OLYMPIA…Sen. Joe Zarelli, ranking Republican member of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, announced the appointment of Sen. Dale Brandland, R-Whatcom County, to be the ranking Republican member of the Capital Budget Sub-Committee.

“I am honored to be appointed to this position,” Brandland said. “I take on this role recognizing the importance of the capital budget and the implications it has on economic development. I look forward to working with my counterpart, Senator Karen Fraser, to assemble a budget that represents the needs and priorities of all parts of our state.”

“I know Senator Brandland will do an excellent job serving on the capital budget,” said Zarelli, R-Ridgefield. “He recognizes the importance of investing in our economy and our quality of life through new public works projects. His years of experience as a county sheriff overseeing budgets, buildings and personnel is a huge advantage, and he is known as someone who is willing to work across the rotunda and across party lines.”

The capital budget is used to build, repair and improve state-owned buildings, public schools, public lands and parks. This budget is completely separate from the operating budget (general fund). The capital and operating budgets are funded from separate and distinct sources.

Brandland represents the 42nd District, which includes Bellingham, Lynden and Blaine. Brandland was elected to the state Senate in 2002, and serves as Republican Caucus vice chair.

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For more information contact: Catherine Trinh at 360-786-7503 or trinh.catherine@leg.wa.gov