Frederickson: Pawlenty's

proposal goes too far

Governor wants

to shift trust

fund control

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

ST. PAUL -- Gov. Tim Pawlenty's proposal to shift control of a key environmental trust fund away from the legislative process to an appointed public board goes too far, according to District 21 Sen. Dennis Frederickson, R-New Ulm.

The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund generates about $34 million each year for state conservation projects. Proceeds could double in the next decade as lottery sales grow.

The governor said an appointed board would provide better insight than lawmakers would.

Pawlenty said political pressure can sway decisions on how money is spent. He will propose the Minnesota Conservation Heritage Foundation oversee the trust fund that was established by state lottery proceeds. The plan would require legislative consent.

Frederickson, a member of the Legislative Commission for Minnesota Resources (LCMR) said shifting environmental trust fund decisions from the LCMR to a seven-citizen board goes "way too far."

"I'd support a citizen board for conservation, wildlife and fishing for a portion of LCMR decision-making," Frederickson said. "I'd like to see the rest of the LCMR left alone."

Frederickson said the LCMR has provided funding for a wide range of things like environmental education, human health and environmental pollution and research.

The Trust Fund provides funding for state parks, trails and restoration and research projects for the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers.

During the last biennium the Lottery contributed $48 million to the Trust Fund but only $27 was appropriated. It receives almost seven cents of each lottery dollar wagered. Funding is guaranteed by the Minnesota Constitution through Dec. 31, 2024.

From 1991-2003, the legislature appropriated $174 million to 287 projects.

As of December 2003, the Trust Fund market value was about $300 million.

Funding applications are made to the LCMR which makes recommendations to the full legislature which in turn, must pass a bill allocating funds. Once passed, the bill may be signed or vetoed by the governor.

Each biennium, the LCMR reviews major environmental issues facing the state and prepares a strategic plan that identifies funding priorities. The commission may ask selected organizations to make presentations prior to final review and recommendations. Final recommendations are based on consistency with the strategic plan and with regard to available funding.

To apply for funding, contact the LCMR at 65 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Avenue, St.Paul, MN 55155. Call 651-296-2406, e-mail lcmr@commissions.leg.state.mn.us. For 2005 funding cycle information, visit http://ww.lcmr.leg.mn and go to the link.

(Fritz Busch can be e-mailed at fbusch@nujournal.com).