A bill allowing towns to spend money for recognition of volunteers, service efforts, retiring town officers, or to host or support a community celebration was passed 132-0 by the House March 6.
Sponsored by Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL-Balsam Township), HF2636 clarifies a provision relating to parks and authorizes expenditures for the purpose of recognizing volunteers, service efforts, retiring officials and hosting community celebrations.
It also strikes a provision that would require a separate election for a ballot question to direct the town board to raise funds for parks. By allowing the electors to authorize the town board to spend money for the purpose of recognitions and community celebrations, towns would have the same authority already granted to cities under Minnesota statutes.
The bill awaits action by the full Senate. Sen. Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids) is the Senate sponsor.