House Capital Investment Committee [Source] Translate

The Capital Investment Committee hearing began with a reminder about security measures and decorum. A quorum was established, and the minutes from May 6, 2025, were approved. The committee expressed appreciation for the extensive tours conducted across Minnesota, which covered over 345 projects. Nia Cheng was introduced as the new legislative assistant for the DFL. Commissioner Erin Campbell from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) presented the governor's 2026 infrastructure plan, which included nearly $7 billion in funding requests, with $3.8 billion from state agencies and $3 billion from political subdivisions. The governor's recommendations totaled $907 million, focusing on asset preservation, water infrastructure, and public safety projects. Key funding highlights included: - $316 million for asset preservation. - $113 million for water infrastructure, addressing a $2.7 billion need identified by the MPCA. - $50 million for transportation infrastructure. - $47 million for public safety projects. - $50 million for affordable housing initiatives. The plan also included funding for outdoor recreation and support for farmers. Commissioner Campbell addressed concerns about debt service for the bonding bill and discussed the relocation of tenants from the Centennial Office Building, as well as the use of trunk highway funds for remodeling. Chair Kosnick raised concerns about using trunk highway dollars for building renovations, emphasizing the need for road maintenance. Commissioner Campbell clarified that the transportation building was originally funded by trunk highway dollars, making the remodeling use appropriate. The discussion included the potential reuse of materials from the Centennial Building, with inquiries about recovering granite facades. Commissioner Campbell noted that the Department of Administration would handle this question. Funding allocations for outdoor recreation were also discussed, with $1 million designated for the Department of Natural Resources and the Met Council. The Department of Administration presented the 2026 Governor's Bonding Recommendation, highlighting the need for asset preservation funding, particularly for the Department of Corrections. The governor's recommendations included security upgrades for the Capitol Complex and funding for the demolition of the Centennial Office Building. The meeting also covered accessibility and safety concerns for individuals, including veterans and people with disabilities, particularly regarding access from the Veterans Affairs building to the Capitol. Ongoing ADA upgrades were mentioned, along with discussions about the costs associated with reconnecting the tunnel system. Concerns about lead pipe and asbestos remediation were raised, noting that this work has been ongoing since the 1990s. The need for community engagement in planning for the green space replacing the COB was emphasized. Overall, the meeting focused on safety, accessibility, community involvement, and the complexities of funding and managing state building projects.