2007-03-09 Friday NewsTRIP TO CAPITOL
On Wednesday of this week, Mayor Huber, Council Members Ultan Duggan, Sandra Krebsbach,
Airport Relations Commission Chair Liz Petschel, Jake Sedlacek and I all went to the basement
of the State Office Building to attend a hearing of the Committee on Local Government and
Metropolitan Affairs. The Committee was taking testimony on a bill sponsored by Mendota
Heights State Representative Rick Hansen. Representative Hansen's bill proposes to expand the
membership of the MAC to include the Mayors of the four Cities surrounding the MSP Airport
who are within the dnl 65 noise zone (Mendota Heights, Eagan, Richfield and Bloomington).
It is a very complicated issue, but briefly; before the hearing Representative Hansen learned that
the bill was not going to pass, so after testimony he presented an alternate plan. His alternate
plan is to delete the proposed bill and form a task force of this house committee to look into
MAC governance structure. This course of action was accepted by the Committee, so after this
year's session, a sub -committee will form to do further study into the issue.
DOG RESCUED
A call came in to the Police Department this Saturday afternoon from a witness on the Fort
Snelling side of the river. The witness had spotted a dog in the river on our side of the river near
the Mendota Bridge, with its owner nearby. The dog was swimming in the freezing cold river
and could not get back up on the ice. Sgt. Anderson called Fire Chief Maczko immediately and
requested a fire response for the dog rescue. Officer Bobby Lambert was first on the scene
followed shortly by Sgt. Anderson and Fire Chief Maczko. Fire Chief Maczko immediately
sized up the situation and called in the Zodiac. Kudos go out to Firefighter John Lapakko and
Captain Scott Henning who, without hesitation donned their "gumby" suits and maneuvered the
zodiac out on the ice to save the poor, elderly, deaf, black lab who was quickly running out of
gas. The resident who owned dog was extremely grateful for our help and sent us the attached
letter.
LOCAL SOLID WASTE STAFF MEETING
Jake Sedlacek attended a local solid waste staff meeting, where further discussion was held on
the Community Funding Grant. Funding over the course of this grant has not increase with
inflation — leaving Cities to shoulder more of the costs for offering recycling services. The group
is working on a draft memo to the Dakota County Board on the issue. Also discussed was a
reminder from County Staff that all communities are encouraged to have a household hazardous
waste collection day. A number of options were discussed — with our proximity to the Dakota
County Eco -Site it seems to make more sense to publicize the day, but send our citizens directly
to the site rather than duplicate efforts by collecting in the community.
GRAMPA NEIL
Neil Garlock advised us that as of 0733 hrs on Saturday, March 3, that he's a grandpa. The new
arrival, named William Andrew weighed in at 8lbs.15 ounces and was 20.9 inches long. Neil
told William before he left Chicago last weekend that if he ever needs money he should go to
Grampa D, but if he ever wants to have fun he should come to Grampa G.
Note: William will be the only baby in Chicago wearing a Rolex.
NO PLANNING CASES
There will be no March Planning meeting, as the only planning applications submitted were
incomplete. Applicants have been provided with further guidance and both intend to have
applications ready by April 2 for consideration at the April 25 Planning Commission meeting
(note date change).
Respectfully submitted,
James Danielson
City Administrator
Attachments: Just the Facts, Pipeline, ARC Agenda, Twincities.com Article "Opponents much
alike, but divided over Par 3", Villager Articles "For a greener Mendota Heights", "Heights Has
open space aplenty" and "Vote "no" on par -3 referendum", Thank you letters from City of
Eagan, resident Debi McConnell and House Representative Leon M. Lillie, Mendota Heights
Housing Market Update and Friday Fax.
03-09-2007
=In
03-09-2007
maroon Oldsmobile Achieva enter the parking lot. A black male in a long black
leather jacket exited the car and checked several vehicles in the lot, entering some of
the cars. The last thing he does on video is smash the victim's car windows and take
her stuff. The case has been referred to investigations and a TTY ATL has been put
out on the suspect. **Note this occurred mid afternoon — never keep anything of
value in your car!
Attempted Burglary 03-04-07 0434 hours
Officer Steve Meyer spotted a trash can in front of the SA on Hwy 110. In checking
the area he found that someone had just attempted to break the windows out of the
store. Several windows were damaged, no entry was gained. Officers checked the
area, but the suspects were GOA. Investigator Reyes is actively working the two
recent cases with a group of investigators.
Burglary 03-05-07 0315 hours
Business owner reported that he left work at 2230 hours and returned at 0315 hours
to find his business broken into and a large black safe missing. The safe weighed
several hundred pounds. The owner advised Officer Meyer that the primary suspect
would be an employee who had recently been released. The man was extremely
upset and has a long history of run ins with the law. Within a day of the incident,
checks from the burglary were surfacing in St. Paul. Officer Rosse was working to
obtain video of at least one check cashing incident in St Paul to help identify the thief.
Gas Drive Off 03-05-07 1733 hours
Employee reported a $50+ gas drive off. The victim gave a good description. Officer
Urmann checked the area without success and returned to the station. The victim
described the thief. Officer Urmann pulled up a license photo of the suspect and he
was immediately identified as the culprit. After making multiple phone calls and
speaking with several family members, a citation was filled out and mailed to the
thief s last known address.
DAR / Possession of Marijuana 03-05-07 2033 hours
While Officer Mike Shepard was stopped at a red light in his fully marked black and
white squad car, a vehicle pulled up along side of him and made a right turn on red
without stopping. A quick computer check showed the R/O to be revoked. The car
was stopped a short distance away. The driver/registered owner was immediately
removed from his car and advised he was under arrest. Before patting the suspect
down, Officer Shepard asked if there was anything on him that he should be
concerned about. The suspect advised that he had a one -hit pipe in his front right
pocket and some pot in his front left. In checking the man's record he has three
previous drug / driving offenses. When asked if there would be anything in the car
the Officer should be worried about he said no but there might be some more dope
stuff in the center console. Officer Shepard did locate some paraphernalia along with
more drugs in the center console. The suspect was cited and his car impounded.
Theft 03-06-07 0824 hours
Homeowner reported that sometime after 1330 hours yesterday his mailbox
disappeared. Officer Lambert noted that the box was a standard black metal mail
box and had been mounted in a large group of boxes. The victim has no idea if the
box contained mail. Referred to investigations.
//aaa a pwt ara lAvY1#1%
-2-
Public Works
e Pipeline
March 9, 2007
The Street Crew plowed the cul-de-sacs, parking lots and pedways. The
cutting edge on truck 501 was replaced. A broken hose was repaired on the
ground master with the broom. The flooding hoses and fittings were picked
up from the warming houses and brought back to the shop. They attended
the Tessman Turf Academy at Edinburgh golf course in Brooklyn Park. The
academy was an intro to new turf products and new chemicals for 2007.
The alarm went off at the Lilydale lift station due to a power outage on
Sunday, March 4t". A MnDOT plow hit a power pole on Highway 13. Rich
checked the manholes in the Copperfield area to look for deteriorating
manholes. He cut tree roots in the sanitary sewer line on Vandall and
Brookside Lanes.
The Street Crew cleaned up after last week's storm. Mailbox repairs were
done, and snow was removed from troubled catch basins. Snow was
pushed from the street lights that will come down next week to make room
for the new traffic signals at Mendota Heights Road and Pilot Knob Road.
Enuineerina
Sue met with both St. Thomas Academy and Visitation regarding traffic
concerns on Mendota Heights Road.
Sue attended a JPA meeting regarding bids for the 2007 seal coating. The
bids for this project were 30% above estimated costs and bids may possibly
be rejected.
Workers complained of a sewer gas smell at a new home on Wesley Lane.
Workers have been using water and the bathrooms however, no records can
be found of the house being connected to the city sanitary sewer nor is
there a visible patch over the sewer main. The problem was referred back
to the contractor and workers were advised not to use the home's facilities.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
AIRPORT RELATIONS COMMISSION AGENDA
March 14, 2007 — City Council Chambers
I. Call to Order - 7:00 p.m.
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of the Minutes from the February 14, 2007 Airport Relations
Commission Meetings.
4. Unfinished and New Business:
a. Introduction of Sally Lorberbaum
b. Discussion of Carl Rydeen's letter from the FAA
c. Discussion of New Legislation
d. Update ARC Brochure
e. Update Plan of Action
f. Updates for Introduction Book
g. View 2007 "State of City"
5. Acknowledge Receipt of Various Reports/Correspondence:
a. January 2007 ANOM Technical Advisor's Report
b. January 2007 ANOM Eagan/Mendota Heights Departure Corridor
Analysis
C. N.O.I.S.E
d. Airport Noise Report, January 12, 2006.
e. Airport Noise Report, January 19, 2007.
f. Airport Noise Report, January 26, 2007.
g. Airport Noise Report Annual Index Summary.
6. Other Commissioner Comments or Concerns
7. Upcoming Meetings
City Council Meeting
NOC Meeting
MAC Meeting
8. Public Comments
9. Adiourn
3-20-07
- 7:30
4-11-07
- 1:30
4-16-07
- 1:00
Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available upon request at least 120 hours in
advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make
every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please
contact City Administration at (651) 452-1850 with requests.
Opponents much alike, but divided over Par 3
Posted on Sun, Mar. 04, 2007
Opponents much alike, but divided over Par 3
Leaders on each side of course issue hope to persuade voters
Page 1 of 2
BY BRIAN BONNER
Pioneer Press
Robin Ehrlich and Robert Bonine are longtime Mendota Heights residents who have some things in common. Both are golfers who describe
themselves as politically left of center but without any ambition to run for office.
They are civic -minded and have broad interests. They admit the question of whether their city should buy a golf course is hardly the most
pressing issue around and might, in fact, rank at the bottom of many people's priorities.
But Ehrlich and Bonine are, nonetheless, leading opposite sides of the debate over the future of the private Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf
Course.
Ehrlich, 55, is co-chair with Sally Lorberbaum of the Save Par 3 Committee, whose volunteers want voters to approve municipal purchase
of the course for $2.8 million.
Bonine, 66, is heading up the Vote No Par 3 4/24/2007 Committee, whose volunteers want the city's 4,500 voters to reject buying the
course in an April 24 referendum.
Their paths never crossed before the public debate started to percolate over the golf course referendum.
"I'm not really that much of an activist," said Ehrlich, a computer programmer. "I've done things with the (Democratic -Farmer -Labor)
Party, but no one would call me an activist by any means."
Ehrlich is married and his three children are grown and out of the house.
"I have a lot of time on my hands," he said. "No more soccer meets, swim meets; no more helping with homework."
His house abuts the golf course on 1695 Dodd Road, and the self -described duffer plays there on occasion.
He believes preserving green space is important and the golf course is an asset worth the price. He also minks the city will run the
business well.
If the measure fails, the course's private owners plan to sell the 17 acres to developers who will build 19 houses on the property.
"Sometimes you just get involved with something and feel you should follow through to the logical conclusion," Ehrlich said. "If it turns into
houses, it turns into houses. I'm not going to move or anything."
Ehrlich acknowledges the opponents' philosophical arguments but said they are reaching the wrong conclusions.
"We are asking citizens to subsidize people who are playing golf," Ehrlich said. "We think that helps everyone's way of life in Mendota
Heights. Having a golf course helps everybody's property values increase. If you don't have amenities in cities, everybody's real estate
won't appreciate as nicely."
The money needed to buy the course will raise property taxes annually for 15 years by $29 on a $200,000 house and up to $93 on a
$650,000 house.
"If you cannot afford $50 or $80, depending on the price of your house, vote against it," Ehrlich said. "You can't argue that point. Mendota
Heights property taxes are some of the lowest in the Twin Cities area. You could argue we can raise taxes without too much ill -effect."
Bonine, a retired insurance and investment agent, is marshaling opponents and making counterarguments.
Cost is high among them. Bonine would rather see 19 homes built there. If the houses built are all worth $1 million, the city has estimated
that $157,000 annually in property taxes would be generated.
http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/news/local/states/minnesot... 3/5/2007
Opponents much alike, but divided over Par 3
Bonine also thinks the course isn't worth the asking price.
Page 2 of 2
"One of the reasons why Mendota Heights has remained a low -tax city is because previous councils have been prudent," Bonine said. "This
current council has been imprudent. As a matter of value, why pay $3.9 million, principal and interest, for something that doesn't have
that kind of value?"
Others question the city's ability to run a golf course. Still others say a course is not a nature preserve, so keeping it is not really
preserving green space.
Bonine, who served on the local school board from 1969 to 1975, was chosen Feb. 22 to lead the opposition at a meeting at city hall that
attracted 40 residents. Similar numbers have turned out for earlier gatherings in favor of buying the golf course.
Soon after Bonine was chosen as leader, one resident asked him to run for mayor in the next election. No chance, Bonine said. His service
on the District 197 school board, he said, permanently killed any taste he has for elective office.
"I'm an issue guy and this is my issue," Bonine said.
At least locally, that is. "All my issues are national, except for this Par 3 thing: how to fund Social Security, universal health care." With a
son who is an Army officer serving in Iraq, Bonine also is plenty revved up about the war.
"I can't tell you in clean language how opposed I am to the war. I can't believe what we've done," Bonine said. "Given our Vietnam War
experience, I am shocked America is doing what it's doing. It's a tragedy for all."
Bonine, who is married, plays golf at the private Somerset Country Club, also on Dodd Road.
Bonine said his opposition also stems from a growing distaste with taxpayers being forced to subsidize private businesses or personal
hobbies, such as golf, that have no universal benefit.
"People want their pleasures subsidized by taxpayers," Bonine said. "We see that in the football stadiums and baseball stadiums, and I ran
across that sentiment going door to door. People say, 'I want to support the referendum because it's cheap golf.' Look, it's cheap golf
because the rest of us are paying your green fees. Whether it's roads or schools, people don't want to pay their fair share."
Both sides in the debate are mapping out strategies and collecting money for a campaign that's likely to be waged door to door and
neighborhood by neighborhood.
The opponents have a Web site, www,votenopar3.com, while supporters are referring people to the city's Web site, www.mendota-
heights.com, which has answers to frequently asked questions about the issue. Officially, the city is required to maintain neutrality on the
referendum, but Mayor John Huber and other elected officials support the purchase.
For both sides, the big push with voters won't come until April.
Bonine doesn't see much point in campaigning before then. He and his wife, Kathy, will spend most of the month in San Diego.
Ehrlich is encouraging Bonine to stay longer.
"We're hoping he's gone through April also," he joked.
Brian Bonner can be reached at bbonner@pioneerpress.com or 651-228-2173.
o..1o_._. r_S and w4ret ,._,....ce kichts ?cser-,.....
http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/news/local/states/minnesot... 3/5/2007
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Fire Department
Michael D. Scott
CHIEF
David Diloia
BATTALION CHIEF
Patrick Diloia
BATTALION CHIEF
3795 Pilot Knob Road
Eagan MN 55122
651.675.5900 phone
651.675.5910 fax
651.675.5086 TDD
www.cityofeagan.com
Mike Maguire
MAYOR
Peggy Carlson
Cyndee Fields
Paul Bakken
Meg Tilley
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Thomas Hedges
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
THE LONE OAK TREE
The symbol of
strength and growth
in our community.
4PGAN
{ S
E B
February 28, 2007
Chief John Maczko
Mendota Heights Fire Department
2121 Dodd Road
Mendota Heights, MN 55120-1621
Dear John:
The Eagan Fire Department had an especially busy day on February 27th.We
responded to two major structure fires. The first was a maintenance garage at
a trucking company, and the second a four-plex fire that started by a
snowmobile fire in a garage. We relied on our neighboring mutual aid partners
to assist at both of these fires. In some cases, we called your departments out
for assistance at both calls.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the continued assistance
from your department.
Sincerely,
A
Mike Scott
Fire Chief
MDS/pjs
City Administrator Jim Danielson
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Dear Jim Danielson:
I'm writing this letter to express my sincere appreciation for your police and fire staff. On
Saturday, March 3, Bobby Lambert and Donn Anderson, two Mendota Heights police officers
and seven fire fighters, including Fire Chief John Maczko, Captain Henning and Firefighter
Lapakko saved the life of my parent's prized black lab, Britt.
Britt, while a great hunting dog with a very sweet personality, did not make a "wise choice"
when she decided to walk on the thin ice on the Minnesota River to take a drink. I did not have a
hold of Britt while I negotiated the initial steep hill on skis. Once I got to the bottom of the hill, I
noticed she was missing. I tried to call but knowing she was deaf, I went to look for her. The
vision of her in the middle of the river, flailing to break the ice, was one of worst I've seen.
Lucky for me, observers on the other side of the river called for help (though I understand it
didn't come in on the 911 line). Bobby and Donn were first on the scene and called for
additional help. John Maczko and his crew came later with their dry suits and Zodiac boat. Fire
personnel Henning and Lapakko didn't hesitate but jumped right in the river. Men and the boat
cut through the ice until they reached Britt who was able to swim to shore.
Our Britt is doing well and VERY lucky to be alive. The vet stated that very few dogs could
have lasted that long in the frigid water (30-40 -minutes). She's a little tired today, but not
terribly sore..
My parents, Britt's owners, are extremely grateful as well. It's hard to know how to express
appreciation but you can be sure that I will continue to support the Fireman's Ball (now even
more so). My husband, a great cook, is making BBQ ribs for our fire personnel to eat on
Thursday.
Thank you for your great staffl.
Sincerely,
Debi McConnell
1152 Sylvandale Road
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Leon M Lillie
4Hinntsata
Pause of �Arvrjesrntatifrcs
Fi SOUTHERN TWIN CITIES
ASSOCIATION OF REALTORSO
Mendota Heights Housing Market Update
February 2007
Greetings,
This is the first installment of a new monthly newsletter from the Government Affairs Department
of the Southern Twin Cities Association of REALTORS®. You've been chosen to receive this letter
because of your important role in local government in Mendota Heights.
Here, you'll find up-to-date housing information for Mendota Heights, provided at our pleasure,
with the intent of giving you a clearer picture of the current conditions in the local housing
market. This information should be helpful and relevant to your discussions about housing,
growth and transportation.
We will also address other local and regional real estate issues. Your comments and questions on
this new initiative are welcomed and encouraged.
January 2007 Market Update
Mendota Heights
[more]
January 2007
January 2006
Percent
Change
New Listings
35
18
94.4
Closed Sales
8
5
60.0
Average Sales Price
$443,203
$306,700
44.5
Active Listings at Month
End
A
o�Not
Not Available
nt Available
Days on Market
190
Not Available
Not Available
[more]
Twin Cities Region
Housing sales in the Twin Cities declined relative to this time last year as the housing market
continues to take a needed breather.
January home sales in Mendota Heights were ahead of last year by 60.0 percent with 8 sales as
compared to 5 in 2006. January closed sales were down 13.3 percent in the same period for the
entire Twin Cities market.
New listings in Mendota Heights were ahead of January 2006 by 94.4 percent, posting 35 units
as compared to 18 units the year previous. The Twin Cities market saw new listings increase by
4.8 percent over last year.
It is important to understand that a quick and easy rebound in sales isn't in the cards—the
market rebound will be slow in its start and gradual in its effect. But ultimately, our market will
benefit in the future from the happenings of the present.
At the end of January there were 65 single-family units available on the market in Mendota
Heights, which should continue to grow as we near the busy spring market. The entire Twin
Cities region had 25,188 units available for purchase at the end of the month, showing steady
growth following the holiday hibernation. Inventory is growing slower this year than in 2006, up
only 17 percent from a year ago—an indication of improving absorption.
Homes in Mendota Heights took an average of 190 days to reach purchase agreement, while
homes in the entire Twin Cities market took 144 days to do the same.
Mendota Heights had an average sale price in January of $443,203, an increase of 44.5 percent
from the same time last year. The Twin Cities metropolitan area as a whole saw an average sales
price of $277,108 for the month of January, down one percent from January 2006. MAAR expects
price growth for the entire region to be near one percent in 2007.
Some mistake flat home prices as a negative when they are actually a necessary ingredient to
the return of a robust market. Consumers must be able to afford our region's homes to buy
them.
It is important to note that some of the data referenced in this press release is for only one
month of activity. As such, the figures can sometimes look extreme due to the relatively small
sample size. For broader historical market information on Mendota Heights, please feel free to
contact us.
January 2007
January 2006
Percent Change
New Listings
8,931
8,522
4.8
Closed Sales
2,502
3,420
-13.3
Average Sales Price
$277,108
$280,961
-1.4
Active Listings at Month
End
25,188
21,529
17.0
Days on Market
144
Not Available
Not Available
Housing sales in the Twin Cities declined relative to this time last year as the housing market
continues to take a needed breather.
January home sales in Mendota Heights were ahead of last year by 60.0 percent with 8 sales as
compared to 5 in 2006. January closed sales were down 13.3 percent in the same period for the
entire Twin Cities market.
New listings in Mendota Heights were ahead of January 2006 by 94.4 percent, posting 35 units
as compared to 18 units the year previous. The Twin Cities market saw new listings increase by
4.8 percent over last year.
It is important to understand that a quick and easy rebound in sales isn't in the cards—the
market rebound will be slow in its start and gradual in its effect. But ultimately, our market will
benefit in the future from the happenings of the present.
At the end of January there were 65 single-family units available on the market in Mendota
Heights, which should continue to grow as we near the busy spring market. The entire Twin
Cities region had 25,188 units available for purchase at the end of the month, showing steady
growth following the holiday hibernation. Inventory is growing slower this year than in 2006, up
only 17 percent from a year ago—an indication of improving absorption.
Homes in Mendota Heights took an average of 190 days to reach purchase agreement, while
homes in the entire Twin Cities market took 144 days to do the same.
Mendota Heights had an average sale price in January of $443,203, an increase of 44.5 percent
from the same time last year. The Twin Cities metropolitan area as a whole saw an average sales
price of $277,108 for the month of January, down one percent from January 2006. MAAR expects
price growth for the entire region to be near one percent in 2007.
Some mistake flat home prices as a negative when they are actually a necessary ingredient to
the return of a robust market. Consumers must be able to afford our region's homes to buy
them.
It is important to note that some of the data referenced in this press release is for only one
month of activity. As such, the figures can sometimes look extreme due to the relatively small
sample size. For broader historical market information on Mendota Heights, please feel free to
contact us.
Mar 02 2007 15:56:33 Via Fax -> 65145ZB940 Administrator Page 001 Of 010
................
LMC
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A weekly legislative update from the League ofMinnesota Cities
Budget forecast fallout
Shortly after this week's release of the a
slate budget :ibrecast, the DFL and Republicans
began trading barbs over what the forecast
actually means for the state budget. In a joint
Senate Finance/Tax Committee hearing on
Thursday morning, members quizzed state
]Economist Tom Stinson and Finance
Commissioner Tom Hanson about whether the
state truly has a surplus.
The focus of the squabble revolves around the
2002 state law change that eliminated inflation
adjustments from the forecast for current law
expenditure commitments. At that time, many
legislators argued that the forecast should not
assume automatic expenditure increases. Rather
the supporters of the law change wanted the
legislature to affirmatively decide whether
inflationary adjustments should be added to the
state budget. However, the 2002 law change
did not alter the revenue projections where
economic and inflation factors are used to
project growth of state revenues. The different
treatment of revenues and expenditures in the
forecast is the basis for much of the current
disagreement among legislative leaders.
According to the forecast, the state is projected
to end the 2008-2009 biennium, which ends on
June 30, 2009, with a $2.16 billion surplus.
Approximately half of that projected surplus, or
$1.01 billion is actually a surplus carried
forward from the current 2006-2007 biennium.
The balance, or approximately $1.15 billion, is
the projected budgetary surplus for the time
period beginning on July 1, 2007 and ending on
June 30, 2009—the 2008-2009 biennium.
There is little disagreement that the $1.01
billion budgetary balance for the current 2006 -
March 2, 2007
Page 1
2007 biennium is an actual state surplus.
However, this portion of the surplus raises
questions about whether the state has a
"structural" or a "one-time" surplus. A
structural surplus is considered an ongoing,
permanent excess of revenues over
expenditures while a one-time surplus is the
result of temporary economic factors.
Ultimately, the question for legislators as they
craft a state budget is whether they can use the
excess revenue for ongoing program costs, such
as a permanent increase in LGA or the market
value homestead credit program or whether the
revenue should be used for one-time
expenditures, such as specific capital projects
or a tax rebate.
In making the determination about structural or
one-time surplus, many legislators turn to the
forecast for 2008-2009 where there is an
estimated $1.15 billion surplus. At first blush,
the continuation of the surplus into the next
biennium would suggest that the surplus is
structural. However, the forecast does not
include expenditure inflation and when
inflation is considered, state expenditures could
rise by as much as $1.2 billion, washing out the
entire 2008-2009 projected surplus.
With a long list of priority issues that need
permanent funding, ranging from the school aid
formula to transportation to LGA, this debate
will ultimately involve the politically charged
discussion of the need for tax increases.
Clearly, this debate will not be resolved until
the end of the regular session—or perhaps in a
special session.
Questions? Contact Gary Carlson at
651.281.1255 or gearlson@lmnc.org.
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar 02 2007 15:57:16 Via Fax -> 6514528940 Administrator Page 002 Of 010
................."
Lmc -Frida F ax -
r A weekly legislative update from the League ofMinnesota Cities
March 2, 2007
Page 2
Senate bills push for zero discharge does not risk contamination of groundwater
wastewater plants
Two bills have been introduced that tie
eligibility for state funding for wastewater
infrastructure to the facility eliminating any
discharge to surface water_ The bills, SF 331
and SI? 332, both offered by Sen. Michael.
Ja.xrx:x (R - East Bethel) will be heard in
the and Resources
Co:t'ru.nittee next Monday, March 5, at 12:30
p.m. in Room 107 of the State Capitol.
SF 331 requires all wastewater facilities
receiving any state grants or loans after July 1,
2009 to include plans for the elimination of
direct discharge and a wastewater reuse plan.
After July 1, 2014, facilities must be zero
discharge to be eligible for state funding of any
sort, meaning that either all of its treated
effluent is discharged to an underground
aquifer or reused. SF 332 takes a different
approach that assumes that the previous bill is
not passed. It requires that the state provide
twice as much funding for zero discharge
facilities as they give to any other form of
wastewater treatment facility.
While completely eliminating all impacts of
municipal wastewater treatment on state lakes
and rivers is an admirable goal, the state is not
financially able to provide this level of funding.
With far less expensive forms of wastewater
treatment, there is already a $3.2 billion
infrastructure funding need over the next ten
years. This would more than double that
shortfall in funding, potentially bringing
economic development to a standstill in many
communities. Furthermore, for larger systems,
it may be completely impractical or even
impossible to design systems infiltrating all
effluent into the groundwater in a manner that
supplies.
The League will be presenting their concerns
about both of these bills at the Monday Senate
hearing. Those concerned about the impacts of
these bills are encouraged to contact their
legislators.
Questions? Contact Craig Johnson at 651.281-
1259 or cjohnson@lmnc. org.
Wine in grocery stores bill will be
heard
League staff have recently learned that.IF.9(.-)"7,
this year's wine in grocery stores legislation,
will likely receive a hearing this legislative
session. We have not yet learned when it will
be scheduled, but that should happen before the
first deadline, March 23. There was some
earlier speculation that the bill would not have
a hearing this session.
Now is an important time to contact legislators
on this bill. The committee that will hear this
legislation is the House (",..ornrnerre rand I.,abo_r
Letters, phone calls, and emails
are all great ways to communicate with your
legislators, as are personal visits, and attending
any town hall forums they might be hosting in
the district. For more information on the House
Commerce committee, go to
att'p:...... a::11'. ...�:..: _.:x .l....less% _ ��a� . _c ...aa:_a:c.._lgz
Questions? Contact Jennifer O'Rourke at
651.281.1261 orjorourke@lmnc.org.
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar HZ Z007 15:57:59 Via Fax -> GS14SZO948 Administrator Page 0H3 Of 010
L
Lmc -Frl Faxda,r �. ,�,,;. A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities
March 2, 2007
Page 3
Smoking ban legislation drifts along legislative conference with our local
without pre-emption
The statewide smoking ban legislation cleared
two major hurdles this week, and came away
without any of the pre-emption or local control
amendments that have been talked about by
many. , (:°phe;ran left
the Statari... J....... _.............. _
with "strong ban" language, meaning it covers
both bars and restaurants, does not allow for
smoking in places that have ventilation
systems, and allows cities and counties to enact
more restrictive ordinances if they choose. The
House companion, F 305(.1-hui�t:le:av `DF.I
I:alrxtld) was heard during the snowstorm
Thursday evening in the House ("on:z:t:rle:rce
.'o:rnrnittex -^, and was amended with only one
major amendment that delays the statewide ban
to 2008, but gives a small tax break to any
business that enacts it before then. The next
stop for the legislation should be the Senate
floor. On the House side, the bill will either go
to the Finance or the Tax committee.
Questions? Contact Jennifer O'Rourke at
651.281.1261 orjorourke@lmnc.org.
Registration now open for LMC
Legislative Conference
Plan to attend the 2007 joint Legislative
Conference for Cities, Counties, and Schools
on March 28-29 in St. Paul. Register today and
contact your legislators for appointments
March 29.
This year's event is being hosted in conjunction
with the Association of Minnesota Counties
and the Minnesota School Boards Association.
It is the first time LMC has produced a joint
government partners.
Make plans to share a ride and travel to the
Capitol along with school board members and
county commissioners from your area for this
first-ever effort to highlight cooperation among
local governments through joint advocacy and
a renewed partnership with the state
government.
To register, visit
ht,tr3:Hwi vw.l.mnc,.org/c.onf/lepconf2007.cfm
online. The conference agenda is online at
l-ttt�a:/? r�rnrrnr..:lsa:trar....or�/L:on:171etFconfSZ 7a�era�..1���
m.. Contact Rebecca Erickson at
re:�i���ir N►g:trac orarl 651-281-1222, or 800-925
1122 with questions.
Advocate for city -friendly legislative outcomes
by attending the joint Legislative Conference
for Cities, Counties, and Schools and Local
Government Day at the Capitol. Thank you for
Telling Your City -Story!
Questions? Contact Brian Strub at
651.281.1256 or
Committee schedules
MONDAY, March 5, 2007
8:00 a.m.
House Transportation Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Bernard Lieder
Room TBA
Agenda:
HF 701 (Brynaert) Mankato district
transportation headquarters funding provided,
bonds issued, and money appropriated.
HF 1219 (Juhnke) Milk truck weight
exemption sunset date repealed.
Far more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar HZ 2887 15:58:41 Via Fax -> 65145ZB94H Administratur Page HH4 ®f H1H
8:30 a.m.
-FridaF ax
Y -
A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities
Senate Property Tax Division
Chair: Sen. Rod Skoe
Room 15 Capitol
Agenda:
SF 342 (Ingebrigtsen) Economic development
abatement authority extension.
SF 545 (Langseth) Property tax agricultural
homestead provisions modification.
SF 486 (Fischbach) Cities local government aid
(LGA) increase.
SF 330 (Frederickson) Property tax homestead
classification extension.
SF 404 (Bonoff) Residential homestead market
value credit modification.
SF 1065 (Bakk) Property tax exemption for
disabled veterans homesteads.
SF 1046 (Moua) Cities local government aid
distribution modification and appropriation
increase.
9:00 a.m.
House Property Tax Relief and Local Sales Tax
Division
Chair: Rep. Paul Marquart
Room 30ON State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 885 (Hilty) Cloquet local sales tax
authorized.
HF 1103 (Moe) Bemidji local sales and use tax
extended-
HF
xtended_HF 134 (faros) Duluth food and beverage sales
tax increase authorized, and proceeds allocated
to renovations and a new arena at the Duluth
Entertainment Convention Center.
HF 442 (Howes) Emily sales tax authorized
and fund use specified.
HF 1135 (Pelowski) Winona sales and use tax
authorized.
HF 108 (Morrow) North Mankato local sales
tax authorized and funds use specified
March 2, 2007
Page 4
HF 647 (Dittrich) Residential homestead
market value credit modified.
HF 1491 (Kranz) Market value homestead
credit.
HF XXX (Bunn) Market value homestead
credit.
10:00 a.m.
House Finance
Chair: Rep. Lyndon Carlson
Room 200 State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 163 (Huntley) Duluth postemployment
benefits accounts authorized to pay benefits to
retired employees and to generate revenue
dedicated to meet certain city obligations.
HF 446 (Kahn) Outdoor light pollution
restricted.
12:30 p.m.
Senate Environment and Natural Resources
Chair: Sen. Satveer S. Chaudhary
Room 107 Capitol
Agenda:
SF 331 (Jungbauer) Zero discharge
requirements for wastewater treatment grants
and loans to municipalities.
SF 332 (Jungbauer) Zero discharge grants to
municipalities for wastewater treatment
facilities.
SF 963 (Jungbauer) University of Minnesota
extension service septic systems environmental
impact study appropriation.
SF 1146 (Sparks) Individual sewage treatment
systems licensing exemption.
4:00 p.m.
House Local Government and Metropolitan
Affairs
Chair: Rep. Debra Hilstrom
Room: Basement State Office Building
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar OZ ZO07 15059:18 Via Fax -> GS145Z0940 Administrator
-Frida F �x-
y
A weekly legislative update from the League ofMinnesota Cities
HF 465/SF 321 * (Kranz) Independent nonprofit
firefighting corporations included for joint
exercise of powers agreements.
HF 905 (Scalze) Preventative health services
programs for city employees authorized.
HF 881 (Hilstrom) Metropolitan Land Planning
act and related statutes modified, and erroneous
and obsolete references corrected.
HF 882 (Hilstrom) Metropolitan livable
communities fund governing provisions
modified, funds transfer authorized, and
onetime transfer for local planning assistance
grants and loans provided.
HF 1045 (Dominguez) State lottery gross
proceeds in lieu of sales tax distribution for
metropolitan parks and open space clarified,
and parks and open space commission member
compensation modified.
HF 312 (Hornstein) Metropolitan Council
elections provided.
HF 1429(Urdahl) Meeker County EDA
authorized to increase its membership to nine.
TUESDAY, March 6, 2007
8:00 a.m.
House Governmental Operations, Reform,
Technology and Elections
Chair: Rep. Gene Pelowski
Room 200 State Office Bldg.
Agenda:
HF 1259 (Kalin) Absent voters procedures and
requirements modified.
HF 1223 (Hilty) Voter registration provisions
modifications.
HF 965 (McFarlane) Election judges not
affiliated with a major political party
appointment provided.
8:30 a.m.
Senate Taxes
Chair: Sen. Thomas M. Bakk
Room 15 Capitol
Page 005 Of 010
March 2, 2007
Page 5
Agenda:
SF 117 (Rest) Capital equipment sales tax
imposition and refund elimination.
SF 146 (Larson) Capital equipment sales tax
imposition and refund elimination.
SF 159 (Wergin) Capital equipment sales tax
imposition and refund elimination.
SF 234 (Gerlach) Capital equipment sales tax
imposition and refund elimination.
SF 869 (Skoe) Motor vehicle sales tax
exemption for emergency response vehicles
and repair parts.
SF 884 (Jungbauer) Anoka tax increment
financing redevelopment district establishment.
SF 999 (Doll) Burnsville tax increment
financing district.
10:00 a.m.
House Housing Policy and Finance and Public
Health Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Karen Clark
Room 5 State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 1208 (Mahoney) State Building Code
modified, and construction code and licensing
provisions modified and recodified.
10:00 a.m.
House Taxes
Chair: Rep. Ann Lenczewski
Room 10 State Office Building
HF 1333 (Dill) Emergency response vehicles
and repair parts tax exemptions provided.
12:30 p.m.
Senate Transportation Budget and Policy
Division
Room 15 Capitol
For more infeamation on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar 8Z 2887 15059:55 Via Fax -> GS14SZO940 Administrator Page 886 Of 818
-Frida Fax®
Y
A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities
Chair Sen. Steve Murphy
Agenda:
SF 470 (Saxhaug) Special paper products
vehicle permit effective date modification.
SF 391 (Metzen) Trunk highway #55
construction project bond issue and
appropriation.
SF 107 (Wiger) Ramsey county Rice street
bridge bond issue and appropriation.
SF 8 (Petzold) Trunk highway 410 noise
barrier construction and I -35W interchanges
bond issue and appropriation.
SF 412 (Scheid) Trunk highway 4610
construction project completion bond issue and
appropriation.
SF 89 (Limmer) Trunk highway #610
construction project completion appropriation.
SF 1265 (Sheran) Trunk highway #14 and
Nicollet county state aid highway 941
interchange improvement construction
appropriation.
SF 97 (Day) Trunk highway #14 reconstruction
appropriation.
SF 1071 (Dibble) Automated traffic law
enforcement system (photo cop).
2:15 p.m.
House Capital Investment Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Alice Hausman
Room Basement State Office Building
HF 344 (Demmer) Olmsted County municipal
solid waste combustor expansion authorized,
bonds issued, and money appropriated.
HF 870 (Fritz) Medford wastewater treatment
facility funding provided, bonds issued, and
money appropriated.
HF 1028 (Urdahl) Darwin wastewater holding
ponds design funding provided, bonds issued,
and money appropriated.
HF 1039 (Brown) Albert Lea remedial waste
systems construction funding provided, bonds
issued, and money appropriated.
March 2, 2007
Page 6
HF 1099 (Peterson, A.) Lewis and Clark Rural
Water System grants appropriations converted
from the bonds proceeds fund to the general
fund.
HF 1545 (Olin) Roseau flood hazard mitigation
project funding provided, bonds issued, and
money appropriated.
3:00 p.m.
Senate Energy, Utilities, Technology and
Communications
Room 123 Capitol
Chair: Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon
Agenda:
SF 477 (Saxhaug) Koochiching economic
development authority plasma torch
gasification facility feasability study
appropriation.
SF 480 (Kubly) Bioenergy initiatives, bond
issue and appropriations.
SF 904 (Kubly) Geothermal revolving loan
fund and appropriation_
SF 1011 (Kubly) Geothermal heating and
cooling equipment purchase incentives.
SF 538 (Kubly) State funded buildings heating
and cooling policy.
4:00 p.m.
House Transportation Finance Division
Room 10 State Office Building
Chair: Rep. Bernard Lieder
HF 946 (Lieder)Motor fuel and motor vehicle
taxes increased, county transportation taxes
authorized, transportation impact fees imposed,
highway and bridge construction provided,
bonds issued, and money appropriated.
HF 23 (Erhardt) County wheelage tax
authorized, vehicle registration tax provisions
modified, transit fund and accounts established,
motor vehicle sales tax revenues distributed,
motor fuel tax rates modified, bonds
authorized, and money appropriated.
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar BZ Z007 16:00:36 Via Fax -> 65145ZG940 Administrator Page 007 Of 010
...............J
�d
-Frl a Fax
Lmc -
A weekly legislative update from the League gfMinnesota Cities
March 2, 2007
Page 7
HF 799 (Holberg) Transportation, Metropolitan 10:00 a.m.
Council, and public safety funding provided; House Housing Policy and Finance and Public
bonds issued, fees, funds, and accounts
modified; motor vehicle sales and lease tax
proceeds allocated, and money appropriated.
WEDNESDAY, March 7, 2007
8:00 a.m.
House Governmental Operations, Reform,
Technology and Elections
Room 200 State Office Bldg
Chair: Rep. Gene Pelowski
SF 483 (Hilstrom) Major political party
nomination ten percent requirement eliminated
HF 1110 (Hilty) Election definitions and
procedures modified.
HF 1117 (Simon) State primary election and
precinct caucus date change.
8:30 a.m.
Senate Property Tax Division
Room 15 Capitol
Chair: Sen. Rod Skoe
Agenda:
SF 824 (Mous) Property tax classification for
low income rental property application
extension.
SF 370 (Cohen) Property tax limited market
value provision extension.
SF 681 (Ortman) Maximum homestead
property tax (cap) program.
SF 947 (Dibble) Homestead property taxes
limit based on income.
SF 633 (Dibble) Property tax valuation
reduction for energy efficient commercial
properties.
SF 1255 (Sieben) Property tax exemption for
apprenticeship training facilities.
SF 811 (Larson, D) Bloomington metropolitan
area fiscal disparity contribution obligation
elimination.
Health Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Karen Clark
Room 5 State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 301 (Davnie) Blighted housing
rehabilitation program established, and
nuisance properties transferred to nonprofit
housing organizations.
10:00 a.m.
House Property Tax Relief and Local Sales Tax
Division
Chair: Rep. Paul Marquart
Room 10 State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 1113 (Wollschlager) Property tax class
rates increased on certain utility property.
HF 50 (Thissen) First tier commercial -
industrial property exempted from the state
general tax.
HF 969 (Simpson) Tier I homestead resorts
market value modified.
HF 486 (Finstad) Homestead classification
extended to certain property used for
nonhomestead purposes.
HF 957 (Zellers) Homestead property tax
maximum imposed for qualified homeowners
age 65 and older_
HF 469 (Sviggum) Property tax class 4c
expanded to include certain nonprofit
community service oriented organizations.
HF 1459 (M.Murphy) Modular homes
exempted from the property tax.
12:30 p.m.
House Local Government and Metropolitan
Affairs
Chair: Rep. Debra Hilstrom
Room Basement State Office Building
Agenda:
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar 02 2007 16001:13 Via Fax -> 6514528940 Administrator Page 008 Of 010
...............
Lmc Frl ayFaX
40,.,,JL", , -4 weekly legislative update from the League ofMinnesota Cities
March 2, 2007
Page 8
HF 1437 (Hornstein) Metropolitan Airports Transportation service to and from Woodbury
Commission required to meet in a for members.
neighborhood affected by airport noise, and Meeting location address: 8595 Central Park
advance notice of proposed annual budget Place, Woodbury MN
required.
HF 557 (Morgan) Metropolitan Airports
Commission mayoral memberships added.
HF 359 (Hansen) Metropolitan Airports
Commission expanded to include mayors.
2:15 p.m.
House Transportation and TransitPolicy
Subcommittee
Chair: Rep_ Frank Hornstein
Room 5 State Office Building
HF 1095 (Morrow) Vehicle weights allowed on
highways modified, and seasonal restrictions
on gravel roads extended.
5:30 p.m.
Senate State and Local Government Operations
and Oversight - Subcommittee on Elections
Room 125 Capitol
Chair: Sen. Dan Larson
Agenda:
SF 1310 (Lourey) Elections provisions
modifications.
SF 1298 (Higgins) Miscellaneous elections,
voter registration and ballot requirements
modifications.
SF XXXX (Larson, D) Presidential Primary.
SF 1297 (Larson, D) Automatic voter
registration of driver's license, permit and
identification card applicants.
7:00 p.m.
Joint Meeting: Senate Transportation Budget
and Policy Division - Transit Subdivision and
House Transportation and TransitPolicy
Subcommittee, Central ParkAtrium, City of
Woodbury
Chair: Sen. D. Scott Dibble
THURSDAY, March 8, 2007
8:00 a.m.
House Environment and Natural Resources
Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Jean Wagenius
Room 5 State Office Building
HF 834 (Scalze) Metropolitan Regional Parks
System funding provided, and money
appropriated.
HF 654 (Loeffler) Diseased shade tree removal
and replacement funding provided, and money
appropriated.
8:00 a.m.
House Governmental Operations, Reform,
Technology and Elections
Chair: Rep. Gene Pelowski
Room 200 State Office Bldg.
Agenda:
HF 1546 (Simon) Automatic voter registration
of drivers license, permit and identification
card applicants.
HF 1526 (Simon) Fair campaign practices act
complaints, appropriation.
8:30 a.m.
Senate Taxes
Room 15 Capitol
Chair: Sen. Thomas M. Bakk
Agenda:
SF 1139 (Sieben) Sales tax exemption for
materials used in construction and maintenance
of roads and bridges.
SF 1394 (Bakk) Proctor additional sales and
use tax imposition authority and bonding
authority increase.
For more infoamation on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar 02 2007 16:01°50 Via Fax -> 65145ZB940 Administrator Page 009 Of 010
-Frida F ax
y -
A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities
12:30 p.m
Senate Transportation Budget and Policy
Division
Chair: Sen. Steve Murphy
Room 15 Capitol
Agenda:
SF 127 (Saxhaug) Grand Rapids railroad
crossing safety improvement appropriation.
SF 440 (Tomassoni) Taxpayers Transportation
Accountability Act.
SF 413 (Scheid) Trunk highway 4169,
Hennepin county state aid highway #81 and
85th avenue north intersection interchange
bond issue and appropriation.
SF 689 (Pariseau) Cannon river pedestrian
bridge bond issue and appropriation.
SF 775 (Metzen) Trunk highway 452 frontage
roads bond issue and appropriation.
SF 236 (Kubly) Regional transportation
planning appropriation.
SF 924 (Latz) Major highway projects
transportation commissioner annual report
requirement.
SF 658 (Saltzman) Washington county I-94
corridor transportation and transit
improvements bond issue and appropriation.
SF 751 (Carlson) Bloomington Cedar avenue
bridge removal and replacement grant bond
issue and appropriation.
SF 517 (Fischbach) Sauk Rapids bridge
connecting roads construction appropriation.
SF 518 (Fischbach) Sauk Rapids bridge
connecting roads construction bond issue and
appropriation.
2:15 p.m.
House Capital Investment Finance Division
Room 5 State Office Building
Chair: Rep. Alice Hausman
Agenda:
Presentation from Metro Transitways
Development Board
March 2, 2007
Page 9
HF 418 (Bigham) Red Rock Corridor
transitway funding provided, bonds issued, and
money appropriated.
HF 379 (Hausman) St. Paul Union Depot
improvements provided, bonds issued, and
money appropriated.
HF 380 (Hausman) High-speed rail line
between St. Paul and Chicago state's share
provided, bonds issued, and money
appropriated.
HF 386 (Kalin) St. Paul to Hinckley Rush Line
Corridor provided, bonds issued, and money
appropriated.
HF 381 (Hausman) Central Corridor Transit
Way between St. Paul and Minneapolis
provided, bonds issued, and money
appropriated.
HF 1216 (Simon) Southwest transitway
corridor draft environmental impact statement
and preliminary engineering funding provided,
bonds issued, and money appropriated.
HF 1371 (Murphy, M.) North Shore Express
Intercity Rail Initiative funding provided,
bonds issued, and money appropriated.
3:00 p.m.
Senate Energy, Utilities, Technology and
Communications
Chair: Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon
Room 123 Capitol
Agenda:
SF 1151 (Latz) 911 emergency
telecommunications service fee increase;
statewide public safety radio communication
system bond sale authorization and
appropriation.
SF 1244 (Anderson, E. R) Rural wind energy
development program establishment.
SF 192 (Anderson, E. R) Global Warming
Mitigation Act of 2007.
For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122
Mar 02 2007 1602029 Via Fax -> 6514528940 Administrator Page 010 Of 010
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-Freda Fax®
{ afir{.1:ni.,qp ,Y WaHf.W „w A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities
March 2, 2007
Page 10
FRIDAY, March 9, 2007 close to home. Upcoming meetings in a city
near you include:
8:00 a.m.
House Property Tax Relief and Local Sales Tax
Division
Chair: Rep. Paul Marquart
Room 10 State Office Building
Agenda:
HF 242 (Eken) Mahnomen County tax
jurisdictions temporary aid payments made
permanent.
HF 715 (Haws) Truth in taxation property tax
program evaluation study provided.
HF 1222 (Marquart) Proposed property taxes
and public truth in taxation hearings notices
dates advanced.
8:00 a.m.
House Transportation Finance Division
Chair: Rep. Bernard Lieder
Room Basement State Office Building
Agenda: Mark-up of Omnibus Transportation
Finance Bill
9 a -m.
Senate State Government Budget Division
Room 112 Capitol
Chair: Sen. Don Betzold
Agenda:
SF 208 (Sheran) Absentee voting process
simplification.
SF 394 (Senjem) Mississippi River parkway
commission tourism and economic
development appropriation.
SF 1382 (Betzold) JOBZ program staff
retention and audit appropriation.
Town hall meetings
Town hall meetings are a great chance to meet
with your legislators and tell your city story
Mar. 3 in St. Paul (Amore Coffee on Grand
Ave, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.) with Rep. Erin
Murphy
Mar. 3 in Lakeland (Lower St. Croix Valley
Fire Station, 10:30 -Noon) with Sen. Kathy
Saltzman and Rep. Julie Bunn
Mar. 3 in Circle Pines (City Hall, 11:00 a.m.)
with Rep. Paul Gardner
Mar. 5 in Burnsville (Burnhaven Library
Monday, 7-8:30 p.m.) with Rep. Shelley
Madore
Mar. 6 in Mounds View (City Hall, 7:00 p.m.)
with Sen. Don Betzold and Rep. Tom Tillberry
Mar. 8 in Bloomington (Olson Middle School,
6:30 p.m.) with Rep_ Ann Lenczewski
Mar. 10 in Rochester (Dunn Bros Coffee, 120
Elton Hills Lane NW, 8:30-9:30 a.m.) with
Rep. Kim Norton
Mar. 10 in Spring Lake Park (City Hall, 11:00
a.m.) with Sen. Don Betzold and Rep. Tom
Tillberry
Check your local newspaper or radio station for
additional dates.
Questions? Contact Brian Strub at
651.281.1256 or I>stral3%.ln�.n.�:.c,Ar cY
Far more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations team.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122