Woodard: Innovation, Reform Needed for Government

Dear Neighbor,

There was strong attendance at the recent Office Hours event I hosted and at area precinct caucuses last week. I continue to be impressed with the level of thoughtful engagement on the issues and opportunities we face as Minnesotans throughout the district.

A sincere thanks to all those who participated in these events. A common theme repeated during these meetings was a recognition that we must find innovative ways for all levels of government to meet the challenges of today and the opportunities of the future.

A key issue we currently are working on at the Capitol is the much-needed reform of our commercial property tax system. This is the only statewide property tax in existence and has been a key factor in limiting the competitiveness of our local businesses.

The nonpartisan Tax Foundation recently ranked our state 45th worst in its State Business Tax Climate Index for 2012. The report pointed to our complex, non-neutral taxes with comparatively high rates as key factors in our poor business climate. The good news is that we are committed to the proven reforms that will improve our business climate in Minnesota. I believe the phase-out of this tax is far more effective than short-term or one-time tax incentives that most entrepreneurs are reluctant to embrace.

Click here for a brief YouTube video of me speaking to this issue and others.

Another important proposal we are reviewing in the House eliminates last-in, first-out policies used in determining teacher layoffs. Our new model would eliminate the current policy of "quality-blind" personnel decisions and help ensure our best and brightest teachers are not forgotten when these decisions must be made.

I am in the process of creating a legislative survey and invite local citizens to weigh in on some of the key issues we are facing this session at the Capitol. I will pass along a link to the survey when it is complete. As always, I look forward to hearing your concerns and ideas on these issues and any other issues that are of importance to you.

Warm regards,
Kelby

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