The bill introduces significant amendments to Minnesota Statutes concerning the processes of orderly annexation and detachment within local government. A new subdivision in section 414.031 mandates that an election must be held for annexation proceedings, establishing specific procedures for conducting the election and determining voter eligibility. Additionally, if an annexation is denied, no new proceedings for the same area can be initiated for two years unless supported by a majority of property owners and adjacent municipalities. The bill also creates a new section, 414.0322, which outlines the election process and public notification requirements. Other amendments emphasize the necessity of joint resolutions and mutual agreements between municipalities and townships for annexation, clarify the reimbursement process for municipalities annexing town property, and detail responsibilities regarding road maintenance.

Further changes include stipulations regarding mediation and detachment processes, specifying that the chief administrative law judge must conduct mediation sessions with approved mediators. The bill clarifies the conditions under which property owners or townships can initiate detachment, ensuring that it aligns with urban development needs and municipal functions. The chief administrative law judge is empowered to adjust the area for detachment and consider municipal indebtedness. Additionally, the bill mandates equitable cost distribution in proceedings and outlines criteria for the annexation of unincorporated property, requiring that the area be urban or suburban and that municipal governance is necessary for public welfare. The bill also repeals a provision related to annexation by ordinance, streamlining the overall process.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 414.033, 414.031, 414.0325, 414.036, 414.038, 414.06, 572A.03