Issues

Grow Jobs
The only way to prosperity is to have a small business friendly environment. The majority of new jobs that are created are through small businesses. We need to foster innovation, creativity and the entrepreneurial spirit that make Minnesota a great place to start a business. Those small businesses grow into larger ones. That is why we need to have an environment that will keep those jobs here. The private sector is the economic engine that feeds the public sector so we can pay for necessary governmental services.

Limit Government Spending
It is important to live within our means. Just like you and I, government needs balanced budgets and to control spending. We need to take a hard look at reforms that streamline government services through technology and reduce redundancy. I believe in local control. If we give the control back to those most affected by an issue and focus on producing results, we will find a better way to deliver these services.

Education Focused on Student Achievement
As a six year Lakeville Board of Education Director, and through my work as a Minnesota School Boards Association Director, I know many things are broken with our system. I believe there are bi-partisan reforms that can help our educational system be even better. By providing choices to our parents/students and applying delivery models to reflect individualized learning concepts, student achievement will rise. If we shift our focus to early childhood education for at risk students, our student achievement gap will close. If these students come into kindergarten prepared, less money will be needed for remediation down the road. Higher education is a critical component for teaching job skills necessary to compete in today's global economy. Our highly educated work force is one of Minnesota's greatest qualities for keeping and growing jobs here. This is a priority for me.

Healthcare
As a drug store owner for 20 years, I've seen firsthand some of the challenges of our current healthcare system. Rising healthcare costs has been and continues to be a great concern for all ages. My husband Tim works in the Long Term Care pharmacy division and spends every workday in nursing homes across southern Minnesota. It is important to care for the needs of those who can't care for themselves with dignity.

Prepared and paid for by the Elect Roz Peterson Committee, 12295 162nd St. W., Lakeville, MN 55044