AGP Executive Report

Clean Water Funding: The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources approved about $6.7 million in competitive Clean Water Fund grants to cut phosphorus, sediment, nutrients and bacteria across lakes, streams and groundwater through projects like stormwater treatment, erosion control and well sealing. Medicaid Fight: Minnesota is pushing back as federal rules tighten the definition of “medical frailty,” which could determine who can be exempt from new Medicaid work requirements; Democratic-led states also sued the Trump administration over the narrower guidance. SNAP Data Lawsuit: The U.S. Justice Department sued Minnesota over refusal to turn over SNAP data requested by USDA, arguing it’s needed to check for fraud and waste while Minnesota says the demand threatens privacy. Heat & Safety: A major Midwest heat wave is driving cancellations and cooling-center openings, including Winona Health opening its clinic lobby as a place to cool down. Weather Watch: Forecasters are tracking a “ring of fire” severe storm setup that could bring damaging winds, large hail and tornado risk into Minnesota and the Upper Midwest around the July 4 weekend. Local Health/Community: Winona Health’s cooling-lobby move highlights how Minnesota communities are responding as extreme heat hits. Sports (Minnesota): The Twins play the Astros in Houston Tuesday, and the Astros’ Jeremy Peña is set to return to the injured list with a mild left calf strain.

Severe Weather & Power Restoration: A fast-moving storm system battered northern Minnesota Monday, with reports of funnel clouds, damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and widespread outages; Lake Country Power said more than 6,400 members lost electricity as crews worked through 134 outage locations. Heat & Agriculture: A heat dome is expected to boost crop growth in southwest Minnesota, with USDA ratings showing Minnesota corn largely in good-to-excellent shape. Public Safety on Roads: MnDOT will convert four rural two-way stop intersections to all-way stops in July, including work near Malmo, Hewitt, and two Kanabec/Pine County junctions. Legal & Courts: A Hennepin County deputy accused of domestic assault pleaded guilty to misdemeanor domestic assault after an incident that led to a hospital lockdown. State Policy & Oversight: The Trump administration sued Minnesota and other states over alleged failure to turn over SNAP food stamp data to the USDA. Business & Economy: Germany’s Merck will buy Minnesota’s Bio-Techne for $11.3B, one of the biggest deals in state history. Community & Culture: A Black-owned bank, First Independence Bank, opened a new St. Paul location on University Avenue in Frogtown/Rondo.

Elections & Voting: Absentee voting is underway for Minnesota’s Aug. 11 primary, with in-person options at the Wright County Government Center and early voting set to start July 24 at Monticello City Hall. Public Safety: A severe leg injury victim was rescued from the Boundary Waters by the Minnesota Air Rescue Team, while a fatal one-vehicle crash in Carlton County left one dead and another in critical condition. Health & Medicaid: Minnesota DHS disenrolled 3,411 Medicaid providers in early June over fraud concerns, then began reinstating billing access after appeals—leaving patients and local providers anxious about what comes next. Local Development: Monticello Tech’s proposed data center project could move into formal city review soon, with developers preparing materials for a rezoning and permitting process. Environment & Outdoors: Arrowhead Library System’s “Bugs at the Library” brings hands-on aquatic insect learning to multiple locations across the Iron Range. Sports (Minnesota): Haeran Ryu won her first major at the Women’s PGA Championship in Chaska, while St. Cloud’s 80th fireworks show is set for Saturday with an F-16 flyover.

WNBA Spotlight: Natasha Howard and Olivia Miles each scored 21 as the Minnesota Lynx beat the Dallas Wings 85-77, with Cheryl Reeve tying the WNBA record for career coaching wins. Local Environment: A Minnesota environmental group sued Monticello over the city’s approval of an environmental review for a proposed data center, arguing it didn’t fully analyze water, air, noise, light, and cumulative impacts. Public Safety: The Minnesota Air Rescue Team hoisted a man to safety after a severe machete-related leg injury in the Boundary Waters; officials say the trail has no cellphone coverage. Crime Update: Police say a suspect is in custody after a fatal stabbing in Cold Spring, and investigators are asking for help locating missing Andover resident Ying Lee. Weather: An extreme heat warning is set for much of Minnesota Monday, with heat index values expected to hit 105+ and drought concerns continuing in parts of the southwest. Sports (MLB): Ryan Kreidler’s go-ahead homer helped the Twins edge the Rockies 3-2 in the rubber match. Roads: A weekly road-closure report lists multiple shutdowns and lane restrictions for June 29–July 5.

Minnesota Sports: Hunter Goodman went nuclear for the Colorado Rockies, blasting three homers and driving in five as Colorado beat the Twins 8-5 at Target Field. Local Politics: Erin McCabe Ningen filed for the Minnesota House District 7A race, pitching lower everyday pressures for working families through better health care access, good-paying jobs, and affordable child care. Safety & Law: Minnesota DNR is reminding boaters about the invasive-species “21-day rule,” warning that equipment like docks and lifts must stay out of the water for at least 21 days before moving to another body of water. Community & Education: Central Lakes College released its 2026 spring honors lists, naming hundreds to the president’s and dean’s lists. Weather Watch: Another round of severe weather risk is on the map for Monday, with damaging winds and large hail possible across Minnesota into the Dakotas. Road Safety: Minnesota State Patrol guidance highlights how to handle road rage—stay calm, don’t challenge, get out of the way, and report aggressive driving.

Community & Culture: St. Peter’s Festival of Nations drew hundreds to the Nicollet County Fairgrounds, with Taiko drumming, Mexican crafts, and Somali dance helping Southern Minnesota celebrate global roots. Local Politics: Le Sueur County races are set after filing closed June 2, with Sen. Rich Draheim retiring and new bids lining up in Senate District 22 and House District 22B. Economy: Minnesota exports kept climbing, up 19% in the third quarter to $5.7 billion, signaling a continued rebound for ag, mining, and manufacturers. Cost of Living: Gas prices are easing slightly but still hover near $4 a gallon in parts of southern Minnesota, keeping summer budgets tight. Public Safety & Health: Gov. Walz signed a bipartisan opioid bill that raises fees on opioid manufacturers to fund prevention, treatment, and recovery, with some money flowing to counties and tribal communities. Business Climate: A federal rule change could undercut supplier diversity and SBA 8(a) access for small Black and immigrant-owned businesses, according to a Minnesota op-ed. Sports & Entertainment: Lionel Richie cut short a Minnesota show after feeling dizzy and postponed two upcoming concerts on doctor advice. Outdoors: The Itasca-Heartland Trail Connection adds 2.2 miles this fall, funded by remaining 2023 bonding.

Immigration & Caregiving: A Russian asylum-seeking couple in Eagan says her husband was taken by immigration officers and remains detained in Louisiana, leaving her to pause work supporting people with disabilities—an example of how federal enforcement is hitting Minnesota’s already short-staffed care workforce. Public Safety: Minnesota doctors are again urging residents to leave fireworks to professionals after recent injury and death statistics, including injuries from “sparklers.” Accountability: Minnesota lawmakers are moving to staff a new Office of the Inspector General, with a bipartisan commission selecting the first leader to independently investigate fraud in state programs. Fraud Crackdown: A fugitive accused in Minnesota’s “Feeding Our Future” child nutrition fraud was arrested in Somalia after nearly four years on the run. Environment & Local Government: Monticello residents are pressing for clarity after a lawsuit challenges the city’s AUAR for a large development area, which outlines potential impacts rather than approving a specific data center. DNR Outdoors: The DNR’s summer webinar series returns with sessions on muskie fishing, BWCAW fish surveys, and sampling rare species.

Local Sports: Minnesota North College-Mesabi Range’s Norse picked up a MCAC North win over Vermilion 73-64, while the Mesabi Range baseball team took three of four from Minnesota North-Vermilion. State Outdoors: The DNR rolled out new electronic fishing and hunting licensing starting June 9, and launched updated state water trail maps with recommended paddling sections for easier trips. Public Safety: Minnesota doctors are urging caution this Fourth of July, warning fireworks cause serious injuries and deaths. Elections: Early voting for Minnesota’s primary is underway, with voters getting reminders on what to know before they cast ballots. Accountability & Courts: A key figure in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme was arrested in Somalia, and a Minnesota tax preparer was convicted for filing false returns tied to more than $1M in fraudulent losses. Community & Culture: Lavender Magazine is ending publication after more than 30 years covering Minnesota’s LGBTQ+ community. Politics: Rep. Tom Emmer faces backlash for remarks about Somali immigrants “assimilating.”

NBA Trade: The Charlotte Hornets have agreed to trade LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Naz Reid, a 2033 unprotected first-round pick, multiple first-round pick swaps, and future second-round picks—setting up a new look in Minnesota around Ball and Anthony Edwards. Local Sports Buzz: Minnesota fans are already reacting to Reid’s departure with honks, billboards, and public support. Minnesota Health Care: Insurers are filing for double-digit premium increases for 2027 plans sold through MNsure, with proposals reportedly ranging around 10% to 13% before regulators decide. Higher Ed Free Speech Fight: Young America’s Foundation and Defending Education filed federal lawsuits against the University of Minnesota and UC, arguing campus rules could punish students for gender-critical speech. Public Safety: A three-vehicle crash in St. Augusta sent one driver to St. Cloud Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Community & Culture: Carlton County Master Gardeners are expanding help for local growers, using University of Minnesota research.

NBA Shockwave: The Charlotte Hornets traded franchise guard LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Naz Reid plus a haul of draft picks, including a 2033 unprotected first-rounder and multiple first-round swaps—setting up a high-risk, high-reward roster shakeup around Anthony Edwards. Local Sports & Draft Buzz: Minnesota also used its Round 2 pick on Duke guard Isaiah Evans, adding more shooting depth as the Wolves’ offseason plans accelerate. Health & Safety: Lionel Richie cut short his St. Paul show after feeling dizzy onstage and was taken to a local hospital as a precaution. Housing Watch: Twin Cities housing permits rose 11% in the first half of 2026, with multifamily permits jumping while single-family permits dipped. Community & Services: Winona’s Engage Winona opened applications for its Lived Experience Leaders program, offering training and support for community leadership. Public Safety on Water: The Minnesota DNR urged boaters to be courteous and remember shared waterways during the Fourth of July rush. Road Work: MnDOT says Highway 9 resurfacing south of Doran starts July 6, with daily delays and lane closures through August.

NBA Draft: Duke guard Isaiah Evans is headed to Minnesota after the Nets selected him 33rd overall in the second round, with the pick headed to the Timberwolves via a pre-draft trade. Twins Injury Update: Right-hander Mick Abel has been recommended for arthroscopic elbow surgery after soreness derailed his rehab; his return date is now tied to the procedure. Local Sports: The Dodgers completed a sweep of the Twins 4-3, with Shohei Ohtani leading and Mookie Betts hitting his 300th career homer. Health & Community: Duluth retailer Maurice’s and MOCA are again hosting a free shopping day for ovarian cancer survivors, highlighting awareness and support for a disease with no reliable screening. Special Olympics: Textron Aviation is organizing a private airlift of about 120 planes to transport nearly 1,000 Special Olympics athletes and coaches to Minnesota. Entertainment: Lionel Richie cut short his St. Paul opening-night set after feeling dizzy, prompting an early exit and intermission. Public Safety: A Duluth Township man died in a single-car crash after his vehicle left the road and hit a tree; speed is suspected.

Public Safety & Surveillance: St. Paul is reopening debate over Flock Safety license-plate cameras, with police arguing uses are lawful, documented, and audited, while civil rights advocates warn about privacy and data-sharing. Courts & Justice: A federal judge tossed DOJ subpoenas tied to Minnesota officials in an immigration dispute, while Gov. Tim Walz says he’s filed 16 FOIA requests seeking proof of a federal “targeting” effort. Health Care Fraud: DOJ says seven people connected to Minnesota health providers are among hundreds charged in a nationwide crackdown totaling $6.5B in alleged false claims. State Policy & Agriculture: Minnesota’s Ag Commissioner says dicamba restrictions appear to be working, with no off-target complaints reported so far this year. Wildlife Management: The DNR expanded deer feeding and attractant bans to Becker, Clearwater, Grant, McLeod, and Meeker to slow chronic wasting disease. Local Government & Services: A town hall in Big Lake criticized DHS’s provider revalidation process after a nonprofit’s billing was paused and then restored, creating uncertainty for clients and staff. Sports: The Twins called up bullpen prospect Marco Raya; and the Dodgers aim to sweep Minnesota with Shohei Ohtani on the mound.

NBA Draft (Minnesota ties): The first round is in the books, with Utah taking Kansas guard Darryn Peterson No. 2 and Iowa’s Bennett Stirtz going 16th to Memphis before a trade to Oklahoma City; Iowa State’s Joshua Jefferson was picked 28th by Minnesota and then dealt to Brooklyn. Dodgers vs. Twins: Los Angeles pounded Minnesota 12-3 in Minneapolis behind Freddie Freeman and Andy Pages’ three-hit nights and Justin Wrobleski’s seven innings. Federal court fight (immigration): A U.S. judge quashed DOJ subpoenas targeting Minneapolis and St. Paul mayors and other Minnesota officials tied to Operation Metro Surge, calling the effort meant to harass, coerce, and retaliate. Local public health: Brown County approved a private well testing grant to help households test for arsenic, lead, nitrates, and bacteria, with results routed to state dashboards. Sports spotlight: Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota continues, with Kodiak’s Reuben Hall posting a new personal-best in the 1,500.

NBA Coaching Shakeup: Portland hired Minnesota Timberwolves lead assistant Micah Nori as its new head coach, with a deal featuring one guaranteed year and options, after a search that included other finalists. Medicaid Fraud Crackdown: Minnesota AG Keith Ellison announced charges against seven providers tied to Medicaid fraud schemes totaling over $700,000, including alleged fake personal care and counseling services. Courts & Immigration: A federal judge blocked Trump administration subpoenas targeting Minnesota Democratic officials, saying the effort was unconstitutional and meant to “harass and retaliate.” Public Works: MnDOT says the Blatnik Bridge replacement project’s apparent best-value contractor is Ames-Kraemer Joint Venture II, with a $930 million bid and next steps before contract award. Local Economy & Jobs: LP Building Solutions broke ground in North Branch on a new SmartSide ExpertFinish trim and siding facility, aiming to create 125 jobs and start production in 2028. Sports & Minnesota: The Twins selected veteran RHP Austin Voth from Triple-A St. Paul, optioning Cody Lawyerson in a roster move. Environment: The DNR urged Minnesotans to check for invasive species before moving docks, lifts, boats, and water equipment, warning about zebra mussels.

NBA Trade Shock in Minnesota: The Timberwolves are sending Julius Randle and the No. 28 draft pick to the Brooklyn Nets in a three-team deal that also sends Nic Claxton to the Chicago Bulls, reshaping Minnesota’s offseason plans. Big Re-sign Move: Minnesota then moved quickly to lock in guard Ayo Dosunmu, with ESPN reporting a five-year, $112 million deal (player option in year five), giving the Wolves flexibility and a key playoff performer back in the fold. Minnesota Sports Night: In MLB, the Dodgers edged the Twins 2-1 at Target Field as Shohei Ohtani led off with a home run and Freddie Freeman added a sixth-inning shot, though Los Angeles lost Kyle Tucker and Dalton Rushing to injuries/concerns. Court Fight Over Immigration: A federal judge blocked Trump administration subpoenas targeting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and other state officials, saying the demands were meant to harass and coerce state leaders. Jobs Update: Minnesota’s unemployment rate dipped to 4.4% in May as private employers added jobs, according to state labor figures. Special Olympics in Minnesota: The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games kick off in the Twin Cities, with thousands of athletes competing and select events available on major TV and streaming platforms.

Immigration Courts: A federal judge blocked the Trump Justice Department from using subpoenas to force Minnesota officials to turn over broad records tied to their resistance to immigration raids, saying the subpoenas were meant to “harass, coerce and retaliate” and effectively halt the probe. Public Safety—Drugs: Rochester police say a man arrested in a fentanyl case now faces new charges after investigators linked him to more than half a pound of fentanyl. Courts—Police Shooting: A Plymouth man shot by an officer during a domestic disturbance was sentenced to five years after pleading guilty to second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. Weather/Agriculture: USDA data shows Minnesota corn and soybean conditions slipped amid uneven rainfall, with soybeans facing uneven emergence. Local Government: Cannon Falls approved a preliminary reassessment deal for the Cannon Mall to clear more than $450,000 in accrued interest that has blocked potential buyers. Business/Tech: Best Buy announced CFO Matt Bilunas will step down at month’s end. Sports: St. John’s’ Zuby Ejiofor is among prospects in the NBA Draft after the program’s long drought.