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$10 for $1 investment

The fact that Mayo plans to front $10 of its own money for every $1 from the state goes a long way to easing some of Bradley’s concerns, though he remains leery of the unelected Development Authority that would oversee the so-called Destination Medical Center expansion. Right now, Mayo’s plans include giving the Development Authority the power to have buildings condemned if they block expansion.

The Minnesota Legislature has just begun working through Mayo’s proposal. So far, the main objection comes from lawmakers worried about setting a precedent for future corporate development.

Some communities might take offense at the suggestion that it would take billions of dollars to sufficiently gussy up their town for outsiders. Other communities might fear that such a massive makeover would change the character of their town.

Not Rochester.

“I think most people understand that as Mayo goes, so goes Rochester,” said state Sen. Dave Senjem, a Republican who worked for Mayo more than 40 years. “Mayo is so dominantly Rochester, I don’t think it changes. I think it just gets better.”

 

Jennifer Brooks • 651-925-5049