News

Minnesota Farmers Union hosting Rural Issues Discussion meetings

The Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) will be hosting a series of meetings across the state to discuss issues affecting farmers and rural communities.

MFU president Gary Wertish says escalating healthcare costs for more than 200,000 Minnesotans on individual plans will certainly be addressed.

“At the State Legislature they’re debating some of this stuff, but with the uncertainty of what’s going to happen at the federal level.  But at the same time, something will have to happen.  Whether we do it on our own in Minnesota or wait for the federal (healthcare plan).  So it is good to get people talking, and to come to a solution everyone needs to come together and talk about it.”

He tells Brownfield it became clear during the elections that rural Minnesotans don’t feel like their voices are being heard by legislators.

Wertish says transportation funding is also generating considerable concern.

“Roads and bridges throughout the state (are a problem).  It doesn’t matter where you drive, you’ll run into potholes.  And you run into the potholes in the Metro too, so it really is a statewide issue.  both rural and urban needs the infrastructure improvements.”

Wertish says commissioners of the Departments of Ag, Health and Human Services, and Commerce are expected to attend some of the discussion meetings.

Minnesota Farmers Union Rural Issues Discussions schedule:

• March 27, 9:30 a.m., People’s Energy Co-Op, Oronoco, MN
• March 27, 2:00 p.m., Blue Heron Coffee House, Winona, MN
• March 29, 9:30 a.m., Unhinged Pizza, Norwood- Young America, MN
• March 29, 1:00 p.m., South Central College, RM E112, North Mankato, MN
• March 29, 7:00 p.m., River City Eatery, Windom, MN
• March 30, 9:30 a.m., American Legion, Willmar, MN
• March 30, 1:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Courtyard Room 4, Alexandria, MN
• March 31, 9:30 a.m., Initiative Foundation, Little Falls, MN
• March 31, 2:30 p.m., Dry Dock Bar & Restaurant, Duluth, MN
• April 4, 9:30 a.m., Roseau Diner & Inn, Roseau, MN
• April 4, 1:30 p.m., Mike & Linda Hanson & Sons Dairy Farm, Goodridge, MN
• April 5, 9:30 a.m., Frying Pan Restaurant, Moorhead, MN
• April 5, 1:30 p.m., Bellas Café Park Rapids, MN
• April 6, 10:00 a.m., Wintergreens Isanti, MN

Additional details on these meetings can be found at mfu.org or by contact Membership & Outreach Director, Bruce Miller at 651-288-4064.