Dear Friends and Neighbors, I hope you stayed warm despite the bitter temps of the past week. With lows projected in the positive double digits and highs above freezing this weekend, relief is on the horizon. Thank you for taking the time to hear about my recent activity at the Capitol! HF297I am the chief author of HF297, a bill that grants funds to the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency to acquire and rehabilitate tax-forfeited properties into owner-occupied housing. With bipartisan support from co-authors on both sides of the aisle, this bill is a crucial step in addressing our region’s housing crisis. It exemplifies the work we are doing in the Housing Committee, with much more to come.  I was joined by Julie Marinucci from St. Louis County who testified in support of HF297 RealtorsIn Minnesota, the average age of first-time homebuyers has risen to 38 years old—the highest it has been in nearly 50 years. With the average home price exceeding $400,000 and monthly mortgage payments around $2,500, homeownership is becoming increasingly out of reach for many. This week, I had the opportunity to meet with realtors to discuss the growing challenges Minnesotans face in the housing market. A shortage of available homes, combined with limited financing options, has made it especially difficult for individuals and families to purchase their first home. Addressing the need for more affordable starter homes must be a priority as we work toward real solutions. HRA DayI had the pleasure of meeting with several employees from the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), a key organization with significant influence over local housing policies and development. We discussed their ongoing efforts to improve housing accessibility, affordability, and community redevelopment. As we work to address the housing crisis across the state, partnering with the HRA will be crucial in identifying funding opportunities, streamlining housing projects, and ensuring that policies effectively meet the needs of residents. I look forward to continued collaboration to create more sustainable and affordable housing solutions for our communities.  Representative Warwas and I visited with members of Minnesota NAHRO Rural Electric AssociationThe Minnesota Rural Electric Association hosted myself and several other legislators this week, providing an opportunity to discuss the concerns they’ve heard from their customers. We all recognize that rising costs are placing additional stress on individuals and families across the state. I appreciate the chance to engage in ongoing conversations with customers, providers, and everyone in between to find solutions that support our communities. MN Discovery TeamLast week, I had the opportunity to meet part of the staff team from the MN Discovery Center in Chisholm. As the largest museum in Minnesota outside the Twin Cities metro area, the Discovery Center plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the story of the Iron Range through exhibits, research, events, and more. Thank you for taking the time to visit!  Left to right: Alysse Freeman, Museum and Research Center Director; Char Conger, Executive Director; and Maria Hileman, Marketing & Development Director. |