Sun Sailor – Published January 26, 2016 at 5:04 pm

Rep. Cheryl Youakim has announced several opportunities this winter and spring for individuals in St. Louis Park and Hopkins to talk to her about legislative priorities face-to-face.

The first of those meetings will be 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Hopkins Library meeting room, 22 11th Ave. N.

“I appreciate hearing the priorities of our community members, and I encourage anyone interested in the legislative process to attend with questions, comments and concerns,” said Youakim (DFL-Hopkins). “These are casual gatherings, where community members can come and go. Hearing from you helps inform my decision-making at the Capitol.”

Youakim also encouraged residents of district 46B to take her 2016 legislative survey at surveymonkey.com/r/46B.

The legislative survey contains 10 brief questions reflecting issues that will arise in a shortened legislative session this year, including taxes, transportation and education.

“The shortened session adds even more urgency to the work that remains unfinished from last year,” Youakim said. “I will be working to find ways to reach solutions that get the best results for families in our district. The economic recovery needs to work for everyone in Minnesota.”

In addition to the Jan. 30 date, the Hopkins Library meeting room will host community conversations with Youakim 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, and 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 12.

The St. Louis Park Library meeting room, 3240 Library Lane, will host community conversations with Youakim 6:30-8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1; 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20; and 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 10.

A Senate District 46 Town Hall with Sen. Ron Latz (DFL-St. Louis Park), Rep. Peggy Flanagan (DFL-St. Louis Park) and Youakim is planned 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd.

To contact Youakim on any legislative issue, email rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or call 651-296-9889.

– Compiled by Seth Rowe