Politics & Government

Rep. Garofalo on Dayton Budget, Town Hall Meetings

Rep. Pat Garofalo, who serves the Dakota County precinct of Northfield, shares his latest newsletter.

THE INSIDE SCOOP
Representative Pat Garofalo
1/22/2013

- GOVERNOR RELEASES BUDGET WITH SIGNIFICANT TAX INCREASES
- 2ND SALES TAX PROPOSED TO PAY FOR TRANSIT
- TOWN HALL MEETINGS COMING UP

- ABBY'S JOKE OF THE WEEK  

DAYTON BUDGET

Find out what's happening in Northfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Governor Dayton released a new budget today with significant tax increases.  The Governor proposed expanding the sales tax while simultaneously lowering the rate.  If passed, a sales tax would be paid on haircuts, clothing over $100, medicine, daycare and virtually every other item/service.  The Governor also proposed a new income tax increase on "the wealthy" increasing the income tax from 7.85% to 9.85%.  Cigarette taxes, business tax increases, and eliminated deductions round out his tax proposals.  This budget will call for a significantly bigger state government funded by a broader base of taxes.  While I oppose this proposal, it is entirely expected.  In fairness, the Governor has consistently stated his believe in a bigger government, providing more services, funded by higher taxes.  The Governor's behavior today is consistent with his views on the size of government. 

2ND TRANSIT TAX PROPOSED

Find out what's happening in Northfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Currently Dakota County residents pay an extra sales tax for bus and train lines.  The Governor today proposed doubling that tax to pay for additional light rail and commuter rail lines throughout the metro area.  Even though none of these lines will be built to serve residents of Dakota County, our residents will still be forced to pay the higher sales tax.  None of these dollars could be used to expand or improve the safety of roads throughout our district. 

TOWN HALL MEETINGS

In the coming weeks/months I will be hosting some town hall meetings for citizens to discuss legislation at the capitol being proposed on taxes, spending, gun control, etc.  If you have a location you would like to recommend, please let me know.  I'll be sending out announcements later in the session. 

ABBY'S JOKE OF THE WEEK 

Q - What do Abraham Lincoln and bloodhounds have in common?.....
A - They both are on scents........ 

BONUS ABBY JOKE
Q - Where do hamsters go on vacation?...
A - Hamsterdam.  :-) 

As always, it is an honor to serve as your State Representative. 

Please contact me if I can be of any assistance.  Thanks!


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