Sun Sailor – Published August 11, 2015 at 3:10 pm

State Rep. Cheryl Youakim (DFL – Hopkins) has been recognized as a 2015 Legislator of Distinction by the League of Minnesota Cities.

The honor recognizes legislators for specific actions that aided efforts of Minnesota cities during this year’s legislative session.

“I’m honored by the League’s recognition, but I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the help of our strong team of local leaders in city government in both Hopkins and St. Louis Park,” Youakim said. “I appreciated their support and collaboration on a variety of issues that I was working on this session.”

Legislators of Distinction are annually approved by the league’s board of directors to recognize that in order to successfully serve commonly shared constituents, state and city officials must work together to meet the unique needs of rural, suburban and urban residents all across Minnesota.

To be eligible for the Legislator of Distinction honor, legislators must meet one or more of the following criteria:

• The legislator is generally and reasonably accessible to league representatives.

• The legislator seeks input on issues of importance to cities.

• The legislator listens to league concerns and is receptive to the league providing information on issues.

• The legislator sponsors or supports league initiatives.

• The legislator speaks out on behalf of the interest of cities.

• The legislator demonstrates the importance of partnership between the state and cities.

Youakim encourages community members to contact her on any legislative issue. She can be reached by email at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or phone at 651-296-9889.