April 21, 2007

OLYMPIA…The Senate today passed a $4.3 billion capital budget that supports several local community programs, including the Ferndale Boys and Girls Club, the Bellingham Food Bank and the Brigid Collins Family Support Center. 

Sen. Dale Brandland, ranking member on the Senate Ways and Means Committee’s capital budget subcommittee and a key negotiator in resolving differences between the Senate and House of Representatives’ proposals, said he was pleased to be able to secure additional funding for the local community projects.   

In the Senate’s original proposal, $863,000 was slated for the Boys and Girls Club.  Following negotiations with the House of Representatives, that funding was increased to $1,063,000.   

“In writing the capital budget, we go through an exercise of establishing priorities,” said Brandland, R-Whatcom County.  “In our district, the capital budget makes significant investments in programs that support our kids and families in need.  To me, that’s one of the most important investments we, as a state, can make.” 

Among the investments made in the 42^nd District is $1 million for the Ferndale Boys and Girls Club, $400,000 for the Bellingham Food Bank, $400,000 for the Brigid Collins Family Support Center and $500,000 to support Bowen Field in Sumas.    

Funding will help the Boys and Girls Club continue to provide a safe place for kids to learn after school.  Meanwhile, the Brigid Collins house will benefit from the added funds to continue to advocate for healthy family situations. 

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

Once the budget is approved by the Senate and House, the capital budget, Engrossed Second House Bill 1092, will be delivered to the governor for her signature.   

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Sen. Brandland is Republican caucus whip and represents Washington’s 42^nd District, which includes Bellingham, Lynden and Blaine.   

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