St. Paul, MN - Monday, in a major step toward completing the work set by last session’s bipartisan framework agreement, the Minnesota House passed two pieces of capital investment legislation to deliver nearly $1.9 billion for local jobs and projects throughout the state. The package of legislation is split between a $1.5 billion bonding bill (HF 669), using General Obligation (GO) bonds, and a $393 million cash bill (HF 670) through the general fund.
“This bonding bill provides economic development projects to communities throughout Minnesota,” said Rep. Laurie Pryor (DFL) Minnetonka. “I gladly voted for the bill and am looking forward to see these projects become reality, to make our district an even better place to live.”
These projects will come from the cash part of the bill and will benefit the local community:
Minnetonka; Hopkins Crossroad Trail Improvements - $1.635 million
This is to acquire property, predesign, design, construct, furnish, and equip a new off-street multiuse trail along a portion of CSAH 73 (Hopkins Crossroad) including any necessary utility relocation.
Minnetonka; Opus Public Space - $725,000
This is to acquire property, predesign, and design a public space including a linear plaza, interactive art and play area, splash pad, dog park, great lawn, amphitheater, shelters, trail connections, bike share space, bike parking, and overlook on a site adjacent to the Southwest LRT Opus station.
South Metro Public Safety Facility- $1 million
This is to provide for the cost overruns for the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility, a project funded in the 2020 bonding bill.
House File 670’s cash-funded projects include investments to protect communities from flooding, create safer nonmotorized transportation options, provide clean water, expand local recreational opportunities, modernize healthcare facilities, ensure safe shelter for youth, and increase educational and job training opportunities, among other things. It also includes numerous investments in BIPOC-led nonprofits that provide essential community services.
Bills that utilize GO bonds must originate in the House and require a supermajority to pass. House Fille 668 passed on a vote of 91-43. House File 670 passed on a vote 98-36. Video of today’s debate can be found on the House Public Information YouTube channel.
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