Marty Seifert updated the Mountain Lake City Council on the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities’ priorities — increasing Local Government Aid (LGA) for Greater Minnesota, expanding housing through DEED’s Small Cities Development Program (SCDP), and pushing for infrastructure funding; he noted the Legislature passed a $1.24 billion capital bill.

At the July 21 Cannon Falls City Council meeting, Darren Lee of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities summarized the 2026 legislative session, highlighting a $6 billion February forecast, a $1.24 billion bonding package, and that only $15,000,000 was allocated this year for lead-service-line replacement — far short of needs.

Bradley Peterson of Flaherty & Hood, speaking for the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, told the council the legislature passed a $1.24 billion bonding bill with substantial water and wastewater investment, preserved Local Government Aid levels and defeated state-level housing zoning preemption; he said lead service line replacement received far less funding than advocates requested.

Council members largely favored restoring an earlier state flag; staff noted a stalled state bill that would have reduced local government aid by 10% for cities flying the old flag. Without a formal vote, the council directed staff to begin flying the old flag pending further direction.

Minnesota townships seek fairer local government aid to enhance services and reduce taxes.