Blog
Dec
NEW Minnesota State COVID-19 Relief Package Passed 12/15/20
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials
The Minnesota Senate and House passed a state COVID-19 relief package. The bill, SF 31, provides financial assistance to businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and executive orders, extends unemployment insurance benefits and extends the deadline for free or reduced-price lunch applications.
Here is a summary of the relief provisions:
- Business Relief Payments: $88 million
$88 million will be distributed in grants to “qualified businesses” which were closed to the general public through Executive Order 20-99 (attached) – the most recent order closing certain businesses. These businesses include restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries, wineries, fitness and recreational sports centers, bowling centers, and specialty food stores. Businesses must show a 30% decline in sales for the year, have a physical presence in Minnesota and meet other qualifications listed in the bill. If qualified, the Minnesota Department of Revenue will distribute grants to businesses ranging from $10,000 to a maximum of $45,000.
- Movie Theater and Convention Center Grants: $14 million
$9 million will be distributed in grants to movie theaters with indoor seating and $5 million will be distributed to with regional or statewide significance and a capacity of 1,500 or more. These grants must be used for the direct operations and upkeep of convention center facilities.
- County Relief Grants to Local Businesses: $114.8 million
Funds will be distributed to all 87 counties on a per capita basis and the county will provide relief grants to local businesses. The intention of this grant fund is to give flexibility to counties to make grants to individual businesses and nonprofits that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and business closures, but may not have met the strict guidelines in the previous grant categories.
- Unemployment Insurance Benefits Extension
Extends unemployment benefits for an additional 13 weeks to April 20, 2021. Over 112,000 Minnesotans will be impacted by this provision.
- Regulatory Relief
Several regulatory relief provisions are included in the bill including waiver of the caterer’s permit fees, permit fees for sales after 1:00 a.m., refund of the wastewater permit fees for brewers, and waiver of late fees for license renewals by food retailers, food manufacturers, food wholesalers, and food brokers.
- Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Deadline Extension
The bill grants an extension of the deadline for school districts to report the number of pupils enrolled in the free or reduced-price lunch program.
Jun
River Heights Chamber of Commerce Taking Transitions to a Whole New Level – New Interim Chamber President Named
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials
Inver Grove Heights/South St. Paul – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Colleen Murphy Roth has been named Interim President by the Board of Directors and commenced her role officially on June 15, 2020.
Colleen has been employed with the River Heights Chamber for two and a half years as the Director of Membership Development which has provided a solid building block for this transition. Previously, she worked in development with various nonprofits in the Twin Cities. Colleen also currently serves as the VP of Squirts for District 8 of MN Hockey.
The transition of roles came after former River Heights Chamber President, Jennifer Gale, announced that after 16 years of service she made the difficult decision to resign from the position and move to the private sector. Jennifer stated, “I wish to thank the Board members, both present and past, the membership for investing in the River Heights Chamber during my tenure and to the community leaders who have partnered with the Chamber to make our community a great place to live, work and play. I take great pride in the staff and the work plans we accomplished together to solidify the Chamber as the premier local advocate for business. It has been my greatest pleasure serving our business community and I am blessed to have had the chance to work with, learn from, and partner with the amazing leaders in the River Heights community.”
Colleen is excited for the challenges that lie ahead with the ever-changing business landscape and is committed to continuing to position the River Heights Chamber of Commerce as the premier resource for business in the community.
At a planning conference in November of 2019, the Board put together a work plan for 2020. Even with COVID-19, the Chamber has made a lot of initiatives into a new way of doing business in our regions.
Some highlights include:
• FOCUS ON DEMOGRAPHIC CLUSTERING – We have structured Chamber programming on demographic clusters to position the Chamber to be out front of the needs of incoming or elevating demographic subsets. Group involvement and participation is hardwired, regardless of the generational angst we feel in any given decade. We have an innate need to belong. Through weekly webinars we are providing programming in specific categories such as working from home, investments, tourism, retail, real estate, legal, HR and managerial staffing. We have seen more levels of staff participating because of the variation in our new virtual programming.
• INVEST IN TECHNOLOGICAL COMMUNICATION – Chambers are small business enterprises and, as such, must try to keep up with members and the world at large. Interpersonal connectivity and human relationships, especially if enhanced and maintained through electronic channels, will have more impact than ever. The River Heights Chamber has utilized platforms such as Facebook Live, Zoom and Microsoft Teams for meetings and group communications and events. The information availability has opened to members and community leaders that possibly couldn’t attend before.
• BRIDGE THE POLITICAL FRAGMENTATION Chambers have the potential to employ their considerable consensus-building experience and position of trust to provide workable alternatives to fringe dogma and out-of-hand dismissal of compromise. The Chamber acts as the convener of those who can find solutions, resources and political will. Articulating shared values, rather than divisive talking points, will be needed more than ever in the coming decade. The Chamber moderated a town hall meeting with Rep. Craig this spring to discuss the PPP and EIDL Small Business Loan programs. The Chamber has worked with our state legislators on all sides to secure additional unemployment, grants and state loans to assist local businesses in the pandemic. We are also working with the local governments to relax city ordinances while keeping in line with state policy to assist businesses in reopening in a safe, yet profitable, way. The River Heights Chamber of Commerce has positioned itself well in the middle and is advocating on behalf of all business in the community, regardless of political preference.
We invite businesses and the community to learn more about the resources and benefits the River Heights Chamber has to offer and see how we can help you during this challenging time by visiting our website at www.riverheights.com or contacting our Chamber staff. Colleen can still be reached at the River Heights Chamber at colleen@riverheights.com.
Apr
Working Together to Keep the Economy Moving Forward
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials, Marketing
By Doug Loon, Minnesota Chamber and Jennifer Gale, River Heights Chamber of Commerce
Every employer and employee feels the unprecedented impact of COVID-19. Those of us in the network of state and local chambers, like the River Heights Chamber of Commerce, would like to thank employers and employees throughout Minnesota for navigating this crisis to mitigate the health impacts and keep our state moving forward. And if you are a business that is currently struggling or confused about the resources available to you, reach out to us. We can help- visit our business resources page at https://riverheights.com/covid19/.
Businesses are innovating and leveraging available resources.
Minnesota is blessed with a landscape of innovative companies and skilled workers. Employers and employees are continuing to find ways to work safely, keep essential operations open, meet customer demands and protect critical supply chains. Most impressive, companies are showing their ingenuity to transform operations almost overnight to supply products and services critical to bringing this pandemic under control.
Chambers of Commerce share the goal of ensuring a healthy business community and economy. The stakes are higher today, and our efforts are escalated as we fight this pandemic. We are working tirelessly for our members – listening to their needs and responding in their best interest.
Chambers are bringing businesses together.
Your local and state chambers work with businesses of every type, size and industry, and in every corner of the state. By listening to the needs of our members, we are able to make connections between challenges and solutions – during this crisis and long afterward. The River Heights Chamber has been sharing critical information to keep the business community abreast of the latest resources/tips/programs available to them, creating webinars and virtual events (like the Small Business Award Celebration on April 23 at 2:00 pm) to keep businesses informed and communicating with one another, as well as sharing the accomplishments and needs of its business members within the local community.
Chambers are advocating for employers and employees.
Minnesotans’ health and safety are paramount concerns for all of us. We share the goal of our elected officials to reduce the spread of the virus and simultaneously protect the long-term strength of the private-sector economy. It’s a delicate balance, and we have worked with legislators, and Governor Walz and his administration to make decisions with this balance in mind.
Chambers are speeding resources and assistance to keep communities thriving.
Every company is impacted by the state and federal directives related to COVID-19. Those deemed essential are doing what they can to keep shelves stocked and meet customer demands. If they were required to close their physical doors, many are continuing remotely or pivoting their operations. This was not their choice, but they are reviewing every funding option available to continue to make payroll, or act in good faith on behalf of their employees to keep their businesses open while mitigating health impacts.
The twists and turns of the pandemic are changing daily. Your chambers of commerce provide timely and trusted information to navigate this crisis. We know businesses are looking for funding and resources to mitigate this crisis. Your state and local chambers are here to help you navigate the various options and maximize the benefit for your business and employees. Our offices may be closed due to the “stay at home” order, but we are only a phone call or email away.
Businesses contribute to our shared quality of life in Minnesota. Generations-owned family companies and new entrepreneurial start-ups are equally important parts of our community’s and state’s story. The remarkable response of employers and employees everywhere is evidence that Minnesotans are well-prepared to weather this pandemic storm. Working together, we will position Minnesota to return to full productivity and full employment as soon as possible.
For more information, visit the River Heights Chamber of Commerce website at www.riverheights.com.
Mar
Important Information from the Governor
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials, Event News, Marketing
March 25, 2020
Dear Members,
This afternoon, MN Governor Tim Walz issued an Executive Order directing Minnesotans to Stay at Home and limit movement outside of their homes beyond essential needs for two weeks.
Stay at Home Executive Order Effective Friday, March 27th from 11:59 pm to Friday, April 10th. #StayHomeMN
The closures of bars, restaurants and other public accommodations are extended to May 1st at 5 pm.
This Executive Order authorizes the Commissioner of Education to implement a Distant Learning period beginning on March 30th until May 4th.
Minnesotans may leave their home to perform essential duties and are asked to maintain social distancing.
Workers who provide critical services to the people of MN at this time are exempt. The exemptions are based on federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the US Department of Homeland Security with some Minnesota- specific additions. This includes but is not limited to jobs in:
– Healthcare and public health
– Law enforcement, public safety, and first responders
– Child care
– Food and agriculture
– News media
– Energy
– Water and wastewater
– Critical manufacturing
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce will continue to be a voice of reason, sharing factual information as it becomes available and we will work tirelessly to advocate for and support our local businesses and communities.
We will be funneling information down to you through our website and social media channels. The RHCC Members Only Facebook group, the River Heights Chamber Facebook page, our COVID-19 webpage that offers info from our partners, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, DEED and other useful resources. We are also updating our Facebook page with announcements and opportunities to support our businesses during these challenging times.
Adam Bengtson, 2020 Chairman, River Heights Chamber of Commerce
Mar
How the River Heights Chamber is Responding to COVID-19
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials, Marketing
March 23, 2020
Dear Chamber Members,
It has been a hard couple weeks to be in leadership, and I imagine for most of you, it’s been a hard couple weeks to be a business owner or employee, a school administrator, a government official, a parent, a student, a friend. What we are currently experiencing is definitely new territory for all of us.
First and foremost, I want to assure you that the River Heights Chamber of Commerce will continue to be a voice of reason, sharing factual information as it becomes available and we will work tirelessly to advocate for and support our local businesses and communities. We will be funneling information down to you through our website here from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, DEED and other useful resources and partners. Last week, we compiled a list of local restaurants, coffee shops & bars, and food establishments who are offering take-out and deliveries (email Colleen with your information or updates), River Heights Region Restaurant & Food Guide.
We will continue to update events (cancelations & virtual events, etc…) and job postings to our website and social media.
We encourage you to come to the social media table with gratitude and positivity. Why? Because we need to band together as businesses and community to support one another.
What can you do?
- Post your business doing some random act of kindness
- Highlight your staff or a product we can learn about
- Share fun facts or historical anecdotes about your business
- Shout out to another local business
We are in this together. If you have any suggestions for the River Heights Chamber, feel free to email us. We may not have the answer, but we can listen. I am so proud of the measures so many of you are taking already to adapt and showcase leadership to those around you.
With Admiration,
Adam Bengtson, 2020 Chairman of the Board of Directors
& Jennifer Gale, President, River Heights Chamber of Commerce
Mar
Chamber Federation Launches Legislative Agenda – River Heights Businesses Speak Out
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials
The River Heights Chamber reached out to members to hear their challenges to growing jobs in Minnesota – here are what a couple of them said and more from Minnesota Chamber President, Doug Loon, on the Chamber Federation’s Legislative policies.
Mar 2, 2020
By Chamber President Doug Loon
Strike up a conversation with any business owner on the challenges to growing jobs in Minnesota, and the themes ring familiar.
High taxes hinder growth. Access to quality health care at an affordable price. The increasing number of government-mandates on employee benefits. Shortage of skilled workers.
Businesses of all types and sizes feel these stresses. Job-creators across the state hold their collective breath as the 2020 Legislature gets underway. Listen to those on the front lines as we seek ways to lessen these headwinds and create economic opportunity for all Minnesotans.
St. Cloud and River Heights are among the 40-plus members of the Minnesota Chamber Federation, which unites and amplifies the voice of local chambers by advocating for policies to grow business in every corner of the state. Together with the Minnesota Chamber, the Federation is launching its 2020 agenda as the Legislature gets underway.
Workplace regulations are center stage for St. Cloud businesses, says Teresa Bohnen, president of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce. Among their concerns is the broad wage theft law that, among other things, penalizes employers for unintentional payroll errors. “It seemed like the wage theft law sailed through last year without much consideration of the unintended consequences. Now we are requiring all businesses to absorb additional costs related to excessive paperwork and compliance to regulations that the vast majority of them were already following.”
The Federation will pursue modifications in the wage theft law.
We also continue to oppose “one size fits all” state mandates that limit employers’ ability to design competitive benefit packages for their employees. The patchwork of local mandates is cited in Inver Grove Heights. “Many small businesses don’t just work in one community,” says Brenda Dietrich, co-owner of Hardline Concrete & Masonry. “When cities make their own legislation, such as mandating wages and benefits, it is a hindrance to small businesses.”
Kari Rihm, president and chief executive of Rihm Family Companies, underscores the most widespread difficulty facing businesses: Finding workers. “Too few people are going into trades, and too many people are retiring from them.” she says. “It’s no secret. Businesses will be stymied if they can’t hire enough experienced, skilled workers.” The Federation continues to seek systemic reforms to raise all student achievement, ensuring every high school graduate is ready for postsecondary education or a career.
Local employer concerns resonate with Jennifer Gale, president of the River Heights Chamber. “We need to align our state’s legislative policies with our desire to keep Minnesota competitive,” she says. “Local chambers can work side by side with our legislators to connect them with business owners who know firsthand the everyday challenges.”
Conforming Minnesota law with the federal Section 179 tax code tops our tax agenda to allow immediate expensing equipment purchases. Rounding out our priorities are requiring a cost-benefit analysis as part of any proposal to add insurance mandates to state law and supporting environmental policies that drive private investment in Minnesota while helping employers reduce environmental impacts.
Federation partners have collectively advanced employer priorities for more than a decade; they represent 43 communities and 21,000-plus businesses.
If you want to be in the know – and lend your collective voice to help improve the lives of all Minnesotans – I encourage you to become a member of your local chamber or the Minnesota Chamber. Sign up for email updates throughout the legislative session to keep abreast of what is happening at the Capitol.
As one employer, your voice can be a whisper. Combine it with hundreds of others, and your voice becomes a roar.
Nov
2019 Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Federation Policies
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy
2019 Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Federation Priorities
Tax Competitiveness
We support a pro-growth tax system that improves competitiveness, reduces complexity, improves predictability and stability, and increases accountability. Minnesota’s state and local tax systems should be changed to ensure they cultivate innovation, attract investment and foster job growth and retention. Minnesota must enact a more competitive, pro-growth, simplified tax system and lower tax rates so Minnesota is no longer in the top 10 states for high taxes.
Key Priorities:
- Return any state revenue gains realized from federal tax conformity by enacting state tax reform that improves Minnesota’s tax competitiveness.
- Reduce corporate and individual income tax rates so Minnesota is no longer in top 10 highest tax rate states.
- Enact tax relief for pass-through entities by reducing rates for business income and adopt federal conformity with expensing rules.
- Conform to federal estate tax.
- Protect research-and-development tax credit.
- Reduce state property tax levy so Minnesota businesses no longer have property tax burdens that are among the nation’s 10 most burdensome.
- Improve taxpayer procedural protections and administration.
Control Health Care Costs
Ensure access to quality, affordable health care in the commercial market by reducing health care taxes and mandates; expanding product and coverage options for employers and individuals; increasing market competition and stability; encouraging outcome-based payment and delivery reform; and improving consumer engagement and transparency of cost and quality.
Key Priorities:
- Improve care outcomes and reduce costs by aligning Minnesota’s Health Records Act with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
- Oppose making government-sponsored health insurance options like MinnesotaCare available through a “buy-in” option. This will increase costs and lead to further instability of the commercial market, particularly the individual and group markets. Instead, strengthen and continue to stabilize the individual market through an extension of the state’s reinsurance program, which has led to back-to-back premium decreases in the individual market.
Preserve Private Sector Employers’ Benefits (Preemption)
Minnesota employers are nationally recognized for providing the best places to work. In today’s tight labor market, they provide competitive benefits that help attract and retain talent, tailored to the distinctive needs of their industries and workforce. Local governments are right to impose certain requirements on public sector workplaces and local government employees, but enacting employee wage and benefit mandates on private employers is outside city authority. We will aggressively pursue opportunities to advance statewide preemption of local mandates. We will advance and protect employer efforts to develop their own distinctive approaches to competitive employee benefits. We oppose attempts by state policymakers to implement mandates at the state level without including reasonable exceptions for the variety and nuances of the many workplaces across Minnesota.
We support broadly sharing employers’ best practices so all businesses in the state are aware of voluntary approaches to compete for and retain the best employees and maintain progressive workplaces. State and local policymakers should be encouraging this trend and not imposing one-size-fits-all mandates that don’t work for employers or workers.
Full Dedication of Transportation-Related Revenues
The 2017 Legislature passed the largest transportation funding bill in nearly a decade. Nearly $2 billion of transportation-related sales taxes will be captured and directed to the state’s transportation system over the next 10 years. This includes 100% of the revenues generated from the sales tax on rental cars and approximately 60% of revenues generated from the sales tax on auto parts. The Minnesota Chamber has been a strong advocate for the investment of these transportation-related general fund resources in transportation infrastructure and services. We support the full dedication of the auto parts sales tax to transportation.
We are committed to a multimodal system, including investment in transit. We will work with the Legislature to resolve the long-term funding challenges around the metro bus system and support greater Minnesota transit as well.
Workforce Solutions
We will work to accelerate private-sector solutions to help Minnesota employers attract and retain the skilled workers needed to compete. We will work to continue to build and deploy programs through the Center for Workforce Solutions, like the Business Education Networks, in partnership with our Federation partners. Legislative solutions should focus on ensuring existing funding and programs meet the needs of Minnesota employers and the diversity of industries in our state.
Oct
Dakota County Commissioner Voter Guides
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials
2018 Dakota County Commissioner Candidates
The following questions were developed and used from the 2018 Election Candidate Questionnaire and East Metro Voters Guide.
Kathleen Gaylord
Bio: I am the Chair of the Dakota County Board of Commissioners. I am an attorney/partner in the law firm of Weinblatt & Gaylord in Inver Grove Heights and the former Senior Corporate Counsel for Northwest Airlines. I am also the former Executive Director of the Minnesota Tax Study Commission where I built the first computer simulation of Minnesota’s property tax system and was instrumental in bringing “Circuit Breaker” property tax relief to Minnesota. Tens of thousands of Dakota County residents have received tax refunds from the Minnesota Property Tax Refund and Renters Credit that evolved from my work.
I am also the former Mayor of South St. Paul. I have over 30 years of public policy experience leading local, regional, state, and national organizations with the skills and experience to deliver smart, creative solutions and real results.
I attended Macalester College as a math major, earned a B.A. degree in economics Magna Cum Laude and continued my post-graduate studies in Business Taxation and Public Administration at the University of Minnesota before earning my Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law.
What is the biggest challenge facing your district and how would you address it?
Two of the communities in my district are struggling financially. I have recognized that challenge and have worked to keep county taxes as low as possible to help residents already burdened by high city taxes. I have also stepped up to offer a wide range of county services to benefit these communities and sought out grant and funding strategies to help them with trails, road improvements, wetlands restoration and economic development.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Addressing the challenges we face with smart, creative solutions.
- Maintaining our high-quality services and our leadership in controlling county property taxes.
- Listening to all voices and building coalitions and partnerships to move the county forward.
What do you believe are the most essential services provided by county government?
Dakota County provides 225 programs and services to county residents, including record keeping, emergency services, veterans services, public safety, public health, elections, transportation, parks and libraries… but the most essential services are the human services provided by community and social services. These services include child protection, emergency assistance, food supports, housing and economic assistance, and other safety net services.
Todd Podgorski
Bio: I have been fortunate to serve South St. Paul as a two-term City Council Member and a one-term School Board Member. On the City Council, I supported and helped lead our voter-approved parks and Doug Woog arena improvement bond referendum. I am also proud to have supported hiring two additional police officers and a Sgt during my time on the Council. Working on the South St. Paul Economic Development Authority to assist with economic development and job growth, has been a highlight. While I was on the School Board I helped support a voter-approved operating levy that helped us reduce class sizes, improve discipline with having a planning room at the H.S., and having all-day kindergarten with no fee years before the state covered the full cost.
I earn a living as a peace officer in one of the state’s largest and most diverse counties. As a peace officer for over 20 years, I understand the importance of public safety. My background as a long time CIT-Crisis Intervention Trained officer dealing with mental health emergencies gives me a unique understanding of our shortage of mental health and chemical dependency treatment options.
What is the biggest challenge facing your district and how would you address it?
There are many important issues facing our district. I am passionate about keeping our community safe and believe the County has not done enough to help with our district’s crime concerns. With 4,900 active criminal warrants in Dakota County we need a dedicated warrant apprehension team to help bring justice to victims. We also need to better serve people in our community who have mental health and or chemical dependency concerns. We can better serve these people by providing supportive 16 bed or smaller treatment centers.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Enhancing public safety and health.
- Improving roads and infrastructure.
- Fostering job creation, economic development and housing options.
What do you believe are the most essential services provided by county government?
Public safety and health. Roads and infrastructure.
Oct
Minnesota House Seats 52A, 52B and 54A Voter Guides
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Editorials
2018 Minnesota House Seats 52A, 52B and 54A Candidates
The following questions were developed and used from the 2018 Election Candidate Questionnaire and East Metro Voters Guide.
52A Candidates
Rick Hansen
Bio: B.S. Biology, Upper Iowa University; M.S. Soil Management, Iowa State University; Owner, Harmony Cedar, Inc. 2001-present; Minnesota Department of Agriculture 1989-2004; Dakota County SWCD 1996-2004; Minnesota House of Representatives 2004-present, lead Democrat on Environment and Technology committees.
I ask for your vote for State Representative. I have the experience as a small business owner, local government official, state employee and a farmer. As your current State Representative, I have listened and learned to develop the experience to serve the district well. We have a lot of work to do and my ability to work on tough subjects and provide solutions is needed. Problem-solving is in short supply and I ask for your support to apply my knowledge, skills and abilities for you at our Capitol.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Clean Water
- Funding for basic infrastructure such as Robert Street debt relief,
Inflow & Infiltration and local road, bike and pedestrian
improvements. - Levy equalization for school districts & student debt relief
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
No.
Beth Arntson
Bio: I have broad state government experience working 35 years in 10+ state agencies as Human Resources professional, director and manager. My experience in these agencies included Employment, Economic Development, Transportation, K-12 Education, Higher Education, Natural Resources, Vocational Rehabilitation, Trade, Human Services, and other state programmatic and administrative issues. I am running because I was recruited by the local BPOU and want to help change the direction the Democrats are leading Minnesota in health care, school funding, and spending in state government without proper oversight and accountability such as MENLARS and the child care fraud.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Equalization of school funding across districts
- Eliminate taxes on social security
- Protect property rights and eliminate burdensome regulations
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
No.
52B Candidates
Ruth Richardson
Bio: I earned my law degree from William Mitchell College of Law and have experience working in senior leadership positions in the government, non-profit, and private sectors. I’ve worked as a business attorney, in disability rights, and to support small, minority-, and women-owned businesses. I have worked with bipartisan groups to advance legislation to support homeless veterans, people with disabilities, paraprofessional educators in schools, social workers, and people with substance use disorders. Currently, I work as the Director of Programs and National Strategic Initiatives for the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. I have worked as a community faculty member for Metropolitan State University. Also, I serve on the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s Committee for Equality and Justice, the Minnesota Department of Human Services Behavioral Health Planning Council, as co-chair for the DHS African American Birth Outcomes Task Force, and the Minnesota Department of Health’s Healthy Equity and Leadership Advisory Committee. I am a past chairperson of the Minnesota Board of Social Work and current chairperson of Ampersand Families. I am also a member of the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism’s Interagency Coordinating Committee on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Justice Workgroup.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Ensuring all Minnesotans have access to affordable and quality healthcare
- Investing in early childhood, K-12, and post-secondary education
- Ensuring we are investing in small business development and infrastructure
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
Yes.
Regina Barr
Bio: My husband and I have lived in Inver Grove Heights for 20 years. I am a small business owner, am active in the River Heights Chamber of Commerce, and previously served on the IGH Convention and Visitors Bureau. My business background, extensive nonprofit experience, and a solid first term as State Representative delivering results for our community–like tax relief, fully funding our schools, and lowering health insurance costs–prove that I have the broad range of experience necessary to serve effectively. I believe effective leaders prioritize results over partisanship. If re-elected, I will be committed to working with those on both sides of the aisle to deliver results for our community. I recently received the Housing First Leadership Award and the NFIB Small Business Guardian Award. In addition, I have received endorsements from a number of organizations including: the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters, Care Providers of Minnesota PAC, Latino American Today, Dakota County Regional Chamber PAC, Builders Association of the Twin Cities’ Housing First PAC, the MN Chamber Leadership PAC, and the Southeast Metro Business PAC.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
If re-elected, I will prioritize:
- Making health care more affordable
- Delivering middle-class tax relief
- Ensuring that Minnesota families have access to affordable childcare
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
Yes.
54A Candidates
Anne Claflin
Bio: I bring the experience and passion to serve the people of our district well. A graduate of South Saint Paul High School, I chose to live here with my husband Warren and my son William – a fifth-generation native of this district.
For my career in science and policy, I earned my bachelor’s degrees in Russian and Biology and a Master of Science degree in Science, Technology and Environmental Policy from the University of Minnesota. For twelve years, I have worked as a scientist at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, analyzing greenhouse gases and the policies’ effects on climate change.
I lead my MAPE union local as president, and mentor women in science – helping girls with the Girl Scouts and women at the University of Minnesota, and leading Hamline University’s Women in Public Service Conference. As a scientist, I am prepared to support data-driven, evidence-based decisions. As a working mother and union leader, I am prepared to fight for women and working families. As a listening leader, I am prepared to collaborate to build our community. I have the talent, experience and drive to build a vibrant economy and a healthy environment where we have the freedom to pursue our dreams – together.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Protecting clean, safe drinking water and a healthy environment is my highest priority. As an environmental scientist, I will ensure cleaning up our water happens now and happens right. I will act to protect our waters; hold those responsible accountable, and make sure this never happens again. We have a right to a healthy environment – clean water to drink, clean air to breathe, natural areas for people and wildlife. A clean environment supports Minnesota’s vibrant economy and helps create good jobs that can’t be sent overseas: jobs in clean energy and our great natural heritage – hunting, fishing, and the outdoors industry.
- Fighting for our students to get a world-class education is critical to protecting Minnesota’s legacy of educational excellence and supporting job growth right here. I will support learning from early childhood through career training. I will ensure that our students and teachers have the classroom and supportive resources they need to create the next generation of leaders – business owners, lawyers, scientists, people working in the trades. Our children have unlimited potential – let’s help them reach it.
- Building a vibrant economy that works for us all means protecting the freedom to pursue our dreams and care for our loved ones. I will work for affordable health care that won’t bankrupt you if you get sick. I will fight to ensure paid family leave, earned sick time, wage theft protections, and affordable childcare to help families get ahead. I will defend the freedom to have a fair shake – to join together, negotiate, and speak up for better pay and better working conditions. I will work to un-rig the economy, close corporate tax loopholes, and make the American dream achievable again.
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
Yes.
Keith Franke
Bio: I was born, raised and lived in every city in district 54A and have family living all throughout the district. I am a father of two and a grandfather of two granddaughters. I am running for office because I believe in giving the people in our district an honest, common sense voice in our state government. I have a proven record of collaboration with other lawmakers and put principle over politics. I have a wide variety of life and work experiences which give me a unique insight into many social and economic challenges that people in our district face.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
My top priorities if elected include:
- Making sure funds designated by the 3M settlement to ensure water quality for our residents, are kept in our district and spent effectively to provide future generations with water safety and sustainability.
- Quality affordable health care and health insurance is a priority for me. We need to bring everyone to the table to find solutions to our current problems by looking at prescription drug costs, the disparity in health procedure costs, transparency in billing and giving people options to make choices about their own healthcare.
- I would like to continue the work on eliminating taxes on social security income for low and median income seniors with a goal being total elimination of taxes on all social security income.
The Minnesota Constitution states that “[n]o law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.” (Article IV, Section 17.) In recent years, the Legislature has passed bills that encompass far more than one subject. According to critics, multi-subject bills make it difficult for legislators to vote on the merits of an issue, for citizens to be informed, and for the Governor to engage productively with Legislature. Would you support reforms to the legislative process to prohibit consolidating all omnibus spending bills into one large omnibus bill?
Yes.
Do you support moving the state primary election from August to June in order to improve voter turnout and maximize the time candidates spend with general election voters?
Yes.
***Information Supplied by Minnesota Business Community 2018 Election Candidate Questionnaire
Oct
Inver Grove Heights Mayoral Voter Guides
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Editorials
2018 Inver Grove Heights Mayoral Candidates
The following questions were developed and used from the 2018 Election Candidate Questionnaire and East Metro Voters Guide.
Jonathan Weber
Bio: Reliable, honest, loyal and resourceful are defining characteristics of who I am. With over 20 years of business experience, my passion originates from being an entrepreneur who is committed to creative problem solving and thoughtful leadership aiding me both personally and professionally to be the best father, son, husband, brother, friend, neighbor, business owner, and leader I can be. I take great pride in all things I am involved in, specifically within my current role as an IGH Planning Commissioner serving our community these past two years. This experience has allowed me to expand my servant leadership philosophies, which enriches lives, builds better organizations, and ultimately contributes to the creation of a more just and caring community.
What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?
Development. As a planning commissioner, I have seen the new developments coming into our city and one major thing they are missing is a park or trails to a park. As Mayor, I would work with developers to create spaces for families to gather and play at. I feel this has been a major miss in our current developments. When families are looking to move to our city we need to make sure the basics are there for them.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Residential and Business Development.
- Safe Schools and Safe Environments for our citizens.
- The Health of our city and its citizens.
Are there any services currently provided by the city that you believe should be cut back or eliminated? Or, are there new opportunities to share services with other entities?
I do not feel we have any services that the city provides that need to be cut back or eliminated. I do see with new development that we will have lots of new opportunities and work together with neighboring cities to share services.
George Tourville
Bio: I grew up in South St. Paul and attended the University of Minnesota before being trained as a medic in the USAF. I worked as a Paramedic at Divine Redeemer and served on the IGH Fire Department for 26 years. I worked in the Telecom Area for 22 years and retired from Short Elliott Hendrickson in October 2017. I worked as a Sales Manager for most of that time interfacing with businesses large and small gaining valuable business experience. We have lived in IGH for 44 years serving on the City Council for 21 years and as Mayor for 14 years. I am a member of the River Heights Chamber of Commerce, Progress Plus and serve as Chair of the NDCTV Cable Commission, Dakota County 9-1-1 Board and Dakota County Broadband Board. I have served on numerous committees at LMC and Metro Cities in Transportation, General Government and Telecom. I am active in our Church (Good Shepherd), Neighbors Inc., grandchildren activities and youth sports programs. My wife, Barbara, and I have three adult children and 7 grandchildren all living in IGH. I am respectful, accountable, experienced, and involved in our City, I promise to work hard to make IGH a better place to live, work, play, and learn.
What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge facing Inver Grove Heights and all other cities is balancing revenues to our services and budget; now and into the future. We need to maintain and grow the City’s Tax Base, so we can support the services and programs our city needs and desires. IGH needs 5 to build on our economic and city strengths to support ongoing growth in housing, retail, commercial and industrial across the entire community.
What would be your top three priorities if elected?
- Strengthening city services through the responsible use of taxpayer dollars; while keeping taxes affordable in Inver Grove Heights. My highest priority is making sure our City Departments are well staffed, have the equipment and facilities they need and are well trained to serve the citizens and businesses of IGH.
- Grow our Tax Base and add quality development and jobs. We can do this by using the strengths we have to promote new development in housing, commercial, industrial and retail. Helping existing businesses to grow, prosper and add jobs. Continue to work with Dakota County, CDA, MnDOT and private developers to plan, build and complete the transportation plans in our Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). This will allow us to grow our Tax Base and add the services that citizens are looking for.
- Increase communications with citizens and businesses by improving the Cities INSIGHTS Publication, better social media presence with Facebook and Twitter, continue to improve the city’s website and work with Town Square TV on good cable coverage and promotions.
Are there any services currently provided by the city that you believe should be cut back or eliminated? Or, are there new opportunities to share services with other entities?
We review services, staffing and programs on an annual basis for additional efficiencies and cost savings. We also evaluate if shared services, partnerships and or additional Joint Powers Agreements could save money.
