ST. PAUL – State Rep. Cheryl Youakim (DFL – Hopkins) has been chosen by the League of Minnesota Cities as a Legislator of Distinction for her work to aid the efforts of cities during the 2017 session. This is the third consecutive year the League has bestowed this award upon her.
"I'm honored by the League's recognition," said Youakim. "This year, in particular, there was an onslaught of bills to strip away control from our local governments. I was happy to stand side-by-side with our local elected leaders in both St. Louis Park and Hopkins, as well as the League, to push back against these proposals."
No stranger to the unique needs of cities, Rep. Youakim previously served on the Hopkins City Council prior to joining the Legislature. In selecting Legislators of Distinction, the League seeks to recognize that in order to successfully serve commonly shared constituents, state and city officials must work together to meet the unique needs of rural, suburban, and urban residents all across Minnesota.
To be eligible for the award, legislators must meet criteria such as: being generally and reasonably accessible to League representatives, seeking input on issues of importance to cities, listening to League concerns and is receptive to the League providing information on issues, sponsoring and/or supporting League initiatives, speaking out on behalf of the interest of cities, and demonstrating the importance of partnership between the state and cities.
Further information about the award, as well as a full list of recipients, can be found at the League’s website.
Rep. Youakim encourages community members to contact her on any legislative issue. She can be reached by email at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or phone at 651-296-9889.