Dear Neighbor,
Thank you to all the folks who showed up to the town hall meeting I hosted in Avon this week. The input I received will help me continue to do my best in representing the people of this area.
The discussion included a wide variety of topics. Aside from expressing opinions on the usual subjects like taxes and state spending, people made it clear to me they are very concerned about mitigating aquatic invasive species. They want to place urgency on plans to protect Lake Koronis, a huge local asset on numerous levels. We talked about pilot projects that could help make this happen.
People also expressed concern for the lack of public involvement, state-run casinos, rising utility rates and were critical of plans to spend $90 million of taxpayer money on a new Senate office building and parking ramp. Also, please contact me if you continue to have problems with MNsure enrollment since I may be able to get you to the right person to help.
The propane situation is another concern and now the State Emergency Operations Center has established a propane hotline number at 1-800-657-3504 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. This hotline is staffed by experts from the MN Department of Commerce who can provide information about energy assistance programs. You also can obtain information by clicking here.
I really appreciate the grass-roots feedback and encourage people to remain engaged. Another way people can exercise their voice is by attending their local precinct caucus meetings 7 p.m. Tuesday (Feb. 4). Caucus attendees elect precinct officers, discuss issues and ideas for their party to support, conduct a straw poll for governor, elect delegates for the political conventions and vote on other items of business. Bring friends and family, this also is a good way to introduce children to the process as observers.
The Minnesota Secretary of State’s office provides specific precinct caucus locations at this link.
Good luck!
Jeff