Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak testified with St. Cloud Mayor John Ellenbecker yesterday at the State Legislature on a bill to create a statewide airport strategy. The bill (SF 2709) would direct the Minnesota Department of Transportation to develop a statewide Airport Advisory Board to review and make recommendations on a State Aviation System Plan update. Both Mayors testified on behalf of the coalition of Mayors supporting this strategy, including the Mayors of Rochester, Duluth and Mankato. "The current situation is the worst of both worlds - it's bad for the economy and the environment. MSP is projected to be close to capacity and there are too many planes flying over impacted neighborhoods," Mayor Rybak said. "A statewide airport strategy would allow more air traffic into the state, while at the same time lessen pollution for our neighborhoods." The Senate Transportation and Finance Committee approved the bill, and it will be heard next by the Local Government Committee. Sen. Jane Ranum, Senate author of the bill, also testified. The companion in the House was introduced by Rep. Paul Thissen, and it has not been scheduled for a hearing at this point. The next Senate hearing is in the Senate Local Government Committee next Wednesday, March 24, at 12:30 p.m. in Room 123 of the Capitol. Laura Sether Office of Mayor Rybak Standish-Ericsson REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait.
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