HF 4835 Summary

• Appropriates $2,250,000 in fiscal year 2023 to the Commissioner of Natural Resources to assist nine North and East Metro cities and one town in evaluating and preparing contingency plans for converting water supplies from groundwater to surface water sources.

• Contingency plans must include schedules for funding design and construction, preliminary design details on supply source, treatment, distribution, operation, and financing.

• Commissioner must compile a final report with contingency plans and recommendations in consultation with the Metropolitan Council, St. Paul Regional Water Services, and other stakeholders, due to legislative committees by December 31, 2024.

• Appropriates $500,000 in fiscal year 2023 to assist the same municipalities in developing plans to reduce per capita residential water use to 75 gallons per day and total per capita water use to 90 gallons per day.

• Requires irrigation plans that implement an irrigation ban when White Bear Lake water level falls below 923.5 feet, continuing until the lake reaches 924 feet elevation; both appropriations are one-time and available until June 30, 2024.