 Dear Neighbors, Hats off to everyone involved in this year’s Feb Fest at Lake Ann! What a great way to get out and enjoy Minnesota’s winter season. I’m glad that the ice was frozen enough this year to accommodate all the ice anglers and festival goers. ??????  Good news from the State Capitol - House DFL and GOP leadership have reached an agreement to co-govern for the next two years. You can read my official press statement on the compromise and bipartisan structure of operations here. Under the new agreement, Republicans will lead until the March 11th Roseville special election takes place, hoping we return to a 67-67 tie. Then we shift to equal committee representation with co-chairs across the board. While the agreement allows GOP Leader Lisa Demuth to serve as Speaker of the House for the full biennium with some DFL checks and balances, Democrats secured our biggest goal - a co-governing compromise that ensures the Shakopee-area state representative can serve the term to which he was elected. The agreement also prevents Republicans from throwing out an election in the future; a victory for democracy and the people of Minnesota. Rep. Brad Tabke will serve the term he rightfully won in Shakopee, proving that in Minnesota, voters - not politicians - decide elections. Though bipartisanship feels like a far cry on a national stage, Minnesota has bucked national trends by showing the country how Democrats and Republicans can work together in earnest. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues across the aisle to deliver for Chanhassen and Chaska residents.  I toured the Bountiful Basket Food Shelf in Chaska this week. They do so much good for the community. This local food shelf was busy with volunteers, staff, and clients. Fresh and canned food, meat, pet food, bakery goods- they had it all. Many thanks to all the hardworking volunteers and community groups like Mi Casa and Latino Voices of Minnesota who help support this small, but mighty community resource! I’m looking into legislative ways we can help them expand. Grateful for their work!  The Boundary Waters are a national treasure, and we're lucky to have them right here in Minnesota. The BWCA is a special place where people can connect with nature and enjoy our crown jewel of natural resources. It was good to connect with Amanda from Save the Boundary Waters to discuss tangible ways we can protect our most precious resource.  Keep in TouchPlease continue to be in touch about your own priorities and to share your ideas. Due to technological limitations, email replies to this newsletter won't reach my inbox. You can email me directly at rep.lucy.rehm@house.mn.gov. It’s an honor to represent you! Have a great weekend. In community, Lucy |