Dear neighbors,
Last week, Democrats returned to the Capitol! We secured a hard-fought power-sharing agreement that honors and protects the will of the voters both in Shakopee and statewide. This agreement is what Democrats have been seeking since we knew that the election ended in a tie.
On the first day of session, House Republicans violated the state Constitution and attempted to seize power that voters did not give them. If a single Democrat had gone to the Capitol, we know Republicans would have kicked out a duly elected state representative from Shakopee and seized control of the Speakership and committees for the next two years. Democrats refused to let that happen and were successful.
Thanks to our efforts, Rep. Brad Tabke from Shakopee will serve his term in office, and Democrats and Republicans will share power if the House returns to a 67-67 tie. Committees will have co-chairs and equal numbers of DFL and Republican members. Passing a bill out of committee and on the House floor will require bipartisan support.
I’m pleased to report that the 2025 session properly and lawfully got underway on Thursday, February 6. I’ve been working hard in our district over the past few weeks, and I’m excited to bring that work back to the State Capitol. I want to reiterate my gratitude for everyone’s ongoing support during this unprecedented time. I am honored to defend and preserve our democratic integrity. I am committed to working with all my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to put Minnesotans first.
I will continue working alongside Minnesotans to build a future where everyone can get ahead, not just the rich and powerful. I will continue to stand up for Minnesotans’ rights and freedoms, and I will do everything in my power to protect people from the chaos, cruelty, and incompetence coming out of the Trump Administration.
I value your input and encourage you to continue sharing your priorities and ideas for improving our community and state. I'm committed to representing District 59B's values at the Capitol and advocating for an equitable budget that helps all Minnesotans thrive.
Town Hall Follow Up
What a fantastic turnout at our Town Hall! I am grateful to all the people that came out to share their concerns, thoughts, and excitement about the 2025-2026 legislative session. I would also like to thank our guest speakers, Senator Scott Dibble, Senator John Hoffman, and Senate Fiscal Analyst Eric Nauman for providing us information on the February Forecast. As always, a sincere thank you to Lori Gurley and her incredible staff at Accolades of Love Catering for providing us with a delicious meal.
The feedback I receive from you is crucial in shaping my work as your representative. Your participation in these town halls helps me stay informed about the issues that matter most to you and allows me to advocate for your needs.
- If you missed the town hall, you could watch the stream here.
- You can view the House DFL 2024 Achievements document here.
Urban Agriculture Grants
Securing our food system is an issue I hear often when I’m out in the district. The state has done more over the years to support further opportunities for emerging farmers and food entrepreneurs including financial support. Check out the funding opportunities from the MN Department of Agriculture that support emerging food businesses. Additionally, the Emerging Farmers Working Group can be an additional resource for those interested in agriculture. Its next meeting is virtual on March 14.
Free Tax Assistance Available at Sumner & North Regional Libraries
Free in-person tax help from the AARP Foundation is back! Appointments are required and can be made by calling the libraries on Wednesdays at 9:00 am for the following week's appointments. Appointment lines are now open. Each branch has a dedicated phone number for making appointments, as listed below.
Wednesday Tax Assistance at Sumner Library
Wednesdays, February 5 – April 9, 2025 (9:00am-12:00pm)
Sumner Library - 611 Van White Memorial Blvd, Minneapolis
Call on Wednesdays to make an appointment for the following Wednesday (612) 348-3374.
Saturday Tax Assistance at North Regional Library
Saturdays, February 1 – April 12, 2025 (9:00am-12:00pm)
North Regional Library – 1315 Lowry Avenue North, Minneapolis
Call on Wednesdays to make an appointment for the following Saturday (612) 348-3375.
See the attached document for what to bring.
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February Northside Business Luncheon: Get Funded—Tax Prep Clinic for Grants
Did you miss out on the Promise Act Grant or loans because your taxes weren't up to date? Seize this opportunity and get back on track! Attend our upcoming workshop, led by Noir Arise Accounting, a Black and woman-owned firm dedicated to empowering BIPOC and women-owned businesses through financial excellence.
Learn more about them here: noirariseaccounting.com. Their expert tax accountants will help you organize your finances and prepare you to access Promise Act Round 2 and other funding sources.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, February 20th, 2025
- Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Emerge Career & Technology Center - 1834 Emerson Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
What to Expect:
- One-on-one sessions with expert tax accountants
- Guidance on preparing your 2021-2022 taxes
- Information on qualifying for the Promise Act Round 2 and other funding opportunities
Who Should Attend:
- Home-based businesses
- Entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis
Why Attend:
Ensuring your taxes are up to date is crucial for accessing grants and loans that can help your business grow. This workshop provides the resources and support you need to get your finances in order and seize upcoming funding opportunities.
Let’s Stay Connected!
I deeply value being in this work to improve lives with you. Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. Please reach out anytime if you need assistance, schedule a meeting or community event, or have questions at rep.esther.agbaje@house.mn.gov or 651-296-8659.
In community,
Rep. Esther Agbaje
Minnesota House of Representatives (59B)
Legislative Assistant
Nhia Chang
Nhia.Chang@house.mn.gov
651-296-4165