Agreement close on bonding bill, but Pawlenty a question mark

St. Paul — The Minnesota Senate's lead negotiator on a bonding bill said a deal is close for a $925 million construction projects package.

But Sen. Keith Langseth, DFL-Glyndon, said the Legislature is moving ahead without Governor Tim Pawlenty's agreement.

It's unclear what that means for the bill, which would pay for new university buildings, arenas, zoo exhibits and other infrastructure.

Pawlenty has said in light of the state's budget deficit, the total price tag should be kept below $825 million.

Langseth said no deal came out of a meeting with the governor last week.

He said the House-Senate conference committee plans to vote on the bill Tuesday and House and Senate votes could come Wednesday.

Pawlenty spokesman Brian McClung didn't immediately return messages.