Walz Requests District Projects After Unprecedented Transparency in Earmark Process

Thanks southern Minnesotans for their thoughtful input on local priorities

Following an unprecedented process of transparency and accountability, Rep. Walz today announced the list of local requests he will forward to the House Appropriations Committee.

This year, Rep. Walz involved southern Minnesotans in the process by hosting a virtual hearing on his website that allowed constituents to play a pivotal role in deciding which projects he would request. Over 1,000 southern Minnesotans participated in this unique process.

"I want to thank folks for taking the time out of their day to provide me with their thoughtful, well-informed insight into the local needs of southern Minnesota," said Walz. "Their input was critical to my final decisions and they played an important role in helping me identify projects that are good for the local economy and good for Minnesota taxpayers."

For the second year, the reformed earmark process, which was championed by Walz, now requires Members to post all earmark requests and requested dollar amounts on their website, as well as the potential recipient, information about the necessity of the project, and contact information for requestors.

"While it is likely that only a few of these meritorious projects will ultimately receive funding, I believe it is important for residents of southern Minnesota to be able to see the list of projects I am supporting and I am proud to release this information about priorities."

All projects were reviewed for meeting key criteria set by Walz:

* Transparency and Accountability
The potential recipient must be of high ethical standards and committed to providing additional information to the southern Minnesotans in the future about the project, its progress, and be accountable to taxpayers for how their tax dollars are being spent.
* Job Creation and/or Transformative Impact
Congressman Walz is interested in supporting projects that will create jobs and/or have a transformative impact on the region. He is also interested in projects that are eligible for federal funds through the appropriations process but will not require annual federal financial support to be successful.
* Public support
The more public support from local elected leaders, community officials, and from citizens in southern Minnesota project requestors can demonstrate for a project, the better the chance that Congressman Walz will submit it to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration.

The Five-Step Appropriations Process:

Step 1: Every year, Congressman Walz proactively invites applications from localities and nonprofits that wish to request appropriations. Walz does not accept applications from for-profit corporations.

Step 2: Based on a combination of written applications, comments from constituents, phone conversations, and project tours, Walz reviewed projects based on being transformative, cost-effective and job creators.

Step 3: In addition to posting the applications online for public comment beforehand, upon submission to the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Walz has publicly posted his FY2010 requests, which are also attached to this release.

Step 4: Also at the time the request is made, the Congressman sent the committee a letter certifying that he will not benefit financially from any earmarks.

Step 5: When the appropriations bill comes up for a vote, it will be accompanied by a list identifying each earmark in it and which member requested it. These tables will be made publicly available ahead of the vote and Walz will release to the press a list of projects that ultimately receive funding and the amounts they receive. This year, the Inspectors General will also be required to audit at least 5% of all earmarks.

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