The proposed bill establishes the Rondo Restorative Development Authority, a public body aimed at overseeing the development and operation of a land bridge in the Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul. The bill outlines the authority's purpose, which includes the transfer of state real estate interests, funding infrastructure improvements, and addressing historical racial inequities caused by the construction of an interstate highway that devastated the Rondo community in the 1950s. The authority is empowered to acquire property, manage operations, and engage in community development initiatives, with a focus on fostering long-term benefits for the local population.
The bill also details the governance structure of the authority, which will be managed by a 17-member board of commissioners appointed by various stakeholders, including community organizations and government officials. It specifies the authority's powers, including the ability to sue, acquire property, and enter into agreements for the land bridge's development and operation. Additionally, the authority is exempt from certain Metropolitan Council reviews and the Business Subsidy Act, allowing for streamlined processes in its operations. Overall, the bill aims to revitalize the Rondo neighborhood while addressing past injustices through community-led development efforts.