SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, Governor Tim Walz announced a plan to deliver $841 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to Minnesota’s cities, counties, and towns. Under the formula, St. Louis county will receive $24.5 million and the city of Duluth will receive $6.5 million.
As part of the package, the governor also announced $12 million in CARES Act funding will be allocated toward food shelves and food banks to help combat hunger across Minnesota.
“Our communities are counting on this funding, and I’m glad Governor Walz stepped forward to make sure it will be distributed,” said Rep. Liz Olson (DFL – Duluth), the House Majority Whip. “While I’m glad Duluth and St. Louis county will see this money, with the challenges Minnesotans are facing during this pandemic, it’s disappointing Republicans refused to join us to deliver funding for other key priorities to help Minnesotans during this crisis. House DFLers will keep working to ensure our state works better for everyone, during and after COVID-19.”
“Minnesotans depend on a variety of public services from cities and counties, including public health support. Especially during a pandemic, it’s critical that they receive these dollars,” said Rep. Jen Schultz (DFL – Duluth). “During the special session, we had an opportunity to make other critical investments, including in our PCAs, and it’s deeply unfortunate Republicans wouldn’t join us. We remain committed to doing what’s necessary to protect the health, safety, and economic wellbeing of all Minnesotans.”
Per capita, $121.28 is appropriated to counties, $75.34 to cities with populations over 200 or townships with a population of 5,000 or greater, and $25 to towns between 200 and 5,000 people.
Once the Legislative Advisory Commission approves the plan, funds will be distributed on a rolling basis beginning the week of June 29, 2020. More information is available from the Minnesota Department of Revenue.