St. Paul Reporter

During the legislative interim, Minnesota State Representative Max Rymer (R-Center City) provided an update on his recent activities and expressed condolences to the families affected by a tragic accident involving Chisago Lakes students. "Before I do that, I wanted to please ask you to pray for the families of the Chisago Lakes students whose lives were lost or altered in this terrible accident on Saturday morning. Our hearts go out to those families and this unspeakable tragedy," Rymer said.

Rymer has continued meeting with constituents in Chisago County to discuss local issues and ways he can support them at the state level. He highlighted North Branch's inclusion in the Minnesota House Bonding tour, specifically for a proposed intersection at Interstate Hwy 35 and 400th Street. According to Rymer, "With road safety and congestion at the forefront, it was a big deal for this project to get included on the tour. I'm hopeful, if and when Minnesota gets its fiscal house in order, that a project like this will help keep streets safe and less congested in North Branch."

Education has also been a focus during his recent visits. Rymer met with administrators at TRIO WolfCreek Online High School in Chisago City. He noted, "EVERY avenue of education is valuable - and I'm grateful they're in our area to provide different avenues of learning."

He also visited Anderson & Koch Ford to learn about their partnership with North Branch Area High School. The program offers students real-life skills and technical certifications such as Ford Tech certification, which prepares them for careers without requiring a traditional four-year college degree. Rymer stated, "It's an innovative partnership providing real-life skills and technical certifications that launch students into great careers. Our state and country are starved for service jobs, and through this partnership, students are able to get their Ford Tech certification."

Additionally, Rymer attended Chisago Lakes High School’s third annual Career Fair where businesses presented information about apprenticeships and career paths focused on technical education.

At St. Croix River Education District's Legislative Forum, Rymer participated in discussions about school funding flexibility, equitable funding between rural and metro schools, and building skills among young people. He explained that these efforts aim not only at educational growth but also at reducing property tax burdens by expanding the county’s business base: "The reason that matters is NOT unmitigated growth at all costs in Chisago County; it's to help alleviate the property tax burden on homeowners. As we grow our business base in the county, it should help bring down the pressure put on you."

Rymer invited local businesses facing challenges or wishing for recognition to contact him directly.

He concluded his update by reiterating his willingness to hear from constituents: "Please reach out to me if you have any thoughts questions or concerns. Never hesitate to reach out whether it’s via phone or email. I can be reached at 651-296-5377 or via email at rep.max.rymer@house.mn.gov."