MN Bill Allocates $22 Million For Maple Grove Community Center

ST. PAUL, MN — A bill introduced in the Minnesota Legislature would appropriate $22,500,000 from state bonds for the renovation and expansion of the Maple Grove Community Center.

The legislation is co-authored by Maple Grove Reps. Kristin Bahner and Kristin Robbins and Plymouth Rep. Ned Carroll. It was introduced on Feb. 2 and was referred to Capital Investment, where it awaits to be scheduled for a hearing.

The project includes new swimming pools, more senior program space, banquet space, space for the arts, a walking track, a third sheet of ice, new roofs, and new mechanical systems.

The original Maple Grove Community Center opened in 1997, and city officials say significant upgrades are needed to better serve the area.

In November, voters approved a half-cent local sales tax to finance the $116 million renovation.

The measure passed with 18,739 "yes" votes (55.44 percent) to 15,060 "no" votes (44.56 percent), according to the Minnesota Secretary of State. Only one precinct, P-04, had more "no" votes than "yes" votes.

The new sales tax will take effect on April 1 and will be used to fund $90 million of the total project costs.

The city hopes to fund the remaining costs through sponsorships and donations.