Metropolitan Council advisory committee and Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission member compensation authorized.
Impact
The legislation specifically binds to the counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington, thereby enhancing support for regional governance by allowing for effectively compensated advisory committee members. By providing this compensation, the bill aims to attract a diverse and capable membership that represents the interests of various local government units, bolstering the Metropolitan Council's function in policy-making and oversight.
Summary
House File 1334, introduced by Representative Elkins, seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes concerning the Metropolitan Council and its advisory committees. The bill allows members of the Metropolitan Council advisory committees and the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission to receive compensation for their service, which had previously been forbidden. This new provision is expected to incentivize participation and ensure that the committees are staffed with individuals who may otherwise be unable to afford to serve without remuneration.
Contention
One point of contention regarding HF1334 relates to concerns about the potential for increased bureaucracy and the financial implications of compensating committee members. Critics may argue that this could divert funds from critical public services, while supporters counter that adequately compensated positions will likely lead to more effective governance and better-informed decisions regarding metropolitan issues, particularly concerning public resources such as water supply.
Metropolitan Council abolished, duties transferred to commissioners of administration and natural resources, transportation and transit-related functions transferred to Department of Transportation, metropolitan area sanitary sewer district created, and money appropriated.
Metropolitan Council; removal of council members for cause authorized, vice-chair governor appointment provided, council member salary and benefits specified, and annual reviews of regional administrator by council required.
Transparency and community engagement in trunk highway project development established, project scoping and development requirements established, transportation project activity portal required, legislative reports modified, and money appropriated.