March 10, 2007 

OLYMPIA – Nearing the end of a marathon-length day under the Capitol dome, the House passed a bill that will benefit distressed communities throughout rural and urban Washington by creating vibrant local business districts and prosperous neighborhoods.   

Sponsored by the chair of the House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee, Rep. Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney (D-Seattle), HB 2325 creates the Community Development Fund (CDF) in the State Treasury to provide grants for capital projects in urban and rural distressed communities.

“Many regions of the state are thriving, but we cannot close our eyes to communities in need,” Gutiérrez Kenney said.  “This bill is not a quick fix; it’s a long-term remedy that can bring together crucial investments in economic development, social services and other necessities to bolster the lives of people.”

The Seattle legislator explained that to receive an award from the CDF, communities will be required to demonstrate long-term vision that links economic development, human services, and infrastructure together in a synergistic way.  The CDF will award grants in distressed communities for capital projects that meet one or all of the following criteria:

• Support initiatives that encourage small business start-ups and create jobs.
• Offer access to human services so residents can benefit from these economic opportunities.
• Provide education and recreational opportunities separate from the public education system.

“With this bill we have a chance to help many, many people. The Community Development Fund will open doors to projects that will help our communities succeed,” concluded Gutiérrez Kenney.

HB 2325 now goes to the Senate for further consideration.

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Contact, print-quality portrait and other information:

Rep. Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney: 360-786-7818

Kenney.Phyllis@leg.wa.gov, http://housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/kenney

Lilia P. Nieto, Communications Specialist, (360) 786-7375, nieto-torres.lilia@leg.wa.gov

Radio and TV News Directors:  To obtain broadcast-quality audio on these issues, or to arrange for TV or radio interviews, please contact House Democratic Caucus Broadcast Coordinator Dan Frizzell at frizzell.dan@leg.wa.gov  or (360) 786-7208.