The provisions of sections 216B.45 and 216B.46 apply only to the purchase of public utility property by a municipality that, prior to the time of the purchase, did not operate a municipal utility providing the type of utility service delivered by the utility property being purchased.
In cases where the municipality operates, prior to the purchase of public utility property, a municipal utility providing the type of utility service delivered by the utility property being purchased, the provisions of section 216B.44 apply and voter ratification is not required.