Dear Neighbors,
In July, the state agency that oversees Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) rolled out an update to the statewide computer system called the Minnesota Licensing and Registration System, or MNLARS. This computer system was supposed to improve and simplify driver and vehicle services for our state. Unfortunately, since MNLARS took effect in July, it’s been plagued by a variety of issues and has caused headaches and frustrations for many citizens and license center workers.
I have heard many stories from frustrated local residents over the last three months, including one gentleman who recently had to drive into town from Geneva three separate times over a week’s time before he finally was able to get his license tabs. I met recently with equally frustrated area license center personnel to learn more about how this issue is impacting our center and local citizens. I found that, after three months of continued glitches in the system, they continue to face critical issues: multiple-hour shutdowns, charging customers twice, and simply turning people away because there is no way to process their requests
Put simply, we’re disappointed DVS installed this system before it was ready for primetime. The good news is, the legislature is doing our part to assist those who have been impacted by MNLARS issues. If you have experienced issues with MNLARS and need assistance, or simply want to share your experience, you can always contact my office at rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn or 651-296-8216, or visit http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/DMV/Comment to tell your story.
Fort Snelling
Today, I had a wonderful time touring the historic Fort Snelling site. Some good friends from Albert Lea and the Twin Cities joined me for the tour, along with my House colleague and friend, Rep. Linda Runbeck. As a members of the House Capital Investment Committee, Rep. Runbeck and I were also able to see first hand the Fort Snelling bonding project request along with the tour. I love early American and Native American history, so this visit was right up my alley. A lot of history for a number of different cultures took place in this area. Some of the buildings date back to 1820 - the oldest buildings in Minnesota. Amazing! If you haven't had a chance to visit historic Fort Snelling, I hope you will sometime. Thank you to David Kelliher from the Minnesota Historical Society and Fort Snelling Site Manager, Tom Pfannenstiel, for taking the time to give us this tour. I greatly enjoyed it!
Local Award
Congratulations to Keith Erickson, retired special education director for the Albert Lea Area Schools, on winning the Legacy Award at the 2017 Minnesota Administrators for Special Education conference. I worked with Keith during my time at Albert Lea schools, and he’s most deserving of the award. Congrats, Keith!
Please Contact Me
Please continue to call or email my office if you need anything in the months leading up to session. I love hearing your views and suggestions, and will get back to you as soon as possible. Please stay in touch!
Have a great weekend,
Peggy