Dear Neighbor,
We're now in the fourth week of the legislative session and things are really starting to pick up. Here’s a brief update on what’s been going on so far:
Governor Dayton’s 2017 Budget Proposal
Yesterday, Governor Dayton unveiled his budget proposal. In the presentation, he outlined a broad vision for improving the lives of all Minnesotans. Much of that vision related to education and sustainable budgeting for long term solutions.
He focused on investing in all levels of education, from early childhood all the way through college. The Governor proposed voluntary pre-kindergarten for all of Minnesota’s children, a 2% increase in education funding this year and the next, and to plan to hold down college debt so we keep our graduates among the best in the nation in workforce readiness.
He also proposed a public option to increase competition and drive down health insurance costs. He called for everyone to join together in the shared goal of cleaning up our precious lakes and streams. Finally, he also asked that the legislature work with him to finally come to a long-term solution to the $6 billion funding shortfall we have in our transportation budget over the next 10 years.
Governor Dayton’s vision is one of continued positive growth for all Minnesotan. I continue to wish him good health and look forward to working with him so everyone in our community has the opportunity to get ahead. You can read his full remarks here.
Apply Now for 2017 Woodbury Citizens’ Academy
The Woodbury Community Foundation is accepting applications for citizens interested in applying for the Woodbury Citizens’ Academy. The Citizens’ Academy consists of eight sessions, designed to educate participants about the city and to encourage more community involvement. The weekly sessions begin on Thursday, February 9 and will end on March 30. The academy is open to the public at no charge and is limited to 30 people. Enrollment is offered on a first come, first serve basis. The deadline to apply is this Friday, January 27. If interested, or would like more information, please visit the Woodbury Community Foundation’s website atwww.woodburyfoundation.org.
Town Hall Thank you
A big thank you to those who attended the town hall meeting last Saturday at Maplewood City Council. Representatives Fischer and Lillie, with Senators Kent and Wiger and I had a thoughtful conversation with attendees and discussed several topics, such as health care, transportation, and specifically the Gateway Corridor/Gold Line, to name a few.
If you were unable to make it, please feel free to contact me directly at rep.joann.ward@house.mn to share your input on any legislative matter in which you are interested.
As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me with any issues or concerns you may have.
Sincerely,
JoAnn Ward