Natalie Steffen

7007 164th Ave NW

Ramsey, MN 55303

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It’s humbling to have so many people, including retiring Commissioner Dennis Berg, support my candidacy for Anoka County Commissioner.  Such broad support was evidenced by being the top vote-getter among four candidates in the August primary election.  Thank you.

While out meeting citizens at their doors, many have expressed their concerns regarding our economy – uncertainty about their jobs, their children’s education and the future.  These are troubling and challenging times.  The issues are serious and require serious and “big picture” thinkers.

Leadership isn’t just saying “No” or giving everyone what they want.  Leadership defines the problem, assembles the thinkers to solve it and carefully decides how to pay for it.  Do we pay for it today or do we pass the cost on to our children?

   

My experience in city, county, regional and state government makes me uniquely qualified for the job.   I can handle the work of Anoka County – and its one-quarter billion dollar annual budget.  Our area transportation needs – roads, bridges and transit -- are a priority to be met within budget constraints.

To get things done, you need someone who understands county government and its relationships with other government units.  This is an area where my resume’ outshines that of my opponent.

For hundreds of years, local government units have relied on property taxation to raise funds for services and transportation infrastructure.  The property tax is most regressive as it hits hardest on the elderly living on fixed incomes and young families just getting started.  Taxation of sales and income is more reflective of the ability to pay.  During the current economic downturn, local government aid from the Minnesota sales and income taxes have been dramatically cut back – the funds are simply not there. 

The present County Board chose to enact a 1/4 of 1% sales tax (25 cents on a $100 purchase) for transit operations and infrastructure.  This tax helps pay for the Northstar commuter rail operations and other transit needs.  Repealing this tax would mean the County would still be obliged to pay for these obligations through increasing our property taxes.  Wouldn’t you rather pay as you spend, along with all Anoka County shoppers, rather than through higher property taxes?  You decide.  My opponent seems not to understand this!

Service to my constituency is number one for me, as it has been through all my public life.  I can’t always deliver, but it won’t be for lack of trying.  I’ll use my extensive experience to squeeze more effectiveness out of each tax dollar.  Trim the fat and overlaps!  That’s why I’m respectfully asking for your vote on November 2 for Anoka County Commissioner.  

Sincerely,

Natalie Steffen

E-mail:  NatalieSteffen2010 @ Yahoo.com  Ph.: 763.753.4298