MADISON — I have always admired the popular prayer from Saint Francis of Assisi: “Seek first to understand, than to be understood.” While it applies to many areas of life, this saying rings especially true in our current political climate and has been a continuous goal of mine as your State Senator.

Over the month of March, I held six Listening Sessions to understand your ideas and concerns related to the State Budget and other issues. The sessions were held in Necedah, LaValle, Lancaster, Belmont, Browntown, and virtually over ZOOM. Thank you to the 100 people who attended these events and shared their perspective on the issues impacting our community.

During these Listening Sessions, I heard about an array of important topics. There were many overlapping themes shared, including broadband expansion, repairing rural roads, election reform, emergency medical services, legalizing marijuana, wind farm proposals, vaccines, redistricting, federal issues, and funding priorities for the upcoming Wisconsin State Budget.

Many attendees wondered how the massive Federal spending bill will impact the State Budget. Local government officials who attended asked for state support for shared revenue and local roads. I also heard about the need to support our Aging and Disability Resource Center, public schools, and Main Street businesses.

I am grateful for the productive opportunity at these events for all residents to feel safe in sharing their opinion. Thank you to those who came and showed respect for your neighbors, even when you may have disagreed with them on an issue. It is clear how much we all desire for the 17th District to remain the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

While my Budget Listening Sessions have come to a close, this does not end my availability to you. Please call my Legislative office at 608-266-0703 or email me at sen.marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov anytime if you would like to share input, express a concern, or need assistance with a state-related agency. My staff and I remain committed to serving you here in the Wisconsin Legislature.

For more information and to connect with me, visit my website http://legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/17/marklein and subscribe to my weekly E-Update by sending an email to Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. Do not hesitate to call 608-266-0703 if you have any questions or need assistance with any state-related matters.

— Sen. Howard Marklein represents Wisconsin’s 17th Senate District. He can be reached at 800-978-8008 or email Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov.