SF2170

Purpose

To provide funding for capital improvements to the Soo Line grade all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail systems in Cass County and to authorize the sale and issuance of state bonds to pay for this investment.

Main provisions

• Appropriation: $750,000 is appropriated from the bond proceeds fund to the commissioner of natural resources (DNR) for a grant to Cass County to support capital improvements to the Soo Line grade ATV trail systems in Cass County.
• Bond issuance: The commissioner of management and budget shall sell and issue bonds of the state in an amount up to $750,000 to fund the appropriation, under the applicable Minnesota statutes (16A.631 to 16A.675) and the Minnesota Constitution (article XI, sections 4 to 7).

Financial implications

• The project is funded through bond proceeds rather than a direct appropriation from general funds.
• The state will incur debt (bond issuance) up to $750,000 to finance the grant to Cass County for ATV trail improvements.
• The grant is administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to Cass County.

How it changes existing law

• Introduces a new capital investment appropriation specifically for Cass County’s ATV trail improvements.
• Authorizes the sale and issuance of state bonds up to $750,000 to finance this appropriation, aligning with the referenced statutes and constitutional provisions.
• No broad tax or broader program changes are described; this is a targeted funding action for a local infrastructure project.

Potential impact

• Enhanced ATV trail infrastructure in Cass County, potentially improving recreation opportunities and local tourism.
• Use of bond financing means future debt service is required, impacting state bonding capacity and debt-related obligations.

Relevant Terms - Cass County - all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail systems / all-terrain vehicle trails - Soo Line grade ATV trail systems - grant - Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - capital improvements - appropriation - bond proceeds fund - bond sale / bonds - Commissioner of Management and Budget - Minnesota Statutes sections 16A.631 to 16A.675 - Minnesota Constitution article XI sections 4 to 7 - capital investment appropriations