HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2025-4608
HR 4608
By Representatives Abbarno, Zahn, Keaton, Steele, Ryu, Schmidt, Dent, Taylor, Macri, Pollet, Schmick, Leavitt, Low, Burnett, Barnard, Barkis, Waters, and Orcutt
WHEREAS, A 1983 public works report commissioned by the Washington state legislature found that local governments of the state of Washington projected more than $2 billion in critical infrastructure needs at that time; and
WHEREAS, To support Washington state local governments in the financing of critical infrastructure projects, the 1985 Washington state legislature created the Washington state Public Works Board in 1985; and
WHEREAS, The Public Works Board is composed of 13 members appointed by the governor; three representing cities, three representing counties, three jointly representing water-sewer districts and public utility districts, and four representing the general public; and
WHEREAS, The Public Works Board is responsible for administering low-interest loans and grants to Washington state counties, cities, water and sewer districts, and public utility districts to finance essential drinking water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, road, bridge, and solid waste infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS, Since its creation, the Public Works Board has invested nearly $3.5 billion in more than 2,200 projects supporting essential infrastructure to the direct benefit of residents and businesses in every county and across cities and towns in the state of Washington; and
WHEREAS, In the past six years, awards by the Public Works Board have saved local governments $188 million in interest rate savings and grants, helping keep utility rates affordable; and
WHEREAS, The success of the Public Works Board in providing a viable option for local governments to finance critical infrastructure projects has been recognized and emulated by other states across the nation; and
WHEREAS, The 2025 session of the Washington state legislature marks the fortieth anniversary of the creation of the Public Works Board;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives celebrate the fortieth anniversary of the Public Works Board and recognize the significant benefit the program has created for the state of Washington and communities across the state by preserving public health and safety, protecting the environment, supporting affordable housing, and creating family-wage jobs since its creation in 1985.