BLAINE, Minn. – (Nov. 22, 2019) –
Chamber leaders hoped to engage the governor in conversation about issues business owners are concerned about.
“But I think what we appreciate the most about governor walz is that his willingness to collaborate. So he comes up here and he listens, gives us his point of view and hopefully we can work together for this next session to come up with solutions,” said Lori Higgins, the president of Metro North Chamber of Commerce.
Walz started his speech by mentioning the increased interest in investment in the Midwest by countries such as Korea and Japan. He attributed the interest to Minnesota’s work ethic along with the amount of opportunity that is available in the region.
“Who’s standing on the shoulders of giants? You. That we have a work ethic. That we created an atmosphere that has made this state one of the most vibrant economic business locations certainly in the upper Midwest but across the country,” said Governor Tim Walz during his speech.
The governor talked about the importance of education, whether it be a degree from a liberal arts school or a trades and manufacturing education.
“One of my children may go the route of a 4 year degree but if my 13-year old comes home and says he wants to be an electrician, it will be the happiest day of my life,” said Governor Tim Walz.
Walz also highlighted statistics that showcased the state, such as Minnesota being the second happiest in the country. He also focused on Minnesota’s ability to bring in an influx of millennials, a rarity in the upper midwest.
Chamber leaders hope this all adds up to more business growth for their members.
“The governor is the leading elected official in the state of Minnesota. So he sets the vision for the state. So it’s really important that he hears from businesses as much as we hear from him. So he knows what we need from a growing and thriving community,” said Higgins.
Governor Walz is Minnesota’s 41st governor. He won his first election to the House of Representatives in 2006.
