Purpose of the Bill

The bill is intended to support capital improvements at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Minnesota by providing funding through the issuance of state bonds. The objective is to enhance and maintain the facility to ensure its long-term viability and improve its infrastructure.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocation: The bill proposes an appropriation of $1,059,000 from the bond proceeds fund. This funding is designated for the planning, design, construction, and renovation of the Great Lakes Aquarium.

• Scope of Improvements: The allocated funds will be used for major projects including:

  • Replacement and preservation of mechanical, electrical, and water treatment systems.
  • Upgrades to utility systems.
  • Implementation of life safety improvements.
  • Exterior improvements to the building envelope.
  • Enhancements to the facility’s parking and grounds.

• Bond Issuance: To finance these expenditures, the bill authorizes the sale and issuance of state bonds by the commissioner of management and budget. The total bond amount is set to not exceed $1,059,000 and must comply with specific statutes and constitutional provisions.

Significant Changes

• The bill facilitates infrastructure upgrades and maintenance of the Great Lakes Aquarium, ensuring the facility can address critical needs and operate more effectively.
• It involves the financial mechanism of selling state bonds to raise necessary funds, impacting state financial activities through increased bonded debt.

Relevant Terms

• Capital improvements
• Bond proceeds fund
• State bonds
• Infrastructure upgrades
• Great Lakes Aquarium
• Life safety improvements