This bill amends the West Virginia Code to facilitate intergovernmental agreements with the West Virginia Land Stewardship Corporation, allowing it to function as a land reuse agency on behalf of local governments. Specifically, it introduces new provisions that enable land reuse jurisdictions to enter into legal agreements with the Land Stewardship Corporation, granting it the same powers and responsibilities as a local land reuse agency. The bill also clarifies that any intergovernmental cooperation agreement must specify the matters outlined in the existing law regarding the creation and operation of land reuse agencies.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions that enhance the operational capabilities of the Land Stewardship Corporation, such as the ability to enter into agreements with local governments to act as a land reuse agency. It maintains the corporation's status as a nonprofit entity while ensuring that its activities are considered a public purpose. The bill also addresses liability issues, stating that the corporation will not be held liable under environmental laws unless specific conditions are met. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline collaboration between local governments and the Land Stewardship Corporation to promote effective land reuse and stewardship initiatives.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 31-18E-4, 31-21-5