With many large issues left to tackle this legislative session, the House last week unveiled a $600 million bonding package. Though it is less than half of Gov. Mark Dayton’s $1.5 billion proposal and more than $300 million less than the Senate’s $973 million plan, we were hopeful at least one or two area projects would make the proposal.

We were disappointed to learn the $7.4 million bonding request from Riverland Community College — which is included in both the Senate and governor’s versions — was not included. The request would allow the college to transform the Albert Lea campus into one for transportation, trade and industrial education and to relocate the truck driving and collision repair programs from Austin to Albert Lea.

It was included in the House’s initial $800 million proposal last year — though ultimately no bonding package was approved.

Riverland is making great strides to address workforce concerns at all three of its campus, and this project will help the college further reach that goal. It will not only impact the college but all of the Albert Lea community.

While we recognize that the Riverland project may not be as high as other projects on the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system’s priority list for campuses across the state, we believe the Riverland project should be a priority.

We encourage legislators — and particularly District 27A Rep. Peggy Bennett and District 27 Sen. Dan Sparks — to fight for this project to be included in a compromise.

The price will only continue to increase if not approved this year.

In addition, we hope a request for $1.35 million to extend sanitary sewer and water to the Stables area will be a priority in the final bonding package. The extension of services will replace failing septic systems for residents living there.

This has been a long-standing issue that needs resolution.

At the end of the session, we hope the Senate, House and governor will be able to compromise on a bill that addresses needs all across the state.