Bill > HF987

This bill modifies Minnesota's laws regarding annexation and detachment of municipal territories, introducing several key changes. The bill establishes a detailed process for annexation elections, requiring the chief administrative law judge to order an election when certain annexation proceedings are initiated, with specific requirements for notice, voting eligibility, and ballot design. If an annexation is denied or defeated in a referendum, the bill prohibits initiating another annexation proceeding for the same area within two years, unless the new proceeding is initiated by a majority of property owners and supported by abutting townships and municipalities. The legislation also updates procedures for orderly annexation agreements, including new notice requirements and restrictions on agreement duration. Additionally, the bill modifies detachment procedures, allowing townships or property owners to initiate detachment under certain conditions, such as for rural properties annexed more than five years ago that remain undeveloped. The bill introduces more precise language around road maintenance during annexation and detachment, clarifies cost-sharing for mediation and hearing processes, and streamlines the administrative procedures for annexation and detachment. These changes aim to provide more clarity, fairness, and structured processes for municipal boundary changes in Minnesota.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0987&ssn=0&y=2025