Dear Neighbors,
First, I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to serve our community at the State Capitol. My top priority as your voice has been to ensure the things our community values are at the forefront at the Capitol. By working together we can build a better future for all Minnesotans. That includes making health care accessible and affordable; guaranteeing our kids have a first-class education, and making higher education and job training a reality for Minnesotans without crushing debt.
Night to Unite / National Night Out
Tuesday, August 7, is Minnesota Night to Unite and National Night Out. These events are held the first Tuesday in August in neighborhoods across the country to celebrate a commitment to safe communities. I love visiting residents at these neighborhood get-togethers. I encourage you to participate. I will be picking up food donations, backpacks, and school supplies for area students and families. If you see me, please say hi and introduce yourself!
Back to School Community Conversation
Please join me for a community conversation on Wednesday, August 22 from 6:30 until 8:00 pm at Fridley High School in the media center (6000 West More Lake Drive NE in Fridley). It is an opportunity to share what you value, your concerns, and what could help make life better for you, your family, school, and community. Listening to you and learning from you is important to me. I hope you can attend.
New Minnesota IDs
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety just released updated designs for driver’s licenses and ID cards. The redesigned cards will be available in August at all driver’s license service centers in Minnesota at the same cost as the old cards.
Here are a few helpful things to know. You do not need to replace your current driver’s license or ID card, unless the card is expiring, or you need to change your address or name. Minnesotans will be able to use their current license and ID card until the expiration date on the card. Minnesotans whose application or renewal is processed after August 6,2018 will receive the new look card. Minnesotans whose driver’s licenses or identification cards expire before October 2018 should plan to renew their cards as they normally would.
If you want to see some of the new features and the new look designs click here.
Property Tax and Renters Credit
I want to remind everyone to apply for a property tax refund or renters credit by the deadline. Many Minnesotans qualify for this refund but many forget to file!
The deadline to file for a property tax refund is August 15th. Take a few minutes and apply for your refund online at the Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Refund website by clicking here.
Last Update
This is my last update until after the election due to state laws. While I won’t be able to send out these updates for a while, you can still follow me on Facebook by liking my legislative page by clicking here and clicking the “like” button near the top of the Facebook page.
You can still contact me. I can help with state-level problems, and discuss issues important to you and our community. Feel free to give my office a call or email me anytime. I love to help.
Sincerely,
Connie Bernardy
State Representative