MN SF3826

Appropriates $75,000 in fiscal year 2019 to operate Hill-Annex Mine State Park in fiscal years 2020 and 2021 at least at the level of service and hours of operation as fiscal year 2016, including care and maintenance of park facilities.

Requires the commissioner of natural resources to work with the city of Calumet and local units of government to identify and coordinate volunteers to supplement park operations.

Appropriates $150,000 in fiscal year 2019 to Itasca County for a work group comprising representatives from the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, city of Calumet, Itasca County, and Western Mesabi Mine Planning Board to meet bimonthly and identify sustainable operation options.

Directs the commissioner to prepare information on long-term building and equipment status, public safety concerns related to mine lands access, and options for cultural and historic artifacts.

Eliminates allocation of fleet, facilities, professional services, and lease payment costs to the park beginning July 1, 2018, while prioritizing the property's long-term use for mining purposes alongside continued state park operation until active mining resumes.