Dear Neighbors,
A big thank you to everyone who attended the Listening Session hosted by Senator Kent and myself last Saturday. It was great to see such a good turnout before the snowfall and to engage in a constructive dialogue with community members. Your feedback is appreciated.
If you were unable to attend last week’s Listening Session, there will be two more opportunities in Woodbury and Landfall. Here are the details for this Saturday’s Session:
WHAT: Woodbury Community Listening Session
WHEN: Saturday, March 3 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.
WHERE: Amphitheater at Central Park, 8595 Central Park Pl, Woodbury, MN 55125
Ending Senseless Gun Violence
In the wake of yet another mass shooting, this time at a school in Parkland, FL, Minnesotans have joined a nationwide movement to end senseless gun violence. Last week we saw rallies at the Capitol, press conferences, and requests for House Republicans to hold committee hearings on bills to prevent gun violence. By way of procedural motion filed by my colleague Rep. Dave Pinto, two bills specifically addressing gun violence will be heard in the Public Safety Committee today.
I’m extremely saddened that children and countless others simply going about their days are gunned down in mass shootings in our country. It’s even more disappointing that my colleagues resist holding hearings on common sense gun safety laws. We’re asking for simple things like background checks and measures that would help law enforcement and family members to keep guns out of the hands of people who pose a danger to themselves or others.
Minnesotans deserve meaningful action to keep our people safe.
February State Budget Forecast
On Wednesday, Minnesota Management and Budget released the 2018 February State Budget Forecast of a projected $329 million surplus. While Minnesota’s budget remains relatively stable, federal uncertainty could threaten the economic outlook for our state and Minnesota families. It’s important to exercise caution, and to invest responsibly in things that will increase opportunity for all Minnesotans.
Community Input Needed for Gold Line Project-DEADLINE TOMORROW
The Gold Line project is seeking applications to serve on the Community and Business Advisory Committee (CBAC). One community (resident) and one business (owner, worker) member is being sought for each station area along the route along with three at-large members. The application window will be open until March 2. If you are interested, or know someone who might be, please apply here. A selection committee made up of elected/appointed representatives from the cities, counties and Met Council will make recommendations for membership.
Additionally, if you haven’t had a chance to sign up for legislative committee hearing notifications, or if you’d like to follow a bill of particular interest, you can do so here.
I hope to see you Saturday!
Sincerely,
JoAnn Ward