More could be merrier for the Nashwauk Public Utilities Commission.
Sponsored by Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL-Balsam Township) and Sen. Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids), a new law increases the membership of the commission and modifies the term structure.
Under the law, signed April 10 by the governor, the commission will grow from three to five members, with the members serving three-year staggered terms. No more than one member of the city council will be able to serve on the commission.
Anzelc said that with Nashwauk becoming the home to a $1.6 billion Minnesota Steel Industries project, city council leaders think it is in the public interest to have more participation by the community on the commission.
Public utilities commissions are responsible for the management of publicly owned water and electrical utilities. Under state law, a commission has three members that are appointed by the city council.
Grand Rapids was given similar expansion authority in 1999, while Delano and Shakopee were granted the same in 2002.
The increase in membership will be effective upon local approval.
HF2788*/SF3192/CH183