Friends and neighbors,
Happy Spring! Or at least that’s how it’s been feeling after Minnesota’s annual cold front. Exciting things are happening at the Capitol! From critical infrastructure projects and highway safety improvements to meaningful conversations with community leaders, there’s a lot to share.
As tax season kicks off, I’ve also included some helpful filing tips to make the process smoother. Your voice matters, and I’m always eager to hear your thoughts on the issues that impact our district. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Please do not hesitate to contact me for help with any state issue or legislative initiative: sen.carla.nelson@mnsenate.gov or at 651–296–4848.
It is a privilege to serve you!
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Executive Summary
- Committee Updates: Recent Bill Hearings
- Recovery Loan Program for Minnesota Farmers
- Helpful Tips for Tax Filing
- Olmsted County Resident Survey
- Capitol Conversations
Committee Updates: Recent Bill Hearings
Three of my pieces of legislation recently received committee hearings.
Senate File 10: Lowering the cost of Rochester’s Water Reclamation Plant (WRP)
Rochester’s water reclamation plant is in the midst of a $92 million upgrade aimed at meeting state environmental requirements, modernizing operations, improving efficiency, and enhancing environmental sustainability.
SF10 will ease the financial burden of this project by providing a sales tax exemption on the $44 million of construction materials and equipment used for the facility’s expansion.
This exemption would lower project costs by approximately $3 million — savings that could help keep water rates more affordable for local residents. In addition the project will result in an estimated annual power consumption savings of $230,000 and $170,000 in annual chemical cost savings.
During the bill’s hearing, Rochester City Council President Randy Schubring and Deputy Public Works Director Aaron Luckstein spoke in support of the measure.
SF10 was set aside for possible inclusion in a larger tax package later in the session.
Senate File 782: Graham Park Regional Exhibition Center
Graham Park has long been a gathering place for our community, hosting events, fairs, the Farmer’s Market and exhibitions that bring people together. Plans for a new Regional Exhibition Center — a $42 million project — aim to expand event space, increase opportunities for entertainment, and strengthen the park’s role as a regional destination for trade shows, agricultural events, and more.
To help offset construction costs, SF782 proposes a sales tax exemption on materials, supplies, and equipment for the project. This measure would lower the cost borne by Olmsted County property taxpayers by $1.4 million.
Olmsted County Commissioner Dave Senjem testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its importance for the community and the region’s economy.
SF782 was set aside for possible inclusion in a larger tax package later in the session.
Senate File 781 — Continuing Highway 14 Safety Upgrades
Improving safety on U.S. Highway 14 remains a top priority as traffic increases and dangerous intersections put lives at risk. My previous legislation helped secure funding for the CSAH 44 interchange, set to begin in 2026.
SF781 funds the next phase of upgrades near Byron, ensuring safer, more efficient travel for residents and businesses. Advancing this next phase is essential to keeping Highway 14 safe and supporting the region’s rapid growth.
SF 781 seeks $2.4 million for two grade-separated interchanges one at County State-Aid Highway (CSAH) 3 and one at (CSAH) 5. This will eliminate three at-grade intersections, two stoplights, and a hazardous railroad crossing.
Over the past decade, these intersections have seen 124 crashes, including three fatalities. Removing these stoplights will reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and prevent future tragedies.
Olmsted County Commissioner Michelle Rossman testified in support. The bill was set aside for possible inclusion in a larger transportation package. Note: This is just one piece of the funding needed for these intersection upgrades. Future newsletters will speak to the remaining funding requests I am seeking.
Recovery Loan Program for Minnesota Farmers
The Rural Finance Authority (RFA) Board has declared an emergency for three animal diseases avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV), highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), and H5N1 flu virus making Minnesota farmers eligible for zero-interest Disaster Recovery Loans from February 12, 2025, to February 12, 2026. These loans help cover uninsured expenses such as livestock replacement, building improvements, or revenue losses due to these diseases.
See the webpage for the Disaster Recovery Loan Program for more information.
Helpful Tips for Tax Filing
Minnesota Tax Filing Season begins. Minnesota taxpayers began filing their state income tax returns January 27, 2025. The same date the Internal Revenue Service began accepting federal income tax returns. Taxpayers have until Tuesday, April 15, 2025, to file individual income tax returns and pay their state and federal income taxes.
Key tips for tax filers:
- File electronically & use direct deposit for a secure and faster refund.
- Check for free filing options if your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $84,000 or less. Free tax preparation services are also available statewide.
- Keep receipts and tax documents for deductions and credits.
- Ensure accuracy in names, Social Security numbers, and banking details to avoid delays.
The Department of Revenue’s website allows you to find free preparation services in your area and also explains what you should bring to your appointment. Find more information Here.
Remember to File by April 15. Payment plans are available.
Share Your Feedback: 2025 Olmsted County Resident Survey
Olmsted County residents are invited to participate in the 2025 Olmsted County Resident Survey, available online in English and Spanish through March 3, 2025. This survey provides an opportunity to share thoughts on key topics such as quality of life, community safety, and satisfaction with county services.
Your input plays a vital role in helping Olmsted County prioritize projects, allocate resources, and enhance services to better meet the needs of our community.
Click below to participate:
Take the survey in English Take the survey in Spanish
Learn more here.