Dear neighbors,
Good Luck
Our area is home to some of the state’s top high school sports teams. Earlier today, the Pierz wrestling team topped Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg to start the state tournament in St. Paul! Nice job, guys! Unfortunately, the Pioneers fell in their semifinal matchup but still have an opportunity at a third-place finish.
This morning, WCCO named the Pioneers’ gym the Viewer’s Choice for best high school gym in Minnesota.
Also, our Little Falls boys hockey teams is taking on St. Cloud Cathedral with a chance to punch their ticket to The Tourney. Be sure to head to the Municipal Athletic Complex in St. Cloud at 7 to cheer on our team.
Transportation Plan
February is quickly coming to a close and the legislative session is just around the corner. Like last year, one of the top issues we’ll debate is transportation funding. In 2015, the Republican-led House passed a $7 billion plan to fund roads and bridges over the next 10 years without raising taxes on Minnesotans. Over the next ten years, the Republican proposal invests:
$4.03 billion for state roads
$1.44 billion for county roads
$583 million for municipal roads
$282 million for small cities under 5,000
$139 million for Greater Minnesota bus services
$60 million for township roads & bridges
Our plan also benefits small cities, including 17 communities in our district. The Small Cities Program helps in funding these cities who sometimes get left behind by politicians who focus solely on Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Child Protection Task Force
Earlier today, the bipartisan Child Protection Task Force met to discuss ways we can work to help at-risk kids during the 2016 session. As co-chair of this group, this is a top priority for me this year. This is an issue that transcends political parties, which means we have an opportunity to come together and help children in need.
Fish Fry Friday
Tomorrow is another “Fish Fry Friday” as we approach Easter. This week, be sure to check out Sacred Heart Church in Staples. They’re serving from 4:30 until 7 tomorrow, as well as March 4, 11, and 18. If your organization is hosting a fish fry in the coming weeks, please let me know.
Have a good weekend, and go Flyers!
Ron