October, 2011

Dear neighbors,

Since taking office on January 4, it has been my distinct privilege to serve the citizens of this area in the Minnesota Legislature.   It has also been a serious responsibility considering the difficult economy and the tough choices this has presented.      

Notably, the Legislature did pass a budget that did not raise taxes.   At $34.4 billion, the state budget will bend the spending curve downward for the 2012-2013 biennium as well as the 2014-2015 biennium --because tax revenues are expected to grow very slowly.    One of the principles I support is that government must live within the resources available – and that was the result of the recently-completed 2011 budget session. 

A considerable number of policy reforms were also included in the budget for 2012-2013.  Many will improve government efficiency or streamline government service delivery.   A list of many reforms contained in the budget can be found on the Issues pages of this website.   While these reform efforts are noteworthy, they are just the first step.  The sobering reality we all must face is that government is still projected to grow faster than the economy – and the obligations government has taken on are not sustainable.   For my part, I am excited to be part of efforts aimed at further redesign of state and local government – necessary for job growth and greater economic competitiveness.

I’m proud to serve alongside many fiscally-responsible elected officials in this area.  Thanks to them, we can say that our local governments are tackling the challenges of “living within their means” and working to creatively use our tax dollars to maintain the excellent reputation our suburbs have of being attractive, safe, healthful and well-managed places to live and raise families.   

As chair of the Property Tax Division in the Minnesota House, my focus has been on bringing down the cost of local government while keeping a lid on property taxes.   I look forward to hearing from you with any questions, comments or suggestions.   My email at the Legislature is rep.linda.runbeck@house.mn.