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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Nels Pierson (R)

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Legislative Update (May 16, 2016)

Monday, May 16, 2016

Dear Neighbors,

We’re closing in on the final days of session, and we’re passing legislation to help Minnesotans. Before the sprint to the finish, I wanted to pass along a quick update.

Stewartville Improvements

I’d like to thank Ken Oehlke, Mayor Jimmie-John King, and Councilmember Dick Uptagrafft for the tour of two potential improvement projects in Stewartville. These officials took time out of their Saturday to show Senator Carla Nelson and me around two areas we could improve in our area.

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The first was a tour of possible sanitary sewer upgrades. The city has been working to improve this system for some time, but new regulations may significantly increase the cost. The other area is on a one-mile stretch of road in Pleasant Grove Township. Many people use this road as an alternate route to driving in downtown Stewartville. The increased traffic has caused extreme wear and tear on the gravel road. It may be too late for these to be included in this year’s bonding bill, but it’s important for local officials to start looking to solve these problems now.

Reading Center

I’m hopeful my bill, HF2864, is included in the House bonding bill so we can provide an additional resource for students with dyslexia in our area. The plan is to fund $1.5 million toward the construction of a Dyslexia Institute of Minnesota facility in Olmsted County. It’s important to give students struggling with dyslexia another avenue to learn in a way that fits them.

Road and Bridge Funding

One of the main decisions in the coming days revolves around our transportation funding proposal. Negotiations are ongoing, and I’m hopeful we can pass a road and bridge package to benefit residents of our area and around the state. I’ll be sure to keep you updated as we know more about road and bridge funding before the end of session.

Closing Out Session

The Legislature must adjourn no later than May 23. With a such a short time left, it’s more important than ever for you to contact me with your thoughts and ideas. Although the Legislature is in session, I still spend much of my time in our area. If you want to meet and discuss any issues or questions, please let me know. You can reach me at (651) 296-4378 or Rep.Nels.Pierson@house.mn.

Best,

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Nels