Dear Neighbors,
This week, the Minnesota Legislature is on a weeklong recess to observe Easter and Passover. This has provided a good breather for everyone as we enter the final weeks of the legislative session, which is likely to be hectic. It’s also given me an opportunity to catch up with folks here on the Range and make visits throughout the district.
Tuesday, I stopped by Mesabi Range College’s Eveleth campus for their “Empty Bowl” event. This event, with a soup supper, was held to raise awareness about homelessness on the Iron Range. The campus also held an open house, and I had the opportunity to take a tour of the campus, learning about programs offered in areas like nursing, welding, and design. It was great to see so many community members out for this event.
I also got the chance to tour the Ivy Manor apartments with staff from the Virginia Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency and Watson Forsberg, the general contractor. The building was recently acquired by the AEOA and is undergoing a massive restoration including remodeling of all units, electrical and plumbing work, and a new elevator. Cleaning up and restoring historic buildings like this is usually preferable to tearing them down, and it’s great that these will soon provide quality, affordable housing units.
Yesterday, I attended a listening session in Virginia held by Congressman Rick Nolan. Today, we will head over to the Highway 53 construction, and will take a look at it with MnDOT’s project manager to make sure we are staying on track and on budget.
When we return next week, House/Senate conference committees will begin ironing out differences between each chamber’s versions of the various budget bills. On the House Floor, attention will move to individual bills that have made their way through the committee process and are ready for a full vote.
As a reminder, the deadline for filing tax returns is next Tuesday, April 18th. Some Minnesotans may qualify for free assistance; please visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue for more information.
I’d like to give everyone best wishes for a Happy Easter. Please continue to contact me if I can ever be of assistance.
Sincerely,
Jason Metsa
State Representative