Legislative Update
Almost a month into session, the activity is gaining speed. This session, GMPT has several priorities...
From the Chair: GMPT’s goals for 2024
This past month was marked with many things: President’s Day, Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, and the start of the 2024 Legislative Session.
As things get underway, we have seen and heard some indications that this session will be less packed with new legislation. As House Speaker Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) commented, “Like a snake eating a hedgehog, for a while that snake doesn’t eat.” It will take a while for all the 2023 investments to get into and impact the system.
It’s not too late! Register now for GMPT Legislative Action Day
If you haven't done so already, don't forget to register for GMPT's annual Legislative Action Day! All members are invited to attend virtually or in-person on Thursday, March 14, at the State Capitol in St. Paul to promote parks and trails initiatives.
This free, partial-day event provides networking opportunities, speakers from key partners, advice on lobbying, connections with a few elected officials, and time for lobbying.
GMRPTC Update: DNR & SHPO staff answer questions about FY25 grants
On January 23rd, the GMRPTC hosted a grant meeting that was mandatory for FY25 grantees but was also open to all who were interested in learning more about the grant process. The meeting was an opportunity to hear from the DNR Grant Managers—Jenni Bubke and Sarah Wennerberg—as well as SHPO staff members Environmental Review Specialist Kelly Gragg-Johnson and Environmental Review Archaeologist Lucy Harrington.
Legislative session is almost upon us
In less than two weeks, the Minnesota Legislature will reconvene, and although the second half of the biennium is shorter, it will likely be another busy session. Because it is not a budget year, the Legislature will be focused primarily on the bonding bill and policy issues. For GMPT, we have several priorities for 2024. We would like to see more funding for the DNR’s local park and trails grant programs and will be pushing for the inclusion of such funds in the bonding bill.
A Message from the Chair: Hello, 2024!
I hope the New Year has greeted you kindly! As your new Chair, I am honored to serve in this role and look forward to achieving more milestones with my fellow Board members. In addition to working with GMPT, I also serve as the Parks Director for Sherburne County.
Sherburne County receives Blazing Star Award for enhancing access to nature at Grams Park
Sherburne County received the Blazing Star Award from Conservation Minnesota at their Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, December 19. The award acknowledges exceptional local government projects that advance conservation, climate resilience, environmental protection, or outdoor recreation opportunities.
Business Member Highlight: HKGi
Below is a contribution from GMPT business member HKGi. For more information, please visit www.hkgi.com. HKGi is a Minneapolis-based landscape architecture,…
GMRPTC releases 2023 Policy & Planning Report
Below is a message from GMRPTC Executive Director Renee Mattson. You can reach her at renee.mattson@gmrptcommission.org. I looked back at the…
FORUM RECAP: December discussion offers insight into coordination with parks commissions & friends groups
Scheduling and technology issues aside, the December forum on Parks Commissions and Friends Groups was another success! The virtual discussion was filled with informative advice and analysis on the working relationship between parks and trail systems and these valuable groups.