Aitkin County Commissioner Travis Laviska highlights housing, broadband and tax relief as top priorities

Commissioner Travis Laviska of Aitkin County said Tuesday that lowering the tax burden for residents, expanding broadband in rural areas and supporting modest housing and business growth are his chief priorities as he begins his fourth year in office.

Laviska, a District 3 commissioner who said he was born and raised in Aitkin County, said local government is "the level of government where we can actually really get things done for the people." He described county work as a heavy time commitment and said he views the role as pragmatic problem-solving rather than partisan politics.

Why it matters: Laviska framed economic development and housing as linked goals. He said recent housing developments and renewed business interest could help keep graduates in the county and provide employees for local firms. "The more broadband we get, the more people are able to move into the area and do their remote work," he added, tying infrastructure to population and workforce attraction.

On taxes and accountability, Laviska said easing the tax burden is a top priority and stressed resident oversight of spending. He cited his work with the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) to support state and federal policies aimed at tax relief and housing-market stabilization.

Laviska also outlined his committee work. He serves on the county budget committee, on the board of Lakes and Pines (a local assistance organization), chairs the Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training (JET) board, and sits on the East Central Regional Library board. He described these roles as part of efforts to support job training, energy and heating assistance programs, and local services.

Looking ahead, Laviska said he will travel to Washington, D.C., to press federal agencies and lawmakers for resources that support rural counties. He described participating in a national caucus of rural county commissioners and in committees focused on rural development and agriculture.

Quotes and context: Laviska noted the rural character of District 3, describing it as "a large district, very rural," with attractions such as ATV and snowmobile trails and resorts on Mille Lacs Lake. On his workload, he acknowledged the demands of serving on multiple committees and joked during the interview, "I don't like to sleep."

The interview aired as part of the program 'Coffee with the County.' The host identified the guest as Commissioner Travis Laviska, District 3, Aitkin County. Laviska said he will continue outreach and advocacy over the coming months, including meetings in Washington to press for federal support for rural infrastructure and economic development.