SAINT PAUL, MN – Members of the Omnibus Tax Conference Committee reached agreement on a $2 billion tax bill, which funds new investments in K-12 education, higher education, jobs, and historic cuts in property taxes. Also included in the legislation is up to $327 million from the State of Minnesota for the Mayo Clinic Destination Medical Center (DMC) project in Rochester – a $585million infrastructure project.
“The Destination Medical Center project is expected to create thousands of new jobs and ensure Minnesota remains a premier global healthcare center,” said Rep. Kim Norton (DFL – Rochester), chief House author of the legislation. “Despite the challenges, we have secured the funding for the project. I appreciate the support I received from my colleagues, the Governor’s Office, and enjoyed working with Sen. Dave Senjem throughout the process to get the DMC done.”
Much of the upfront planning of specific infrastructure projects will be provided by a Mayo Clinic private economic development agency in concert with a public non-profit corporation and the City of Rochester.
The plan allows Mayo Clinic to begin making strategic investments with the confidence that the public infrastructure required to complement their expansion is assured.
While planning and development work will be provided by the private non-profit, the overall plan and individual projects will be designed with public input. The Rochester City Council will maintain ultimate authority over the project to ensure transparency and protect the public interest.
This outcome represents the State of Minnesota’s acknowledgement of Mayo Clinic as a vitally important state asset. The legislation provides the support necessary to assure Mayo Clinic’s growth in Minnesota and position Rochester to be a premier medical destination with a vibrant economy.
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