2010 Legislative Priorities

Issues of Importance for Washington County

Washington County seeks to protect its local taxpayers from any further shifts of state costs to the county property tax and the subsequent erosion to its ability to deliver high-quality essential services in an efficient manner. The county encourages the legislature and the governor to develop a state budget that provides flexibility and full funding for any mandates imposed on local government.

Washington County believes the remaining federal funds should be allocated to those Minnesota counties that purchased vote counting equipment with local property tax dollars prior to the federal funds being available in 2006. This funding would allow for the replacement of equipment with some federal participation. Counties that purchased precinct-based vote counting equipment in 2006 utilize mostly federal funds and very little local funding.

Washington County supports special legislation that will allow the county to convey or sell a number of parcels of tax-forfeited land that border water.

The Washington County Board of Commissioners seek authority to approve watershed districts’ annual budgets and property tax levy amounts prior to certification to the county auditor. The Board of Commissioners does not think that it is appropriate for an appointed board to have taxing authority without approval of the elected county boards of the affected area.

Washington County supports the efforts of the Minnesota Department of Transportation to deliver the new St. Croix River Crossing project in 2013. The County Board requests that the legislature continue to provide needed funding for completion of this critical project.

Washington County and the Washington County Regional Rail Authority support the Red Rock Corridor Commission’s request of $500,000 for the design and construction of a park and ride in the city of Hastings. They also support the request of $3,600,000 for the implementation of commuter bus service for three years from Hastings with a stop in Newport and service to both St. Paul and Minneapolis.

Washington County and the Washington County Regional Railroad Authority support the efforts of Minnesota Department of Transportation for the development and implementation of high speed passenger rail service in the River Route Corridor.

Washington County supports $1,500,000 in state bonding for land acquisition and design of a future park and ride along the I-94 corridor.

Washington County supports a change in legislation that will allow Washington County to retain a portion of fines for enforcement of size and weight restriction as is allowed for Hennepin County.

Washington County supports the creation of a statewide transportation management system for access transportation services which is a federally required benefit. The County Board requests the state provide funds for the administrative costs of managing this system.

Washington County supports the 2010 Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council recommendation that provides funding for projects in Washington County.