MN HF2074

County governing bodies may establish a main street revitalization and reinvestment program for cities or neighborhoods to provide safe environments, increase economic stability, and improve quality of life.

Each program must include an action plan developed by residents at the neighborhood level, a strategy for resident participation and empowerment, and designation of the planning and implementation level.

Counties must establish an oversight board with 75 percent county residents (excluding elected officials and legislators) and 25 percent members selected by resident board members, which may include elected officials, business owners, and community organizations.

Program funds may be used for property rehabilitation, business support, commercial facility renovation, environmental improvements, housing construction and improvement, infrastructure projects, and social and educational programs; board operations limited to 20 percent of state funds received.

Appropriation amount to be determined (shown as "$......") from general fund each fiscal year to the Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development, distributed to qualifying counties by March 15 using a seven-factor allocation formula based on population, poverty, age demographics, vacant properties, designated neighborhoods, and vacant industrial zoning.