MN SF3396

Commissioner of public safety shall award grants to counties or cities covering up to 50 percent of capital costs for community storm shelters, with recipients providing the remaining costs in cash or in-kind contributions.

In-kind contributions may include the value of site preparation and public infrastructure needed for the project.

Community storm shelter is defined as a community safe room facility that meets Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) criteria for providing shelter and protection in extreme weather events.

Commissioner shall establish criteria for awarding grants, with priority given to projects that leverage federal money, maximize state funding use, and provide safe shelter to areas regularly experiencing extreme weather events.

Cities or counties may apply for grants on forms and in a manner prescribed by the commissioner.