(St. Paul, MN) — A group representing communities outside the metro area is pushing the legislature for an increase in local government aid to fund police, fire departments, libraries, infrastructure and other needs. Bradley Peterson with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities says, “with the surplus as big as it is, there is absolutely no reason that the state can’t make these kinds of investments to keep local communities strong.” Peterson says preliminary property tax levies are higher, largely driven by inflation. Governor Tim Walz says he’ll advocate in his budget for increased state aid to cities and counties. Republicans say a nearly 18-billion-dollar budget surplus proves Minnesotans are overtaxed and they should get that money back.
About the Author: Ashley Hanley
Ashley (Goettl) Hanley is a North Mankato native and Mankato West graduate who made the switch from TV journalism to radio.
After five years at KEYC News 12, Ashley is thrilled to be working for KTOE News. Ashley and her husband John, and son John, enjoy spending time in the community. You can also find Ashley coaching and playing softball and supporting her brother on the MSU football team and her sister with Scarlet athletics.
Even though she went to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, Ashley kept her Minnesota roots and is a big Twins and Vikings fan!
