This week, the University presented its 2019 Capital Request both in the House Capital Investment Division and the Senate Higher Education Finance and Policy Committee. University officials presented facts, along with compelling stories about individual projects on the Twin Cities and Duluth campuses.
Did you know the University of Minnesota maintains nearly 30 million square feet of facilities space across the entire state?
Did you know that 500 of our buildings host activities that strengthen Minnesota agricultural, mining, and timber businesses?
Did you know the University’s 10-year capital need is over $4.5 billion?
If you answered yes to all three questions, you either work in University Services or are a great candidate for advocacy at the Minnesota Legislature.
This week the University presented our 2019 Capital Request both in the House Capital Investment Division and the Senate Higher Education Finance and Policy Committee. University officials presented facts like the three above, along with compelling stories about individual projects on the Twin Cities and Duluth campuses. A special thanks to the faculty leaders at the Institute of Child Development who testified in both hearings, providing stories and examples of their work and the need for a renovated child development building.
Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement, or HEAPR, remains the University’s #1 capital request priority before the legislature this session. This $200 million request will address critical repair and maintenance needs around the state, including air conditioning, roofs, mechanical systems, and much more. With aging campuses and unique infrastructure needs befitting a research institution, state support is key to maintaining University of Minnesota excellence.
Along with advocates for higher education, interest groups across the spectrum are waiting to learn what Governor Tim Walz will recommend in his first biennial budget. His recommendations are due by February 19, followed shortly thereafter by the updated February budget forecast. According to Minnesota Management and Budget’s latest revenue and economic report, Minnesota’s net general fund receipts during the months of November and December were $102 million, or 2.7% less than projected in November. The governor, legislators, and capitol watchers eagerly await the announcement of the February forecast, which will set the parameters for final budget numbers this session.
Finally, many faculty and staff have taken time this session to share their expertise at the Capitol on a wide variety of topics. We continue to be impressed by the depth and knowledge that University personnel bring to the state legislature every day. You are excellent ambassadors of the University’s value to Minnesota and the world.