January 27, 2010
Minnesota’s Challenges Demand Responsible Priorities and Long-range Planning
To the Editor:
The 2010 Legislative Session is scheduled to convene February 4th. Minnesota faces a $1.2 billion budget shortfall caused by the ongoing recession and an underlying structural imbalance in the state budget. With limited resources, difficult decisions will need to be made to resolve the deficit and rebuild our economy – but with your help, I am prepared to make those decisions.
My highest priority as your legislator is putting Minnesota back on the path to economic recovery. Doing so will require smart decisions that will balance the state’s budget responsibly, improve our economic infrastructure, and provide common sense support for small businesses.
In this economy, short-term solutions won’t cut it. Minnesota has been a place of opportunity because for decades our predecessors took the long view, setting priorities that positioned us for success. Those leaders knew our strongest assets are, and will continue to be a sound education system, safe and reliable infrastructure, and a competitive business climate.
In the face of the unprecedented economic and fiscal challenges facing Minnesota, our recovery depends on a renewed commitment to a long-range plan that prioritizes those principles. As your representative, I’ll continue working to ensure those priorities are at the center of every decision we make during the difficult session ahead.
I have created a survey to get your input about what you think our priorities should be. Please take few minutes to complete it by visiting my House website at http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/survey/37B.asp
Your partnership is vital to rebuilding Minnesota’s future. Please continue to contact me with your questions, concerns, and suggestions. I take my responsibility to consider all viewpoints on every issue very seriously, and always appreciate your input.
Sincerely,
Phil Sterner
State Representative, District 37B
