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HF 4917

Bemidji; Headwaters Science Center improvement funding provided, and money appropriated.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bidal Duran

HF 4917 would provide a one-time $525,000 grant to Opportunities in Science, Inc. to design and construct capital improvements at the Headwaters Science Center in Bemidji.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Capital Investment
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Bill Summary · HF 4917

Summary: HF 4917 (2025-2026) – Bemidji Headwaters Science Center Improvement Funding

Purpose and intent

  • HF 4917 proposes a capital investment appropriation to support improvements at the Headwaters Science Center in Bemidji, Minnesota.
  • The bill designates funding to repair and upgrade aging infrastructure at the Science Center to support ongoing operations.

Key provisions and changes

  • Appropriation:
    • A one-time grant of $525,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the General Fund.
    • The money is to be awarded to Opportunities in Science, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
  • Use of funds:
    • Design and construct capital improvements at the Headwaters Science Center.
    • Eligible activities include rehabilitation or replacement of aging and failing infrastructure (e.g., roof, deck, building envelope) and other site improvements necessary to support ongoing operations.
  • Administration and approval:
    • The grant is administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).
    • The appropriation is subject to the usual onetime-use restriction and available until the project is completed or abandoned, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.642.
  • Effective date:
    • The act becomes effective the day after final enactment.

Who/what is affected

  • Primary recipient: Opportunities in Science, Inc., a Bemidji-based nonprofit organization.
  • Project impact:
    • The Headwaters Science Center would receive capital improvements that address infrastructure repairs and enhancements, potentially improving safety, energy efficiency, accessibility, and visitor experience.
  • Indirect effects:
    • NEAR-term improvement of science outreach facilities in Bemidji, potentially benefiting students, families, and the broader community that uses the Headwaters Science Center.
    • Supports local economic development by upgrading a civic/educational asset.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Funding is designated as a one-time appropriation for fiscal year 2027.
  • The project funding must be used for capital improvements and is available until project completion or abandonment, consistent with statutory procedures (Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.642).
  • Introduction date: April 9, 2026; referred to the Capital Investment committee.
  • Sponsor: Co-sponsor Bidal Duran (in addition to primary sponsor).

Additional notes

  • The bill’s text indicates targeted improvements rather than ongoing operating support.
  • The availability window (“until the project is completed or abandoned”) aligns with standard one-time capital appropriations and emphasizes project completion within the statutory framework.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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