House District 17B

Primarily rural. The complexion of this district has changed dramatically. Easy access to the Twin Cities means lots of commuters in the southern half of the district and commensurate new development. A huge issue in the district has been the recent annexation of Wyoming Township to Chisago City. Eight controversial years in the works, by court order in 2005 about 5,000 acres was added to Chisago City's west side, enlarging the city five times its former size. Chisago City wanted the land to increase its tax base but most Wyoming Township residents opposed the annexation because of higher residential taxes (which will double) and fear of losing the rural flavor of the area. Lindstrom calls itself "America's Little Sweden" - its water tower is a surprisingly realistic replica of a Swedish Coffee pot. It's been said that signs and banners with the Swedish greeting "Valkommen" outnumber stoplights in the town by at least 20-1. Taylors Falls and Wild Mountain ski resort attract recreational visitors, as does the scenic St. Croix River. Center City is famous for the Hazelden private chemical treatment center. Rush City is home to a new correctional facility. Politically, the area is socially conservative while holding onto some level of Scandinavian economic populism. Moderates tend to do well.