CLEARBROOK, MN—Rep. Matt Grossell, R-Clearbrook, is encouraging constituents to attend an upcoming meeting in Crookston hosted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to discuss state ditch-mowing policies.
Last year, MnDOT indicated it planned to change its statewide permitting standards for mowing and baling in ditches along Minnesota’s state roadways. Myriad concerns arose over the proposed changes and the Republican-led legislature successfully authored a bill placing a moratorium on new mowing rules along state highways – excluding county and township roads – until May of 2018. This moratorium helped to ensure the public and key stakeholders had ample opportunity to provide input regarding the changes to permitting standards prior to their enforcement. Republicans pushed for an outright ban on new ditch mowing regulations, legislation that was strongly opposed by the Dayton administration.
"I have heard from constituents on the state's ditch-mowing policies and hope some are able to make it to this meeting to weigh in," said Rep. Grossell. "This meeting provides an opportunity to make your voice heard on an issue that effects Northern Minnesota greatly."
The meeting in Crookston will take place on October 30 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Bede Ballroom at the Univsersity of Minnesota Crookston. The address is 2900 University Ave, Crookston, MN 56716. The full schedule of meetings can be found on the MnDOT website at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/publicinvolvement/hearings.html.
Constituents can also submit written comments by email by filling out a MnDOT comment form: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/mowing/comments.html.
Rep. Grossell encouraged anyone with questions to contact their office for more information at 651-296-4265 or rep.matt.grossell@house.mn.
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