By Sara QuamState Auditor Pat Anderson is traveling the state to let people know they have a say in state mandates and regulations.Anderson is leading the promotion effort because her office will deal with the requests for either individual waivers or changes to state mandates."It’s your way of putting in writing what you think should change," Anderson said Monday in a meeting with Rock County officials. She explained how to file for waivers or changes.One initiative allows counties, cities, townships and schools to apply to the State Auditor for waivers from administrative rules or procedural laws. The applications will say how the state rules or laws obstruct cooperation among local units of government or the delivery of services.Joint bidding is one common idea that’s been brought up so far."It’s my hope that this new law will help clear the way for greater cooperation among local units of government," Anderson said. "The result of which will be cost savings or better services for taxpayers."The second initiative gives local governments a chance to propose actual changes to state mandates they think are burdensome or ineffective.Anderson said she expects more than 1,000 requests initially, mostly from counties and school districts. Her office can grant waivers, or help steer legislative change based on suggestions.Requests will all be posted online at www.auditor.state.mn.us."It’s a very public way of doing things," Anderson said. "As long as people don’t use profanity, everything will posted online, even if someone says ‘Get rid of the auditor.’"Anderson said, "Nothing is too big or small to be considered for reform. When government is able to cooperate more effectively and provide better services, the ultimate winner is the taxpayer. Citizens should demand nothing less."Rock County Auditor Treasurer Gloria Rolfs and County Administrator Kyle Oldre said they thought something should change with the Truth in Taxation hearings.The hearings are mandated to be in December, but that’s well after the preliminary levy is set and the majority of budget work is done. "It’s almost too late at that point to get input," Oldre said.He also said the hearings don’t draw anyone to attend, despite the requirement of public notice advertising. So, staff puts in work that essentially doesn’t get seen.Rolfs said sending out the special notices to taxpayers is an added expense and comes at a busy time of year, when county auditor offices are busy with property tax collections.Rolfs also said that because of the recent referendum for the Luverne School District, the Truth in Taxation notices are inaccurate because that extra item isn’t in the calculation yet.Anderson said those are good points to make to the state. These new laws took effect Aug. 1, but the state is starting to promote it now. Anderson said, "I hope local governments will take advantage of these initiatives. … I also encourage all citizens to contact their local officials to utilize these processes."
