Issue Position: We Need to Protect Our Natural Environment

Issue Position

When I was elected to the Cottage Grove Council, we had several great citizen commissions to help the Council look at different topics. One area that wasn't really represented with a specific commission was the environment. I suggested and pushed hard for development of an environmental commission, and it did happen. This came about because I heard from people when I was out doorknocking in 08 that they were very concerned about the water issues that were very big at the time. We have so much beautiful natural environment to protect in the district along the river and bluffs. I will work hard to protect our environment for generations. We have several big businesses in the district including: a trash burning plant, an oil refinery, a chemical manufacturing plant, and several trucking and transportation related businesses. These businesses all have a big effect on our air, water and soil quality. We also have a nearby old toxic chemical dumpsite that is putting toxins into the groundwater in the district. We also have a couple major freeways going through our district. This traffic adds to the impact on our environment. One thing I'd push for at the Capitol would be bringing back the Citizens' Review Board to Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Citizen oversight is a good thing.

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