Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to provide financial support for the development of a community and cultural marketplace at the former Sears department store site in the Maplewood Mall.

Main Provisions

• Appropriation: The bill allocates money from Minnesota's general fund to the Department of Employment and Economic Development.
• Grant: These funds are meant for a grant to the city of Maplewood.
• Project Objective: The grant is to be used in collaboration with the property's new owner and the HmongTown Connection to develop the site into a community and cultural marketplace.

Significant Changes

• This bill introduces a new appropriation for fiscal year 2026, which will be available until June 30, 2027. This is a one-time allocation specifically aimed at transforming a former retail space into a community-focused venue.

Relevant Terms

economic development, appropriation, community marketplace, cultural marketplace, HmongTown Connection, Maplewood Mall, grant, Department of Employment and Economic Development