Dear Neighbors, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released their budget forecast this week, showing a projected $7.7 billion dollar surplus. The budget news is a bright spot during a challenging time. We welcome the news and acknowledge we would not be in this positive place without the hard work of so many Minnesotans and strategic decisions of the legislature and governor. It is time to make important and needed investments in our middle class and help those who have been impacted by COVID-19. I look forward to our 2022 legislative session convening in January and will continue to advocate for our kids, affordable housing, accessible health care and the other priorities that enrich the lives of all Minnesotans. Orange Line BRTOrange Line Bus Rapid Transit service is now up and running! The new line links Minneapolis and Burnsville through the communities of Richfield and Bloomington, mostly along I-35W. Hop on and take a ride!  Energy Grant AwardedCongratulations to 2040 Energy, Inc. on being awarded a Launch Minnesota Innovation Grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. As stated on 2040 Energy’s website, stopping climate change is the most important long-term challenge for humanity. And I couldn’t agree more. Hats off to a local company! Keeping Each Other SafeThe newest COVID-19 variant has arrived in Minnesota and our public health professionals are monitoring the situation and providing up-to-date information on Omicron. You can do your part to keep everyone safe by getting your first or second COVID-19 dose, or the booster shot. Contact your health plan or nearest pharmacy to get your first or second dose, or booster. And don’t forget to get your annual flu shot. The best holiday gift is staying healthy and protecting others. Let’s do this together! Also, another reminder eligible Minnesotans 5 and older can get their first and second COVID-19 vaccines. The state of Minnesota has launched a new webpage to help parents and guardians find a vaccine for children aged 5-11 and answer questions about the vaccine. You can also call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Name a SnowplowMNDOT is asking for your input to name several snowplows, after the success of the effort last year! Channel your creativity, have some fun and name a snowplow! Learn more here. |