Outstate cities convene at conference in Brainerd

Leaders of non-metropolitan Minnesota cities are meeting to talk about how to get by amid state aid cuts and declining property values that can take a toll on taxes.

The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities holds its summer conference Wednesday through Friday in Brainerd. Seventy-seven cities make up the coalition.

They'll have plenty to discuss, including Gov. Tim Pawlenty's budget cuts that amount to $200 million in lost local government aid for cities and townships.

Top Democrats and Republicans from the Legislature are due to speak to the city leaders, as well as those who specialize in property tax matters at the Capitol.

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