Representing the interest of business – There is no more important function for the Chamber than to be the advocate for business in our community. Who else would do this for you? We are the only broad-based business organization that can represent your business interests no matter your size, industry or location. Our strong role in advocacy allows you to work on your business, while we work on behalf of your business. Many business people – especially those in small businesses – do not have the time to keep up on the issues; much less speak out for them.
We work with all levels of government on issues that affect your business. We invite our members to be educated and involved and be part of a larger voice that advocates for our business community.
The Minnesota Chamber Grassroots Center keeps Minnesotans abreast of issues on the radar of the statewide business community. The information allows you to interact with lawmakers on your concerns.
How Did Your Legislator Vote? (Click link to view Voting Records)
The Litchfield Chamber provides this report which details our legislators’ votes on issues important to the statewide business community. Just as important as the final floor votes is how legislators work in committees and behind the scenes to advance the business agenda. This voting record tells the behind-the-scenes story as well as the final votes on the most important business issues. It is our hope that you will review this record and contact legislators to express their appreciation or disappointment with their performance at the State Capitol.
Commentary, Dee Schutte, Executive Director: It’s time for more useful government spending reports
Cities of every size, in every region, will be broke by 2015…” according to a 2010 report by the League of Minnesota Cities, which goes on to say that “by 2025, cities overall will see a deficit of 35 percent of city revenues.” The report offers a solution: “fundamental changes in city services and funding are needed in order for these projections to be avoided.” Similar warnings are also coming from county and school board trade associations. Against a background of reductions in state aid (Local Government Aid) and the recession-induced shrinkage in other revenues, the league’s report warns of a coming period of severe reductions in city budgets and spending. Local budgets are heavily influenced by unfunded state and federal mandates, arbitration rulings, and larger market conditions over which local elected officials have little or no control. These external forces can blur the lines of responsibility, and can result in constant finger-pointing, as well as an incorrect assignment of responsibility for spending decisions. Click here for the complete report.
