Dakota Times

More than a month has passed since a shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis left two children dead and others injured. Minnesota State Representative Tom Dippel has responded to the incident, emphasizing the need for increased school security and mental health resources.

"Every child deserves to feel safe at school. This is why I continue to support school security grants for both public and private schools, as well as ensuring that they are able to obtain a school resource officer if they’d like one present at their facility," Dippel stated. He also addressed broader community safety concerns, saying, "Every family deserves peace in their neighborhood. This is why we need to start holding criminals accountable and stop being lenient with repeat offenders, and recognize we have a mental health crisis in our state and more treatment options are needed to prevent future crimes."

Dippel highlighted recent meetings with organizations such as RISE in Cottage Grove, which provides programs and employment services for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. He noted changes made by previous legislatures have reduced employment opportunities for those served by RISE, adding, "I am committed to protecting the most vulnerable in our community and will work to make sure they have every opportunity to thrive. Changes were made by a previous legislature that has led to fewer employment options for those RISE serves, and I pledged to help them going forward in any way I can."

The representative also met with local labor groups including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and Operating Engineers. "I was proud to vote for a pair of bills last session that support new construction projects and allow the industry to grow," he said.

Discussions with Hastings city leadership focused on local priorities such as addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination and the upcoming Highway 61 project. Dippel stated his role in securing some funding last session to address PFAS issues in Hastings and expressed plans to seek additional funding mechanisms.

The Cottage Grove Food Truck Festival was noted as a successful event bringing together families and neighbors for food, music, and community engagement.

Dippel also visited KDWA radio station in Hastings, highlighting the importance of local media coverage at a time when many smaller cities are losing such outlets.

During a tour of Carpenters Union Local 322, Dippel recognized their contributions: "I’m very grateful for the work they do to build up our communities and support good jobs here in Minnesota."

Constituent engagement remains a priority; he recently discussed agricultural zoning issues with a resident named Jordan.

Dippel concluded by mentioning his participation at a memorial service for Charlie Kirk, who was killed while exercising his right to free speech: "Finally, I was honored to speak at a Charlie Kirk memorial service. Hundreds of people showed up to mourn the loss of a man who was murdered exercising his right to speak freely."