Communication Is The Key To Legislative Success

As the second year of the 84th Session of the Iowa General Assembly convenes, it continues to be a distinct honor and privilege for me to have the opportunity to serve as the State Representative for House District 63.

District 63 includes the community of Urbandale in Polk County and a section of unincorporated Polk County located north of Meredith Avenue and in-between Merle Hay Road and NW Beaver Drive. 

To be an effective representative I have found that communication is the key.  In order to serve you well I need to know your thoughts on the important issues of the day that impact your life. 

The best way to communicate with me during the legislative session is by e-mail at scott.raecker@legis.state.ia.us  You may also call me at the Capitol at 515-242-6421 or at home at 515-276-5987. You may also track update information on my web-site at  www.raeckerbacker.com 

The Urbandale Chamber of Commerce also partners with Senator Brad Zaun and me, along with officials representing the city, county and Urbandale schools, to offer several opportunities for public input.  This year we have four public forums set that will take place at the Chamber Office at 2900 Justin Drive, Suite L. Please join us on:

Saturday, January 28 - 10:30 am to noon
Saturday, February 25 - 10:30 am to noon
Saturday, March 31 - 10:30 am to noon
Saturday, April 28 - 10:30 am to noon.

As we move into the session I will again serve as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.  I also serve on the State Government Committee, and Ethics Committee.

I am committed to doing my best to serve you well and invite your participation in the process by communicating your thoughts with me.

The key focus areas for the legislature this year will be:

• to create an environment for job growth in Iowa
• to continue to manage a balanced budget
• and to focus on three significant areas of reform that will positively impact Iowans - property tax, K-12 education, and mental health service delivery.

I am optimistic that we will have a session that produces results that will enhance the quality of life in Iowa.

To track daily legislative action, including live video stream, go to the Official Legislative Website at http://www.legis.state.ia.us/index2.html