St. Paul, MN - Today, in a major step towards completing the work set by last session’s bipartisan framework agreement, the Minnesota House passed two pieces of capital investment legislation that would 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.
Rep. Dan Wolgamott (DFL - St. Cloud) serves on the House Capital Investment Committee, and voted in favor of the legislation, which included $7 million for the Great River Children’s Museum.
"I am proud to cast my vote to bring us one step closer to securing $7 million for the Great River Children’s Museum," said Rep. Wolgamott. “These state funds will help complete construction and allow the museum to open their doors and serve over 100,000 children and families each year."
These state funds will help with the costs of completing construction of Great River Children’s Museum, allowing them to open their doors and serve over 100,000 children and families each year. The $7 million investment will fund renovation and expansion of a 25,000 sq. ft. facility, including 8 mainstay exhibit areas, an outdoor exhibit space, a rooftop program space, program room, teaching kitchen, and temporary gallery.
House File 669, the first bill taken up, focuses on taking care of existing infrastructure and leveraging federal funds that are available for certain projects. The bill also restores and protects our natural spaces, and funds critical infrastructure, such as water and transportation systems, that allow communities throughout the state to grow and thrive.
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.
Video of today’s debate can be found on the House Public Information YouTube channel.
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