8.1. SR 04-03-2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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welfare of the local communities they represent, and laws providing for local decision making generally correlate with this directive. Statutory changes that constrict local decision making authority could serve to prevent local officials in being able to effectively safeguard the interests of a local community for which they are charged, and should not be considered lightly. The ability of local officials to make decisions on behalf of their community matters in how communities are shaped, in the financial ability of the community to govern itself, and in the ability of local officials to act flexibly to address unique or changing local conditions and circumstances. The state of Minnesota has long prided itself on a strong local and state partnership. To function, this partnership at its core must include effective communication by state and local officials with each other and with the public, acknowledge separate roles and responsibilities, provide for the strong financial stewardship over resources, have in place policies that provide for efficient service delivery, provide adequate and predictable resources, and allow flexibility for local officials to address a range of circumstances in their local communities. Several proposed bills, in undermining local decision making and authority, could serve to undermine the foundation and functionality of the state and local relationship. As representatives of municipalities throughout the state, we have been working to respond on a case by case basis to legislative proposals that seek to restrict or eliminate local decision making. With some proposals, we have aimed to work with legislative authors to make the proposed legislation workable. Other proposals we have needed to communicate our direct opposition, on behalf of the communities we represent. Generally, we have worked to inform legislators of positions supported by local officials and to remind legislators that local officials, like legislators, are held accountable through the elections process. Again, our purpose in writing today is to communicate our deep concern, not only on specific legislative proposals that would undermine well established local authority and public processes, but also on the unmistakable trend of such consequential proposals advancing in the Legislature. Thank you for your consideration of our concerns. erely ave Bradley M. Peterson s' Patricia Nauman Executive Direc r Executive Director Executive Director League of MN Cities Coalition of Greater MN Cities Metro Cities Jill SIFtten James Hovland xe tive Director Chair, Municipal Legislative Commission MN Association of Small Cities Mayor, City of Edina Cc: The Honorable Mark Dayton, Governor The Honorable Tina Smith, Lieutenant Governor