HF4917

Purpose

Provide funding to support capital improvements at the Headwaters Science Center in Bemidji. The bill dedicates resources from the general fund to help upgrade aging infrastructure so the science center can continue operating effectively.

What the bill does

• authorizes a one-time appropriation of 525,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the general fund.
• directs the commissioner of employment and economic development to grant the funds to Opportunities in Science Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
• the grant is to be used to design and construct improvements of a capital nature at the Headwaters Science Center, including rehabilitation or replacement of aging and failing infrastructure, the roof deck, building envelope, and other site improvements to support ongoing operations.

Funding and terms

• The money is a onetime appropriation and remains available until the project is completed or abandoned.
• The availability is subject to Minnesota Statutes section 16A.642, which governs how and when appropriations are used or lapse.

Project scope and implications

• Focuses on capital-level improvements (capital nature), not ongoing operating expenses.
• Includes structural and exterior work (roof deck, building envelope) and related site improvements.
• The funding supports the Headwaters Science Center’s long-term viability and ability to continue programs in Bemidji.

Relationship to existing law

• Establishes a new targeted appropriation from the general fund for this specific project.
• References existing Minnesota oversight for appropriations (16A.642) to designate project completion or abandonment rules.

Recipient and accountability

• Recipient designated: Opportunities in Science Inc., a nonprofit organization.
• The grant is intended to enable project design, construction, and completion of defined improvements at the Headwaters Science Center.

Relevant Terms Headwaters Science Center Bemidji Opportunities in Science Inc. capital investment / capital nature appropriation / grant general fund commissioner of employment and economic development design and construct improvements rehabilitation replacement roof deck building envelope site improvements ongoing operations one-time appropriation completed or abandoned Minnesota Statutes section 16A.642