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Mayor Emily Larson Responds to Critical Positive Step in Legislative Session

[Duluth, MN] The City of Duluth has several key priorities that are being included in bills being written by the Minnesota Legislature for consideration in a pending special session.

The voter-approved half-percent sales tax dedicated for streets and $100 million for the Essentia Health-St. Luke’s Hospital medical district are both included in the tax bill which is being reviewed by the Senate and House today. Additionally, an increase in LGA (a return to pre-2002 levels) and the provision of Tax Increment Financing for Lot D are also included.

“After so much effort, focus, determination this session, it feels great to see it in print,” said Mayor Emily Larson. “If everything moves ahead into a special session as it currently stands, this will be a tremendously successful legislative year for Duluth.”

With more work to be done in the coming days, this important positive step is critical to making sure that the half-percent sales tax for streets, which 77% of voters approved, and the Essentia-St. Luke’s medical district moves forward. It is anticipated that Governor Walz will call a special session in the coming days to request that the Minnesota Legislature finish the work of the state.

“It takes a village to get this far, and we have the best. I am eager to enjoy the moment and thank everyone, but I’ll wait to do so until it’s all said and done. Like everyone else, I’m looking forward to getting to the other side of this session,” said Mayor Larson. 

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