Since high school I remember thinking... "What can I do to help people?" In the last few years I have been working with non-profit organizations that help people. I have helped Leaf River Area Habit for Humanity build houses, Faith In Action build handicap ramps for individuals, Quantum Connections International send computers and books to 5 countries in West Africa and to Guatemala, and I am on the board for Prime Providers, Incorporated that assists day care providers. I have lived my life as either a middle or low class citizen so I know what issues affect most of District 10 B. I am a very good listener and a fast learner, but extremely stubborn when it comes to pushing an idea that I know will work.
AGRICULTURE: What specific actions can the Legislature pursue to boost the agricultural industry for the state and Otter Tail County?
Assist in the funding of local markets so that organic produce growers can market their produce. Assist in low interest loans for the startup or expansion of organic and sustainable farms.
HEALTH CARE: What can be done to improve accessibility to quality health care and to slow the rate of skyrocketing health costs? Do you support a constitutional guarantee of affordable health care for all Minnesotans?
I, first would like to see the forgiveness of unpaid medical bills go away, because this will bring more money back into the insurance companies and hospitals. State assistance with unpaid medical bills is a better plan. State assistance to any quality medical procedure and care is much needed as well. Grants and assistance from large health care providers and insurance companies can be looked at as well. Yes I support a constitutional guarantee of affordable health care for all Minnesotans.
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CRIME: Are current state laws tough enough to combat high-profile crimes? If not, what new legislation would you enact?
Current state laws are tough enough in some areas but lack in others. I feel that sex offenders, murderers and drug crimes should have a real tough incrimination. But we need to be extra sure that the ones we incriminate are the ones that performed the crime and not an innocent by stander that looks guilty because we can't find the actual suspect.
STADIUMS: The Twins and Gophers received public funding for new stadiums in the 2006 legislative session. Should the Vikings also receive public funding?
Personally, since pro sport teams are considered businesses, they should not receive free money to pay for the whole project. The state should be able to front some of the money because in return the state will receive more income from out of state travelers to the games. Loans with low interest from the state can assist greatly in getting a stadium built. The state can help but can't afford the whole project if we want to assist in education, health care and transportation maintenance.
TRANSPORTATION: Will you be supporting the proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2006 ballot that will dedicate 100 percent of the existing motor vehicle sales tax to transportation project? Why or why not?
No, because the amendment is too vague on the percentage splits for highway and transit projects. Basically the state could put 100% towards transit projects two years in a row then try to catch up the next couple years in highway maintenance. That doesn't work! It needs to be reworded.
