Dear Neighbor,
Things are progressing at the Capitol as we near the end of Week 2 of the 2016 session. Work is happening quickly in the committee process during this condensed session so we can stay on schedule with our deadlines.
One item of interest from this week is the DNR issued a report based on its "Negative Impacts to Surface Waters" program. There were multiple town hall-style meetings last summer to discuss issues related to the DNR's permitting process.
It is disappointing many thoughtful ideas and strong input from the public was not included in the report and the DNR indicates will continue making decisions related to permitting and restricting water usage that will be devastating to our economic vitality. I have heard from a number of people in our area who have expressed frustration because they are being impacted by this issue.
What makes this even more mind-boggling is the DNR admits it doesn't have complete modeling data necessary for making important decisions, yet it is continuing with its current program.
I am working on legislation to mitigate the economic impact of the DNR's actions while protecting the environment. Look for more details as they emerge, but this all comes back to a point I have made repeatedly that state agencies should be working with citizens, not against them. Better customer service from the state would go a long way toward eliminating unnecessary expenses and headaches people throughout the state are suffering. We also are working on this subject at the Capitol.
On a somewhat related note, we recently received a report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor regarding how MnDOT selects its roadwork projects. The bottom line is there needs to be greater transparency in how the agency is selecting projects so taxpayers and local officials can be assured selections are based merit instead of just being hand-picked by bureaucrats.
The OLA's report includes a number of recommendations on how the MnDOT system can be improved. Many of the points are things we have heard before, but the good thing is now, with the nonpartisan OLA weighing in, it will help us discuss what might be appropriate to put into law. This again comes down to serving the public.
Stay in touch and, as always, your input is welcome.
Good luck,
Jeff