MN HF2109

Creates two county fairground capital improvements grant accounts (one in general fund, one in bond proceeds fund) administered by the commissioner of agriculture to provide grants to counties and county agricultural societies.

Defines eligible capital improvements as predesign, design, construction, renovation, site preparation, and furnishing/equipping of fairground improvements, excluding land acquisition.

Prioritizes grants for improvements addressing health, safety, and accessibility needs, with equitable statewide distribution; maximum grant covers 50 percent of project costs with required nonstate contribution.

Requires grant applications to identify fairground ownership, proposed improvements, project costs, design plans, and maintenance plans, with commissioner determining bond fund eligibility in consultation with management and budget commissioner.

Cancels grants if projects do not proceed in timely manner within five years, requiring return of awarded funds; commissioner must report annually by February 15 to legislative committees on agriculture finance and capital investment.