For Immediate Release – June 6, 2023
Hermantown Thanks State Legislators
Hermantown, Minn. – In Hermantown’s first City Council meeting following both the close of the 2023 state legislative session and Governor Walz’s signing of the associated bills, Mayor Wayne Boucher expressed his gratitude to state legislators for their efforts.
“I would like to thank our state representatives for their hard work on our behalf this year, as both Senator Hauschild and Representative Zeleznikar introduced and supported measures for Hermantown,” Boucher said. “In this session, we received an unprecedented level of help and support from the legislature that benefit Hermantown and the surrounding region.”
Most notably, Hermantown received $7.475 million in bonding to aid in the completion of the new NorthStar Ford Arena and the City’s return to receiving Local Government Aid.
“The return of annual Local Government Aid payments is a breakthrough that we have been working on for years,” Boucher said. “It is a pleasant surprise that should soften property tax increases during a time where we are facing a growing demand for city services. Additionally, the bond of $7.475 million will help us make up for the increased construction costs of the new arena addition.”
Hermantown is set to receive more than $315,000 in Local Government Aid next year as part of a revamped equation put forth by the state this past legislative session. Additionally, Hermantown was also tabbed to receive more than $435,000 in one-time public safety aid, which will aid in the creation of a new hybrid fire department model set to replace the Hermantown Volunteer Fire Department.
“The additional one-time money for public safety will help fund improvements in the delivery of crucial services that directly impact life and safety concerns,” Boucher said. “We are so grateful for the efforts of our elected officials, along with the many residents, who have worked to create these upcoming opportunities in Hermantown.”
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For more information, contact: Joe Wicklund, Communications & Community Engagement Director, City of Hermantown, at [email protected] or 218.729.3614.