Chamber’s 2023 legislative priorities

Chambers represent economic vitality in their communities. The MN Chamber Federation unites and amplifies the voice of local chambers by advocating for policies to advance business across the state.

The Federation promotes pro-growth policies to the Legislature, helping ensure lawmakers understand the needs and interests of MN’s diverse business community.

Here are the current legislative priorities supported by the Chamber:

Advance tax reform: MN’s high tax burdens continue to rank as one of the top barriers to economic growth. MN business taxes are among the highest in the nation. In 2021 and 2022, 27 other states enacted significant tax reductions to make their states more attractive for investment and talent. Our priorities include reducing MN’s individual and corporate income tax rate. We support business property tax relief, enhancements to the research and development tax credit, angel investment tax credit and conforming to the federal estate tax threshold.

Create a 21st century workforce: Workforce availability is driven by barriers that encompass demographics, education and training preparedness and misalignment, child care availability, high tax burdens, and other affordability challenges. The system must track and adapt to changes in the labor market and workforce needs. We recommend an audit of workforce spending, programs, councils and boards to assess performance and return on investment. The state should accelerate certification and training in high demand industries and streamline licensing and certification to reduce barriers and speed entry to jobs in short supply. And we must turn the tide on declining student proficiency rates and ensure students achieve key academic milestones.

Advance a permitting system that welcomes investment while safeguarding the environment: We support sensible environmental regulations that allow MN to maintain a clean environment and healthy business climate, while fostering statewide economic benefit and job growth. Regulatory systems should be structured so there is a defined process and timeline for completion of environmental review and permits. Abiding by federal statutes and rules would avoid state by state patchwork of requirements.

Advance affordability: Housing costs are more affordable than coastal markets – a competitive position we need to strengthen. Child care is nearly impossible to find in greater MN, and rising costs paired with a market that cannot function without subsidies is a significant workforce barrier. An unprecedented amount of revenue has been invested in border to border connectivity. We must ensure the investment is cost effective and achieves the goal of access to all. Energy costs and rates are no longer as competitive as they were, particularly impacting manufacturing. As we transition to cleaner energy sources, we must balance affordability and reliability.

The Chamber offers Relocation Packets to anyone moving or considering a move to the area. The packets include information about local education, health care, law enforcement, transportation, dining, shopping, entertainment, activities, services and a variety of other opportunities in the area. The packet also includes the community economic development profile and a copy of the Alexandria Visitor Guide. These packets are sent out upon request and made available free of charge for all Chamber members to use when recruiting or hiring people from outside of the area.

To obtain copies of this packet, call the Chamber at 320-763-3161.

The Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and the Echo Press are pleased to bring you the Top 5 Under 40, recognizing five outstanding professionals younger than age 40 in the Alexandria Lakes Area. Nominees were judged on their professional achievements, community involvement and overall depth of qualities. They were honored at the Chamber’s Annual Celebration on January 30.

Summarize your career path.

As a senior at University of Jamestown in 2010, I obtained a marketing internship at Jamestown Regional Medical Center. Following graduation, I was hired fulltime and was promoted to Marketing Manager in 2012. In 2016, my husband Rory and I explored opportunities to move closer to our parents in Minnesota. Soon after, I began my journey at Knute Nelson as Director of Marketing and later was promoted to Vice President of Marketing. I lead the marketing team and support customer experience strategies, digital solutions and process-improvement.

Age: 33

Community and volunteer efforts. In Jamestown, I was a volleyball coach, served on the University of Jamestown Booster Board of Directors, led a public relations taskforce for Two Rivers Activity Center, volunteered at University of Jamestown and Jamestown Regional Medical Center events, and was active in the Young Professionals. I received the Young Professional of the Year award in 2015. Community Engagement is one of Knute Nelson’s values. They are supportive in volunteerism that aligns with my personal values. I continue to be active in the University of Jamestown Booster Board, coach volleyball, participate in Habitat Builds and support Senior Fishing Day. I served on the YMCA Board of Directors from 2018-2022 and prioritize being present at my children’s school, church and community activities.

Leadership philosophy. My philosophy is to be a servant leader and coach. I was a natural leader in high school and collegiate athletics, finding passion by leading by example and helping others recognize their potential. A favorite book is The Servant: A Simple Story About the True Essence of Leadership by James C. Hunter. My personal mission is to be a positive influence and mentor to myself and those I surround myself with.

Family and interests.

My values are Family, Faith, Love, Integrity and Well-Being. Rory and I have three children - Payton 7, Kenley 5 and Braxton 2. My goals are to be present in the moment, enjoy and be thankful for the little things and model the example of who I want my children to be.