| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| April 5, 2001 | Renae Reedy (651-296-9895) |
Minnesota Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum recently re-appointed Rep. George Cassell to the Great Lakes Comisssion. Cassell has served on the commission since he was elected in 1998.
The Great Lakes Commission is comprised of delegates from eight states, including five people from Minnesota. Their mission is to promote economic development in the Great Lakes area while also protecting its environmental integrity.
"The Great Lakes are a treasure that we share with several other states," Cassell said, "so it's important to coordinate our efforts in order to ensure that they are protected environmentally and put to their best use to economically benefit the region and ensure the integrity of this important inland waterway to transport Minnesota's agriculture and other products."
To accomplish their mission, the Great Lakes Commission researches and develops policy proposals and promotes them at the state and federal level. They also coordinate and share helpful information to various state and local agencies throughout the Great Lakes region.
"Often we in Minnesota may only realize part of the issues involved with the Great Lakes," Cassell said. "It's the commission's job to see the big picture and help us make wise decisions that benefit the entire, interconnected region."
Cassell served in the U.S. Coast Guard for four years. During this time he spent two years on duty in the Great Lakes. He is currently serving his second term in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
###