I have been closely following the proposed Nelson Mine Backwaters Project on Grey Cloud Island. You can find more background information on the proposal here. Under state law, an Environmental Impact Statement has been drafted, and public comments will be accepted until January 17.
Next week, the City of Cottage Grove will hold an in-person public meeting on December 19 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Hero Center (10125 85th St S, Cottage Grove). You can also email comments to [email protected]. I hope you can join us to learn more about the project, and make your voice heard on this proposed mining project that could affect our communities, and environment, for decades to come.
This past week, I participated in the Council of State Governments (CSG) National Conference in New Orleans. I met with state legislators from around the country on topics like redistricting, funding local infrastructure through President Biden’s Build Back Better bill, and updates on how economic trends under a new administration could affect state governments.
These conferences are a great opportunity to learn from leaders in other states and share the progress the DFL has made in the past two years by passing legislation to improve Minnesotans’ lives.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is planning new rules governing air quality following laws passed by the Environment Committee in 2023. The main goal is to establish air toxins emissions reporting requirements. You can find more information on the current rule proposals, and comment on the rulemaking until January 15, at the MPCA website.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is looking to recruit roughly 100 community members to serve as grant reviewers for competitive workforce development grant programs in winter 2024-2025. Please consider applying to be a community reviewer today! Applications are open until December 16.
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the year. You can reach me by email at [email protected] or by phone at 651-296-6828. You can contact my Legislative Assistant Sam O'Neill at 651-296-3305 or via email at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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