Senator John Jasinski was recognized by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC) on July 27 during the Coalition’s summer conference in Thief River Falls for his positive impact on the state’s economic development policy and programs.

Sen. Jasinski, a Republican from Faribault, is serving his third term in the Minnesota Senate. The Legislator of Distinction Award is given to legislators who played key roles in advancing CGMC’s policy during the preceding legislative session.

Sen. Jasinski has always been a steadfast supporter of economic development initiatives that benefit Greater Minnesota, never turning down an opportunity to work with the CGMC.

“I am humbled to receive this award and grateful for the partnership of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities,” Senator Jasinski said. “As a former mayor and city council member, I have experienced firsthand the challenges that local governments face when it comes to economic development. I am proud of the work we have done over the years to make sure cities throughout Minnesota are in a position to create jobs, thrive, and keep their economic engines churning at full speed, and I am excited to build on that success in the years to come.”

During this session, Sen. Jasinski supported communities statewide by helping secure funding for both the Economic Development and Capital Investment bills. He is a consistent advocate for the Business Development Public Infrastructure (BDPI) program—which provides grants to help cities invest in critical public infrastructure—and helped ensure a significant investment for the program was included in this session’s bonding bill. Through his tireless efforts, Sen. Jasinski helped pave the way for future policy improvements and investments in Greater Minnesota’s economic development.

“Sen. Jasinski’s determination shows that he knows how to get things done for communities across the state,” said Brian Holmer, President of the CGMC and Mayor of Thief River Falls.

“His knowledge of the issues facing our cities make him a fierce and effective advocate for Greater Minnesota businesses.”

The CGMC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing more than 100 cities outside the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The Coalition educates legislators about issues important to Greater Minnesota.