This bill modifies the provisions of the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission by amending several subdivisions of Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 85.536. Key changes include the establishment of six regional parks and trails districts outside the seven-county metropolitan area, the requirement for the commission to develop a strategic plan for funding eligibility, and the adjustment of grant recommendations to focus on projects approved by the commission. Additionally, the bill changes the frequency of chair elections from annually to biennially and requires the commission to submit reports by regional parks and trails district.

Furthermore, the bill extends the availability of specific grants from the parks and trails fund for various projects, including those in St. Louis and Lake Counties, Olmsted County, Stearns County, Redwood County, and the city of Sandstone, with deadlines extending to June 30, 2027, or June 30, 2028, depending on the project. It also repeals subdivisions 3 and 4 of section 85.536, which pertained to the initial appointments and meetings of the commission.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 85.536