When the MN Legislature adjourned at the end of May with significant unfinished business, talks were ongoing about coming back for a Special Session to finish the job. These discussions at the highest levels ceased yesterday without agreement to come back.

First and foremost, this was not a budget year. State agencies and other entities are funded through June 2023. There will not be a shutdown.

However, even years at the legislature historically have been viewed as “bonding” sessions where they would pass a significant capital investment bill to take care of the State’s assets and regional infrastructure. Many programs, such as opportunities with the Public Facilities Authority or the Local Wetland Replacement Program, were not provided additional funding through general obligation bonds or otherwise. Projects directly earmarked or projects that could’ve applied to these programs simply won’t get done.

A tax bill was also left on the table that would have cut taxes and extended important credits. For example, the Historic Tax Credit will sunset at the end of this month. Several projects in the queue that were relying on the credit will not move forward.

And finally, the matching funds for the federal infrastructure bill (IIJA) are left on the bottom line of the state’s historic surplus. Minnesota may lose out on tens of millions (or more) to access and apply for existing and new programs.

Any surplus dollars remain on the bottom line for the State and will carry over into next year’s regular session. Reach out to Laura Ziegler, Director of Government Affairs, with questions. This news is discouraging, disappointing, and frustrating - and it’s more important than ever that construction professionals remain engaged in advocacy efforts. 

Congratulations to The Boldt Company and Parsons Electric, Inc. on their CHASE Level 3 project on a 3-story tower addition to the existing Mayo Clinic in Mankato!

Congratulations to PCL Construction Services, Inc., Sowles Company, Hunt Electric, Veit & Company, and Bituminous Roadways, Inc. for their CHASE Level 3 project creating a major new visitor attraction at the Minnesota Zoo! The existing monorail track will be converted into a 8' wide walking path with multiple access points and "bump-outs" at animal exhibits. The project also includes renovating the Central Plaza area.

Now in it's 19th year, the Construction Health And Safety Excellence (CHASE) program is a partnership between Minnesota OSHA and AGC of Minnesotarecognizing AGC member contractors for their safety programs and performance, while providing incentives for partnership.

View a map of all the CHASE Level 3 projects.

Locally, unlike early celebrations of Juneteenth that saw one large communal gathering, this year’s celebrations, like last year’s, will be a series of events leading up to and on Juneteenth.

Planning for the 2023 Minnesota Construction Summit is in full swing! Registration for attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors is open - click the buttons to reserve exhibiting space, sign up as a sponsor, or save money by registering early to attend!

If you would like to respond to the open call for presentations at the Summit, please complete this survey.

The 2022 golf tournament is sold out, but a few sponsorship opportunities remain!

If you would like to be a breakfast or lunch sponsor, or donate to raffle items, contact Lisa.

All AGC members are invited to join the AGC staff and Board of Directors on Wednesday, July 13 (4:30-6:30) p.m. for a member meeting at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth!  

Join the AGC Leadership Blueprint Alumni and Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) Young Professionals for an afternoon of Minnesota Twins AAA baseball. On August 10 at 1:07 p.m., the St. Paul Saints will take on the Columbus Clippers (AAA team for Cleveland Guardians). 

Sign up today!

Reserve your team or sponsorship for the 2022 Sporting Clays Fundraiser, held on Wednesday, September 14! Proceeds go to the AGC of Minnesota Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing a career in the construction industry.