To the editor:
I’ve been receiving many questions about the constitutional amendment appearing on this fall’s ballot. I want to share some background and my perspective.
The amendment concerns the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, which was created in 1988 to preserve Minnesota’s natural resources. It’s funded by 40% of net state lottery proceeds. An appointed commission reviews proposals and recommends funding.
The amendment would renew this funding mechanism through 2050 and raise the spending limit from 5.5% to 7% of the fund’s market value. Additionally, it would create a new community grant program for environmental education, stewardship, and health projects, with recommendations from an advisory board and final decisions by the governor-appointed Commissioner of Natural Resources.
However, this amendment has a significant flaw. Democrats specifically banned funding for wastewater treatment facilities – an urgent issue for many small communities. For years, helping small cities fix their failing water infrastructure has been one of my top priorities. It’s deeply frustrating that Democrats refuse to allow this important funding for critical water projects.
I also have concerns about accountability. The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund is managed by an appointed commission, removing key decision-making from your elected representatives. When unelected boards make decisions, your tax dollars risk being spent on projects that don’t reflect our shared values or address Minnesota’s most pressing environmental needs.
There are important environmental projects deserving of support, but decisions about spending your tax dollars should rest with the people you elect, who are directly accountable to you.
Sincerely,