When it comes to the critical issues that can move Minnesota ahead, our state legislature’s approach has been piecemeal, pass-the-buck and behind-the-curve. The result? Crumbling roads, deteriorating schools, a healthcare system that doesn’t reach all our citizens, and an economy that can immobilize one’s spirit.

We need reliable and safe means of transportation to get us to our jobs, return us to our homes, and to deliver our daily needs. Locally, the Hastings' bridge has now finally been checked, emergency repairs are underway and a new bridge is in the works. Thank goodness. But we need to do much more than react to self-inflicted infrastructure emergencies. It's time for a real, comprehensive transportation plan — one that anticipates future needs, protects the investment we've made in existing infrastructure, and incorporates sound options like light rail and other mass transit alternatives.

Our schools are hurting and a lack of state funding is the reason. Schools shouldn't be forced to keep asking voters to raise their property taxes to fix leaky roofs and moldy windows. We need statewide education funding reform. We need to return to a time when educating our children was our number one responsibility — not a budget-item hot-potato to pass off to the nearest local school board. We must move the funding of all education back to the state level. Debate on the issue of funding must be transparent and open for all citizens to witness — not fragmented around our state with local referendums that burden our citizens with higher property taxes.

Do you have adequate health insurance and access to quality health care for you and your family? I hope so. Unfortunately, many of our fellow citizens are not so fortunate. We are blessed with top-notch medical professionals here in Minnesota. We have great hospitals. Our state has a history of being compassionate and caring—and of being a leader of innovation. The missing piece is our system of delivering medical care to all. Our state legislature must lead as the agent of change in this area. Let's start by getting representatives of all the health care players to sit down together. Each player lists its priorities. All players work with the conviction that change has to occur. No doubt the debate will be intense. It won't be easy. But here's the key idea: our health care delivery system must change. We must move forward. Health care is a RIGHT, not an option or luxury.

As a father and grandfather, I want those who come after me to live in a safe environment and be able to enjoy the great outdoors. Our family has enjoyed camping in many of our national, state and regional parks. We have been modern voyagers in the BWCA. We are conscientious recyclers. Preserving and protecting our environment is a high priority for me. This is an issue we cannot ignore. I'm convinced people all over the world will have to change their life styles to save our planet. Sacrifices will have to be made, but this can also be an economic opportunity.

Reasonable property taxes are one form of investment in our quality of life. In the past, they were a good, prudent and reasonable investment. But lately, homeowners and other property owners, especially those on fixed incomes, have been asked to shoulder more than their fair share. The state legislature has to address this issue. I believe the funding of public education is the state legislature's responsibility. Recently the legislature pawned off their responsibility in this area to local school districts. School districts across out state have to ask homeowners of their districts to raise their property taxes to pay for needed building repairs and other necessities. It is time for our legislature to reassume its rightful responsibility to fully fund public education.