Column: Capitol Conversations, by Rich Murray

Over the years, Albert Lea has operated a very successful community leadership program co-sponsored by Riverland and the Chamber of Commerce. Community members are selected to join the program for one year. They meet for a full day each month and learn about our community and how to make it better. The goal is to raise awareness of the successes and needs of our community, as well as to build and nurture future leaders in Albert Lea.

Boy, could we use a program like at the capitol in St. Paul.

Days away from a shutdown, all we have heard is the blame game from both the governor and legislative leadership.

I was elected to find solutions to problems, not participate in gridlock. Each day I talk to union members, community leaders and fellow citizens. I gather their input and bring their concerns to our legislative leadership and fellow lawmakers in hopes that we can figure out a way to get things done.

Like many of you, I have watched with much anticipation hoping the governor and legislative leadership would find the compromise necessary to end the stalemate.

Yet the governor, one of only six in the nation to propose tax increases, has refused to outline his budget proposal or enter serious negotiations, and at the same time legislative leadership from both parties is doing little to make meaningful progress.

The budget talks seemingly start and stop with an overall budget spending amount. There are areas within this budget where both sides agree. However, the governor and legislative leadership cannot or will not finalize these provisions, because a number and a perception are more important. Frankly, it is ridiculous.

The governor wants to spend $35.8 billion, and the Legislature wants to spend $34 billion. Both proposals would create the largest budget in state history. Unfortunately, this focus on “the number” ignores the government reforms that are needed to create a more efficient use of your tax dollars and to prevent future deficits. Passing a budget is only the first step — underlying reform is necessary for the long-term success of our state.

I sincerely believe that our state government is oversized and inefficient. Gov. Dayton’s proposal to raise taxes nearly $2 billion and increase spending over 13 percent would only perpetuate the unsustainable status quo. Some spending reductions are required to address the deficit. But spending cuts alone will not create long-term stability if they are not accompanied by structural reforms. Rather than the number on the top of the jar, both sides need to look inside and ensure its contents make the meaningful change our state needs.

While it is our duty to address the current budget, we would be doing a terrible disservice to Minnesotans if we choose to ignore the continued path of unsustainable state spending for future budgets. As I have said many times, the government of tomorrow must look much different than government of today. Regardless of which side’s plan we are talking about, simply patching up a budget and then calling it a day only prolongs the long-term problem. That has been proven time and again by previous legislatures.

My frustration continues to build — just like my constituents’ frustration. This is serious business! Our state is on the verge of a massive shutdown during fragile economic times.

Days before a shutdown, the governor remains adamant on generating new revenue. His tax proposals would be devastating for the entire state, from the top to the bottom of the tax brackets. Instead of encouraging jobs, he is prepared to stifle job creation. None of the offers from either side have been meaningful or realistic if we are to finalize a budget and avert a government shutdown.

We were all elected to find solutions, not force a dramatic outcome. Minnesotans won’t stand for this, and neither will I.

These are times for real leaders. Minnesota does not need a tax increase. But Minnesota also does not need a government shutdown. The governor and legislative leadership need to craft a consensus budget solution. Part of leadership is the ability to listen, learn and compromise. I have offered — and continue to offer — ideas and suggestions, as have others. I urge both sides to put political games aside and focus on the needs of Minnesota. We can and we must develop solutions for a stronger state and a brighter future.

National Red Power Roundup

Welcome to all who attended the Red Power Roundup! I hope you enjoyed all Albert Lea has to offer.

Have a question or concern? Constituents in District 27A including communities in Freeborn and Mower counties can write to me at 439 State Office Building, 100 Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155. Or call me at 651-296-8216 or email me at rep.rich.murray@house.mn.