This bill modifies the governance structure of the Metropolitan Council in Minnesota by eliminating the Transportation Advisory Board and revising the appointment process and membership of the Council. Key amendments include allowing the commission to monitor appointments to the Metropolitan Council and make recommendations to the appointing authority, as well as establishing a new membership structure where local elected officials or citizen representatives are appointed from each Metropolitan Council district with staggered terms. The bill also introduces municipal committees in each district to enhance local representation.

The transition to the new governance model will take effect on January 1, 2028, and will increase the number of Council districts from 16 to 33 to ensure equal population distribution. The Metropolitan Council will elect its chair and vice-chair from among its members instead of having the chair appointed by the governor. Additionally, the bill replaces the existing advisory body with a technical advisory committee composed of professional staff from local governments and agencies, aimed at improving transportation planning by providing specialized expertise. The bill also sets salaries for the chair and members of the Metropolitan Council and includes a repeal of a specific section from the 1994 laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 3.8841, 473.123, 473.146