Visiting Majestic Custom Electric, Inc.with Senator Abeler in Ramsey. Thanks to Custom Electric for promoting cost-effective and innovative ways to save energy!
Dear Neighbor,
I hope families, student and educators had a great first couple weeks back at school! Here is an update from the Capitol and around the district.
Anoka-Hennepin Referendum
This November, voters in our community will weigh in on two referendum questions that will affect both our school district and local taxpayers.
The first question asks for an increase to the general education revenue by $226 per pupil for the next decade which would amount to around $9.5 million per year. The other is a $249 million bond referendum that would go toward building new elementary schools in Blaine and Ramsey, as well as other renovations and classroom improvements.
Anoka-Hennepin Schools share more about the referendum on their website here, including the impact it would have on your taxes, background information and how to register to vote. You can also check out a local news story on the referendum after the District 11 School Board approved the ballot questions here.
Additionally, as you educate yourself about the proposals on the ballot this November, I would encourage you to attend one of the upcoming community meetings on the referendum. The meetings are at Blaine High School on September 19, Andover High School on September 20, Champlin Park High School on September 21 or Anoka High School on September 26.
However you decide to vote, it’s good to have the facts and understand the impact the referendum will have on your taxes, community and local schools.
VSI Technologies
Earlier this week with fellow members of the House, I attended the Future of Automated Cars event at the St. Louis Park facility of VIS Labs. It was a great event, and interesting to see the future of self-driving cars and automated technology. For more information, I'd encourage you to check out the news page of the VSI website.
As a member of the Transportation Policy Committee, I look forward to continuing to work with the private sector on the future of transportation needs. As of now, one of the primary potential benefits is increased safety, and I am hopeful that will prove to be the case. Of course there is also incredible opportunity for business growth, and to quote a colleague of mine who works in the trucking industry (when asked if he was concerned about his job): “That’s part of capitalism. It’s creative destruction. Some new stuff will come along. I’m fine.” (See Star Tribune article from last Sunday.) Great outlook Rep. Bahr!
Whatever the future holds, I will say it is great to see this technology - which is being developed all across the globe - also being developed right in our backyard, here in Minnesota.
Supreme Court Update
For those following the ongoing case involving the governor line item vetoing legislative funding, the Supreme Court issued an order late last week that did not render a decision, but instead ordered us into mediation with Governor Dayton. It did not vacate the lower court’s ruling that sided with the Legislature.
We were pleased that the courts recognized Minnesotans’ right to a functioning legislative branch of government, and legislative leaders will work in good faith to end this impasse and restore legislative funding so that Minnesotans will continue to have three working branches of government.
Around the Community
So many great local events are happening in our community over the next couple months. Check out some of the fun things you can do with your family below!
Anoka Classic Car Show
There are only a few days left for the Anoka Classic Car Show—a wonderful local event where you can see many classic cars. Learn more here.
Anoka Fallapalooza
September 22 and 23, pick up a scavenger hunt passport at your favorite, participating local merchant. Fill up that passport and be entered in a grand prize drawing! Learn more here.
Anoka Anti-Crime Commission Fundraiser Breakfast
On Tuesday, October 24 at 7:29 am at the Green Haven Golf Course, they are hosting the Anoka Anti-Crime Commission Fundraiser Breakfast. The Special Guest Speaker will be David Bowdich, Associate Deputy Director of the FBI. A table for 8 is $100, or individual tickets are $15 each. Learn more here.
Farmers Markets
The Anoka Farmers Market runs through October. The market is located in the Lyric Arts parking lot (420 E. Main Street) and runs from 2-6 pm. Learn more here.
The Ramsey Farmers Market also runs through early fall. You can go pick up some fresh local produce on Thursdays from 3-7pm at the Ramsey Municipal Center. Learn more here.
smARTpass
Did you know your Anoka County Library card can get you into places around the Twin Cities for free including museums, music and live theater? Just visit smartpass.melsa.org for more information.
Parks and Recreation
The Ramsey Parks and Recreation Department is putting on events throughout the summer including art events, yoga classes, theater and more. Get a full list of upcoming events and how to participate here.
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Please know my office is available should you need assistance on a matter of state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. I also welcome your input and ideas on legislation and matters moving through the Minnesota House. I am here to serve you and it is a joy! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Abigail