MN SF2836

Adds a new definition of "urban or suburban in character" to Minnesota Statutes, defining it as areas with residential densities exceeding one unit per 2-1/2 acres or areas with institutional, governmental, commercial, or industrial development, excluding rural industrial uses like agriculture, forestry, mining, or energy production.

Adds a new factor (item 18) to the annexation decision criteria requiring administrative law judges to consider previous annexation petitions received by the municipality from affected property owners.

Changes the annexation approval standard from "may" to "shall" order annexation when the presiding administrative law judge finds that the subject area is urban or suburban in character, is required for public health/safety/welfare, or would be in the subject area's best interest.

Applies the new "urban or suburban in character" definition to the judge's authority to alter annexation boundaries to include only properties matching this definition or to exclude property better served by another government unit.