StoryLegislative Advocacy for Regional RailOctober 21, 2026

Hennepin County Bolsters Federal Lobbying Efforts for Regional Rail Future

Commissioners approved an amendment to a lobbying agreement, aiming to secure crucial federal funding for long-term regional rail development despite initial concerns.

Published Oct 28, 2026

Hennepin County Commissioners recently approved an amendment to a federal lobbying services agreement, signaling a renewed commitment to securing crucial federal funding for the region's ambitious, long-term regional rail projects. The decision, made during a recent board meeting, extends the county’s contract with Cardinal Infrastructure, a firm tasked with advocating for Hennepin County’s interests on Capitol Hill, particularly concerning large-scale transportation initiatives.

This strategic move underscores the county's proactive approach to infrastructure development, recognizing that major regional rail projects often require significant federal investment. The lobbying efforts are designed to keep county officials informed about national funding opportunities and legislative changes, allowing them to position Hennepin County's projects favorably in the competitive landscape for federal grants and support.

I guess I'm a little I would love to know what our strategy is here because this is like essentially could be just putting a bunch of money into the ether and getting nothing in return.
— Commissioner Edelson

During discussions, Commissioner Edelson expressed a degree of caution regarding the financial commitment, highlighting the need for a clear return on investment for the county's taxpayers.

They keep us informed on what is happening across the country so that we can best position ourselves for the strategy of being successful with these decade-long types of projects.
— Lisa Cerny, County Official

In response to concerns, Lisa Cerny, a county official, clarified the firm's pivotal role. Cerny emphasized the long-game approach required for complex infrastructure initiatives like regional rail, stating that the lobbying firm provides critical intelligence on federal trends and potential funding streams, vital for projects that span years, if not decades.

Other Topics from This Document

Urban Agriculture and Community Service
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Child Wellbeing System Reform
Public Health Initiatives
Cultural Heritage Recognition
Waste Management Infrastructure
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Votes (8)

Hennepin County Farm Family of the Year Presentation

Presentation and Recognition

The Board celebrated California Street Farm, run by sisters Alyssa and Kory Isle, as the Farm Family of the Year. Recognition focused on their innovative urban agriculture practices (no-till, intercropping, hoop houses), contributions to local food systems, and community engagement, including support during Operation Metro Surge. Commissioners lauded their efforts, particularly the sustainable methods and accessibility of fresh food in urban settings, and their plans for future expansion.

Amendment to Waste Delivery Agreement with Minneapolis

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Commissioner Fernando [0:35:05] · Seconded by Commissioner Anderson [0:35:10]

The Board considered and approved an amendment to an existing agreement with the City of Minneapolis concerning waste delivery services. The amendment extends the term of the agreement to December 31, 2027, maintaining a tipping fee of $88 per ton, following prior approval by the Minneapolis City Council.

Establish Hennepin County Committee on Child Wellbeing

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Commissioner Fernando [0:37:04] · Seconded by Commissioner Edelson [0:37:09]

This item concerned the formal establishment of an ongoing committee focused on child wellbeing. The discussion highlighted the county's decade-long commitment to improving its child protection system, incorporating lessons from past challenges and a class-action lawsuit. Speakers emphasized a commitment to continuous learning, the inclusion of staff, external experts, and individuals with lived experience, and an assertive timeline for the committee's work to commence.

MOU with MDH for Congenital Syphilis Outreach, Testing, and Treatment

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Unknown [0:47:04] · Seconded by Commissioner Conley [0:47:04]

The Board discussed and approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minnesota Department of Health for Healthcare for the Homeless to receive medical supplies. These supplies are crucial for outreach, testing, and treatment to prevent congenital syphilis, which has seen a significant increase in cases. The discussion emphasized the preventability of the condition and the unique role of Healthcare for the Homeless in providing low-barrier care to vulnerable populations.

Proclamation for Native American Heritage Month

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Commissioner Conley [0:51:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Anderson [0:51:33]

Commissioner Conley presented a proclamation to officially recognize November as Native American Heritage Month in Hennepin County. The resolution acknowledged the historical injustices faced by indigenous peoples, their ongoing contributions, and the county's commitment to promoting equity, anti-racism, and government-to-government relationships with tribal nations. Commissioner Conley also highlighted upcoming cultural events and exhibits during the month.

Accept Conveyance of Surplus Properties from Hennepin County (Regional Rail Authority)

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Commissioner Greene [1:00:09] · Seconded by Commissioner Goettel [1:00:13]

The Regional Rail Authority moved to accept the conveyance of surplus properties from Hennepin County. This action was described as a companion resolution to a prior Hennepin County resolution (26-0367), indicating a procedural transfer of assets between the two entities.

Amendment to State Lobbying Services Agreement (Messerli and Kramer)

Passed Unanimously

Moved by Commissioner Greene [1:01:54] · Seconded by Commissioner Anderson [1:01:58]

The Regional Rail Authority approved an amendment to its agreement with Messerli and Kramer for state lobbying services. This amendment extends the contract period to December 31, 2027, and increases the 'not to exceed' amount by $44,000, bringing the new total to $88,000, representing a standard annual renewal.

Amendment to Federal Lobbying Services Agreement (Cardinal Infrastructure)

Passed

Dissent: None explicitly recorded, but Commissioner Edelson voiced strong concerns during discussion.

Moved by Commissioner Greene [1:04:19] · Seconded by Commissioner Fernando [1:04:22]

The Regional Rail Authority approved an amendment to its federal lobbying contract with Cardinal Infrastructure, extending the term to December 31, 2027, and increasing the contract value by $245,000 to a new total of $490,000. The Met Council will contribute $122,500. Commissioner Edelson expressed concerns about the effectiveness of federal lobbying in the current political climate, questioning the strategy and seeking assurance that the lobbyists are employing creative approaches to secure transit funding. Staff confirmed that the lobbying firm adapts strategies to different administrations and provides essential strategic information for long-term projects.

Notable Quotes (12)

California Street Farm demonstrates that urban agriculture can be profitable while strengthening local food systems, stewarding natural resources, and building community resilience.
— Lea Spaniolo [0:04:12]

Hennepin County Farm Family of the Year Presentation

Like you're helping people get access to free, healthy, fresh food that's good for our bodies, for our minds, for our souls.
— Commissioner Conley [0:10:37]

Hennepin County Farm Family of the Year Presentation

farmers like myself, emerging farmers especially, who don't own land, um really have a hard time accessing land. And specifically they have a hard time accessing secure land...
— Alyssa Isle [0:23:49]

Hennepin County Farm Family of the Year Presentation

So, this is amendment one to the waste delivery agreement. Like you said, it extends the term of the agreement to December 31, 2027 at a tipping fee of $88 per ton.
— David McNary [0:35:46]

Amendment to Waste Delivery Agreement with Minneapolis

It's But it's because it's the right thing to do. And so, I'm really I'm I'm excited to support this today.

Ordinances & Resolutions (4)

Resolution 26-0367Resolution

Hennepin County resolution related to the conveyance of surplus property to the Regional Rail Authority.

R2Resolution

Specific version of the resolution to establish the Hennepin County Committee on Child Wellbeing.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)Other

Agreement between MDH and Healthcare for the Homeless for congenital syphilis supplies.

ProclamationOther

Document officially recognizing November as Native American Heritage Month.

THE HENNEPIN COUNTY RECORDER

Hennepin County Bolsters Federal Lobbying Efforts for Regional Rail Future

Other Topics from This Document

Urban Agriculture and Community Service

Child Wellbeing System Reform

Public Health Initiatives

Cultural Heritage Recognition

Waste Management Infrastructure

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Votes (8)

Notable Quotes (12)

Ordinances & Resolutions (4)

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