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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Bob Vogel (R)

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Familiar road leads to new destination – the Capitol

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

 

 

 

By Rep. Bob Vogel

 

 

The last time I drove up I-35 to St. Paul as a freshman was 1969, off to study business at the University of St. Thomas.

 

 

The feeling was remarkably similar as I made my way up that same road earlier this month to become a new member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Optimism, eagerness, anticipation of accomplishment … it all was on my mind again along the road to St. Paul.

 

 

It was an honor being sworn into the Minnesota House upon my return to the capital. Lessons I learned in college – and later in the banking industry, as a family man and while serving as a local government official – will be helpful in the Legislature.

 

 

One thing I have learned through my various endeavors is how important it is to listen and learn. That is a crucial leadership trait and will keep me in tune with citizens of District 20A. Common sense also goes a long way and it seems our state government can use more of it these days.

 

 

I come from a long line of Vogels living in the Elko-New Market area. My wife, Laura, and I have been married for more than 40 years and we have two children and two grandchildren. Strong family values are something we share and it is with great pride I represent the third generation of Vogels to own New Market Bank.

 

 

Three of the four committees I am serving in the House – Capital Investment, Job Growth and Energy Affordability, and Property tax and Local Government – match my background with ties to finance. I also am on the Civil Law and Data Practices Committee.

 

 

Transportation funding will be a headline finance item during the 2015 session as we identify the best ways of sustaining our system. We all want safe roads, which not only protect us but have economic impacts as we move goods and services through our state. There are different ideas for how we can best meet our needs and I will circle back with a closer look as proposals come to the forefront, especially as they pertain to taxes and spending.

 

 

I also am highly interested in addressing challenges we face with our aging society, specifically how we can meet the rising demands of long-term care. Reports show nearly as many people in Minnesota will turn 65 during this decade as in the previous four decades combined. That increase in citizens reaching retirement age is a double-edged sword, raising costs and diminishing our workforce at the same time. It all, in turn, underscores the importance of education and workforce development in Minnesota.

 

 

Please contact me with your thoughts on these, or any other issues that may be important to you. You can reach me at (651) 296-7065 office or by emailing rep.bob.vogel@house.mn. Visitors also are welcome to schedule an appointment to meet with me at the Capitol. Please call ahead to make arrangements.

 

 

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