provided by law for cities of the first class except insofar as such duties may be inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter and the duties devolving upon the city treasurer under said law be and the same are hereby imposed upon the county treasurer for the purposes of this chapter.
[ 1955 c 73 s 19.]
Notes:
Eminent domain: State Constitution Art. 1 s 16 (Amendment 9).
Eminent domain by cities: Chapter 8.12 RCW.

catchline: Eminent domain.


title: RCW 53.25.200

text:
Port districts are hereby granted the power to advance their general fund moneys or credit, or both, without interest to accomplish the objects and purposes of this chapter, which fund shall be repaid from the sale or lease, or both, of such developed or redeveloped lands, provided, if the money advanced for such development or redevelopment was obtained from the sale of general obligation bonds of the port, then such advances shall bear the same rate of interest that said bonds bore.
[ 1955 c 73 s 20.]

catchline: Advances of general fund moneys or credit.


title: RCW 53.25.210

text:
The determination that property sought by eminent domain proceedings is marginal lands as herein defined is a judicial question, provided that a duly adopted resolution of the commissioners of the port district that the property sought is marginal lands as the term is herein defined, setting forth the characteristics of the lands sought to be acquired which constitutes the marginal lands as herein defined, shall be prima facie evidence that such land is marginal lands as defined in this chapter.
[ 1955 c 73 s 21.]

catchline: Determination that land sought by eminent domain is marginal.


title: RCW 53.25.900

text:
Chapter 53.24 RCW and chapter 53.28 RCW and chapter 45, Laws of 1939, as last amended by section 1, chapter 166, Laws of 1943 are repealed: PROVIDED, That nothing herein contained shall be construed as affecting any existing right acquired under the provisions of said act.
[ 1955 c 73 s 22.]

catchline: Repeal and saving.


title: RCW 53.29.010

text:
It is declared to be the finding of the legislature of the state of Washington that:
(1) The servicing functions and activities connected with the oceanborne and overseas airborne trade and commerce of port districts, including customs clearance, shipping negotiations, cargo routing, freight forwarding, financing, insurance arrangements and other similar transactions which are presently performed in various, scattered physical and electronic locations in the districts should be centralized to provide for more efficient and economical transportation of persons and more efficient and economical physical or electronic facilities and services for the exchange and buying, selling and transportation of commodities and other property in world trade and commerce;
(2) Unification, at a single, centrally located physical or electronic site of a facility of commerce, i.e., a trade center, accommodating the functions and activities described in subsection (1) of this section and the appropriate governmental, administrative and other services connected with or incidental to transportation and security of persons and property and the promotion and protection of port commerce, and providing a central locale for exhibiting, and otherwise promoting the exchange and buying and selling of commodities and property in world trade and commerce, will materially assist in preserving the material and other benefits of a prosperous port community;
(3) The undertaking of the aforesaid unified trade center project by a port district or the Washington public ports association has the single object of preserving, and will aid in the promotion, security, and preservation of, the economic well-being of port districts and the state of Washington and is found and determined to be a public purpose.
[ 2002 c 145 s 1; 1989 c 425 s 5; 1967 c 56 s 1.]
Notes:
Findings—Severability—1989 c 425: See notes following RCW 53.06.070.

catchline: Declaration of purpose.


title: RCW 53.29.015

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout RCW 53.29.020 and 53.29.030 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Person" has the same meaning as defined in the electronic signatures in global and national commerce act (15 U.S.C. Sec. 7006 (8)) in effect on June 13, 2002.
(2) "Transaction" has the same meaning as defined in the electronic signatures in global and national commerce act (15 U.S.C. Sec. 7006 (13)) in effect on June 13, 2002. However, "transaction" also includes actions relating to governmental affairs.
[ 2002 c 145 s 4.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 53.29.020

text:
In addition to all other powers granted to port districts, any such district, the Washington public ports association, or the federation of Washington ports as described in RCW 53.06.070 may acquire, as provided for other port properties in RCW 53.08.010, construct, develop, operate and maintain all land or other property interests, buildings, structures or other improvements, and may participate in transactions necessary to provide, electronically or otherwise, facilities or to exercise powers or purposes of a trade center including but not limited to the following electronic or physical facilities:
(1) A facility consisting of one or more structures, improvements and areas for the centralized accommodation of public and private agencies, persons and facilities in order to afford improved service to waterborne and airborne import and export trade and commerce;
(2) Facilities for the promotion of such import and export trade and commerce, inspection, testing, display and appraisal facilities, foreign trade zones, terminal and transportation facilities, office meeting rooms, auditoriums, libraries, language translation services, storage, warehouse, marketing and exhibition facilities, facilities for federal, state, county and other municipal and governmental agencies providing services relating to the foregoing and including, but not being limited to, customs houses and customs stores, and other incidental facilities and accommodations.
[ 2002 c 145 s 2; 1989 c 425 s 6; 1967 c 56 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Severability—1989 c 425: See notes following RCW 53.06.070.

catchline: Power to establish trade centers—Facilities authorized.


title: RCW 53.29.030

text:
(1) In carrying out the powers authorized by this chapter and chapter 53.06 RCW, port districts and the Washington public ports association are authorized to cooperate, act, and invest jointly with other public and private agencies and persons, including, but not limited to, the federal government, the state, other ports and municipal corporations, other states and their political subdivisions, and private nonprofit trade promotion groups and associate development organizations.
(2) Port districts operating trade center buildings or operating association or federation trade centers, shall pay an annual service fee to the county treasurer wherein the center is located for municipal services rendered to the trade center building. The measure of such service fee shall be equal to three percent of the gross rentals received from the nongovernmental tenants of such trade center building. Such proceeds shall be distributed by the county treasurer as follows: Forty percent to the school district, forty percent to the city, and twenty percent to the county wherein the center is located: PROVIDED, That if the center is located in an unincorporated area, twenty percent shall be allocated to the fire district, forty percent to the school district, and forty percent to the county.
[ 2002 c 145 s 3; 1989 c 425 s 7; 1967 c 56 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—Severability—1989 c 425: See notes following RCW 53.06.070.

catchline: Cooperation with other entities—Annual service fee for support of local government.


title: RCW 53.29.900

text:
This chapter, which may be known and cited as the "Trade Center Act", shall be liberally construed, its purpose being to provide port districts, and their related association and federation, with additional powers to provide trade centers and to promote and encourage trade, tourism, travel, and economic development in a coordinated and efficient manner through the ports of the state of Washington. The powers herein granted shall be in addition to all others granted to port districts.
[ 1989 c 425 s 8; 1967 c 56 s 4.]
Notes:
Findings—Severability—1989 c 425: See notes following RCW 53.06.070.

catchline: Short title—Liberal construction—Powers cumulative.