For Immediate Release Contact: Kelly Haff
December 6, 2022 651-259-1927
CGMC President: Large budget surplus provides ample opportunity to invest in Greater Minnesota
Below is statement from CGMC President and Thief River Falls Mayor Brian Holmer regarding today’s announcement that Minnesota’s budget surplus has increased to $17.6 billion:
“This is terrific news for Minnesota. The budget surplus, coupled with millions of federal dollars waiting to be matched, means state leaders have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make investments that will have a lasting impact on improving our communities.
“Now the real work begins as legislators discuss how to get the most out of these dollars. As their conversations get underway, I urge policymakers to keep in mind that Greater Minnesota has many critical needs. Local Government Aid, which plays a vital role in restraining property taxes and lessening disparities between cities, has not kept pace with inflation and the increased financial pressures on cities. Cities across the state are facing the need to make expensive upgrades to their aging wastewater and drinking water facilities, along with other essential infrastructure. Shortages in child care and housing have stunted our communities’ economic growth for years. Now we know the state has the resources to tackle these issues.
“With today’s budget announcement, our state can quickly tackle some of the big-picture problems that have impacted Greater Minnesota for far too long. We look forward to working closely with Governor Walz and the Legislature to seize this unique opportunity.”
###
The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing more than 100 cities outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota. Visit the CGMC online at greatermncities.org and follow us on Twitter @greatermncities.
