ROSEMOUNT, MN – State Representative Phil Sterner has announced his intention to run for re-election to represent House District 37B in the Minnesota House of Representatives. Sterner is currently serving his first term after winning the seat in November 2008.
“It’s a privilege to represent the citizens of eastern Apple Valley and Rosemount in the Minnesota House,” said Rep. Sterner. “Legislative seats belong to the citizens of the district, and earning their trust is one of the most important parts of this job. I believe my voting record matches the values of the district, and I know my commitment to serving the needs of our community is second to none.”
Sterner stated that the economy and jobs will be major issues during the upcoming election. He cited his work on the House Jobs Task Force and the Small Business Caucus, both of which are working to develop ways to create a more favorable climate for job growth and business development.
“My highest priority is putting Minnesota back on the path to economic recovery,” said Sterner. “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.”
During his first term in the Minnesota House, Sterner quickly gained a reputation as one of the Legislature’s most effective new members, sponsoring new laws to help prevent the risk of shaken baby syndrome and to help residents and local governments improve lake water quality, including that of Long Lake in Apple Valley. Additionally, Sterner worked to position Minnesota as a leader in the emerging solar energy market, and supported renewable energy initiatives that are already bringing new green jobs to the state.
“One of the most important things I’ve learned in my first year at the Capitol is that no single party has a lock on good ideas,” said Sterner. “People in this district just want us to work together to get things done. That’s what I’ve tried to do, with some good results.”
Sterner came to the Legislature after serving on the Rosemount City Council for 4 years. He also served on the city’s Parks and Recreation Commission and the Cedar Corridor Transportation Improvement Group. A 41-year resident of the community and owner and president of the oldest insurance agency in Apple Valley, he is a member and ambassador of the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce and chair of the Minnesota Valley Humane Society’s Capital Campaign Committee. In addition, he brings a wealth of experience in community outreach and volunteer service as past president of the Rosemount Elementary Site Council, a former Boy Scout Master and Girl Scout leader, founder and program director of the RAAA youth tennis program, and an active supporter of the Rosemount High School Marching Band. He and his wife Brenda reside in Rosemount and are the parents of five children.
“With the challenges Minnesotans are facing in this economy, short-term solutions and partisan bickering won’t cut it,” said Sterner. “Minnesota has been a place of opportunity because 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, a safe and reliable infrastructure, access to affordable healthcare, and a competitive business climate.
Sterner continued, “Bringing Minnesota back to prosperity will require difficult choices, honest conversations and creative solutions. I’m committed to running a positive campaign that focuses on the issues, and to talking honestly with the voters about what we can do to confront our challenges together.”
