TagSB5955(61)

This is a fiscal note summary for Washington State Senate Bill 5955, which concerns large port districts. The document estimates operating expenditures primarily from the Department of Commerce, ranging from approximately $113,104 in the 2023-25 biennium to $114,136 in subsequent biennia, along with capital budget costs starting at $86,586. The Office of State Treasurer notes non-zero but indeterminate cash receipt impacts, while other agencies such as the Department of Revenue and Department of Ecology report no fiscal impact.

Washington State bill E2SSB 5955 creates a grant program, running through July 1, 2029, managed by the Department of Commerce to help large port districts — primarily the Port of Seattle, which operates Sea-Tac Airport — repair or replace faulty noise mitigation equipment installed in nearby homes, and address any structural damage caused by that equipment. Port districts can hire building inspectors or partner with their county to inspect affected properties, and must apply for grant funds when inspections reveal problems. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee will review the program's effectiveness by July 1, 2028.

Washington State Bill E2SSB 5955 creates a grant program, running through July 1, 2029, managed by the Department of Commerce to help port districts — primarily the Port of Seattle, which operates Sea-Tac Airport — repair or replace faulty noise mitigation equipment installed in nearby homes, and to fix any structural damage caused by that equipment. The program is funded through a new 'port district equity fund' drawing from legislative appropriations, local government contributions, and private donations. An independent review by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee is required by July 1, 2028, to assess how many homes have been remediated and how many still need attention.

Sharyn Parker, a retired Noise Officer and Sound Insulation Program Manager at King County International Airport, submitted public comments in February 2024 supporting Washington State bill ESSB 5955, which aims to address longstanding sound insulation repair and replacement issues for homeowners near Sea-Tac Airport. Parker, who managed Boeing Field's Sound Insulation Program from 2009 to 2015, raised concerns about unrealistic timelines, FAA funding eligibility, and the Port of Seattle's early program mismanagement, noting that some homeowners have waited nearly three decades for remediation of defective window installations. She urged legislators to pass the bill and called on the Port to improve contractor oversight, translation services, and public outreach for affected residents.