Purpose of the Bill

The bill is intended to establish the Rondo Restorative Development Authority in St. Paul, Minnesota. This authority aims to develop a land bridge in the Rondo neighborhood, addressing the historical racial inequities caused by the construction of an interstate highway in the 1950s, which led to significant community displacement and loss of wealth.

Main Provisions

• Establishment of Authority: The Rondo Restorative Development Authority will be a public body responsible for the land bridge's development and operation. It will not directly affiliate with the city but will have specific powers within the Rondo community area.
• Board Composition: A 17-member board will manage the authority, with representatives appointed by various local entities, such as ReConnect Rondo, the city’s mayor, and community organizations.
• Powers and Duties: The authority can acquire property, fund infrastructure, and manage the land bridge's construction and operation. This may involve forming partnerships, entering agreements, and acquiring necessary property rights.
• Development and Maintenance: The authority may contract firms for different stages of the project like design, construction, and maintenance, and the project will adhere to prevailing wage laws.
• Financial Management: The authority can accept grants, gifts, loans, and contributions from various sources to fund its initiatives and will manage these funds according to agreements.
• Exemptions and Legal Standing: The authority is exempt from specific Metropolitan Council reviews and the Minnesota Business Subsidy Act for its transactions and projects.

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces a new legal entity dedicated to addressing the economic and social restoration of the Rondo neighborhood, focusing on fostering development and reconnecting the community.
• It specifically enables long-term leases and property management for up to 99 years, which is atypical for projects of this nature, allowing for sustained development and community engagement.

Relevant Terms

• Rondo Restorative Development Authority
• Land bridge
• Historical racial inequities
• Interstate highway
• Community displacement
• Generational wealth
• Board of commissioners
• Infrastructure improvements
• Government assistance
• Nonprofit corporations