Today, we would like to share with you the public statement from Tim Flaherty, executive director of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, about the House-Senate budget and tax plan:

“There is no doubt that communities will fare better under this legislation than the governor’s. However, we are not going to celebrate a proposal that delivers yet another blow to Minnesota cities.

“Even with this proposal, communities are yet again being forced to take another cut.

“The results of continued cuts to local government aid are clear: higher property taxes, less police and fire protection, and cuts to libraries and street maintenance.

“Minnesotans have had it with the continued cuts to their cities. It is long overdue that the state renew a partnership with local communities so we can work together and make Minnesota strong once again.”

Our thoughts exactly.