We have had an exciting few weeks at the Legislature and in LD 17. I have kept busy continuing to learn about the issues facing Nebraskans and working on legislative solutions. I have also been enjoying more community events such as the Wayne Chicken Days show and parade as well as Senator Deb Fischer’s Bridging the Gap annual conference that works to inspire women to engage in their communities at the local, state, and national levels.

On July 10th, I attended the first of ten Listening Tour stops in Northeast Nebraska by University of Nebraska leadership. Residents were joined by Mike Boehm, NU Vice President for Agriculture and Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, to share thoughts and visions for the future of Nebraska and our community. I appreciate Mike for reaching out to our community and look forward to developing stronger relationships with the university system in the future.

Governor Ricketts held his third annual Economic Development Summit on July 12th. State and local officials, along with 400 members of Nebraska’s business and economic development communities, gathered in Lincoln to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing Nebraska’s economy and job market. The summit featured discussions on Nebraska’s transportation infrastructure, talent development, workforce housing, and partnerships for international trade. A continuing theme of discussion also focused on attracting and retaining young workers in the state. Attendees had the pleasure to hear from Linda McMahon, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Governor Ricketts highlighted some of Nebraska’s economic development achievements from the past year, including winning Site SelectionMagazine’s Governor’s Cup awarded for most total development projects per capita for the second consecutive year. My staff and I attended seminars that addressed important issues such as rural workforce housing projects, agricultural technology advancements, and the economic impact of recent legislation. I applaud Governor Ricketts for hosting a very successful and informative summit.

Courtney Phillips, Director of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, visited our district on July 18th. I met with Director Phillips to tour the Dakota City Child Support and Social Service Office and discuss the unique issues facing District 17 and Northeast Nebraska. Director Phillips is an outstanding and hard worker and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with her in the future.

I want to encourage my constituents to reach out to me, I look forward to hearing from you!

402-471-2716

jalbrecht@leg.ne.gov

Senator Joni Albrecht

State Capitol, Room 2010

PO Box 94604

Lincoln, Nebraska 68509-4604