It is incredible how fast the summer months go here in Northern Minnesota. Between parades, community events, visits along the Northshore with the kids, and so much more, the time really flies. As such, I want to provide an update to Northshore residents on the work we’ve been doing over the last several months since the Legislative Session ended. Although being out of the Capitol after session is always a relief, the work on behalf of the district continues.
While I am not up for re-election this year, the most important thing to me is being connected and grounded in the communities that I represent. My family loves being in Two Harbors for Heritage Days, and I got to see so many familiar faces during the parade. These community events bring our region together and give me the chance to visit with residents on the ground without an agenda and I love that opportunity.
This is especially important given the flooding that has impacted so many in Northern Minnesota.
Since the flooding, I’ve been in constant touch with folks in places like Finland and taken several actions including bringing the Governor up to Northern Minnesota to see the devastation firsthand and pledge state support, which he did. I’m also the only State Legislator that has called for a Special Session to put together a relief package for those impacted. While State support is important, I also sent a formal letter to FEMA and our Federal Delegation requesting the approval of ‘Individual Assistance’ for homeowners and small businesses given the extent of the damages because we can’t do this alone. Lastly, I’m working as a Board Member of the IRRRB to secure an aid package for small business owners.
The impact of this flooding will be felt for a long time. I know residents and communities are frustrated given the impact it has had on their livelihoods. Please know that I am making sure the voices of the Northshore are known loud and clear because if we don’t make our voices heard, no one will listen.
In addition to the flooding work, I recently brought Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy up the Shore to visit several spots, including:
• Meeting with Lake County Ambulance Service in Two Harbors to discuss the EMS aid package and EMT training program dollars we secured
• Celebrating the funding for the Silver Bay Road Reconstruction with Mayor Wade LeBlanc and City Administrator Lana Fralich
• Visiting with Northshore resort and small business owners about the impacts on their business due to the mild winter
• Gathering with stakeholders across Cook County to discuss county priorities and upcoming opportunities for housing in Grand Marais
• Meeting with the Grand Portage Band Chairman, Bobby Deschampe, to discuss unique opportunities and challenges facing the tribal nation
These visits matter so much because hearing directly from constituents helps me put together my legislative priorities. Having the Majority Leader with me also helps to tell the story of Northern Minnesota because I need that political pull down at the Capitol to accomplish results for our region. You can bet that the Northshore is getting more than our fair share because I’m fighting to make sure that happens.
If you ever want to get in touch with me, please do not hesitate to do so. I can be reached by email at Sen.Grant.Hauschild@mnsenate.gov
Thank you for the honor of representing you,
Grant Hauschild, State Senator
