I am writing to commend the work that Rep. Peggy Bennett did on the Minnesota House Agriculture Finance Committee the past two years.

From taking on the avian influenza crisis, to getting the Farm Business Management program in the MnSCU system off life support, to providing historic levels of production agriculture research support to the University of Minnesota, the Agriculture Finance Committee accomplished what some experts said was the most impactful session for agriculture in a generation. Bennett was with us every step of the way in helping us make it happen.

Bennett made it especially known that farmers are in great need when it comes to property tax relief. Due to her help and input, the Omnibus Tax Bill that reached the governor’s desk had a 40 percent credit for the school construction levy portion of property tax on ag land.

Unfortunately, the governor vetoed the tax bill. However, Bennett’s constituents can take comfort in knowing they have a great advocate in St. Paul.

Bennett is also an advocate for value-added agriculture, knowing the job creation and economic activity generated by agribusiness in her district.

Thanks again to Bennett for all her hard work on your behalf at the Capitol.

Rod Hamilton

chairman

Minnesota House Agriculture Finance Committee