Mayor Minutes

Bittersweet

2010-12-29T21:47:00.001-06:00

Today was my last City Council Meeting as Mayor of Grand Marais. My term officially ends January 3, 2011. I will miss being the Mayor.

Thank you to all of the City staff, City employees, residents and business owners of Grand Marais for making our town a great place to live, work and visit. Thank you for allowing me to represent you as Mayor and for making the job so rewarding. I'm grateful for the experience and for everything I've learned.

The conclusion of my mayoral term is bittersweet. On Tuesday, January 4, 2011, I will be sworn in as the Cook County Commissioner for District 3. I look forward to representing District 3 (half of which is in the City of Grand Marais) and working for all the residents of Cook County. If you're interested, check my new blog at http://www.cookcountydistrict3.blogspot.com/

Happy New Year!

Sue Hakes

Last City Council Meeting

2010-12-29T20:56:00.001-06:00

Today's City Council Meeting was attended by Mayor Sue Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson. Also present was Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor. City Administrator Mike Roth and City Attorney Chris Hood were absent.

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

2011 Legal Fees
Council unanimously approved a $5/hour increase in the hourly fees to be paid to Flaherty & Hood, the legal firm representing the City of Grand Marais. This increase was to occur for the year 2010, but Flaherty & Hood postponed the fee increase until 2011 because of the significant cuts to the City's LGA (Local Government Aid).

2011 Mileage Reimbursement Rate
Council voted unanimously to accept the Internal Revenue Service 2011 Standard Mileage Rates to calculate the costs of operating an automobile for City Business. The rate was increased by $.01 to $.51.

Council & Staff Reports
Kay Costello reported that she will attend the next (2) Library Board Meetings on her own behalf. Kay's term as a City Councilor expires this term, but she is committed to making a seamless transition from her position on the Library Board to the new City appointee.
Bill Lenz reported that the roof on the Municipal Pool is complete. The Pool will re-open Monday, January 3 for use in the hot tub, sauna and kiddie pool. The main pool will take some time to warm up, but is anticipated to be ready to use mid-January.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, January 12 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

City Council Meeting with Budget and Levy Public Hearing

2010-12-08T22:44:00.000-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy and Lenz were all present for today's City Council Meeting, as well as the Budget and Levy Public Hearing. Councilor Sivertson was absent. Also present were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and City Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
Maggie Barnhard, Events Director for the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau, came before the Council to share plans being made for Cook County Winter Festival scheduled for February 4-13, 2011. Cook County Winter Festival is a winter festival that builds on winter activities already occurring in the County and provides a unique opportunity to enhance our brand message by incorporating all the ways residents and visitors can "Do North". Events will include a) Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club Fun Run, b) Easter Seals Snowarama Snowmobile Event, c) Lutsen Family Fun Fest, d) Volks Ski 400, e) The Bearskin Pursuit: Man vs. Dog. Snow Sculptures in Harbor Park will also be part of the Festival and Barnhard requested permission to use Harbor Park for this event. She also requested an in-kind contribution of $500 in the form of labor and equipment to build (4) blocks to be used for snow sculpturing. Council supported this event and approved the City's contribution unanimously.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with minor corrections.

Planning Commission Report
Council unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit request from Karen Holte/Randall & Cheryl Woodward to operate a bed and breakfast as a boarding house at the Holte property located in the R-1 district. The building is currently operating as a bed and breakfast under a conditional use permit that requires a new conditional use permit to continue after a sale. The potential new owners are not proposing any changes to the operation.

2011 Budget Discussion
Mike Roth presented the Council with a list of the risk factors to be considered before setting the final budget and levy for the City of Grand Marais. The largest risk to the City's budget is the unknown cuts in State Aid (LGA and MVHC). Although the State has informed the City that they have certified the full amount of $204,396 for LGA and MVHC combined, it is highly unlikely that this amount will actually be received. Knowing this, City Staff and the Council, built the budget around the amount received in 2010 of $111,577. The State is reporting a $6 Billion deficit for 2011, so the $111,577 is still at high risk. Other risk factors include to-be-negotiated wages, aging building and mechanical repairs (including a possible boiler replacement) at the pool, other. On the brighter side, the Rec Park continues to provide good income with projected revenues over $700,000. Gunflint Hills had a decent year showing a ~$10,000 loss in a declining golf market.

Budget and Levy Public Hearing at 6:00 pm
No member of the public attended the Budget and Levy Public Hearing

Certification of the Final Levy
Council adopted Resolution 2010-16 certifying the final levy at $825,997.43. This is a 3% increase which amounts to $23,340.05.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that there will be (2) public meetings held this month. The first is 12/9 at 7 PM in the County Commissioner's Room to provide information and solicit input regarding the Biomass Energy Feasibility Study. The second is 12/14 at 5 PM at the Community Center on the Joint City/County Energy Plan. Kennedy also reported that the PUC will not be raising rates for electric or sewer in 2011. There will be a slight increase in water rates.
Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board has been working on 2011 Rec Park Rates. There will be modest increases in some areas. Lenz also reported that the Community Center Steering Committee is reviewing Architect proposals tomorrow.
Kay Costello reported that the Library Board met with DSGW to review preliminary plans for the Library expansion. She also reported that she was interviewed by AEOA personnel regarding homelessness in Cook County. (Mayor Hakes and Mayor-elect Larry Carlson noted that they were also interviewed.)
Sue Hakes reported that she has received multiple complaints regarding icy sidewalks both along the harbor and in residential areas.

Mark Your Calendar

Wednesday, December 29 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, January 12 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, January 26 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting

City Council Meeting

2010-11-30T22:31:00.004-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood (via phone).

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with (1) minor correction.

Snowmobile Club Request
Kim Linnell, Chamber of Commerce President, and Dan Anderson of the Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club requested the Council consider and approve the bike trail between 3rd Avenue West and the west edge of Grand Marais for snowmobile traffic. The Snowmobile Club will be responsible for grooming the trail and signage. Linnell and Anderson presented a letter of support with signatures from nearly all of the business owners along this portion of the bike trail. Council expressed concern for pedestrian traffic, noise, logistics of trail grooming. Council voted 5-0 to approve this portion of the trail be used for snowmobile traffic for the winter season of 2010-2011, subject to review in the Spring 2011.

PUD/Subdivision Regulation Issue
Cook County Planning and Zoning has received an application for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) under the County's zoning ordinance. The PUD at issue is proposed to be located outside the City, but is located within the two mile area upon which the City's subdivision regulations apply. In this case, the County has zoning jurisdiction and the City has subdivision jurisdiction which raises the question of who should process the PUD application. Both governmental jurisdictions have a portion (but not all) of the legal authority governing a PUD application under these circumstances. Council directed Mike Roth and Tim Kennedy to set up a meeting with Tim Nelson (County Planning & Zoning), Tim Scannell (County Attorney) and Jan Hall (Commissioner District 5) to discuss potential solutions for consideration by the County Board and City Council.

Ordinance 2010-02 2nd Reading
Council unanimously approved the 2nd Reading of Ordinance 2010-02 to amend Grand Marais Zoning Ordinance to rezone Lots 4-17, Block 26 and lots 4-10, Block 27, all in Harbor Addition from C/I Commercial Industiral to MU Commercial-Residential Mixed Use zoning.

Curling Club Consumption and Display Permit Renewal
Council unanimously approved the Renewal of Consumption & Display Permit for the Cook County Curing Club.

Council Feedback to EDA
Councilor Jan Sivertson requested the Council provide her with ideas and feedback on where the EDA should focus its efforts in 2011. Many ideas were discussed with general agreement that growing existing business was a priority. Hakes provided written comments for the EDA to consider.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that the Biofuels Project hired Gary Atwood as Project Coordinator and is in the process of interviewing engineers. A Public Meeting will be held on December 9 at 6 PM.
Bill Lenz reported that materials are arriving for the repair of the pool roof. Lenz said completion of the project is weather dependent. He is also concerned about the aging boiler.
Sue Hakes reported that the Miss North Shore Pageant will be held on January 8, 2011 at the Two Harbors Auditorium. The Pageant requested $500 from the City of Grand Marais for their scholarship program. The City is unable to honor this request and asked Mayor Hakes to send a letter of regret.
Mike Roth reported that Crystal Clemens has resigned from the Park Board.

Mark Your Calendar
Wednesday, December 8 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, December 8 at 6:00 pm, Truth in Taxation Meeting
Wednesday, December 29 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Do North!

2010-11-27T15:37:00.001-06:00

Get into the holiday spirit by coming downtown Grand Marais today to listen to music, enjoy some hot chocolate, see Santa and his sled dogs, and share in the lighting of the holiday tree!

Festivities begin just after 4 pm and all are welcome to share in this family event! Hope to see you there!

Moose Classroom Visits City Hall

2010-11-15T19:12:00.009-06:00

Moose Class students get a tour of
the old jail at Grand Marais City Hall!

Mayor Hakes hosted teacher Carrie Otis and (3) students from the Moose Classroom of Great Expectations School. These students have been studying Federal and State government and wanted to learn more about local government, both at the City and County levels.

Hakes, supported by City Administrator Mike Roth and Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor, led the students through an overview of the services provided by local government, where the funding comes from, and how decisions are made. The students asked thoughtful questions.

At the end of the visit, Hakes gave the students a tour of City Hall, including the old jail and firehall. The students also toured the City's main office where they met Public Utilities Commission Administrator Jan Smith who gave each of the students a pocket sized PUC flashlight.

Hakes and Roth expressed their appreciation to the Moose Classroom students and teacher for their interest in local government and encouraged them to attend a City Council or County Board meeting to see local government in action.

City Council Meeting

2010-11-10T22:43:00.003-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also in attendance were Park Manager Dave Tersteeg, Tina Hanson and Attorney Robert Scott filling in for Christopher Hood. Absent were Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor.

Open Forum
(3) members of the Harbor Park Committee--Bette MacDonald, Jim Shinners and Richard Olson--addressed the Council during the Open Forum to ask the Council to consider the creation of a Public Arts Commission. The purpose of such a commission would be to approve and site public art on city property. Council agreed to discuss the idea of a Public Arts Commission at a future Council meeting. The Harbor Park Committee went on record in opposition of the recently proposed memorial flag pole for Harbor Park. Mayor Hakes reported that Park Johnson withdrew the request for a flag pole in memory of Dick Joynes at Harbor Park.

Christmas Parade Street Permit
Council unanimously approved the Chamber of Commerce permit request for their annual Christmas Parade to be held on November 23 from 5:30-6:30 pm. The City is decorating downtown Grand Marais with decorations and lights. Anybody interested in volunteering to decorate Harbor Park may meet at Harbor Park this Friday, November 12, at 9 AM to help.

Pool Repairs
The Municipal Pool building sustained damage to the roof and walls during the wind and rainstorm on 10/27 and is closed until further notice. The League of MN Cities insurance adjuster has been on site to assess the damage and authorize temporary repairs to prevent further damage. The insurance adjuster, city staff and contractors met on Friday, 10/29; bids were solicited for replacement of the entire rubber roofing system and additional carpentry work on damaged walls. Tersteeg presented bids for this work to Council for consideration.

After a lengthy discussion, Council agreed unanimously to repair the storm damage to the roof and walls. The City's deductible is $10,000 and the repairs wll take approximately 1 month to complete. Mayor Hakes and Park Board Member Robin DuChien both received several phone calls from the public in support of repairing the pool.

Council agreed to recess today's Council meeting and reconvene Friday, November 12, at 1 PM to select a contractor to do the repair work.

Rezone Request
Council supported the unanimous recommendation of the Planning Commission with a 1st reading of the Ordinance to rezone Lots 3-17, Block 26 Harbor Addition from C/I Commercial Industrial to MU Commercial-Residential Mixed Use zoning. Among other findings, it was determined that the C/I zoning was not appropriate for this area, and the MU zoning will allow the current single family uses as well as low impact commercial uses.

Council & Staff Reports
Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board is in the process of reviewing their rates for 2011. He also reported that both Park and Golf revenues are up. The 10/27 storm caused damage to the boat ramp at the City Marina, as well as damage in Boulder Park.
Kay Costello reported that the Library has selected DSGW Architectural firm for the Library expansion project.
Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA has created a board to manage the Superior National Golf Course. She also noted that the EDA has paid back their loan to the County. Sivertson solicited feedback from the Council about the direction they believe the EDA should take.
Tim Kennedy reported that he met with Safe Routes to School (SRTS) to discuss the drop off area at Great Expectations School. He also worked with Kim Dunsmoor to intervivew candidates to lead the City/County Energy Plan. And, Kennedy is part of the committee interviewing for a local coordinator to work on the biofuels project with Dovetail Partners.
Sue Hakes shared that the 7th grade class from GES will be coming to City Hall next Monday for a tour and presentation on City government to be given by Hakes. She also reported that the Community Center Steering Committee is making steady progress with ORB Management with a schedule to complete the Community Center by the end of 2012.

Mark Your Calendars
Thursday, November 18 at 4:00 pm, Joint CCST Meeting at ISD 166
Tuesday, November 30 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting (note deviation from regular schedule)
Wednesday, December 8 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, December 8 at 6:00 pm, Budget Comment Meeting
Wednesday, December 29 at 4:30, City Council Meeting

Local Election Results

2010-11-04T12:08:00.002-05:00

Click here for local election results in Cook County and Grand Marais.

City Council Meeting

2010-10-27T21:43:00.003-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy and Lenz were present for today's City Council Meeting. Councilor Jan Sivertson was absent. Also in attendance were Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor.

Open Forum
Maggie Barnard, Events Director of the Cook County Visitors Bureau (CCVB), informed the Council about the CCVB efforts to fund raise for maintenance and expansion of the downtown holiday lights and decorations. Council supported the CCVB efforts to raise funds to provide greenery for the City window boxes and planters, add outlets to the lamp posts on the Harbor Walk between Java Moose and the Angry Trout, add lights to the centerpiece tree in Harbor Park, replace light strings as necessary. Council expressed gratitude to the CCVB for heading this effort and acknowledged the success of the 2009 combined effort between the City of Grand Marais, CCVB and downtown businesses to decorate for the holidays.

Consent Agenda
Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

Park Board Application
Crystal Clemons has applied for the open position on the Park Board and was available to the Council for introductions and questions. Council unanimously approved the appointment of Crystal Clemons to the Park Board and thanked her for her willingness to serve.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that the PUC replaced water lines in (2) areas of Grand Marais last week. This work was funded in part through a $100,000 IRRB grant and included the replacement of 3-4 fire hydrants. Kennedy also reported that the Planning Commission will be addressing the request for rezoning a portion of Grand Marais at their next meeting to be held at 4 PM on Wednesday, November 3.
Kay Costello reported that the Library Board Executive Committee met with their architectural firm to discuss the library expansion project. She also reported that $60,000 of 1% Sales Tax funding has been approved by the County Board for this work. The estimated project cost will be $800,000.
Bill Lenz reported that the roof blew off of the Pool Building during last night's storm. Mike Roth added that the Insurance Company adjuster was on site today to assess the damage. Lenz also reported that the Community Center Steering Committee had a productive meeting with Construction Manager ORB.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, Nov 10 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, November 18 at 4:00 pm, Joint CCST Meeting, Location TBD
Wednesday, November 30 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE!!)
Wednesday, December 8 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, December 8 at 6:00 pm, Budget Comment Meeting

City Council Meeting

2010-10-13T21:13:00.004-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's regularly scheduled City Council Meeting. Also present were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and Park Manager Dave Tersteeg. City Attorney Christopher Hood was in attendance via telephone.

Open Forum
Steve Schug of the US Forest Service gave the Council an overview of the coming Boy Scout's Order of the Arrow project. In June 2011, approximately 500-700 Boys Scouts and their leadership will be coming to Grand Marais to voluntarily work several projects including improvements to the Superior Hiking Trail, building a single track bike trail in the Pincushion and Tofte areas and improving campsites in the area of the Vegetable Lakes chain. This project is about mentoring young men and women in leadership and providing community service. Council agreed this will be a great event for Grand Marais and Cook County.

Consent Agenda
Council approved Consent Agenda with no changes.

Planning Commission Report
Council unanimously approved a request from Crystal Nelson for a conditional use permit to operate a quilting class as a home based business at her property located in the R-1 district.

Pool Boiler
Council considered the request from the Park Board to authorize funds for the replacement of the pool boiler at an estimated cost of between $15,000 and $20,000. The LPG central boiler that heats the pool building, domestic hot water, big pool and hot tub has developed cracks in 2 of 7 heat exchangers. Council tabled the issue until more information is provided regarding the cost of a used boiler, resale value and payback period.

IRR Renewable Energy Grant Agreement
The City of Grand Marais has been awarded a renewable Energy Grant from the Iron Range Resources Board to install a solar photovoltaic electrical system at the Gunflint Hills Golf Course.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that the Planning Commission is still considering the request to rezone the southern portions of 7th and 8th Avenues West in Grand Marais from C/I to Mixed Use or R1.
Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA unanimously voted to create a 7-member Superior National Management Board. Details are to be worked out. Sivertson also reported on the North Shore Management Board where an overview of the Silver Bay Eco Business Park was given.
Kay Costell0 reported that the Library Board has selected an Architectural Firm to recommend to the County Board for the Library expansion.
Sue Hakes reported that the Garden Club called her to say they do not endorse the installation of a memorial Flag Pole in Harbor Park. Mike Roth reported that he received a phone call from the DNR in response to his inquiry about whether or not a flag pole could be installed. The DNR informed Roth that more details are required.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, October 27 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, November 10 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, November 18 at 4:00 pm, Joint City/County/School/Tribe Meeting
Wednesday, November 24 at 4:30, City Council Meeting (day before Thanksgiving)

City Council Meeting with Burn Pile Public Meeting

2010-09-29T21:02:00.010-05:00

Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, and Sivertson were all present for today's Council Meeting with Burn Pile Public Meeting. Councilor Lenz was absent. Also present were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and Street Department Head Len Bloomquist.

City Council Meeting

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with a minor change.

Insurance Renewal
Paul Coe, Security State Insurance, presented the City's League of MN Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) renewal policy which includes the Liquor Liability renewal. Coe answered several questions after which the Council unanimously (4-0) approved this renewal premium at a cost of $67,105.

Park Board Application
Council received an application for the open seat on the Grand Marais Park Board. Council asked Mike Roth to invite the candidate to the next City Council meeting so they could meet her. The Park Board is currently a (7) member board, but has had some difficulty filling the open positions. Council anticipates further openings on this board effective January 1, 2011.

Council discussed briefly, the overall process for recruiting board members and asked Mike Roth to enhance the current application form to enable candidates to provide more detailed information to the Council.

Council & Staff Reports
Kay Costello reported that the Library Board was reviewing proposals from several architects for the Library addition and preparing to make a recommendation to the County Board.
Sue Hakes reported that the County Board agreed to begin negotiation with ORB Management for the job of Construction Manager on the Community Center project. ORB Management was recommended to the County by the Community Center Steering Committee; the County will lead these negotations.
Mike Roth shared good news that several Grand Marais businesses have made application for a Small Cities Grant effort to be led by Lake County. This funding is to be used for rehabilitation purposes.

Burn Pile Public Meeting
In recognition of both the negative effects and the popularity of the City's burn pile, the City Council invited the public to share their views and listen to those who have been affected positively or negatively by the burn pile as part of today's regularly scheduled Council Meeting. As noted in the City's September 8, 2010 press release:

The burn pile has been a topic of discussion for the Council and City staff since last October (2009). Smoke from the burning debris of a very full burn pile caused problems for both the Hospital and School. In response to the smoke complaints, the City has limited the size of the pile to what can burn in a single day. This has meant burning more often, including approximately seven times in 2010.

Many residents and contractors who use the pile have noticed the more frequent closing of the site as the City waits for optimal weather for burning. City staff consider moisture levels, current weather and forecast wind speed and direction before lighting the fire. "Even with the precautions we have taken, there is no guarantee that smoke will not cause problems with a burn pile this close to town," says City Administration Mike Roth".

Input was received from Cook County Hospital (Rory Smith) ISD 166 (Beth Schwarz) , Cook County (Fritz Sobanja and Jim Johnson), FireWise (Paul Nelson, Dick Parker) and the Forest Service (Patty Johnson). Written comments were also received from Hospital Administrator Diane Pearson, DNR Aaron Mielke and Mary Manning and an ISD 166 teacher. These groups (along with others) were specifically invited to give input at today's meeting, along with the general public.

The major problem identified from the school and hospital group was health related. Smoke from the burn pile has caused hazardous air quality conditions in both the hospital and the school causing illness to both patients and employees. The air handlers at the hospital cannot handle the smoke and it's extremely difficult to get rid of once it has infiltrated. This condition is unacceptable to both the hospital and school.

Both Aaron Mielke and Mary Manning, in their written responses, identified the problem of prohibitive materials dropped off in the burn pile. City Staff and others confirmed this as a difficult problem to police and manage. Burning prohibitive materials could result in the loss of the burn permit.

Approximately 12 members of the general public shared their views on the burn pile. Written comments from the public were also received. Overwhelmingly, the general public comments were received from individual users of the burn pile that see great benefit in this service.

After approximately 60 minutes, the meeting was closed to further public input. At this time, Council discussed the problem further and concluded the following:

1) Better signage at the site is necessary so that prohibitive materials and penalties for illegal dumping is made very clear. The City will make the change in signage.
2) Smoke from the burn pile is causing unacceptable health hazards at the hospital and school. This, combined with the fact that the burn pile area is shared with the runaway truck ramp, makes the current site for the burn pile unsuitable. Council agreed to explore relocating the burn pile in another location. Recognizing the value of the burn pile to the public, the City hopes that it could be re-located within a reasonable distance from Grand Marais. Because there is no obvious acceptable site within the City of Grand Marais, the Council will ask the County for suggested alternate sites. Mike Roth will draft a letter to the County Board which will be presented by the City at a future County Board meeting.

Mark Your Calendars
Wed, October 13 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, October 27 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Setting the Preliminary Levy and City Council Meeting

2010-09-08T20:29:00.011-05:00

Present for today's Budget and City Council Meetings were Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Budget Meeting
Council discussed the 2011 Budget for the City of Grand Marais and set the preliminary levy at 3%. The preliminary levy is a not-to-exeed; the final levy will be set in December. Setting the budget was difficult due to the uncertainty of Local Government Aid. The State has notified the City that we will receive $155,000 in LGA and $49,000 in Market Value Homestead Credit, but it is extremely unlikely that Grand Marais will received those amounts and could receive zero. The City will also be negotiating their union contract this Fall.

Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to address the Council at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved.

Planning Commission Report
Tim Kennedy and Mike Roth gave an overview of (2) issues discussed at the 9/1/2010 Planning Commission Meeting:

1) Stanley Poole and Nadine Maki are requesting a zoning amendment to change Lots 3-17 Block 26 in the Harbor Addition from C/I (Commercial Industrial) to MU (Commercial/Residential Mixed Use). Approximately 15 residents attended the public hearing regarding this request, many with questions and comments. The Planning Commission is considering expanding the area for potential rezoning and will hold a new public hearing on October 6.

2) The Planning Commission considered several options to address the recent MN Supreme Court decision regarding variances : a) creating a new setback standards for property line setbacks, b) create an expansion permit similar to the previous variance process, and c) work with the League of MN Cities to seek legislative change. Creating new setback standards is a lengthy process with unintended consequences. Attorney Chris Hood informed Council that using an expansion permit is not consistent with the new State Law. So, the Planning Commission is leaning toward Option C to seek legislative change; the downside of this option is that it will take months or longer. Council instructed Mike Roth to write a letter to the League of MN Cities.

2010 Liquor Permit Renewals
Council approved the Liquor License renewals pending receipt of fee payment, Insurance Certificates, successful background checks, and no delinquences in local taxes or service payments. Once this is confirmed, the renewal forms will be sent to the State of MN.

Resolution 2010-12 Preliminary Levy
Council approved Resolution 2010-12 to set the prelininary levy which must be done prior to September 15 annually. This prelininary levy number is reported to the State and used by the County Auditor to prepare parcel specific tax notices. The City may not adopt a final levy greater than the prelininary levy. The final levy will be decided in December.

EECBG Lighting Retrofit Contract Approval
Council approved the grant agreement with the State for our Lighting Retrofit Project. Lighting fixtures will be replaced in City Hall, the Water Treatment Plant, the Waste Water Treatment Plant and the Park Building to increase lighting efficiency.

Burn Pile
Council discussed the agenda for the Public Meeting on September 29 at 5:00 pm on the Burn Pile. This Public Meeting will be posted next week. The Public is encouraged to attend and participate.

Council & Staff Reports
Kay Costello reported that the proposed Library expansion project is moving forward. The Library Board is reviewing proposals from several architectural firms and will be presenting their findings and suggestions to the City and the County Board.
Bill Lenz reported on the Rec Park income through August. The Campground is up $22k, while the pool and marina are each down ~$1300. Lenz also reminded the Council that WTIP Radio Waves is scheduled for this weekend in the Rec Park and promises to be a lot of fun.
Tim Kennedy reported that the Biomass Grant for a feasibility study continues to move forward with the LCCMR; Cook County is working with Ely on this $150k effort. Additional funding is being sought from the County Board for ~$113,000. Kennedy reported that the County is considering possible sources for this funding to be 1% Sales Tax funds and Forest Resource funds.
Jan Sivertson reported that the North Shore Management Board will be holding its annual meeting in Grand Marais on 9/30/2010.
Mike Roth reported that the new crosswalk over Highway 61 at the base of the Old Gunflint Trail (5th Avenue) is complete. Roth also reported that Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency will be at City Hall tomorrow (Thursday 9/9/2010) for its annual meeting. Mayor Hakes will welcome SMMPA members.
Sue Hakes reported receiving a letter from the Mayor and Planning Commission Chair from Two Harbors requesting support in amending regulations prohibiting new off-premise advertising signs along the North Shore Scenic Drive.

Mark Your Calendars
Thurs, September 9 from 9-Noon, Joint County/City/EDA at Courthouse
Wed, September 29 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, September 29 at 5:00 pm, Burn Pile Public Meeting
Wed, October 13 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, October 27 at 4;30 pm, City Council Meeting

Cities Matter

2010-08-28T14:07:00.002-05:00

Cities Matter is a project sponsored by the League of Minnesota Cities. If you are interested in learning more about how cities work, how they are funded and the challenges they face, go to: http://www.citiesmatter.org/ . The information is easy to understand and includes information for teachers and students as well.

As always, your ideas, concerns and suggestions are welcomed by me and at City Hall. Don't be shy!

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-08-25T21:05:00.011-05:00

Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's Budget Worksession and Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor. City Attorney Chris Hood was present (via telephone) for the Council Meeting. Park Manager Dave Tersteeg, Assistant Manager Amber Clay and Fire Chief Ben Silence presented budget overviews to the Council.

Budget Worksession

Council reviewed Expenditures and Revenues for several departments in the General Fund including Council, City Clerk, Elections, Financial Administration, City Attorney, Planning & Zoning, Government Buildings, Law Enforcement, Fire, Medical Services, Animal Control, Highways Streets & Roads, Recreation, Swimming Pool, Boat Harbor, and City Parks.

Council must set the maximum levy for the City before September 14 and will do so at their next regularly scheduled Council Meeting on September 8, 2010. A final budget work session will be held just prior to that meeting. Setting the budget for 2011 is particularly challenging this year due to the uncertainty of Local Government Aid to cities and the pending contract negotiations with city employees.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to address the Council during the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda, including Meeting Minutes from both 7/28 and 8/11, was approved with no changes.

Harbor Park Flagpole Request
Gene Erickson addressed the Council with an offer to pay for a memorial flag pole in Harbor Park. This idea was born out of a group of friends exploring ways to remember their friend and local business owner, Dick Joynes. Erickson and friends have collected $1300 for a flag pole and memorial plaque to include the name of Joynes; the plaque would be large enough to memorialize others as a way to raise funds for the Park.

Because Harbor Park is part of a Conservation Easement and was funded in part by a DNR Natural Scenic Grant it is unknown whether or not a flagpole would be allowed. Council unanimously passed a motion for Mike Roth to contact the DNR to see if such a memorial would be allowed. Councilor Sivertson reminded the Council that there was an extensive public process that went into the design of Harbor Park that would also need to be considered carefully.

Mayor Hakes suggested (2) possible alternatives to Erickson for the memorial flagpole including Compass Park and the Coast Guard Station. Erickson ruled out the Coast Guard Station, but said Compass Park might be an acceptable alternative to Harbor Park.

All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution of Adoption
Council adopted the 2010 Update of the Cook County All Hazard Mitigation Plan. Jim Wiinanen was present to answer questions. Wiinanen notified Council that there will be Workshop in November 2010 for elected officials to understand their roles in emergency situations.

EECBG Project Committee
Council passed a motion for Tim Kennedy and Mike Roth to represent the City and work with Cook County Local Energy Project, the County and other community stakeholders in working to develop an energy efficiency and renewable energy plan for Cook County and the City of Grand Marais. George Wilkes of CCLEP was present to answer questions about the grant and also to introduce Don Grant as the Energy Plan Coordinator.

Quick Variance Resolution
Council voted unanimously to deny the request for a variance to reduce the side yard setback from 10 to 5 feet for an addition to property owned by Dan and Linda Quick. Council findings were based on the recent MN Supreme Court ruling in the case of Krummenacher v. City of Minnetonka which tightly restricts the reasonable use of the "undue hardship" legal standard for granting or denying variance requests. Landowners seeking a variance must now show that the property cannot be put to any reasonable use without the variance. Council expressed their regrets in not being able to grant the variance.

MMUA 2010-11 Safety Management Program Contract
Council voted unanimously to renew the Safety Management Program contract with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA). The City and MMUA have been successful in working together to develop a safety program that is both effective and affordable.

Economic Development Authority/Superior National Golf Course
Council discussed the Economic Development Authority's (EDA) recent recommendations regarding Superior National Golf Course to the County Board. The EDA's proposal includes management change at Superior National from the EDA to a non-profit organization, ownership change from the EDA to the County, $1,569,000 in One Percent Sales Tax funding, bond payment of $467,000 by the County and an additional $100,000/year to the County General Fund.

Hakes and Roth reported that at the August 24 County Budget Hearings, the EDA requested a supplementary levy of $119,470 from the County to enable the EDA to pay the general obligation bond debt incurred for the development of Cedar Grove Business Park.

(Background: Hakes and Roth attended the July 13 EDA Board Meeting to communicate the City's position to the EDA Board regarding the $1.6 million bond debt on the Cedar Grove Business Park. Representing the City of Grand Marais, Hakes expressed grave concern over the Cedar Grove Business Park debt and requested that the EDA Board include the bond payment in their budget and consider it in their levy request. Hakes requested the EDA resolve their existing debt obligation before creating any new obligations or debt.)

Council & Staff Reports
Kay Costell0 reported that the Library is in the process of reviewing architectural drawings for a proposed library expansion to be paid for with One Percent Sales Tax funds.
Bill Lenz requested Council review the existing lease agreement with East Bay Suites for (5) parking spaces for consistency with the terms of other leases, including Stone Harbor Wilderness. Council agreed lease agreements should be fair and equitable and authorized Mike Roth to discuss with EBS Manager Andrew Warren.
Mike Roth reported on the Coalition of Greater MN Cities Conference in Winona MN. Highlights of the conference included Candidate Forums for Governor and State Auditor.
Sue Hakes updated the Council on the progress being made by the Community Center Steering Committee. The Committee is interviewing potential Construction Managers for the proposed project to be funded by One Percent Sales Tax funding.

Mark Your Calendars
Thurs, August 26 at 4 pm, Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting at City hall
Wed, September 8 at 3:30 pm, Budget Worksession
Wed, September 8 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, September 29 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-08-11T20:21:00.009-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for both today's Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting. Also present for both were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Chris Hood (via telephone). Lenny Bloomquist was present for the Council Meeting.

Budget Worksession
The Council continues to work on the 2011 Budget. Department Heads are working on individual budgets and will present to Council on August 25. Council reviewed (3) scenarios for the 2011 Budget with difference being the amount of State Aid received in the form of LGA and MVHC. Council assumes that State Aid will be reduced as the Governor and State Legislators work to resolve the $5-6 Billion State Deficit. The City and the City Workers Union will be negotiating a new contract this Fall. The Council will set its maximum levy on September 8, 2010.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to address the Council during Open Forum.

Approve Consent Agenda
Council approved Consent Agenda without Meeting Minutes. The July 28 Meeting Minutes were accidentally omitted from the Packet and will be reviewed for approval at the next Council Meeting.

Planning Commission Report

Variance Standards
The Minnesota Supreme Court recently issued a decision that changed the longstanding interpretation of the statutory standard for granting zoning variances. This Court ruling holds cities to a much stricter standard which considerably limits variance opportunities. Basically, the Supreme Court concluded that city authority to issue a variance is limited to those very rare cases where the property cannot be put to "a reasonable use" without the variance. And the Court stated that "unless and until the Legislature takes action to provide a more flexible variance standard for municipalities, we are constrained by the language of the statute to hold that a municipality does not have the authority to grant a variance unless the applicant can show that her property cannot be put to a reasonable use without the variance."

The Council voted unaninously to refer this change in the legal standard to the Planning Commission. Among other things, the Planning Commission will work to incorporate these changes into our City Code Section 19.20. Council also asked the Planning Commission to find a way for our City Code to allow the City greater flexibility in allowing "variance-like" approvals under the zoning code.

Quick Variance
Dan and Linda Quick requested a variance to construct a two-story addition to their existing single-family home located 5' within the required 10' side yard setback on their property zoned R-1. The City Council voted unanimously to deny this request based on their finding that the request did not pass the new legal standard (see above) as interpreted by the Supreme Court in Krummenacher v. City of Minnetonka, 2010 WL 2517702 (Minn. 2010). Council expressed their sincere regrets in having to make this decision.

Harbor Park Flagpole Request
Gene Erickson was on the agenda to discuss possible locations for a flagpole in memory Dick Joynes, but Gene did not attend today's meeting. Mayor Hakes discussed (2) sites to be considered for the memorial flag pole: Coast Guard Station and Compass Park. Hakes contacted Richard Fortunato of the USBP to see if replacing the current flag at the Coast Guard Station was feasible. Fortunato was receptive to the idea stating he would need to talk with Chief Hernandez, the Coast Guard and the Historical Society.

Stone Harbor Lease
Council discussed and modified a lease agreement for use of public property by Stone Harbor, LLC to locate a temporary rack for storage of kayaks between May 1 and November 1. The property to be leased is adjacent to property owned by Jack Stone of Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply Co located on the East Bay. Mayor Hakes noted that she received negative feedback about the proposed lease from (1) Grand Marais resident. She also referenced a call she received from Cathi Williams, co-owner of Bear Track Outfitter. Williams said that she also had an interest in leasing land for storing Bear Track Outfitter kayaks on the Harbor. Mayor Hakes expressed the importance of supporting local businesses, fairness, and the possibility of establishing a policy for leasing city owned property. After some discussion, Council voted unaninously to approve the lease and that other requests should be considered on a case by case basis.

Street Truck Purchase
Council unanimously approved the purchase of a much needed street truck including dump box, plow and sander. The City collects $18,000 annually to buy capital for the Street Department; the replacement schedule budgets $60,000 for the replacement of this truck. The quote for the new truck is $62,392.34. Delivery is anticipated in ~4 months.

Burn Pile Update
Council has received several complaints about poor air quality caused by the City's burn pile. Council is considering all options including closing the burn pile. A Public Hearing is being scheduled for September 29 to hear ideas, pros and cons from the Public before any decision is made.

Fire Department Grant
The Fire Department has received a grant for $1800 to offset the cost of 5 handheld radios totalling $3750. Council unanimously approved the grant agreement. Mike Roth acknowledged the initiative of volunteer fire department member Aaron Mielke in receiving this grant.

ECFE Request for Road Closing
Council approved a request from the ECFE to close the city street between the Community Center and the Fire Hall to accomodate a large equipment display on Saturday 8/21 of the County Fair.

Council & Staff Reports
Bill Lenz reported that both Golf Course and Rec Park revenues are up through July while Pool revenues are down and the Marina is even when compared to 2009. He also noted that WTIP will host their annual Radio Waves concert at the Sliding Hill September 9-10.

Sue Hakes forwarded a request from School Superintendent Beth Schwarz to present an overview of the School Referendum. Council will be present at the next Joint ISD166/City/County/Tribal Council meeting on August 26 to hear the presentation. Hakes also said Bruce Leng told Hakes he would like to meet with her and Mike Roth to discuss options for his Theatre Building in downtown Grand Marais.

Mark Your Calendars
Wed, August 25 at 4:30, City Council Meeting
Thur, August 26 at 4:00, Joint ISD166/City/County/Tribal Council Meeting at City Hall
Wed, September 8 at 3:30, Worksession on Budget
Wed, September 8 at 4:40, City Council Meeting
Wed, September 29 at 4:30, City Council Meeting
Wed, September 29 at 5:00, Tentative Public Hearing on City Burn Pile

Fisherman's Picnic

2010-08-09T22:59:00.003-05:00

A personal note..

Fisherman's Picnic 2010 was really fun. It was my first year as a Lion so I had the opportunity to really plug into the event, which made it even better. I had the pleasure of working in the Fishburger Stand, the Information Booth, selling raffle tickets and being the MC of the Loon Calling Contest. I played BINGO at the American Legion and won for the first time in my life!!! I walked the Parade, listened to lots of local musicians and witnessed log rolling, kids playing games and the oh-so-yucky Fish Toss competition! Best of all, I shared time with friends and neighbors.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this year's Picnic. We really live in a wonderful town.

City Council Meeting

2010-07-28T20:22:00.005-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy and Sivertson, along with Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Chris Hood (via telephone) were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present was Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Chief Ben Silence. Councilor Bill Lenz was absent.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Jack Stone, Owner of Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply Company, asked Council to approve his request for seasonal kayak storage on the City-owned grassy area between the holding pond and stone beach east of his store. The kayaks would be stored on a rack specifically designed for this purpose and would be secured and insured by Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply. Council discussion of this request included zoning, approximate size of storage rack, location, specific use, liability, months of use, and termination of the request. No decision was made, but Council authorized Mike Roth and Chris Hood to draft a proposed lease for Council review at their next Council Meeting.

Consent Agenda
Consent agenda was approved with addition of Library Budget to today's Council Meeting.

Burbach Aquatics
(In 2005, the City of Grand Marais entered into an agreement with Burbach Aquatics for architectural services regarding repair, renovation or replacement of the Grand Marais Pool.) Council passed a motion to direct Mike Roth to contact the Cook County Board to request that the County use Burbach for the architectural services, including design and construction administration, related to the pool portion of the Community Center project, if the Comunity Center is to include a pool. Council also passed a motion authorizing Mike Roth and/or legal counsel to take all actions necessary to communicate with Burbach and/or other appropriate entities regarding the City's actions related to Cook County's proposed Community Center project.

Personnel Items
Council approved hiring James Daniel Ford as a new Paid-on-Call Firefighter. Council also approved hiring (2) part-time lifeguards.

Relief Association State Pension Cost Estimate
Council reviewed the Cost Analysis to estimate the on-going cost of joining the statewide volunteer firefighter retirement plan administered by PERA. Joining the statewide retirement plan was requested by the Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department. After review of the costs, Council approved a resolution opting to join the voluntary statewide lump-sum volunteer firefighter retirement plan at the $1250 benefit level per year of service.

Library Budget
Council approved a .98% increase to the Library Budget which does not include any wage increases. The City will enter into contract negotiations in Fall 2010.

Council & Staff Reports
Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA received its Cost Benefit Analysis last week. Written reports are not yet available but have been requested.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, August 11 at 3:30 pm, Budget Worksession
Wednesday, August 11 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, August 25 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Happy 40th Birthday Grand Marais Playhouse!

2010-07-25T20:20:00.003-05:00

The Grand Marais Playhouse is celebrating its 40th Season with a Birthday Bash in the backyard of the Arrowhead Center for the Arts.

Free lemonade, birthday cake and dance music by "The Cavern Beat!" Join the fun!

Fishing, Neighbors Working Together, Good Food

2010-07-18T09:12:00.005-05:00

Check out this wonderful Lake Superior Fish video featuring Harley Tofte, Tyler Smith, Dockside Market, Barb LaVigne & George Wilkes, the Angry Trout and herring!

Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-07-14T20:42:00.006-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's Worksession and City Council Meeting. Also present were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone). Tom Nelson was present for a portion of the Council Meeting.

Budget Worksession
Linda Chapelle and Carole Miller presented the Library's proposed Operating Budget for 2011 to the City Council for review. The proposed budget shows an approximate 1% budget increase and does not allow for any wage or salary increases. Salary increases for the City are unknown; contract negotiations will occur in the Fall of 2010. Council asked for more information regarding the Arrowhead Library System services and will review again at the July 28 meeting. (The County and City support the library 50/50.)

City Administrator Mike Roth, supported by Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor, presented the Council with a high-level overview of the 2011 City Budget Considerations. Council discussed a) Salary and wages for City employees are to be determined. The AFSCME contract expires at the end of 2010; negotiations will occur this Fall. b) Local Government Aid (LGA) has decreased from $184,209 in 2008 to $96,422 in 2010. With the State facing a $5-9 billion deficit we should anticipate further cuts to State Aid. c) No major infrastructure or capital expenditures are planned. d) Council Priority projects currently underway will require funding to move forward.

Department Heads will soon be preparing their 2011 budget request and appear before the Council to present.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
Council approved the consent agenda with a minor change to the July 6 Worksession Minutes.

Grand Marais Fire Relief Association Request
The Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department (GMVFD) is considering participating in the Statewide Volunteer Firefighter Retirement Plan. Council unanimously approved GMVFD request to contact PERA for a cost analysis of the plan. The request was made by Tom Nelson on behalf of the GMVFD.

Propane Bids
Competitive bids were solicited for supplying the City of Grand Marais with propane. The award was made to Como Oil & Propane based on low bid.

Lion's Club Fisherman's Picnic Permit
Council approved Lion's Club request for Use of Street and Sidewalks Permit for 2010 Fisherman's Picnic. The request was made by Lion's Club members Andrew Smith and Al Taenzer.

Planning Commission Requests/Report
Council unanimously approved Robert and Delores Spry's request for a variance from the side yard setback to construct an addition to their existing building. This addition will connect to their existing second story residence.

Council unanimously approved Jane Ranum's request for a variance from the front yard setback to build a covered porch on the north side of her existing home.

Council approved 3-2 Ron Lund's request for a conditional use permit to operate an art classroom and studio as a home based business at his property located in the R-1 district. Hakes and Costello voted against the request.

Mayor Hakes suggested that Council request the Planning Commission visit the current Grand Marais Zoning Ordinance regarding Home Occupations and consider adding some guidelines for more consistency.

Economic Development Authority Discussion
Hakes and Roth reported on the July 13 EDA Board meeting. Hakes and Roth attended that meeting to communicate the City's position to the EDA Board regarding the $1.6 million bond debt on the Cedar Grove Business Park. Representing the City of Grand Marais, Hakes expressed grave concern over the Cedar Grove Business Park debt and requested that the EDA Board include the bond payment in their budget and consider it in their levy request. Hakes requested the EDA resolve their existing debt obligation before creating any new obligations or debt. The EDA Board made a motion and voted to "not incur any more bonded indebtedness until the Cedar Grove Business Park is stabilized". There is some confusion with Hakes and Roth about this motion which will need to be clarified.

Hakes and Roth reported that a private developer is working with the EDA and hoping to build several rental homes on his property in Grand Marais. The developer and EDA are exploring IRRB grant funding to offset infrastructure costs. There will likely be a presentation to the Council on July 28.

Mike Roth reported that EDA Director Matt Geretschlaeger verbally indicated to the EDA Board that he would be resigning from the EDA effective January 1, 2011 if his position was only funded for 1/2 time.

Burn Pile Discussion
Hakes reported that Diane Pearson, Cook County Hospital Administrator, called her with a concern about the smoke from the City's burn pile and its negative affect on patients in the ER and hospital. Pearson said the problem seems to be worst when the pile is smoldering. Council acknowledged that air quality at the hospital and school are sometimes affected by the burn pile. After discussions about the pros and cons of having a City burn pile, Council directed Roth to talk with the DNR, County and Forest Service about possible solutions which most likely means alternative locations. Council also discussed the possibility of a Public Meeting for citizens to express their concerns about the Burn Pile both pro and con.

New Hire at the Library
Council unanimously approved the hiring of Patsy Ingebretson in the Library I position replacing Anne Prinsen.

Council & Staff Reports
Bill Lenz reported that Golf and Park revenues are up year-to-date; bookings are also up. Lenz reported that the Charter School painted a lovely mural at the Pool on one of the doors. Lenz was pleased to announce the Pool passed their surprise pool inspection "with flying colors". And, Lenz shared with the Council that friends of Dick Joynes would like to donate a flag pole and flag in memory of their dear friend Dick and will talk with the Park Board about an appropriate location.

Kay Costello reported her attendance at the last Library Board Meeting and that they've been working diligently on their 2011 budget.

Tim Kennedy reported that the PUC is discussing how the City should manage and oversee sewage treatment systems within the City of Grand Marais.

Jan Sivertson announced to the Council that she is getting married in October 2010 and may be absent for 2-4 months beginning January 2011. She is considering resigning her position on the Council.

Sue Hakes reported that the orange flags to be used as a pedestrian aid in the crosswalks have arrived; the street department will be placing them as soon the signage arrives.

Mark Your Calendars
Wed, July 28 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, August 11 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wed, August 25 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

20th Annual Grand Marais Arts Festival 2010

2010-07-11T11:56:00.004-05:00

The Grand Marais Art Colony is celebrating its 20th Annual Arts Festival in downtown Grand Marais. I spent a wonderful morning yesterday wandering from booth to booth enjoying the many works displayed in over 60 booths by local and visiting artists.

The temperatures are cool and there is virtually no wind; I think I'll go catch the 2nd day of this event! Hope to see you there!

Lieutenant Governor Candidate Visits Grand Marais

2010-07-07T19:34:00.009-05:00

John Gunyou, Candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota, paid a visit to City Hall last week. Gunyou is running with DFL-endorsed gubanatorial candidate Margaret Anderson Kelliher. Gunyou's staffers called last week to request this meeting.

During our meeting I had a chance to express concerns about the budget and the uncertainties in Local Government Aid to cities. We also discussed the wide gap between city government and the Governor's office causing difficulties in serving the Public. Gunyou explained that closing that gap was one of the main purposes of his visit. Gunyou is currently serving as the City Manager for Minnetonka, so he understands the issues facing cities.

After our meeting, I had the distinct pleasure of introducing Gunyou and his Campaign Staff to Grand Marais. We took a walk through town stopping at the Beaver House, World's Best Donuts, Sivertson's Gallery, the Trading Post and Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply Company. Gunyou enjoyed a plain donut (his choice) from Staci and Dee, as well as a tour of the newly expanded kitchen at the World's Best Donuts (see photo taken by Rhonda Silence). We also had a few minutes to enjoy Harbor Park and discuss our long-term efforts to work with the DNR and Corp of Engineers to build a Safe Harbor and Marina in Grand Marais.

Upon his departure, Gunyou promised to return to Grand Marais and enjoy a stay at the Rec Park!

City Council Work Session on Economic Development Authority (EDA)

2010-07-06T20:04:00.014-05:00

The purpose of today's City Council Work Session was to formulate a Council position to give to the EDA to resolve the financial problems at both Superior National and the Cedar Grove Business Park. In attendance at today's work session were Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson, City Administrator Mike Roth and City Finance Director Kim Dunmoor. Also in attendance were the City's representatives on the EDA Board, Hal Greenwood and Mark Sandbo.

(Reminder: The EDA, along with members of the West End Business Community, presented an idea for long term stewardship of the Golf Course which included: 1) The County will payoff the remaining Superior National bonds of $440,000, 2) The County will invest $1.2 million dollars of 1% Sales Tax monies for equipment, irrigation and course improvements, and 3) The County will increase the levy by $140,000 annually to fund future golf course capital needs.)

Mayor Hakes opened the meeting with some general remarks framing the problem from her perspective which are summarized below:

The purpose of today's meeting is to formulate the City Council's position for the EDA regarding the financial struggles at Superior National Golf Course and the Cedar Grove Business Park. At the risk of speaking for others, it seems quite apparent that we all agree that Superior National is a valuable and important asset to the County, is in need of capital improvements and is in need of financing and marketing to restore the course and increase rounds. We also agree that our County economy is driven by Tourism.

But, as the Mayor, I believe it is important to frame the EDA's problem from the City's point of view. The City of Grand Marais faces serious financial challenges both today and in the future. The State of MN predicts a $5-8 billion deficit in 2011. As a result, the City can basically be assured of further reductions in State Aid (LGA and MVHC). Much of the City's financial worries are in large part due to the EDA's Business Park debt of $1.6 million (well over $2 million with interest) and an annual payment of approximately $130,000 over 20 years that is paid entirely by City taxpayers.

I feel strongly that before we consider any increased spending/debt at Superior National, we need to address the $2 million problem we have at the Business Park. We (the Council) represent the people of Grand Marais and it is unfair for them to absorb this enormous debt without County assistance. The EDA is a joint effort between the City and the County. The EDA needs to work as diligently on the Business Park problem as they do on Superior National. I fear that if the County accepts the solution currently recommended by the EDA that our opportunity to get financial support from the County for the Business Park will be lost forever. As Mayor of Grand Marais, I'm not willing to let that happen.

What ensued after these remarks was an impassioned conversation between the Mayor, the Council and the City's representatives on the EDA Board (Sandbo & Greenwood). I will not attempt to speak for the others, only myself. I openly admit that I was very intense in my arguments because I am zealous in my commitment to represent the taxpayers of Grand Marais, as well as the taxpayers of the County, to the best of my ability.

I firmly believe the following:

1. The Cedar Grove Business Park debt is the responsibility of the EDA. If the EDA is unable to pay this debt, it should be the joint responsibility of the City and the County.
2. The EDA should resolve the financial debt at the Business Park before supporting any further spending.

In the end, the Council unanimously passed a motion to ask the EDA to include the Bond Payment for the Business Park in their budget and levy request.

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-06-30T18:15:00.002-05:00

Happy Fourth of July Weekend everybody! Don't forget to enjoy the Parade and Fireworks on Sunday evening in downtown Grand Marais!

The regularly scheduled City Council Meeting was held today at 4:30 pm. I won't be updatomg my blog to reflect this meeting as I'm headed out of town in just a few minutes to be with family! Please don't ever hesitate to call or email me if you are interested in what business occurred. You may also get a copy of the meeting minutes from Kim Dunsmoor at City Hall.

Be safe this weekend and enjoy!

Meeting with Northeast Entrepreneur Fund

2010-06-22T13:11:00.003-05:00

Dawn Johnson, Women's Business Network Program Director for the Northeast Entrepreneur Fund (NEF), was gracious enough to schedule a meeting with me to meet the NEFs newly hired Business Developer, Tom Furman. Johnson, Furman and I met at City Hall to discuss the programs available at NEF and how residents of Grand Marais and Cook County might take advantage of their classes, consulting and loans offered.

According to their website...

The Northeast Entrepreneur Fund helps people start and grow successful, locally owned small businesses. Its mission is to promote the entrepreneurial spirit and create economic wealth and diversity. NEF provides training, consulting and financing to emerging and small businesses in northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin.

If you are a busines owner, or wish to start a business, please consider the services of the Northeast Entrepreneur Fund. They may be able to give you just the advantage you need.

Contact Info:

Dawn Johnson dawnj@entrepreneurfund.org
Tom Furman tomf@entrepreneurfund.org

Also, be sure to watch for the monthly Women's Business Network Lunches in Grand Marais. These events are co-sponsored with Cook County Higher Ed and will resume this Fall. They are great events for broadening ones knowledge and support base in owning and operating a small business.

Grand Marais Named in Outdoor Life's Best Towns for 2010

2010-06-21T18:45:00.003-05:00

Outdoor Life Magazine has ranked Grand Marais as America's 14th best town for hunters and fishermen.

Great Summer Weekend at North House Folk School

2010-06-19T10:02:00.003-05:00

This weekend is one of the summer's best at North House Folk School. Come on down for the Wooden Boat Show, Boots to Tools Auction and the Summer Solstice Puppet Pageant! Great food and fun for all ages all day long!

Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-06-09T19:50:00.019-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson along with City Attorney Chris Hood (via phone), Mike Roth, and Kim Dunsmoor were all present for today's Worksession and Council Meeting. Also present for portions of the the Council Meeting were Tom Nelson and Linda Chappelle. EDA Board Member Mark Sandbo was present for the Worksession.

Council Worksession on Economic Development Authority (EDA)

Yesterday, a small group of West End Business Owners, as well as members of the EDA Golf Course Subcommittee, gave a presentation to the full EDA Board at their regularly scheduled meeting. This is a very similar presentation to the one given to Hakes and Roth a couple of weeks ago. The purpose of today's worksession was for the full City Council to get updated on the state of the EDA, in particular Superior National Golf Course (SN)

Jan Sivertson and Mike Roth summarized for the Council, the presentation that was given to the EDA. The basic premise is that SN is losing money due to declining golf rounds caused by too little marketing and ~$1.5M in deferred capital improvements. The West End Business Community proposes a solution to the problem that includes stabilizing the SN financial needs, providing long-term management, and fulfilling the original purpose of the Golf Course to bring tourists to Cook County. The group is proposing resolving the SN financial problems through use of Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funds, One Percent Sales tax Funds and increasing the EDA Levy. They are also proposing that SN be managed by and leased to a to-be-created Non-Profit Corporation. Sivertson reported that the EDA voted at their June 8 Meeting to support these concepts.

Council had a healthy discussion about the EDA, the proposed concepts and what role or influence the City Council has in resolving the financial problems of SN. Mayor Hakes opened the discussion with comments that the EDA is a joint City and County effort with (2) struggling assets--Superior National Golf Course and the Cedar Grove Business Park. Council acknowledged the problems at Superior National and discussed the pros and cons of the proposed solution. Hakes also requested that in addition to resolving the problems at Superior National that the EDA give attention to the problems at the Business Development Park. The Council supports working with the County to resolve the problems at both the Golf Course and the Business Park. Council also expressed concerns that increasing funding to the EDA without addressing the management issues will not solve SN problems.

The EDA, supported by the West End Business Community, will make its presentation to the County Board on June 22.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Librarian Linda Chappelle reported that the Library Board sent a Request for Proposals (RFP) to 10 architectural firms for the Library Expansion Project. A Pre-proposal Conference is scheduled for June 18th at the Library for interested architects.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with (1) minor correction.

Sawtooth Challenge Mountain Bike Race
Council unanimously approved the Street Permit for the Sawtooth Challenge Mountain Bike Race requested by the Superior Cycling Association. This event is scheduled for April 28, 2010 downtown Grand Marais.

Water Emergency and Conservation Plan
Council unanimously voted to adopt the Water Emergency and Conservation Plan for the City of Grand Marais as presented by Tom Nelson. The plan has already been approved by the MN DNR. Council noted points of interest within the plan. Water usage has actually decreased over the past 20 years although population has increased; this is likely due to community conservation efforts. The amount of water unaccounted for peaked in 2004 and has gone down fairly significantly over the past 3 years. The largest user of water by volume is the Water Treatment plant; the Grand Marais Pool is ranked as the 8th largest user.

Stormwater Projects Cost-Share Grant
Tristan Beaster, Cook County Soil and Water, asked Council to approve a Cost-Share Grant Agreement for ~$16,670 ($12,497 grant plus $4,165 cost-share) to be applied toward any of (3) projects to repair streets damaged in the June 6, 2008 storm. Projects that may benefit from these projects include 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue between First and Second Streets and Humphrey Circle; all streets are gravel. Property owners will also be asked to participate, perhaps by paying for new larger driveway culverts. Projects need to be completed by June 3, 2012 with construction anticipated in 2011. Council approved the request unanimously.

IRR Community Business Partnership Grant Annual Report
Council reviewed the Annual Report submitted to Iron Range Resources as required by our agreement with the State of Minnesota acting by and through its Office of the Commissioner of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation.

Other Items as Necessary
Mike Roth asked the Council to consider how to resolve overgrown lawns in the residential or commercial areas of Grand Marais. Council authorized Mike Roth to write a letter to the property owner in these instances and ask them to mow the grass.

Council & Staff Reports

Bill Lenz reported that year-to-date revenues are up at the Rec Park, Pool and Golf Course. He also reported that the Park Board has eliminated the $25 fee to apply for a Special Events permit and that the Park Board will absorb the ~$400 cost to move buoys for the Dragon Boat Festival. Lenz also noted that Grand Marais will be host to a 50' boat within the month.

Kay Costello reported on the Library Board Meeting. She also asked Bill Lenz for an update on the Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council meeting held last month.

Tim Kennedy reported that the Planning Commission is considering a request for a Home Occupation Conditional Use Permit from Ron Lund to have an Art Studio in his home. The Planning Commission requested further information from Lund.

Jan Sivertson reported that the Universiy of Minnesota Crookston met with the EDA Board regarding the marketing of the Cedar Grove Business Park. U of M Crookston noted that our Business Park faces unique challenges including small population for workforce and limited airport facilities.

Mike Roth reported that KGM is working on the road at the Business Park.

Sue Hakes reported that she had a very productive conversation with Bruce Leng, owner of the former Theatre Building downtown. Leng understands the potential for a safety issue at the building and will consider doing some work to the front side. Hakes agreed to provide Leng with information regarding the Store Front Loan program and possibility of receiving a grant if/when building is ever demolished. Hakes reported that Stan Linnell and Peter Hark of the DNR will be in Grand Marais to meet with the Council regarding the Safe Harbor and Marina on June 29. A possible tour of the waterfront will be included in the meeting. Hakes asked Roth if the YOUR SPEED IS SIGN had been ordered; Roth reported that it has been ordered and it should arrive soon. Lastly, Hakes requested that Council consider using orange Crosswalk Flags at (1) intersection as a beta test to see if they help pedestrians cross more safely by letting motorists know of their intentions. Hakes proposes that Council authorize her to work with Roth and Lenny Bloomquist of the Streets Department to provide flags and monitor their use. Council had questions about how the Public would be informed of the project. Hakes has a call in to the Transportation Planner at Salt Lake City Utah to see how their city built this program in 2000.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, June 30 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, July 14 at 3:30 pm, Worksession--Budget
Wednesday, July 14 at 4:30, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, July 28 at 4:30, City Council Meeting

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting Notes

2010-06-01T16:30:00.014-05:00

Note: This update is for meetings held May 26, 2010.

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for both the Budget Worksession and City Council Meetings. Also in attendance were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Chris Hood (via telephone). Dave Teersteg was present for the Budget Meeting.

Budget Worksession
City Administrator Mike Roth gave an overview of recent activity regarding the State Budget and Year-To-Date Summary. Cuts to the City of Grand Marais 2010 Budget include a previous $73,647 reduction in Local Government Aid (LGA) and the recent $33,352 reduction in Market Value Homestead Credit (MVHC).

Council considered several options for addressing the $33,352 reduction in the City's budget and ultimately voted unanimously on the following: 1) Cut $9600 allocated for cable transfer, 2) Defer ~$20K of the $30K allocated for Rec Park Site upgrades, 3) Reduce $4000 reserved for Council Priorities.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The consent agenda was approved with minor corrections to the Meeting Minutes.

Chamber of Commerce
Permits were granted to the Chamber of Commerce for both the Annual Classic Car Show to be held June 12 and Fourth of July Parade on the evening of July 4.

Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
George Wilkes of CCLEP presented the modified Cook County/Grand Marais Energy Planning Program proposal to the City Council. Instead of separate County and City programs, the project has been submitted jointly at the request of the customer (MN Office of Energy Security EECBG) for a total of $50,000 of grant funding. If funded, the City and County will work with CCLEP to hire a contracted consultant to conduct a community-wide planning process to develop energy efficiency and renewable energy goals, policies, and implementation strategies. The City will cost-share with some labor.

Wilkes also requested a letter of support from the Council for their $262,160 proposal entitled "Supporting Community-Driven Sustainable Bioenergy Projects". The goals of this project are to develop and share information and tools that address key questions about the viability of community bioenergy systems. The Council voted 4-1 to provide the requested letter of support. Mayor Hakes voted against providing the letter stating she does not support asking for $262,160 for a project that has not been fully described or understood.

Planning Commission Report
Council approved Resolution to approve a Conditional Use Permit for Greg Nichols and Kirsten van den Berg to operate a fitness studio as a home occupation. Council voted 3-1 in favor of the Resolution with Costello opposed. Mayor Hakes abstained.

Hazardous Buildings
Prompted by public concerns brought forward about the condition of the former theatre building, Council asked Mike Roth and Attorney Chris Hood to present the various ways to address Nuisance/Hazardous Buildings within the City of Grand Marais. The range of options is wide and includes Local Ordinance City Code Chapter 22, State Law regarding Hazardous Buildings, Due Process, Improvement through Incentive, and Hazard By Repair Order. Public Safety was clearly the main concern of the Council. Mayor Hakes volunteered to contact the property owner to discuss the safety concern.

Grand Marais Playhouse Request (GMPH)
The GMPH requested $1500 in support of the Summer Internship program at the Playhouse. Due to budget constraints, Council regrets being unable to support this program.

Council & Staff Reports
Kim Dunsmoor reported that Fire Chief Ben Silence intends to hire (6) Firefighters.
Mike Roth reported that he and Mayor Hakes had been meeting with North House Folk School (NHFS) regarding plans to build the Green Building and any potential impact to the current lease. Just this week, NHFS informed Hakes and Roth that plans to move forward with the Green Building have been pushed out to 2011 or beyond.
Mayor Hakes reported that Jan Horak called with an idea improve pedestrian safety by providing orange crosswalk flags at busy intersections. Believing the idea has merit, Hakes is exploring the idea. Hakes also reported that she attended a Community Center Meeting with Bob Fenwick, Beth Schwarz, and Diane Booth. The majority of the meeting was spent determining who should be represented on the Community Center Steering Committee using the suggested members from the One Percent Committee for the C0mmunity Center as a guide. Hakes, along with Dave Teersteg and Bill Lenz will represent the City. Hakes reported that several business owners from the west end, along with (2) members of the EDA Golf Course Committee requested a meeting with Hakes and Roth to express their concerns about the condition of Superior National Golf Course. A Council Worksession will be scheduled to discuss ideas about resolving financial problems at both the Golf Course and the Business Park.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, June 9 at 3:30 pm, Worksession to discuss EDA Golf Course/Business Park
Wednesday, June 9 at 4;30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, June 30, at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Memorial Day Service

2010-05-31T14:07:00.024-05:00

I was honored to be asked to participate in the Memorial Day Service on the Courthouse Lawn this morning. Thank you Commander Don Wilson and the local American Legion and Legion Auxiliary for sponsoring a meaningful morning and delicious lunch afterward.

The music at today's service was heartfelt and beautiful with Irene Thompson singing the "Star Spangled Banner", Richard Fortunato of the US Border Patrol playing "Amazing Grace" on his bagpipes, and Cook County High School musicians Shelby Arndt and Lars Scannell offering their haunting rendition of "Echo Taps".

Giving most meaning to the day, however, was the presence of the men and women Veterans, their families, and the roll call of the Cook County Veterans that died this past year. Sharing time to honor them was the order of the day.

Grand Marais and North Shore Top Destinations

2010-05-16T09:50:00.004-05:00

The annual Lake Superior Travel Guide has declared Grand Marais and the North Shore as the favorite destinations for 2010. Thank you Lake Superior Magazine!

Welcome tourists, family & friends!

City Council Meeting Notes

2010-05-12T21:53:00.007-05:00

Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, Fire Chief Ben Silence and Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
Ron Lund presented a letter to the Council expressing his opposition to the Conditional Use Permit to operate a personal fitness training studio as a home based business requested by Kirsten van den Berg and Greg Nichols. Lund believes that although the business is worthy, it pushes the definition for home occupation and would create unwanted traffic in a residential neighborhood. Mr. Lund was invited by Council to stay for the meeting to hear the discussion on this matter.

Consent Agenda
Consent Agenda was approved with (2) additions to the Agenda: Dilapidated Buildings and Traffic Control on Highway 61.

Fire Chief Report
Fire Chief Ben Silence presented the Council with a proposed Firefighter Job Description and discussed the need for recruitment. Currently, there are 20 firefighters in the Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department (GMVFD); the desired number is ~30. (6) First Responders will be joining the GMVFD. Silence would like to hire (5) more firefighters. Council approved the Job Description unamimously. Persons interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter are encouraged to contact Chief Silence or City Hall to fill out an application.

Planning Commission Report
Mayor Hakes recused herself from this discussion; she is the current landlord for Studio 61 owned by Greg Nichols and Kirsten van den Berg and has a vested interest in the outcome of the request. Council discussed Nichols and van den Berg's request for a Conditional Use Permit to operate a personal fitness training studio as a home based business at their property located in the R-1 District at 921 West First Street. This Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on May 5, 2010 on this matter and approved the request with conditions to limit signage and hours of operation. Council discussed this request at length, noting that a lot of public comment had been received, both pro and con, about this request. Ultimately, Council passed a motion to ask City Staff to prepare a Conditional Use Permit as requested but with the following Conditions: a) no outside employees, b) classes are limited to 3 hours/day, c) (3) off-street parking spaces must be available for clients, d) on-street parking is limited to (3), e) class size is limited to (8) students, f) classes are limited to between the hours of 6 AM and 7:30 PM, g) signage must conform to the Sign Ordinance and be no larger than 4 square feet in size. Council will consider the CUP at their next meeting on May 26.

Garden Club Request
Council unanimously approved the Garden Club's requst for $1000 for flowers and fertilizer. The Garden Club will plant the flowers in the street containers and ground beds downtown; the Park Department will water them.

Resolution of Participation in County Hazard Mitigation Planning
Council unanimously approved the resolution to formalize the City of Grand Marais' participation in the County Hazard mitigation plan. The City has been participating on the County Emergency Preparedness Committee.

Dilapidated Buildings
Mayor Hakes requested that this item be added to the agenda for discussion based on community feedback about Council's discussion regarding the former Theatre Building.

Hakes clarified that the Grand Marais Playhouse (GMPH) will be celebrating their 40th Anniversary this summer. As part of that celebration, GMATA Director Diane Brostrom suggested several months ago to GMPH Director Sue Hennessy that the Playhouse use the window space at the former Theatre Building to advertise creatively in their window. The idea was received positively by Hennessy and the property owner, making it a real win/win/win. The connection between the historic old Theatre and the current Playhouse could be meaningful and the location for advertising is perfect.

The issue of dilapidated buildings in Grand Marais is quite a separate issue. Council agreed that Public Safety is always an issue. Mike Roth and Attorney Chris Hood will discuss proper steps and options around this matter. Council also agreed it is important to treat property owners with respect.

Traffic Control on Highway 61
Mike Roth will order the "YOUR SPEED IS" sign to be placed next to the Speed Limit sign near the bottom of the hill on Highway 61 West. This sign, in combination with "Event Congestion Ahead" signs will be used this summer to slow traffic down during the busy summer months. These actions are part of an overall plan by the Council to improve pedestrian safety. In 2009 a crosswalk was added near the Dairy Queen and Pumphouse. Additional crosswalks are in the initial planning stages. And, Roth and Hakes will continue to work directly with Rob Ege of MN Dot to do some traffic/speed monitoring on Highway 61 to determine if changes to the Speed Limit are needed.

Council & Staff Reports
Mike Roth updated the Council on possible IRRB funding to do some preliminary design work on the Marina/Safe Harbor. Council voted unanimously to submit a request for $20K. Roth is also working with Dick Grabko to learn more about the potential for funding from the Great Lakes Initiative to do more in-depth design and engineering work for the Marina and Safe Harbor.

Kim Dunsmoor reported that the City's Annual Audit was completed today.

Bill Lenz reported that Community Garden has been dug and plans for planting are underway. He also reported that the Park Board has combined the various Camp Site waiting lists into (1) master list.

Jan Sivertson said she attended the North Shore Management Board meeting. The Board voted to sponsor a St. Paul based company in creating a plan for the North Shore that puts the environment first and will be used as a tool for planning and development.

Sue Hakes reported that she traveled to Two Harbors to attend the Northeast Service Cooperative (NESC) Informational Meeting to discuss their successfully funded broadband infrastructure project. The $43.5M Northeast Middle Mile Project will deploy a 915 mile fiber optic network to expand broadband services throughout Northeast MN, including Cook County. Funded 50/50 by grant and loan, the Middle Mile Project will connect critical services including health care, education, libraries, and county, state and emergency services in northeast Minnesota. NESC is also working with the Cook County Board and has submitted a proposal to provide fiber based broadband to ~6000 households in Cook County. If successful in winning this grant, the County Board may opt to cost-share with One Percent Sales Tax funds.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, May 26 at 3:30 pm, City Council Budget Worksession II
Wednesday, May 26 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, May 27 at 4:00 pm, Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting in Grand Portage
Wednesday, June 9 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, June 30 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-04-28T20:00:00.016-05:00

Mayor Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting. Also in attendance were Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone). City Administrator Mike Roth was absent.

Budget Worksession

Kim Dunsmoor provided the Council with an overview of Governor Pawlenty's supplemental budget bill which was signed into law on April 1, 2010. The State of MN has an immediate $1 Billion deficit which the State Legislature plans to address with $700 Million in cuts to Health & Human Services and K-12 Education. The Legislature also anticipates $400 Million increase in Federal funding for Medicaid. If these plans do not materialize as anticipated, further cuts to local governments could be made.

The impact of the State's Budget problems have already resulted in a $73,647 cut to the City of Grand Marais' Local Government Aid (LGA) funding for 2010. This month, the City learned that an additional unallotment has been made in the amount of $33,352, this time from the Market Value Homestead Credit (MVHC). The State Legislature has not finalized the entire $1 Billion Supplemental Budget Plan, so the exact amount of the City's unallotment won't be known until June 2010, but the situation certainly isn't likely to improve.

Council, led by Dunsmoor, reviewed the 2010 planned projects, equipment needs, expenditures, and fixed assets depreciation. It became clear very quickly that Council is not in position to approve new spending without a clear understanding of what will be given up to do it.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

Sheriff's Fire Order
Council voted unanimously to approve Resolution Approving Fire Ban (Resolution 2010-02) as recommended by City Attorney Chris Hood and Cook County Sheriff Mark Falk. On April 22, 2010 Falk issued an Order prohibiting all campfires and recreational fires within Cook County, MN. Because Sheriff Falk's Order was more restrictive than the DNR Commissioner's and Superior National Forest Supervisor's Order, Hood recommended that the Council adopt this Resolution to be 100% consistent with the County. Hood said he believes the Sheriff has the authority to issue fire permits for businesses and organizations on a case by case basis.

North House Folks School Building Permit
Council approved a building permit for North House Folk School to move and expand their Blacksmith Shop. The proposed building complies with City zoning requirements. Council approval is required to approve this permit as a condition of the lease between NHFS and the City of Grand Marais. Greg Wright has met with the Park Board about the project. Council approved this building permit by a vote of 4 - 0. Councilor Kay Costello recused herself from this vote as she is employed by North House.

Personnel
Council unanimously approved hiring Lee Hall as a part time liquor store clerk to replace Buffy Butz who has resigned her position.

Council & Staff Reports
Jan Sivertson reported that several downtown business owners have expressed safety concerns about the old Theatre Building on Wisconsin Avenue. Council will review current Ordinances regarding dilapidated buildings and consider options for this building and others.

Sue Hakes publicly thanked Grand Marais resident and business owner Jim Shinners for coordinating the downtown clean up in celebration of the 40th Annual Earth Day. Shinners reported that over 75 people participated in the clean-up activities (see photo above). Supporting the project were the Cook County News Herald and WTIP Community Radio, US Border Patrol, Forest Service, Church Groups, Girl Scouts, Chamber of Commerce, North House Folk School, Harbor Friends, the Grand Marais Business Council and motivated individuals!

Hakes reported that Commissioner Bob Fenwick asked her to confirm with the Council that they still support including the Pool and Softball Field in the proposed Community/Rec Center. Council confirmed.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, May 12 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, May 26 at 3:30 pm, Budget Meeting
Wednesday, May 26 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, May 27 at 4:00 pm, Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting at Location TBD

County-wide Fire Restrictions

2010-04-22T16:21:00.002-05:00

Effective: April 23, 12:01 am

Cook County Sheriff Mark Falk has issued the following order:

All CAMPFIRES and RECREATIONAL FIRES are PROHIBITED within Cook County, Minnesota.

Grand Marais Business Wins Award

2010-04-21T20:01:00.017-05:00

Dockside Fish Market Wins Joel Labovitz Award

Congratulations to Grand Marais entrepreneurs Shele and Harley Toftey for winning the prestigious Joel Labovitz Entreprenurial Success Award during a lavish ceremony at the Duluth Events and Convention Center (DECC). Award recipients are chosen by a panel selected by the UMD Center for Economic Development. Criteria used to evaluate each nominee included--competition in the industry, personal and financial risks taken, impact to the local and regional economy, and ability of the business to adapt to change.

Laurie Spry, Dick Powell and I all had the pleasure of watching Shele accept this award before a crowd of approximately 350 that included Arrowhead Region business leaders, fellow entrepreneurs, IRRB and SBA representatives, the Duluth News Tribune, and Duluth Mayor Don Ness. The Northland News Center's News Manager Barbara Reyelts was the Master of Ceremonies.

Thank you, Shele and Harley, for all that you do for the City of Grand Marais and Cook County!

A Visit from Senator Franken's Staff

2010-04-15T16:24:00.005-05:00

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting with (2) members of Senator Al Franken's staff this afternoon. About a week ago I had a call from Daniel Fanning (Northeast Field Representative based in Duluth) asking if he could meet with me; of course I responded with an enthusiastic yes! So today, both Fanning and Marc Kimball (Minnesota Commmunications Coordinator based in St. Paul) paid a visit to me after stopping in at the Java Moose Coffee Shop.

Meeting with the Staff of a US Senator is an honor and an opportunity not to be wasted. Both Fanning and Kimball were eager to hear about our local issues, and I appreciated being able to share some of my biggest concerns with them:

- I expressed the frustration I feel and hear from the citizens of Grand Marais and Cook County about the amount of Stimulus Money that is being spent on projects that aren't truly useful to this community. Better communication with local city and county government is necessary to ensure that precious federal funding dollars are spent more wisely in Cook County.

- We talked about how Rural Areas differ from Urban Areas in Minnesota. In Cook County we always struggle with too few year-round living wage jobs and lack of affordable housing. In addition, our Local Government Aid for the City, as well as funding for both the County and ISD 166 are being slashed to painful low levels. We have a small tax base and few other resources to tap into.

- We discussed the economic and cultural benefits of having a Safe Harbor and Marina in the Grand Marais harbor. I gave them an extremely brief history on the work we are doing with the DNR and the Army Corp of Engineers. They were encouraging and asked me to keep them in the loop on this project.

- We discussed the Cedar Grove Business Park and the challenges the EDA, City and County are facing with respect to selling lots and paying the recently re-financed General Obligation bond burdening the City of Grand Marais.

Not surprisingly, Kimball and Fanning shared that they hear similar concerns in other Northern Minnesota communities. At the end of our meeting, we agreed that better communication is critical for Senator Franken to understand the needs of the Grand Marais/Cook County community so that he can represent us to the best of his ability.

Today's meeting was a first step in building a better and more productive relationship between elected officials to meet the needs of those we serve.

Thank you Marc Kimball and Daniel Fanning for taking the time to visit Grand Marais today. Enjoy your trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area this summer!

City Council Meeting

2010-04-14T21:45:00.004-05:00

After a quick tour of City Hall, Mayor Hakes was pleased to introduce her father, Herb Hakes, to the City Council, City Staff and members of the Public in attendance.

Mayor Hakes then called the regularly scheduled Council Meeting to order. In attendance were Hakes, Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson, City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and City Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
No members of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with minor corrections.

Girl Scout Tree Planting Request
Council unanimously approved the request from the Girl Scouts of Cook County to plant a tree for the Detrick and Palmer families in memory of Dean Detrick. The Girl Scouts were represented by Arvis Thompson, Girl Scouts Northern Light Services Unit Chairperson. The tree will be planted in front of the Detrick Building.

Street Permits
Council unanimously approved Street Permits for both the Art Festival (July 10-11) and the Dragon Boat Festival (July 29 - August 1). Art Colony Director Amy Demmer made the request on behalf of the Art Colony for the Art Festival.

In an effort to better support Special Events being held in our City Parks, festivals and events will now be required to get a permit from the Park Board to use City Park property or resources. The City Council will continue to approve street use requests.

Cook County Soil & Water Stormwater Design Presentation
Tristan Beaster, Cook County Soil and Water, gave a very informational presentation on storm water design. Beaster overviewed the Planning and Design project that will be conducted during 2010 as part of a $36,000 Lake Superior Coastal Program Grant. Goals of the project are to direct storm water runoff, improve water quality and enhance streetscape landscaping.

North House Folk School (NHFS) Update
Greg Wright, Director of North House Folk School, made his Annual Report on NHFS to the Council. Wright was pleased to report that after a difficult financial year in 2009, enrollment for 2010 is up significantly over the past 2 years. Wright credits this early promise of a successful 2010 to improved marketing and dedicated staff.

Wright updated the Council on plans for building the new Blacksmith Shed. NHFS will be providing Council with a site plan and applying for a Building Permit requiring Council approval. Council required that NHFS continue to coordinate with the Park Board on their shared border, particularly regarding storm water runoff and pedestrian walkways.

Council unanimously approved formal request for extending the deadline for completion of the "North House Harbor-Side Commons Revitalization" project from Minnesota's Lake Superior Coastal Program Project Grant #306A-01-11. The City will request the new deadline for completion of the project to be May 31, 2012. Wright is very comfortable that this deadline will be achieved.

Council & Staff Reports
Jan Sivertson reported that in a highly unusual move, the MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) reinstated Cook County in the joint Lake/Cook County Small Cities Development Program grant for housing rehabilitation funds. The Council expressed their sincere gratitude to both Reed Erickson (State Program Administrative Director for DEED) and Nancy Grabko (EDA Housing Coordinator). This restored funding will enable Cook County to fund 10 home rehabilitation projects in the next 15 months.
Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board approved the Community Garden project and their Capital Improvement Plan. Priority Capital Improvement Projects include 1) paving the road running west from 8th Avenue West, 2) upgrading 10-20 sites to full hook-up, 3) improving the community's connection to the Park, 4) installing the solar hot water heater in the bath house funded by a grant, 5) Safe Harbor planning, 6) new Park Office. The Park officially opens May 1.
Kay Costell0 reported that the Library Board and Library Staff are working to solicit interested architects for the Library's proposed expansion project.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday 4/28 at 3:30 pm, Budget Worksession at City Hall
Wednesday 4/28 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, 5/12 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, 5/26 at 4:30 pm, City Council Meeting
Thursday, 5/27 at 4:00 pm Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting at location TBD

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

2010-04-08T11:16:00.003-05:00

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. If you, or someone you know, is affected by domestic violence or sexual assault, please contact the Violence Prevention Center in Cook County at 218 387 1262.

Services provided by the Violence Prevention Center are free and confidential.

Read-A-Thon Project is Impressive and Win/Win!

2010-04-07T21:31:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to the Third Graders at Sawtooth Mountain Elementary and Heather Kemp on their thoughtful and worthy Read-A-Thon project. What a great idea for raising money for the Senior Center and enjoying the pleasure of reading! Everybody wins!

Worksession and City Council Meeting

2010-03-31T21:39:00.016-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's Council Worksession and regularly scheduled City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor. Ben Silence and Mike Flack were present for a portion of the Council Meeting and Dave Tersteeg attended the Worksession.

Council Worksession

Grant Awards Made
Council was delighted to hear that (2) proposals that were submitted to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Program (EECBG) by the City and the Cook County Energy Project (CCLEP) were awarded. Mayor Hakes thanked CCLEP on behalf of the Council for their work in bringing these opportunities to the City and for their contribution in winning these awards.

The first project funded is for $10,000 (plus ~$10K cost-share) to retrofit existing lighting in City-owned buildings (City Hall, Park Office, bath houses, water and wastewater treatment plants).

The second project awarded is for the City and County to fund a consultant to work with the City and County to identify and prioritize energy efficiency goals for residential, commercial and government buildings. The City and County had applied individually for $30K each. The award will be made to the City and County jointly for $50,000. The City's portion of the matching funds will be provided through City Staff support and CCLEP volunteer time.

Setting Priorities
As agreed to at the February 24, 2010 Council Meeting, the Council held a Worksession to begin to prioritize the City's energy efficiency goals and projects, as well as identify energy efficiency goals shared with CCLEP. The City and CCLEP intend to jointly pursue grant funding to move shared energy efficiency goals forward. Several members of the CCLEP organization were present to participate in the discussion.

The Council clearly agrees that improving energy efficiency for the City overall is important, and agreed unanimously to create and accept a Value Statement reflecting this. Hakes and Roth will prepare a statement for Council review at the next Council Meeting.

The City uses a lot of energy for street lights, water treatment, sewage treatment and buildings. Improving energy efficiency in these areas would be beneficial to the City; projects that can show a financial payback and reduction in energy usage would be of priority interest to the Council. Council would like to focus grant applications in these areas above others.

Biomass Energy
George Wilkes reported that CCLEP is regrouping around Biomass Energy and the CCLEP Biomass team intends to collaborate with MNTCSI and the University of Minnesota to submit a proposal to the LCCMR to fund a feasbility study for using Biomass Energy in Cook County.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
On behalf of the Lions Club, Mark Sandbo reported that there have been (3) meetings held to discuss the need for additional public restrooms in downtown Grand Marais. Consideration by the Committee is being given to expanding the existing public restrooms, building new bathrooms in conjunction with the potential Library Expansion, building an entirely new facility, or renovating a portion of the building behind Threads. A request for funding will be forthcoming to the Council. Council will consider the need for additional public restrooms in their Capital Improvement Planning and Prioritization.

Grand Marais Fire Chief Ben Silence and Assistant Fire Chief Mike Flack informed the Council that the Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department (GMVFD) and Mesabi Range Community College will be conducting a house burn training at 406 First Avenue East on April 10, 2010. Flack will be giving notice to neighbors on the block and neighboring blocks. This will be an all day event. Questions should be directed to City Hall at 387-1848.

Senior Center Director Bev Green expressed concerns regarding the difficulty in getting the Arrowhead Transit bus in and out of the City Parking Lot. Green and Roth will work to find a solution for parking the bus and consider the benefits of creating a bus only parking space on Broadway in front of the Senior Center.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

Peddler Permit
Council unanimously approved a Peddler Permit for Dan Anderson, Scenic Airplane Rides, to give scenic airplane rides fom the Grand Marais Harbor and East Bay for the months of June-October.

Farmer's Market Expansion
Council unanimously approved the request from the Cook County Farm and Craft Market to expand the Farmer's Market space into the City Parking Lot. The Farmer's Market is held during the Summer on Saturday mornings from about 7:30 am to 1 pm.

CCLEP
Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) requested Council support and cost-share for the submission of an Iron Range Resources (IRR) Renewable Energy Grant. The deadline for this grant is tomorrow April 1, 2010. The proposed project is for installation of a 10.56 kw pole mounted photovoltaic system at Gunflint Hills Golf course or other suitable location on City-owned property. The basic idea of this project is to convert light into electricity to be fed back into the power grid.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be $107,000 with cost share from the City of $8,000 cash and $5,000 site preparation. The City would also be responsible for any maintenance or repair of the system which has a projected useful life of 20-30 years. The anticipated energy cost savings for this project is $1600/year for the City of Grand Marais.

Council approved submitting the proposal 4-1 with Mayor Hakes voting against. Hakes opposed the project based on a) the lack of payback (30 years x $1600 = $48,000), b) the lack of time for Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor to examine and validate the project costs, and c) the deviation from the agreement by the City and CCLEP to identify priorities and submit proposals based on those priorities. Hakes also expressed concern that City's discretionary funds will be limited or eliminated in 2010 due to further cuts to Local Government Aid.

Lake and Cook County Joint Housing Initiative 2009 Annual Report
Housing Coordinator Nancy Grabko presented the 2009 Annual Report for the Lake/Cook County Joint Housing Initiative for EDA. Highlights of the report showed that total funds awarded in 2009 were $671,576 with (9) households in Cook County and (13) households in Lake County benefitting from rehabilitation projects. Seven households in the Creechville benefitted from Water/Sewer Assessment Abatement.

$130,067 in funding has been secured for (4) household rehabilitation projects in Cook County for 2010. The focus will be on households outide of the City.

Planning Commission Report
The Second Reading of Ordinance 2010-01 Roof Signs was read.

Earth Day Anniversary
Mayor Hakes reported that Jim Shinners is leading an effort to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, 2010. In recognition of this birthday, several local organizations are participating in an Earth Day Harbor Clean-Up: City of Grand Marais, US Border Patrol, WTIP Community Radio, North House Folk School, Harbor Friends, Grand Marais Chamber of Commerce, US Forest Service, Cook County News Herald, Grand Marais Business Council. Local schools, churches and other groups are encouraged to participate and will be contacted.

Our theme for Earth Day this year will be "What are you doing for Earth Day"? Goals for Earth Day include a) recognizing and honoring Earth Day, b) cleaning up the Grand Marais Harbor area, and 3) demonstrating that various organizations can come together cooperatively to achieve worthwhile goals.

To learn more about how you can participate, please contact Jim Shinners at 387-1191 at the Harbor Inn.

Council & Staff Reports
Bill Lenz reported that County Commissioner Bob Fenwick attended the most recent Community Center meeting. The Community Center Working Group has completed a User's Matrix based on information provided by various users of the proposed Community Center.
Tim Kennedy reported that the EDA closed on a lot sale to Pete Greszyk and the City of Grand Marais has been paid $60,000 for the assessment due.
Jan Sivertson shared that she has had difficulty attending North Shore Management Board Meetings and encouraged interested Councilors to consider supporting this board.
Sue Hakes acknowledged the MPCA recognition of the Wastewater/Water Treatment for outstanding operation, maintenance and management of the Grand Marais Wastewater Treatment System. Council expressed appreciation for the consistent excellent work by Tom Nelson and his crew.

And, saving the best for last, Mike Roth reported that David Dill worked on behalf of the City of Grand Marais to get $100,000 in State funding for water/sewer infrastructure improvement; the bill has been signed by the Governor. This money will likely be used to upgrade 4" water mains and/or replace fire hydrants.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, April 14 at 4:30 City Council Meeting
Wednesday, April 28 at 3:30 Worksession-Budget
Wednesday, April 28 at 4:30 City Council Meeting

Very Good News!

2010-03-16T13:55:00.003-05:00

County Board discusses One Percent Local Option Sales Tax Projects

I attended the Cook County Board of Commissioner's Meeting this morning at the Courthouse to hear their discussion about the One Percent Local Option Sales Tax projects. I am very happy to report that the County Board identified the Community Center as a priority for One Percent Sales Tax funding.

Commissioner Jan Hall said, "We've got to get moving on this; let's not waste this summer". And Commissioner Bob Fenwick asked the County Board to approve him as the project lead for the Community Center Project. Fenwick said he wants to begin working on this immediately.

Fenwick also asked Bruce Martinson to replace him on the Fiber Optic Commission; Martinson agreed. The County Board unanimously approved both appointments.

Fritz Sobanja is the current County Board liason for the Community Center. And Jim Johnson, because of his interest in the project, has been attending the Community Center One Percent Meetings regularly (as a citizen) for the past few months and will continue to do so.

The Board also agreed to include One Percent Local Option Sales Tax project updates at every County Board Meeting.

This is great news. Last year's public process regarding the One Percent Sales Tax identified the Community Center as the most important project for Cook County residents. Furthermore, the Community Center project is consistent with the goals and objectives identified by the City Council.

City Council Meeting

2010-03-10T20:24:00.007-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also in attendance were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone). Councilor Tim Kennedy was absent.

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved.

Planning Commission
On March 3, 2010, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to consider an amendment regarding roof signs. No members of the public were present at the public hearing. After that hearing, the Planning Commission discussed and approved 4-0 the proposed amendment to modify the existing zoning ordinance to a) reduce the height a sign is allowed to project above the height of a building, b) limit the sign width, and c) restrict the location of the bottom of the sign. Roof Signs are currently allowed in the downtown districts by Conditional Use Permit.

Councilors Costello and Sivertson heard some concerns about Roof Signs in general. No feedback was received at City Hall.

Council voted 4-0 to support the First Reading of this Sign Ordinance Amendment.

Fund Transfers
Council approved a fund transfer of $35,000 to the Gunflint Hills Golf Course from the General Fund. Kim Dunsmoor noted that the Gunflint Hills Golf Course lost just $1500 in 2009, a marked improvement over 2008. Councilor Lenz raised the issue about whether or not the Gunflint Hills Golf Course should continue to be an Enterprise Fund; Council will revisit this during budget discussions later in 2010.

Council also approved a transfer of $56,206.31 from the 2008 Improvement Project to the General Fund. The 2008 Improvement Project came in under budget by this amount.

Council & Staff Reports

Mayor Hakes reported on several things:

1) Steve Schug of the Forest Service contacted Hakes to let the City of Grand Marais know that the USDA Forest Service and Superior National Forest will be host to the Boy Scouts of America's Order of the Arrow in June 2011. An estimated 500-600 scouts are scheduled to participate in this event. Hakes and the Council were excited to learn about this very positive coming event.

2) Hakes and Roth both attended this week's County Board meeting to learn more about the Broadband Project. It was confirmed that the County was not successful in their bid for a Federal Grant to bring Broadband to Cook County; the County was given general feedback that their business plan was lacking. The County will not be submitting an application for Phase II of the Federal Grant process. However, Arrowhead Electric Cooperative, in conjunction with Pulse Broadband, is working to apply for a grant from the Rural Utilities service. A new technology patented by Pulse Broadband uses fiber optic cable but enables the fiber infrastructure to be constructed for significantly less than what was proposed in the County's grant application. The County Board discussed supporting this effort at a level similar to what they intended to support their original project. It is unclear whether or not the County is able or willing to commit One Percent Sales Tax funds to this effort.

3) Hakes reported on her conversation this week with Stan Linnell of the DNR regarding the Joint Powers Agreement that the DNR and the City hope to enter into. A meeting of the DNR and the City is tentatively scheduled for May in Grand Marais to review the Park Master Plan, Boat Landing Project, and process for going forward. Certainly, funding for a Safe Harbor and Marina project is difficult at best.

4) Hakes updated the Council on the (2) EDA Workshop meetings attended by the City (Hakes, Kennedy, Roth), the County (Fenwick, Martinson) and the EDA (Litfin, Hall, Geretschlaeger). Much of the effort in these meetings has been spent trying to get clear about the finances of the EDA and Superior National Golf Course. It is clear that there is an immediate cash flow crisis, as well as mid-term problems (MPCA issues) and lack of a long term vision. Clearly neither the City or the County is willing to continue supporting the EDA in the long term without significant change, clear direction and accountability. All options for resolving the EDAs problems are being considered.

Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board continues to work on setting Capital Improvement priorities and a potential Community Garden.

Mark Your Calendar
Wednesday March 31 at 3:30 pm Worksession on Energy Efficiency Priorities/CCLEP
Wednesday March 31 at 4:30 pm City Council Meeting
Wednesday April 14 at 4:30 pm City Council Meeting
Wednesday April 28 at 3:30 pm Budget Worksession
Wednesday April 28 at 4:30 City Council Meeting

International Women's Day

2010-03-08T08:25:00.013-06:00

Today, March 8, is International Women's Day. Mark this day by taking the time to think about and appreciate the contributions of women (both past and present) that have made your life better. Give back by finding the women in your life that need help and reach out to them. Lend a hand. Be yourself.

Thanks, Mom!

Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting

2010-02-28T11:42:00.005-06:00

Last Thursday, the quarterly Joint CSST meeting was held at the Courthouse. The purpose of these meetings is to share information on a somewhat informal basis. The agenda is set and agreed to at the beginning of these meetings. The public is welcome to attend and listen.

Safe Routes to School
After the agenda was set, the Safe Routes to School group made an informational presentation. The goal of this group is to work with parents, schools and local government to improve safe routes for all children and encourage children to walk and bike to school. The local Safe Routes to School group consists of approximately 30 community members and is part of a larger national effort. A request by the group was made for the County and City to consider Safe Routes to School priorities when planning future road and sidewalk improvements.

Asian Carp and VHSV
Tribal Chairman Norman Deschampe reported that Grand Portage is working with Senator Al Franken's office to protect Lake Superior from Asian Carp infestation. He also expressed grave concerns about the VHS virus which is already documented in Lake Superior and like Asian Carp, will cause fish mortalities. Deschampe also reported that the Grand Portage Tribe has received authority to participate in Joint Powers Agreements; this news was received very positively.

ISD School 166
School Board Member Eric Kemp shared the ISD166 School budget concerns and outlined potential solutions. The proposed State cuts are deep and will likely result in both program and personnel cuts. The School Board is also considering a referendum.

Broadband
The County reported that Cook County was unsuccessful in its bid for a Federal Grant to build Broadband services in Cook County. It appears the County Board is uncertain about submitting a proposal for a 2nd phase of Federal grants. Commissioner Bob Fenwick also reported on the bill currently before the State Legislature to reduce from 65% to 50% the referendum vote needed before Cook County can operate its own telephone exchange; the outcome of this bill is not yet known.

One Percent Sales Tax Projects
County Board members acknowledged that prioritizing and allocating funds for One Percent Projects is a priority they need to work. Mayor Hakes advocated for the Community Center, the project for which Community support was strongest. Fenwick said there is "no project higher" on the County's list at this time.

City Council Meeting

2010-02-24T20:19:00.005-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and City Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
George Wilkes and Buck Benson of CCLEP came before the Council to discuss (2) immediate opportunities for working together in the pursuit of grant funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Program (EECBG). The State Department of Commerce, Office of Energy Security, extended the deadline for this local government grant to March 3.

City Staff and CCLEP worked together to identify a project that could be funded by this grant. Council voted unanimously to support the submission of an application to retrofit the existing lighting in City-owned buildings including City Hall, Park Office and bath houses, water and wastewater treatment plants. Success in obtaining this grant will accelerate the City's ability to do this necessary work this year instead of having to wait. The City intends to hire a local electrician to conduct the retrofit work which would start almost immediately after the grant is awarded.

Council voted unanimously to make a 2nd grant application to EECGB for the creation of a City of Grand Marais Energy Effiiciency Plan. If successful, the grant will fund a consultant to lead the effort to identify and prioritize energy efficiency goals for residential, commercial and government buildings. The effort would also develop strategies for implementing and monitoring any plan ultimately defined and approved by the City Council. Matching funds will be provided through CCLEP volunteer time and City Staff support.

Council and CCLEP spent some time discussing how to best work together. Council agreed to hold a Worksession on March 31 to identify and prioritize the City's energy efficiency goals and projects. Once that list is created, Council will work with CCLEP to find areas of overlap and ways to pursue joint funding. Council views CCLEP as a valued community asset and wants to take advantage of their knowledge, passion and skills.

Council and Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that members of the group working on Safe Routes to School will be making a presentation to the Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council at their meeting tomorrow (2/25).
Jan Sivertson reported that she has received some feedback about the potential change to the Sign Ordinance. She encouraged those with concerns to attend the PUC Public Hearing on the matter at their March 3 meeting.
Bill Lenz reported that he attended yesterday's Community Center Meeting. Input from stakeholders is being collected.
Sue Hakes reported that the Governor's budget is proposing a reduction to the City's Local Government Aid (LGA) of just under $80K. Hakes requested a Worksession to discuss the 2010 budget and LGA reduction in March or April to plan for this unallotment. Hakes also reported that she received a call from Lyle Gerard regarding International Workers in Grand Marais, how they are supported and possible ways to improve their experience. Hakes will coordinate a meeting of interested community members.

Mark Your Calendars
Thursday, February 25 at 4:00 PM, Joint CCST ad the Courthouse
Wednesday, March 3 at 4:00 PM, PUC Meeting and Public Hearing at City Hall
Wednesday, March 10 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeing
Wednesday, March 31, at 3:30 PM, Council Worksession on Energy Efficiency
Wednesday, March 31, at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting

City Council Meeting and Open Meeting Law Review

2010-02-10T21:01:00.005-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy,Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and City Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with no changes.

Planning Commission Report
The Planning Commission has been discussing the regulations for roof signs. After exploring various factors in the design of roof signs, the Planning Commission has created draft ordinance amendment language for consideration. The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider these amendments at their next meeting, March 3. The public is encouraged to attend.

Librarian I Job Description Review
City Staff and the Personnel Committee have completed a pay equity job review for the Librarian I position. Council unanimously approved the adjustment to the pay equity score.

Open Meeting Law Refresher
Supported by City Attorney Chris Hood, Mike Roth refreshed the City Council on the Open Meeting Law and how it applies. This training will be given to all City committees, boards, and other public bodies that must comply. In general, any time a public body meets, it must give advance notice and allow the public to attend. The Open Meeting Law protects the right of the public to be informed, allows the public to detect improper influence and gives the public a chance to provide input.

Council & Staff Reports

Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board has purchased (2) vacated moorings in the Grand Marais Harbor for $6K. He also reported that the Park Board is discussing repairs to the road in the Rec Park along 8th Avenue to the Sliding Hill. The Pool will be closed 3/1 thru 3/5 for annual cleaning & maintenance. And, Lenz happily announced that anybody over age 100 can use the Pool for free!!

Kay Costello reported that the Library Board met.

Tim Kennedy reported that the Planning Commission is looking at how development occurs within the City of Grand Marais on un-sewered lots to determine if any changes are needed.

Jan Sivertson reported on the EDA. Currently the EDA is struggling with cash flow and has asked the County for $100K. She also noted that there is a $40K deficit from 2009. There is not enough money to pay Director Matt Geretschlager at this time. The EDA Golf Course Committee has also gone before the County Board to request $25K for capital improvements to Superior National Golf Course.

Sue Hakes reported that she attended and enjoyed the Grand Marais Fire Department Annual Meeting and Dinner last week. Hakes asked Roth for an update on the Shoreline Motel sign repair/replacement. Roth reported that Mark Sandbo (General Manager of the Shoreline Motel) has hired a contractor to tear off the loose sheet metal from the sign. This work will be done this Friday or Monday of next week.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, February 24 at 4:30 City Council Meeting at City Hall
Thursday, February 25 at 4:00 Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting at Courthouse
Wednesday, March 3, PUC Public Hearing on roof signs.
Wednesday, March 10 at 4:30 City Council Meeting at City Hall
Wednesday, March 31 at 4:30 City Council Meeting at City Hall

Precinct Caucus Night

2010-02-02T12:07:00.002-06:00

Join your friends and neighbors tonight at your local precinct caucus.

In Grand Marais the Democratic Caucus is being held at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts (ACA); the Republican Caucus is being held at the Community Center. Both start promptly at 7 PM; it may be a good idea to get there a bit early to register.

John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon

2010-02-01T08:35:00.002-06:00

27th Running of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon

The Beargrease racers are entering Cook County today; there are several place for spectators to enjoy what always promises to be an exciting and fun-filled event!

Follow along by going to http://www.beargrease.com/ where you can not only track your favorite musher, but you can also learn about dog mushing, race events, history of the race, and good places to spectate!

Have fun!

City Council Meeting

2010-01-27T19:42:00.013-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also in attendance were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, Lenny Bloomquist (Property Maintenance Supervisor), and City Attorney Chris Hood (via telephone).

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to address the Council.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with one grammatical correction.

Sidewalk Winter Maintenance
At the January 13, 2010 City Council Meeting, business owner Eric Humphrey requested that the Council and City discuss solutions for improving snow removal in the downtown area. In addition to Humphrey's request, the City and the Council have heard from a few other concerned citizens regarding trouble spots on the sidewalks and snow removal in downtown Grand Marais. Council agreed to invite Len Bloomquist, Property Maintenance Supervisor, to today's Council Meeting to discuss the problem areas and make a plan.

Bloomquist gave the Council a very complete overview of the process, equipment and schedule for clearing the downtown sidewalks and streets in Grand Marais. The goal of the Street Department is to remove the snow from the downtown sidewalks and streets before anybody needs to go downtown or park downtown. Generally, the work of the street department begins at 3:00 AM with sidewalk clearing first, followed by plowing the streets.

Technically, the responsibility of sidewalk snow removal belongs to the property owner. However, City Crews currently remove snow from all of the sidewalks in the commercial area south of Highway 61, the bike trail from the west city limits to the post office, from First Avenue West, and from County Road 7. The snow removal in the commercial area is done concurrently with street snow removal as all the snow is relocated to stockpile areas.

The City does not remove snow until is snows 3 inches or more. And, the removal of snow from the sidewalks is limited by the size and maneuverability of the equipment used, currently a Bobcat skid steer loader. For these reasons, the City is unable to keep the sidewalks completely snow free. The detail work of cleaning the sidewalks is up to the property owners.

After a reasonably lengthy discussion, Council agreed that there is likely confusion in the public about the snow removal services the City provides, when and where. Council agreed that Mike Roth would draft a letter to property and business owners in the commercial area with information about the City's snow removal process.

Council noted the obvious that winter rainfall and slush have caused a lot of ice on the sidewalks and streets. Council also agreed with Humphrey that it is important that our sidewalks and roadways be cleared, making it easy for pedestrians to walk safely in our downtown area. Councilor Kennedy also talked about the importance of safe walking routes to school and the work being done to improve that.

The Public is encouraged to call City Hall at 387-1848 with sidewalks and streets that are problems and the City crews will work to make those areas passable and safe. The Council is hopeful that by everybody working together we can improve the snow/ice removal in downtown Grand Marais.

Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
At the January 13, 2010 Council Meeting, CCLEP requested that the City make application to the State Office of Energy Assistance for various projects totaling $100,000. It was CCLEPs intention to provide the complete application for Council review before submission. However, because CCLEP realized the due date for this application was January 25 and not January 29 as originally believed, CCLEP was unable to to move forward.

As agreed at the January 13, 2010 meeting, Council did supply a letter of support for a CCLEP project for a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to the Environmental Pollution Agency (EPA). This project was supported by the Council 3-1 with Hakes casting the dissenting vote on the basis that neither CCLEP nor the Council was familiar with the content of the proposal or the potential commitment of the City.

Council and Staff Reports
Bill Lenz reported that the Community Center committee met and agreed to poll all potential stakeholders in a future Community Center to identify their needs and wants.
Kay Costello noted that the Joint Powers Recreation Board is still not meeting until further direction is given.
Tim Kennedy reported on the progress being made by the Safe Routes to School Project and suggested it be discussed at the next Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council meeting. Kennedy also noted that the Broadband Committee has begun discussing Broadband implementation and that the Fiber Optic Commission has been appointed. Both Kennedy and Roth will continue to represent the PUC and the City on this Committee.
Jan Sivertson delivered a check for $100,000 from the EDA to the City as payment for the loan granted by the City to support the cash flow for Superior National Golf Course. The EDA did not make their interest payment to the City, but recognizes the debt and intends to make that payment when able to. Sivertson also reported that the EDA is forming a sub-committee to plan for the financial future of the EDA. The committee will consist of 2 County, 2 City and 3 EDA representatives. Hakes and Kennedy both volunteered to be part of that committee and Council approved unanimously.
Sue Hakes shared with the Council that an "Undoing Racism" workshop has been scheduled for April 7, 8. and 9 and suggested that the City and the Council each ask for volunteer participation. Estimated cost for each participant is $100. Hakes was a participant in the Workshop a few years and ago and found the experience to be extremely valuable in raising awareness and thinking in a new way. Hakes also asked Roth for an update on the replacement of the Shoreline Motel sign. Council agreed that Mike Roth should contact Mark Sandbo (Shoreline Motel manager) about immediately removing the potentially dangerous large metal piece that is flapping in the wind. Roth also reported that Mark Sandbo provided a copy of the contract with the Sign Company for the new sign. There is no date for the replacement of the sign, but downpayment has been made. Council will continue to follow up.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday, February 10 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting
Wednesday, February 24 at 4:30 PM, City Council Meeting
Thursday, February 25 at 4:30 PM, Joint C/C/S/T Meeting at location TBD

First Council Meeting in 2010

2010-01-13T22:11:00.006-06:00

If you've been a regular reader of this blog, you'll note that this entry is a bit cryptic. Please accept my apology. I'm leaving town in the morning for a few days and do not have the luxury of elaborating. As always, Council meeting minutes will be published in the Cook County News Herald and on the City's website; they are also available by contacting City Hall at 387-1848.

City Council Meeting

The Grand Marais City Council held its first meeting of 2010. In attendance were Mayor Hakes, Councilors Kay Costell0, Bill Lenz and Jan Sivertson. Tim Kennedy was absent. Also in attendance were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor; City Attorney Chris Hood was connected via telephone.

Eric Humphrey addressed the Council during the OPEN FORUM, requesting that the City discuss possible solutions for improving snow removal in the downtown area. Council agreed to add this to the agenda on January 27 and ask Lenny Bloomquist of the Street Department to participate.

General housekeeping issues were addressed including Council Board appointments (no changes from current assignments), selection of the Acting Mayor (Jan Sivertson), designation of the official newspaper (CCNH) and depositories, and acceptance of the reduced 2010 mileage rate to $.50/mile.

The Council also approved a Storefront Loan for "The Garage" from Jill Terrill. Steve Lack's request for a variance to subdivide his property was approved; this approval was consistent with the Planning Commission recommendation. And, the Council upheld the Planning Commission's decision to deny the Great Expectations School sign variance because the sign is larger than the Sign Ordinance allows.

Council heard Buck Benson and George Wilkes of Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) present (2) project ideas. The Council agreed to write a letter of support for CCLEP to be used in their pursuit of grants.

Finally, Jan Sivertson gave a report on the EDA. Bill Lenz gave an update on AEOA housing rehabilitation. Sue Hakes reported on meeting with NHFS, Shoreline sign replacement progress, and pending Norwegian documentary film planned for this summer.

The next City Council Meeting is scheduled for 4:30 PM on Wednesday January 27, 2010. As always, the public is encouraged to attend.

2009 Mayor's Recap

2009-12-31T13:17:00.003-06:00

I'm pleased to report on the major accomplishments of the Grand Marais City Council in 2009. I also want to take this opportunity to publicly thank the City Staff and City Employees for doing the hard work.

2009 Grand Marais City Accomplishments
(in no particular order)

Established Council Goals & Objectives for 2009-2010
Purchased and installed Finger Piers in the Municipal Marina
Successfully completed Creechville annexation
Obtained DNR commitment to create and present draft Joint Powers Agreement for Marina/Harbor based on Resolution 2007-05
Approved and installed Aqua Climbing Wall in the City Pool
Seamlessly re-organized City Attorney responsibilities
Passed Rec Park Master Plan with Goals & Policies
Worked earnestly to pass the County One Percent Sales Tax
Passed City Noise Ordinance
Improved Pedestrian Safety with addition of Highway 61 crosswalk
Worked with Mn DOT to slow traffic on Highway 61 through Grand Marais by purchasing "Event Congestion" signs and planning for purchase and installation of "Your Speed Is" sign
Passed annual audit; maintained "A" bond rating.
Asked for and received commitment from County to support the swimming pool up to $75,000 in 2009 and 2010
Executed plan to re-finance the $1.63M EDA Temporary Bonds for the Business Park
Minimized tax levy increase in spite of significant Local Government Aid cuts
Worked with IRRB to obtain $140K to help offset costs for Business Park infrastructure
Partnered with Grand Marais business community and the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau with $5K cost-share commitment to decorate downtown for "A North Shore Holiday"

On a personal note, it's been my absolute pleasure to serve as the Mayor of Grand Marais. I'm grateful for the growing cooperative spirit within our community and look forward to a productive 2010.

Happy New Year to All!

Sue Hakes

Last City Council Meeting of 2009

2009-12-31T12:39:00.005-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Kay Costello, Tim Kennedy, Bill Lenz and Jan Sivertson were all present for the last City Council Meeting of 2009. Also present was Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor. City Administrator Mike Roth was absent. City Attorney Chris Hood was not present for this meeting at Council request.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The consent agenda was approved with one minor change to the Dec. 9, 2009 City of Grand Marais Minutes.

2008 Improvement Project Final Pay Estimate
Council approved the Final Payment of $115,596.53 for the 2008 Street and Utility Reconstruction Project. Per a memo received from City Engineer Jamison Mehle, the project has been completed and quantities have been agreed to by all parties. The project may now be closed, less the one-year warranty period.

Council & Staff Reports
Jan Sivertson gave a progress report on the EDA. A Public Hearing was held regarding the sale of a Cedar Grove Business Park lot to Pete Grescyk for $45,000 plus $20,000 Special Assessment (pending approval of the City Council). The Baptist Church has also expressed possible interest in purchasing an additional Business Park lot. The University of MN Crookston has begun their Cost Benefit Analysis of the EDA to be completed by July 2010. Jan also discussed overall budget concerns and said the EDA will have a balanced budget in 2010. The EDA Board is exploring all options to deal with current debt, lot sales, other issues. Jan expects the EDA to repay the City the $100,000 loan in January 2010.

Mayor Hakes shared a written summary of the 2009 Grand Marais City Accomplishments and expressed her gratitude for the way in which the Council worked together in 2009. Hakes, and the other Councilors, also acknowledged the work of the City Staff and City Employees during 2009.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday January 13 at 4:30 PM Initial City Council Annual Meeting at City Hall
Wednesday January 27 at 4;30 PM City Council Meeting at City Hall

Building Relationships (Better Together)

2009-12-17T15:46:00.003-06:00

I had the good fortune to participate in two extremely informative and very pleasant meetings this week with the shared goal of relationship building.

Minnesota Land Trust
On December 15, Dave Tersteeg, Park Manager, and I had a very information and productive meeting with Francis "Fitz" Fitzgerald (Northern Region Conservation Director) and Anne Murphy (Conservation Stewardship Director) of the Minnesota Land Trust.

This very friendly and informal meeting gave us the opportunity to get to know one another, and to better understand how the Land Trust and the Grand Marais Land Trust easement work. We were also able to give a general review of the recently adopted Park Master Plan and work being done with the DNR for a Marina/Safe Harbor.

After our meeting, Tersteeg gave Fitzgerald and Murphy a tour of the Rec Park and Harbor Park.

We all concluded that it is important to work closely together for our mutual benefit and agreed to do so.

U.S. Border Patrol
Mike Roth, City Administrator, and I were invited by Richard Fortunato (Supervisory Border Patrol Agent) to tour the Border Patrol Office on Artist's Point and visit with Fortunato about issues of mutual concern between the City of Grand Marais and the U.S. Border Patrol.

On December 17, Roth and I met with Fortunato and Mariano Arguedas (Lead Border Patrol Agent) for 90 minutes or so. This time was extremely well spent as Fortunato and Arguedas gave us a very useful overview of the U.S. Border Patrol, their mission, and their facility.

We also spent valuable time discussing the desire of the Border Patrol to build a positive relationship with elected officials, law enforcement and the Public. The Border Patrol intends to hold an Open House for the Public at their local facility. They are also involved with community service through the Boy Scouts and their Gunflint Trail Outreach programs.

Fortunato encouraged us to contact him with any concerns, and we promised to do so.

City Council Meeting and Budget Public Hearing

2009-12-09T20:10:00.007-06:00

Mayor Hakes and City Councilors Costello, Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were all present at today's City Council Meeting and Budget Public Hearing. Also present were City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor, and City Attorney Chris Hood (via phone).

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda was approved with the addition of an agenda item to discuss the upgrading of Librarian I Job Description.

2010 Budget Discussion and Budget Public Hearing
Council discussed the 2010 City Budget prior to the Public Hearing and approved it after the 6:00 PM Public Hearing. No members of the Public were present at the Public Hearing (except WTIP and Cook County News Herald reporters).

Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2009-15 to set the final levy, collectible in 2010 upon the taxable property in the City of Grand Marais for a total of $802,657.38. Council set the same amount as the preliminary levy set at the September 9, 2009 Council Meeting. This amount represents an increase in the total levy of 3% ($23,000).

Council, City Staff and Department Heads have worked throughout all of 2009 to spend wisely and set a budget that is responsible. Final budget adjustments were made, resulting in ~$50,000 of unallocated funds.

The State has announced a $1.2 billion deficit that will require significant remedial action by the 2010 legislature. Governor Pawlenty has stressed that 2010 Local Government Aid (LGA) could be reduced to address this deficit. This means that the 2010 LGA allocation of $96,422 for Grand Marais is in jeopardy.

Council agreed the remaining ~$50,000 should be allocated for spending on the Council Priorities adopted in 2009 including PUC Maintenance Facility, Safe Harbor/Marina, Capital Improvement Planning, and the Municipal Building. However, this money will also be marked as a Contingency Fund should the State unallot all or part of the the $96,422 LGA for 2010. Council could have opted to decrease the levy, but felt it was too risky with the uncertainty surrounding LGA for 2010.

2010 Supervisor Salaries
Council approved a 2.5% wage increase for supervisors in 2010. This is consistent with the 2.5% wage increase negotiated with AFSCME for union employees in 2009-2010.

2010 Board Openings
There are several board openings beginning in 2010. Serving on a City Board is a rewarding way to contribute meaningfully to the Community. Anybody interested in applying is encouraged to do so at City Hall. Open positions will be advertised in the local newspaper. Open spots include (2) on the Library Board, (2) on the Park Board, and (1) on the Public Utilities Commission.

Librarian I Position Description
Council approved the modifications recommended by the Personnel Committee to the Librarian I Position Description. These changes were made to more accurately reflect the responsibilities and qualifications required for this job.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that Pete Grescyk is exploring the purchase of a lot in the Cedar Grove Business Park for septage pre-processing. A Public Hearing is set for December 14 at City Hall. (Contact 387-1848 to confirm time.) Kennedy also reported that the Biomass Committee explored the possibility of submitting a proposal for another Federal Grant. However, due to the 20/80 split the Committee decided not to submit.
Bill Lenz updated the Council on modest increase to the 2010 Fees at the Campground and Marina.
Kay Costell0 participated in the 2nd Strategic Planning for the Library this week. She also recommended the Friends of the Boundary Waters sponsored movie, "Precious Waters' about the environmental impact resulting from Sulfide Mining on the Iron Range.
Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA continues to work on the Cedar Grove Business Park Marketing Plan. The EDA listed the Business Park lots with Tim Kennedy, Owner/Broker of Gunflint Realty. The EDA is working closely with Kennedy to establish new pricing and determine special assessments. The EDA needs to create a plan to repay the City the $1.6 million debt plus interest for the General Obligation bonds sold by the City this month. Sivertson also reported that the EDA has not repaid the $100,000 loan to the City, but still intends to do so.
Sue Hakes shared that she has heard some public concern about Tim Kennedy being hired by the EDA to sell lots. Council discusssed this briefly noting that a legal opinion was obtained and it was determined that there is no conflict of interest for Kennedy to work with the EDA as their real estate broker. It was also noted that the Council does not have authority over the EDA or Kennedy in this matter. Hakes also reported that US Border Patrol representative Richard Fortunato invited Hakes and any member of the Council to meet to discuss issues of mutual concern. Hakes and Mike Roth will meet with Fortunato at the Border Patrol office on Thursday, December 17, at 10 AM. And lastly, Hakes reported that she presented the Council's letter to the County Board stating the Council's desire to be a part of the process to design and build a Community Center/Rec Area and build an addition on the existing Library. No specific feedback was given to Hakes from the County Board. The City Council will continue to advocate for a new Community Center in Grand Marais.

Mark Your Calendars
Mon December 14 at 10:00 AM Public Hearing for EDA Lot Sale (call City Hall at 387 1848 to confirm date and time)
Wed December 30 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed January 13 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed January 27 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

Census 2010 Employment Opportunity

2009-12-08T11:06:00.002-06:00

The United States 2010 Census is still looking for workers in Cook County. For more information, including a practice test, go to http://www.2010censusjobs.gov/ or call 1-866-861-2010. The work hours are flexible.

Working Together Downtown!

2009-11-30T14:20:00.001-06:00

I want to acknowledge and give a warm thank you to everyone involved in decorating downtown Grand Marais for “A North Shore Holiday”. The friendly collaboration between the downtown business owners, City Staff, Grand Marais Area Tourism Association, and the City Council has resulted in making our town more beautiful, more festive and more welcoming.

It is my sincere hope that residents and visitors alike have an opportunity to enjoy many pleasurable strolls through our newly decorated Harbor Park and downtown streets as they shop for the holidays and gather with friends and family this season.

Have a happy and safe holiday!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T20:33:00.010-06:00

On this Thanksgiving Day I am particularly grateful for our beautiful harbor town and all of the wonderful people who live and work here.

Enjoy your time with family, friends and neighbors!

Holiday Parade Tonight in Grand Marais!

2009-11-24T13:14:00.009-06:00

Join the fun tonight at the Chamber of Commerce Annual Christmas parade in downtown Grand Marais. The Parade starts at 6:00 PM. If you want to be in the parade, the line-up begins at 5:30 PM in the Senior Center Parking Lot; this year's them is A Christmas Carol.

After the Parade, be sure to stop in at the Senior Center for pictures with Santa. Cookies, hot cider and coffee will be served.

White Tents a Glowin'

2009-11-20T18:06:00.009-06:00

The North House Folk School Winterer's Gathering campers are settled in at the School and the Rec Park. The lamps inside the tents and the outdoor fires cast a warm and friendly glow. Join the fun this weekend.

City Council Meeting and Grand Marais Noise Ordinance Public Review

2009-11-19T20:36:00.013-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Kay Costello, Bill Lenz and Jan Sivertson were all present for the November 18, 2009 City Council Meeting and Noise Ordinance Public Review. Councilor Tim Kennedy was absent. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, City Attorney Chris Hood and Librarian Linda Chapelle.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
No member of the public spoke at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
Two items were added to the agenda: 1) Council Letter to the County Board and 2) Store Front Loan Application. No other changes were made to the Consent Agenda.

Council Letter to the County Board
Council reviewed the letter rewritten by Hakes to be presented to the County Board by the Council for specific One Percent Sales Tax funding to build a Community Center/Rec Area and the Grand Marais Library expansion. Council is eager to support both efforts by participating on the Community Center Committee and the Library Board to bring these projects to fruition. Both Hakes and Bill Lenz attended the Community Center Board Meeting on November 17 and asked to be a part of the process. Kay Costello continues to work with the Library Board.

Library Improvement Project
Librarian Linda Chapelle and Library Board Members David Quick and Carol Miller reviewed with the Council their concept drawing for a proposed 3000 square foot addition. They also asked the Council for their support in proceeding with the project. The Library Board will also be talking with the County Commissioners about obtaining One Percent Sales Tax funding for the expansion. Council, Chapelle, Quick and Miller all agreed that the current location of the Library was the best location.

Store Front Loan Application
Bev Wolke presented the Store Front Loan Application letter from the Shoreline Inn Motel for $12,500. Council unanimously approved the loan to repair and replace the Shoreline Inn and Cobblestone Cove sign at the corner of Highway 61 and Broadway.

Business Park Financing
Carolyn Drude of Ehlers & Associates presented the results of the bond sale to pay off the Temporary General Obligation Bond sold 3 years ago (January 2007) for EDA Cedar Grove Business Park infrastructure . Due to the lack of lot sales, the EDA has been unable to repay this debt of $1,630,000. The low bid for the sale of $1,675,000 General Obligation Bonds was presented as 20 years at a true interest rate of 4.2419%. Council unanimously passed the resolution providing for the issuance and sale of these General Obigation Improvement Refunding Bonds.

In a positive note, Standard & Poor's Rating Services assigned the "A" long-term rating to the City of Grand Marais noting "the stable outlook reflects our expectations that the city will maintain its very strong financial position and balanced operations in future years".

SMMPA Contract Extension
Mike Roth reviewed the Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) presentation given to the Public Utilities Commission regarding the extension of the power sales contract from 2030 to 2050. Council supported the PUC decision to make this extension to the contract, obligating SMMPA to provide Grand Marais with electricity.

Grand Marais Noise Ordinance Public Review
No members of the public were present for this review of the Noise Ordinance adopted earlier this year. Mayor Hakes and Councilors present remarked that they received no noise complaints after the Noise Ordinance was enacted. Sheriff Mark Falk reported to Mike Roth that there were no music related noise complaints after the Ordinance was enacted. Sue Hakes received positive input from one city resident prior to the meeting; this resident had no noise complaints. Council agreed that the Noise Ordinance was a successful process.

Council & Staff Reports
No individual reports were given.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday Nov 19 at 4:00 PM Joint CCST at High School
Wednesday Dec 9 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wednesday Dec 30 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

Another Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting

2009-11-11T19:45:00.028-06:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Costello, Lenz, Kennedy and Sivertson were all present for the Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting held Monday, November 9. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Attorney Chris Hood. Present for the Worksession were Pat Hennessy, Mike Kunshier and Dave Tersteeg.

Budget Worksession

Pat Hennessy, Liquor Store Manager, gave an overview of Liquor Store Revenues and Expenses to date and the 2010 Budget. Liquor Store sales are up 3.8% through October. The Liquor Store is an important enterprise fund for the City of Grand Marais.

Mike Kunshier, Manager of Gunflint Hills Golf Courses, gave an overview of Revenues and Expenses to date and the 2010 Golf Course Budget. Also discussed were options for 2010 Course Rates. The Golf Course is an important asset to the City of Grand Marais drawing customers to the Rec Park Campground, as well as locals and tourists. Due to a nationwide decline over the past few years in golfing, the Golf Course has struggled and has shown losses. There was some discussion about whether to account for the Golf Course as an Enterprise Fund or change it to the General Fund.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Eric Humphrey and Jane Shinners, representing the Grand Marais Area Tourism Association (GMATA), reported several items of interest to the Council including 1) A major effort is underway to consolidate tourism marketing efforts throughout Cook County. GMATA, Gunflint Trail Association, Lutsen-Tofte Tourism Association, Grand Portage and the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau are working together to form a 501(c)(3) umbrella organization. There will be (1) Director for the newly formed organization. GMATA will remain in its current location. The Chamber of Commerce will remain an independent entity. 2) A special Customer Service Training will be offered through Cook County Higher Ed on 12/16 or 12/17. 3) Local business owners raised nearly $6K for the North Shore Holiday downtown decorations. This will be matched with $5K from the City of Grand Marais.

Planning Commission Report
The Council unanimously approved Dale Speck's request for a variance from the requirement of a lot to have frontage on a public street. Council supported the Planning Commission's unanimous recommendation.

Liability Insurance Renewal
Paul Coe updated Council on the City's Liability Insurance renewal.

One Percent Sales Tax Recap and Next Steps
Grand Marais residents voted heavily in favor of the One Percent Sales Tax Referendum. GM East voted 61.8% YES and GM West voted 70% YES for an overall 66% in favor within the City of Grand Marais.

The Council acknowledged its pleasure in the success of the Referendum, which they had identified as its most important priority for 2009. Together and individually, the Council worked diligently with community members to pass this important tax. Jan Sivertson led the Committee to Pass the Referendum (thanks Jan!); Sue Hakes was also a member of that Committee. Councilors Costello and Kennedy were on the One Percent Committee that worked for nearly a year to to identify potential projects for Sales Tax Funding. All (5) City Councilors advocated for the Referendum publicly and particpated in the public process held throughout 2009.

Also in March 2009, Council identified building a swimming pool within the proposed Cook Community Center as a top priority. Council is ready to begin work in earnest to make this long-awaited dream become a reality. It is important to remember that a Community Center garnered the most support from residents of Cook County during the Public Process Phase of the Referendum Project. Hakes volunteered to participate as a member of the Community Center Committee which will meet this month.

Council discussed the next steps in working with the County to discuss the funding process and when funds will be available for the Community Center/Recreation Area and Library projects. Mayor Hakes drafted a letter to be presented by the full Council to the County Board asking for specific Community Center/Recreation Area funding. Councilor Costello requested the Library Project also be included in this request. Hakes will redraft the letter to include the Library.

Business Park Financing Update
Council voted to move forward in selling General Obligation bonds as planned to pay off the $1.6M debt incurred 3 years ago (January 2007) to pay for Business Park Infrastructure. If the EDA is successful in receiving any grant assistance fro the IRR as requested from Senator Tom Bakk, that money will be used to make the first bond payment.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported that the Biomass Project proposal submitted in partnership with Ely did not receive Department of Energy grant funding.
Jan Sivertson gave a recap on the One Percent Sales Tax committee.
Bill Lenz prefers the Golf Course not be continued as an Enterprise Fund.
Sue Hakes reported that the DNR and City Staff are working together to find a resolution to the problems with City's Burn Pile. Hakes also reported that the DNR has renewed their effort to provide the City with a draft Joint Powers Agreement to be used as a roadmap for a Grand Marais Safe Harbor/Marina.

Mark Your Calendars
Wednesday Nov 18 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wednesday Nov 18 at 5:00 PM Noise Ordinance Public Hearing
Thursday Nov 19 a 4:00 PM Joint CCST Meeting at Courthouse
Wednesday Dec 9 3:30 PM Budget Worksession
Wednesday Dec 9 at 4:30 City Council Meeting
Wednesday Dec 30 4:30 City Council Meeting

Veteran's Day Thank You

2009-11-11T11:18:00.003-06:00

The Veteran's Day Band Concert this morning was a wonderful opportunity for our community to honor all the Veterans of Cook County. A very special thanks to the Veterans who were able to attend today's ceremony, giving all of us the chance to show our gratitude for your service and sacrifice. Thank you Cook County Veterans.

Thanks also to the VFW Color Guard, the High School Band, William Tormondsen, Shelby Anderson, Kale Boomer, Pastor Ditmanson, Richard McKenzie and ISD 166 for creating this meaningful and important event.

Today there is much to be grateful for.

Special Election Results

2009-11-03T15:55:00.006-06:00

The Polls close at 8:00 PM tonight. If you've not voted, there is still time to hand deliver your ballot to the Cook County Courthouse. Exercise your right to VOTE and let your voice be heard.

From Community Radio WTIP--

Tune in to WTIP on Tuesday, Nov. 3 for the 1 percent sales tax referendum results. As the ballots are tallied, WTIP Hosts Roger Linehan and Jay Andersen will keep you up to date on the results. Special coverage starts at 8:20 p.m. with updates every half hour.

From Cook County--

The County will be posting the referendum results as each precinct is certified by the County Auditor. Starting soon after the polls close at 8pm, we will begin posting results at http://co.cook.mn.us/

City Council Meeting

2009-10-28T21:16:00.026-05:00

The Mayor and all members of the City Council were present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, Dave Tersteeg and City Attorney Chris Hood.

Open Forum
Mark Sandbo, representing Grand Marais Hotel Company, informed the Council that in response to the letter received from the City Council, a new Shoreline sign would be in place within a month.

Consent Agenda
Council approved the Consent Agenda with no changes.

Christmas Parade Permit
Council approved the Christmas Parade Permit requested by the Chamber of Commerce. Bev Wolke infromed the Council that the Parade will start at 6 PM on Tuesday, November 24, downtown Grand Marais.

Lion's Club Request for Public Restrooms
Ken Walenski and Max Bichel of the Grand Marais Lion's Club expressed concern for the lack of enough public restrooms in downtown Grand Marais. Their request was supported by several business owners in the audience. Walenski and Bichel explained that the Lion's Club is a service organization with the motto "We Serve". In the spirit of community service, the Lion's Club has offered to take this project on as a Community Service Project. The Lion's Club has asked the Council to endorse the Lion's willingness to form a committee to work toward solving the problem of identifying an appropriate location and funding sources for public restrooms. Council acknowledged and agreed there is a need and fully supported the Lion's request. Council will add Public Restrooms to their Capital Improvement Planning.

Harbor Park/Downtown Holiday Decorating
Diane Brostrom, Director Grand Marais Area Tourism and Committee Member for "A North Shore Holiday" requested assistance from the City to decorate Harbor Park and the Downtown Area for the Holiday Season. Brostrom's request was supported by several business owners in the audience. Time is of the essence as the holiday season will be kicked off in just a few short weeks. After some discussion, including members of the Business Community, Council agreed to provide a match up to $5000 to purchase lighting and holiday decorations that might be used for several years. Council also agreed to provide labor for hanging lights & banners, putting up a tree, etc.

Led by the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau, local retailers and marketers throughout the County are taking full advantage of a one-time $15,000 grant from Explore Minnesota Tourism to promote shopping and activities on the North Shore this holiday season. This promotion includes a direct mailing of 10,000 pieces.

The investment in decorating Grand Marais's Harbor Park/downtown area, combined with this significant CCEVB marketing effort are part of a unified effort to make Cook County and Grand Marais a holiday shopping and vacation destination.

PAC-13
PAC-13 broadcasting equipment has been relocated to City Hall, allowing City Staff to update and broadcast PAC 13. Council decided to video tape Council Meetings in the simplest manner and at the lowest cost. A process for broadcasting Public Service Announcements is being determined.

Cairn Sign Maintenance Agreement
Modifications to the Cairn Sign Maintenance Agreement were recommended by City Attorney Chris Hood and accepted by Council.

Other Items
Mike Roth reported that the City's brush pile is being burned. Complaints of smoke in the school and in the hospital have been reported. Wind conditions, combined with the amount of green brush from the last storm, have caused more smoke than is typical. Council discussed options, but there is no clear solution to this problem.

Council & Staff Reports
Mike Roth reported on the October 27 meeting with Senator Tom Bakk to request funding assistance for the repayment of the Business Park Infrastructure debt. Meeting attendees included Roth, Matt Geretschlaeger (EDA Director), Hal Greenwood, Dick Grabko (SEH), and Mike Larson (IRRB). Specifically, the EDA asked if a previously awarded grant for Housing Development ($135,000) might be transferred to pay for Business Development Infrastructure. The Housing Development project is not proceeding as planned. A loan with favorable terms was also requested. Roth reported that Senator Bakk would take our requests under consideration at the IRRB.
Tim Kennedy reported that the Biomass District Heating Project Group is still meeting. No word regarding the Federal Grant submitted with the City of Ely has been heard.
Jan Sivertson reported that 1 proposal was received in response to the EDA's Request for Proposals for Real Estate Brokers to list, sell and market lots in the Business Park. The proposal received was from Gunflint Realty. City Attorney Chris Hood will review to be sure there is no conflict of interest.
Sue Hakes gave notice that the Northeastern Entrepreneur Fund's Women's Business Luncheon will be held at City Hall on November 18. Hakes will be speaking on the topic "Know Your City Government".

Mark Your Calendars
Mon November 9 at 3:30 PM Worksession--Budget (Liquor Store & Golf Course)
Mon November 9 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed November 18 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed November 18 at 5:00 PM Noise Ordinance Public Hearing
Thur November 19 at 4:00 PM Joint C/C/S/T at Courthouse
Wed December 9 at 3:30 PM Worksession-Budget
Wed December 9 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed December 30 at 4:30 PM City Countil Meeting

How to Register to Vote

2009-10-26T13:47:00.003-05:00

It's not too late to register to vote in the November 3, 2009 Special Election. Click here for the instructions straight from the Cook County Auditor's Office.

Special Election on November 3

2009-10-22T20:58:00.002-05:00

Go to the Cook County Website to see a Sample Ballot and get information about how to register and vote in the November 3, 2009 Special Election.

Bonding Worksession and City Council Meeting

2009-10-14T21:31:00.009-05:00

Sue Hakes and all City Councilors were present for today's Worksession and City Council Meeting. Also in attendance were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Carolyn Drude, Senior Financial Advisor/Executive VP of Ehlers & Associates.

Worksession to Re-finance EDA Infrastructure Debt
Just about 3 years ago (January 2007) the City of Grand Marais issued $1,630,000 General Obligation (G.O.) Temporary Improvements Bonds to provide financing for the Sewer, Water & Street infrastructure improvements in the EDA Business Park. The plan at that time was for the EDA to sell lots in the Business Park and repay the City $60,000 for each lot sold until the debt was repaid. Lot sales have not occurred as planned and the EDA is unable to repay this debt. This 3-year G.O. Temporary Improvement Bond is now due in January 2010 and the City is responsible for this payment.

The City Council once again met with Ehlers & Associates to discuss options for refinancing this Temporary Bond including the sale of 10, 15 or 20-year G.O. Improvement Bonds . Carolyn Drude of Ehers & Associates also offered for consideration a 20-year Build America Bond which the Council is considering. In general, Build America Bonds bear a higher interest rate, but the Federal government will pay 35% of the interest payment through an annual rebate reducing the cost to the City. Council requested time to consider more fully the Build America Bond and will meet again at 12:00 Noon on Friday to decide.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Nobody from the Public opted to address the Council at the Open Forum.

Variance Request
Council unanimously approved the request from Alyssa and Jonathan Hedstrom for a variance from the setback from residentially zoned property to construct an addition to the South and West side of their commercial building located in the H61 District.

EDA Business Park Discussion
Even though Council is working to refinance the $1.63M debt owed by the EDA on the Cedar Grove Business Park, they will continue to hold the EDA accountable for repayment. As agreed by the Council previously, Mayor Hakes wrote to the EDA on behalf of the City asking them to explore all options for this debt repayment. The City has also asked for a comprehensive marketing plan to sell lots in the Business Park. Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA has published a Request for Proposals soliciting bids from licensed real estate brokers to list, sell and market 31 lots in the Business Development Park.

Cairn Signs Maintenance Agreement
The City has agreed to provide the maintenance for the Cairn signs at the entrance to the City of Grand Marais and the Gunflint Trail. Details are being worked out between the City and the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission.

Noise Ordinance Public Hearing
A Public Hearing was promised and has been scheduled to allow the Public to check in with the Council regarding the Noise Ordinance that was established in 2009. The Public is encouraged to attend this Public Hearing at 5:00 on Wednesday November 18.

Council & Staff Reports
Mike Roth asked for Council to approve replacement of the Liquor Store awning that blew down in the storm. Council approved the purchase.
Tim Kennedy reported that the PUC has agreed to extend their contract with SMMPA through 2050. A presentation will be provided to Council for review and support. Kennedy also raised the issue of the Shoreline sign and the danger it caused during the recent windstorm. Council agreed that the City should send correspondence to the owner asking that the sign be removed or restored to a safe condition.
Jan Sivertson gave an update of the on-going efforts to pass the One Percent Sales Tax. Ballots will be mailed to all registered voters in the County on Friday October 16. Jan also asked each member of the Council if they supported the One Percent Tax. Each member of the Council shared their support for this proposed tax without hesitation. Sivertson also raised the need for more public restrooms downtown. And, Sivertson shared the CCEVB plans to make Cook County a December holiday destination. Council agreed to explore ways to support this effort including the possibilities of providing a large holiday tree in Harbor Park, lights and electricity.
Bill Lenz reported on the revenues for the Park Department including an increase in Pool, Campground and Marina revenues and a decrease in Golf Course Revenues, mostly due to weather. Lenz also reported that the Park Board voted to de-ice the docks at the Marina by moving water around them as opposed to removing the docks in the Fall and putting them back in the Spring. De-icing is less expensive than taking the docks in and out.
Kay Costello reported that the Library has begun their strategic planning and has (2) full day sessions planned.
Sue Hakes reported that she has also heard requests from both the Lions Club and GMATA for more public restrooms downtown. Hakes has encouraged these groups to come before the Council with their requests; Mike Roth confirmed they have asked to be on the agenda for October 28. Hakes also shared that several community members have asked for Community Garden Space and Council discussed various possibilities including the Business Park.

Meeting was recessed and will resume at Noon on Friday October 16, 2009.

Mark Your Calendars
Please note that there are several changes to the usual meeting schedule:

FRI October 16 at Noon City Council will resume Council Meeting to discuss Bonding options
WED October 28 at 4:30 City Council Meeting
MON November 9 at 3:30 Council Worksession to discuss Liquor Store & Golf Course Budgets
MON November 9 at 4:30 City Council Meeting
WED November 18 at 4:30 City Council Meeting (will authorize Bond Sale)
WED November 18 at 5:00 Noise Ordinance Public Hearing
THUR November 19 4:00 Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council Meeting at Courthouse

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

2009-10-08T21:02:00.006-05:00

A Proclamation by the President of the United States...

Domestic violence touches the lives of Americans of all ages, leaving a devastating impact on women, men, and children of every background and circumstance. A family's home becomes a place of fear, hopelessness, and desperation when a woman is battered by her partner, a child witnesses the abuse of a loved one, or a senior is victimized by family members. Since the 1994 passage of the landmark Violence Against Women Act, championed by then Senator Joe Biden, our Nation has strengthened its response to this crime and increased services for victims. Still, far too many women and families in this country and around the world are affected by domestic violence. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recommit ourselves to ending violence within our homes, our communities, and our country.

This evening in Grand Marais, about 2 dozen community members, friends and neighbors held a candlelight vigil at Java Moose to remember the women, children and men that died this year in Minnesota as a result of domestic violence. The group then walked to Harbor Park to light the Tree of Hope. This special tree is decorated with small purple lights and will be lit from dusk to dawn. The purpose of the tree is to raise awareness about the problem of domestic violence and to let everyone who is a survivor of violence know that they are not alone.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the Violence Prevention Center in Grand Marais at 387-1237 or go to: http://www.boreal.org/violencepreventioncenter/MainLFrame.html

One Percent Local Sales Tax Opportunity!

2009-10-07T22:24:00.014-05:00

Vote YES!

There is a lot of energy surrounding the Referendum to pass the One Percent (1%) Sales Tax in Cook County; there is also some confusion. Following is an attempt to clarify.

A Special Election is being held in Cook County for voters to decide whether or not to impose a sales tax of one percent (1%) on all taxable transactions within Cook County. Election Day is November 3, 2009. Beginning October 16, a ballot will be mailed to every registered voter in Cook County, including the City of Grand Marais. Your ballot must be received in the Cook County Auditor's Office by 8 PM on November 3, 2009, either by mail or hand delivery.

The money collected through this sales tax will be used to pay for all or a portion of the following projects and associated financing costs: (i) construction and improvement of a countywide high-speed communications infrastructure network; (ii) construction, improvements and additions to community centers and public recreations areas, including public parking areas, located in Grand Marais, Tofte, and Lutsen; (iii) construction of and improvements to the Grand Marais Public Library; and (iv) construction and improvement of a district energy plant for public facilities in Grand Marais.

For the past year or so, the Community has worked to identify specific projects for potential funding using this 1% Sales Tax. And, a One Percent Sales Tax Committee was formed. This Committee, based on Public input, identified (7) projects for possible funding:

Expanded Cook County Community Center
Cook County Community Center Outdoor Rec Area
Birch Grove Outdoor Rec Area
Public Library Addition
County-wide Broadband
District Energy Facility
Improvements to Superior National Golf Course

It is important to understand that the County Board has the discretion to decide which project(s) to fund in part, in full, or not at all. It is equally important to understand that it is up to each of us to advocate to the County Board (and within the Community) for the projects we believe in and want to see realized. We have the right and the responsibility to let our County Board know how we want this money spent.

Before us is the unique chance to collect $20 million to spend on projects that we could not otherwise afford in this small community. Before us is an opportunity to participate fully and directly in the political process that determines where to spend this money. It is important that we let our County Commissioners know what we want.

Bottom Line: Let's pass the Referendum to get the $20 million into the County. Then, let's work together with the County Board to spend it responsibly and on the projects we want.

The One Percent Sales Tax and how it will be spent is complex. If you have questions, take the time to find answers.

For further information:

WTIP is sponsoring a public forum at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts with the Cook County News Herald and Community Education from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Oct. 13. Childcare will be provided in the community gym for attendees of the forum by the Cooperation Station. Questions, concerns and comments on any issue related to the 1 percent sales tax will be taken from the public at the forum, which will also be broadcast live on WTIP at 90.7 FM in Grand Marais and 91.7 FM on the Gunflint Trail

Cook County Conversations
WTIP North Shore Community Radio, Boreal Access and the Cook County News Herald, in partnership with e-democracy.org and the Blandin Foundation have launched Cook County Conversations, an on-line forum for sharing insights and perspective on issues that affect our community. This new forum is a safe, civil and informative platform for residents and visitors of Cook County to discuss issues that affect them.

http://boreal.org/drupal/onepercent

Vote YES!
for the One Percent Local Sales Tax

PUC Power Restored

2009-10-02T11:43:00.003-05:00

This just in from City Hall
Power has been restored to all areas served by the Grand Marais Public Utilities. If you do not have power, please contact the office at 387-1848. We thank all customers for their patience and understanding.

And a Note of Thanks
I'd like to echo the gratitude many PUC customers have expressed to the PUC Electrical Department employees that have worked so hard under difficult circumstances to restore electricity to all customers. Thank you for a job well done.

It's also important to note the teamwork between all City Departments to restore services and normalcy to Grand Marais. Phone calls were answered and information was provided, priorities were established, streets were cleared of fallen trees, street lamps, and dangerous debris. Clean water was made available to anybody who needed it. These are just some of the additional tasks accomplished during the storm event and aftermath.

Last, but not least, thanks to everybody who managed to make it work without power these past few days. Your patience and resourcefulness in these past few days was great.

City Council Meeting & Other Notes

2009-09-30T22:17:00.010-05:00

Sue Hakes, Kay Costello, Tim Kennedy, Bill Lenz and Jan Sivertson were all present for today's City Council Meeting. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, Attorney Chris Hood, Dave Tersteeg, Amber Rude.

Open Forum
No members of the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Violence Prevention Center Request
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Jodi Yuhasey of the Violence Prevention Center requested permission to put up a 6-7 foot tree in the grassy triangle space at the intersection of Highway 61 and Wisconsin Avenue (near Java Moose). The tree will be decorated with small purple lights and will be lit from dusk to dawn. The purpose of the tree is to raise awareness about the problem of domestic violence and to let everyone who is a survivor of violence know that they are not alone.

Council approved the request 5-0.

Park Master Plan
Park Manager Dave Tersteeg presented to Council the Goals & Policies and Master Plan Map that was approved unanimously by the 7-Member Park Board. The Master Plan is the result of a 13-month/$20k effort led by the Park Board and made possible by a 2008 Lake Superior Coastal Program Grant. The Park Board made their recommendation based on significant public input received from October 2008 through July 2009 through a series of Listening Sessions, Public Forums and Park Board Meetings. Key features in the Park Plan include an improved Park Entrance in the extreme NE corner, new/improved trails along the water's edge featuring the natural shoreline and wetland area, new and improved playground area, reserved space for motorized trail under the power line, improved public space in the SW corner (point) including year-round Events Pavilion. Approximately 30 campsites are planned to be moved from the NE corner to allow more open space and accomodate a future new Park/Marina Office. New, replacement campsites are planned for the area currently being used as a softball field. It is anticipated that both the Pool and Softball Diamond will become part of the Community Center/Recreation Area being planned for near the existing Community Center. The plan also calls for the PUC Garages to be re-located outside of the Rec Park. The recommended plan is consistent with and supports the Goals of the City Council as established in early 2009.

Council approved the recommended Master Plan 3-2. Mayor Hakes thanked the Park Board for their hard work in this effort and for delivering a Master Plan that met the goals & objectives established.

EDA Business Park and Bond Repayment
Council discussed the current state of the Economic Development Authority (EDA) as it relates to the EDA's inability to repay the $1.6M G.O. Bond due in January 2010. Council expressed frustration that the EDA has not been pro-active in the development of an overall strategy and marketing plan to sell lots in the Cedar Grove Business Park. Mayor Hakes will draft a letter to the EDA asking for specific action to be taken regarding business development lot sales.

Council & Staff Reports
Tim Kennedy reported on the progress being made by the PUC in restoring electricity to customers after the Monday 9/28 storm event. All City Departments have been involved in this work and are to be commended for team play. A particular note of gratitude was given to the Electrical Department. Kennedy also reported that the Biomass Committee continues to work on their cash flow analysis to determine project viability.
Jan Sivertson gave an update on efforts being made by the One Percent Committee to educate the public about the opportunity before us. Volunteers are needed; contact Jan Sivertson if interested in helping out.

Mark Your Calendars
Wed October 14 at 3:30 PM City Council Worksession
Wed October 14 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed October 28 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

TUESDAY November 10 at 3:30 PM City Council Worksession
TUESDAY November 10 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed November 19 4:00 PM Joint CCST Meeting at the Courthouse
TUESDAY November 24 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

Note the change from Wed to Tuesday for both City Council Meetings in November.

After the Storm

2009-09-29T09:40:00.002-05:00

It's all hands on deck at City Hall as all departments continue working to restore power and clean the streets in Grand Marais. We appreciate your patience as we get things back to normal.

If your power is still out, please call City Hall and let them know at 387-1848. City Hall is also available if you need water; just bring your jug.

The Gales of September

2009-09-28T22:05:00.010-05:00

Wind from the North
It's reported that the anemometer at the Grand Marais Harbor today measured gusts of 60 mph. Today's weather was spectacularly beautiful, frustrating, and very humbling.

And the wind continues to blow.

North Shore Scenic Drive Cairn Celebration

2009-09-22T11:15:00.004-05:00

I had the distinct pleasure of welcoming and thanking the MN Scenic Byways Commission to Grand Marais to celebrate the (2) newly built cairns in Grand Marais. These cairns mark the way along the North Shore Scenic Drive, the entrance to Grand Marais, and the entrance to the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway.

This project was a joint effort that included MN Department of Transportation, MN Department of Natural Resources, MN Historical Society, Explore MN Tourism, MN Scenic Byways Committee, Grand Portage Tribal Council, Cook County, Grand Marais Area Tourism Association, and the City of Grand Marais. Gee---I sure hope I didn't miss anybody!!

Using cairns as a way to mark the trail is practical, historical and beautiful. May all who find their way along these roadways find safety, joy and happiness in their travels and adventures.

Happy Trails!

Congratulations and Thanks

2009-09-12T16:19:00.005-05:00

Cook County North Shore Hospital is 50 Years Old

The lower level of the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic was packed Saturday afternoon with folks celebrating 50 years of having a hospital in Cook County. The celebration included coffee, punch, brownies and cake. More importantly, the celebration included a handful of speakers that shared their personal stories about how the hospital came to be. Many of those women and men who worked hard to make our hospital a reality were present and acknowledged. It was great to hear this history from those who actually made it happen!

Thanks to all who had the vision and perserverence to build our first hospital and pave the way to the excellent health care we enjoy today.

Budget Worksession, City Council Meeting & Setting the Preliminary Tax Levy for 2010

2009-09-09T20:34:00.023-05:00

The Mayor and all City Councilors, Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Chris Hood were present for both the Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting. Assistant Park Manager Amber Clay was also present for the Budget Worksession.

Budget Worksession

Amber Clay presented the revised Recreation Park Budget for 2010 to the City Council. The most significant change in this Budget was a reduction in the projected loss for the Pool. Projected 2010 Pool Expenses are $290,847. The projected Pool Revenues are $61,200 leaving a projected loss of $229,647 before the County's $75,000 contribution. Heating fuel and salaries make up most of the costs for running the Pool. Pool hours have reluctantly been reduced to help meet the budget. Great care was taken by Park Management and the Park Board to reduce hours when the pool is least used.

Council reviewed the 2010 Budget and City of Grand Marais spending history since 2005. Council also re-visited the projected revenues and expenses for each City Department to determine a general levy amount of $601,802.

City Council Meeting & Setting the Preliminary 2010 Tax Levy

Open Forum
Nobody from the public opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Consent Agenda
Two items were added to the agenda: Revolving Store Front Loan Application, Library Rain Garden Project. Meeting Minutes and Payment of Bills were approved.

Revolving Store Front Loan
Council approved a $15,000 Store Front Loan for Rob Svadlanka to make improvements to his Subway Store.

Library Rain Garden
Tristan Beaster of Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) reported that original cost estimates for the Library Rain Garden project went from $7859 to $13,159 after actual bids for the project were received. As a result, the Cook County SWCD requested an increase of $1324.69 in the City's contribution to the Library Rain Garden project. Council approved the increase. Council approved contracting with low bidder Crawford Excavating for the project. The City may contribute with funding or in-kind. This project is part of a US Coastal Grant and supported by the City, County and State.

Liquor License Renewals
Council approved 14 liquor license renewals for 2009-10. All applicants are required to have completed the appropriate paperwork, including proof of insurance, and paid the necessary fee. All renewals are contingent on a successful background check by the Sheriff.

2010 Budget Considerations
Council approved Resolution 2009-10 approving the preliminary 2009 tax levy, collectible in 2010 for a total of $802,657 including a general levy of $601,802. This preliminary levy will be used by the County Auditor to prepare parcel specific tax notifications. The preliminary levy may not be exceeded without specific emergency reasons. Council will continue to review the budget for ways to reduce the levy.

In spite of a significant reduction in Local Government Aid for 2010, the Council has set the preliminary levy at an increase of 3% or approximately $24,000. In anticipation of the LGA cuts, Council began work to manage the budget early in 2009. Huge credit goes to the City Department Heads and City Staff for working hard to reduce spending and/or increase revenues without reducing City services.

One Percent Local Option Sales Tax
Jan Sivertson, Chair of the 1% Sales Tax Committee, updated Council on community efforts being made to pass the November 3 Referendum. Earlier in 2009, Council identified passing the 1% Sales Tax as a priority as a way to fund a Community Center/Pool/Recreation Area.

(Note: I encourage every Cook County voter to educate themselves about the One Percent Local Option Sales Tax and the opportunity it presents for the residents of Cook County.)

Council & Staff Reports
Kay Costello reported that the Library has begun the process of strategic planning with other members of the Arrowhead Regional Library Association.
Jan Sivertson reported on the serious EDA budget concerns, Business Park re-zoning considerations and Superior National Golf Course revenues. She also shared the good news that 10 Cook County homes will be undergoing rehabilitation projects under the Small Cities Grant for income qualified home owners. Most of these homes are located within the City of Grand Marais.
Tim Kennedy reported on the Biomass Project noting that the committee continues to work on a Business Plan to determine the economic viability of the proposed project.
Kim Dunsmoor reported a tolerable increase of 5% in health insurance costs while other municipalities are suffering with increases between 11-27%.
Sue Hakes reported that she had the opportunity to welcome and visit with Bonnie Dahl--author of Superior Way--while she stayed in the Grand Marais Harbor September 1-3. Ms. Dahl reported to the Great Lakes Cruising Club the details of the new docks, recent dredging and plans being considered to enlarge the marina.

Mark Your Calendars
Wed September 30 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Tues October 13 Time TBD Community Forum on 1% Sales Tax (Sponsored by WTIP, Cook County News Herald and Community Ed)
Wed October 14 at 3:30 PM Council Worksession
Wed October 14 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed October 28 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Tues November 3---Referendum Mail-In Ballots due at Cook County Courthouse
Wed December 9 at 6:00 PM Budget & Levy Hearing (formerly known as Truth in Taxation Hearing)

Gunflint Hills & Lions Club 3-Person Scramble Golf Tournament

2009-08-31T11:53:00.004-05:00

Gunflint Hills Golf Course and the Lions Club are sponsoring a 3-Person Scramble on Sunday September 13. The Entry Fee is just $35.00 ($25.00 for Members) and includes 18 holes of golf, a hot dog lunch, prizes and a shot at the $10,000 Hole-In-One. Golfers must be entered by 5 PM on Friday September 11. Call the Gunflint Hills Golf Course at 218 387 9988 for more information about what promises to be a very fun event. For general information on the Golf Course go to GrandMaraisGolfCourse.com

Good luck to all Tournament Golfers!

2010 City Budget, Temporary Bond Refinancing (EDA) and District Energy System Bonding Options

2009-08-30T21:30:00.014-05:00

2010 City Budget Department Budget Meetings

Mayor Hakes, Councilors Kennedy and Sivertson, Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor met all of Friday morning on August 28 with City Department Heads to discuss 2010 Budget Requests.

Lenny Bloomquist presented the Buildings, Streets & Roads proposed budget. The need for capital planning to eventually replace the Street Sweeper and Mini Dump Truck was discussed.

Benny Silence presented the proposed budget for the Fire and Medical Services Departments. The need for capital planning to replace the Tanker was discussed.

Dave Tersteeg presented the proposed budget for the Rec Park including the Recreation General Fund, Swimming Pool and Boat Harbor. A second meeting with Tersteeg to discuss both Expenditures and Revenues will be scheduled. The increasing cost to operate the Swimming Pool continues to be of serious concern.

The Council will set the preliminary levy for the City on September 9.

City Council and County Board Meet with Ehlers & Associates

The City Council, County Board, City Staff, EDA Director Matt Geretschlaeger and EDA Board Chair Mike Litfin met the afternoon of August 28 to discuss refinancing what has come to be known as the EDA Bond and also discuss options for financing a Biomass Facility.

Refinancing General Obligation Temporary Improvement Bonds

Just about 3 years ago (January 2007) the City of Grand Marais issued $1,630,000 General Obligation (G.O.) Temporary Improvements Bonds to provide financing for the Sewer, Water & Street infrastructure improvements in the EDA Business Park. The plan at that time was for the EDA to sell lots in the Business Park and repay the City $60,000 for each lot sold until the debt was repaid. Lot sales have not occurred as planned and the EDA is unable to repay the City.

This 3-year G.O. Temporary Improvement Bond is now due in January 2010 and the City is responsible for this payment. Ehlers & Associates has provided the City with options for refinancing this Temporary Bond including a 2nd G.O. Temporary Improvement Bond or a 15 or 20-year G.O. Improvement Bond. Although further information needs to be gathered before any final decision is made, the City is leaning toward the 20-year G.O. Improvement Bond which means an average annual debt service cost to the City of $125,000.

The City has again requested that the EDA establish a comprehensive plan for the Business Park focusing on lots sales. They have also asked the EDA to explore other options to repay the debt. In the meantime, the City is on the hook for repayment.

District Energy System Bonding Options

The City also requested that Ehlers & Associates provide information on bonding authority for a District Energy System, aka Biomass Facility. (See Mayor Minutes July 8 entry for a brief history of this project. )

Ehlers & Associates first noted that State Law gives the City primary authority for a District Energy System, but that the County may also operate a District Energy system within the City. They also clarified that financing options for the Biomass Facility assumed that no 1% Local Options Sales Tax funding would be available for this project.

Bonding options for a Biomass Facility include, but are not limited to:

Utility Revenue Bonds--Ehlers & Associates have not sold Utility Revenue Bonds for a Biomass Facility, nor are they aware of any that have been sold for this purpose. However, they believe that with a strong enough business plan it is possible. They also noted that a more favorable interest rate could be achieved by backing the bond with the local electric utility revenues. A $6,000,000 bond at 6% over 20 years would result in an annual principal and interest payment of ~$523,100.
General Obligation Improvement Bond--Ehlers & Associates did not recommend this type of bond, but noted that it could be used in combination with other types of funding.

A brief discussion of the Biomass Facility project ensued. Mayor Hakes was clear that a detailed and credible Business Plan--including a financial & cash flow analysis, debt repayment, risk analysis and technical analysis--must be done before she will support the creation of this new utility for the City.

Budget Worksession, City Council Meeting & Special Assessment Public Hearing

2009-08-26T21:04:00.004-05:00

It was a busy afternoon at City Hall with a Budget Worksession, City Council Meeting and Special Assessment Public Hearing. Present for these meetings were Mayor Sue Hakes, Councilors Kay Costello, Tim Kennedy and Jan Sivertson. Councilor Bill Lenz was absent. Also present were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor. Attorney Brandon Fitzsimmons of Flaherty & Hood participated in both the City Council Meeting and Special Assessment Public Hearing.

Budget Worksession

Council met to continue its work on the 2010 Budget by reviewing the City Hall General Fund Expenditures, Cable TV Fund and the Debt Service Fund. City department heads continue to prepare their 2010 budget requests and will meet with the Council Friday August 28 at 9 AM. The Preliminary Levy for the City will be set on September 9.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Nobody from the public spoke at the Open Forum.

Payments Approved
Council reviewed the Grand Marais Fire Relief Association's Lump Sum Pension Plan Report for Year 2009. Relief Association investments have gone down approximately 20% requiring the City of Grand Marais to make a contribution of $8529 in 2010.

Redstone Construction Pay Estimate #6 and (2) Minor Extra Work Orders were approved by the Council for the 2008 City of Grand Marais Street and Utility Project.

The Safety Management Program contract with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association and the annual payment terms of $12,400 were approved.

One-Percent Local Option Sales Tax
Council discussed the current status of the 1% Local Option Sales Tax. Jan Sivertson reported that she has assembled a preliminary team to begin the work of educating the public about the Sales Tax. The team will include an advocate of each of the (7) proposed projects: Danna MacKenzie, Buck Benson, Diane Booth, Mark Sandbo, D.C. Olsen, Linda Chappell. The voter referendum is scheduled for November 3, 2009.

Council & Staff Reports
Councilors Jan Sivertson and Tim Kennedy reported on the EDA regarding the Cedar Grove Business Park. Currently the EDA is struggling to determine asking prices for the individual lots, recognizing that lots are different sizes with different topography and visibility and should be priced accordingly. The pressure is on to sell lots to repay the $1.63M bond due in January 2010. The EDA and the City are meeting with their bond counsel Friday to discuss options.

Mike Roth gave an update on the Rec Park Master Plan. The graphic designer is incorporating the wetland delineation into the Park Map. The Master Plan recommended by the Park Board will be delivered to the City Council in September. Mike Roth also acknowledged the new city entrance signs provided by the Scenic Byways organization.

Special Assessment Public Hearing at 5:00 PM

The Council held a Public Hearing for the Special Assessments for the improvements done on 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th Avenues, as well as 4th Avenue between the Gunflint Trail and 11th Street. Approximately (10) residents expressed concerns, asked clarifying questions and offered constructive or positive feedback. The assessments for the 1-2-3-6 Avenue projects were adjusted downward due the subtraction of the cost for sidewalks on 1st Avenue. City Staff will be available to answer specific questions about individual property owner payments and possible deferment options for those who qualify. Council voted 4-0 to pass a resolution to adopt the proposed/adjusted assessment.

Mark Your Calendars
Thur August 27 4:00 PM Joint City/County/School/Tribe Meeting At City Hall
Fri August 28 9:30 AM City Budget Worksession
Fri August 28 1:00 PM Ehlers Bond Counsel Meeting (EDA and City)
Wed September 9 3:30 PM Worksession--Preliminary Levy
Wed Septmeber 9 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed September 30 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

1% Local Option Sales Tax Update

2009-08-25T19:00:00.007-05:00

Just this morning, the County Board took the recommendation of the 1% Local Option Sales Tax Steering Committee to include (7) community projects in the proposed 1% Sales Tax:

Community Center Outdoor Recreation Area in Grand Marais
Community Center (with Aquatic Center) in Grand Marais
Birch Grove Recreation Complex
County-wide Broad Band
Public Library Addition
District Energy (Biomass) Facility in Grand Marais
Improvements to Superior National Golf Course

You've likely heard a lot about the 1% Local Option Sales Tax opportunity for Cook County. You may be unclear about what it is, what's actually being proposed in each of the (7) projects and how it will affect you. That's understandable, there is a massive amount of information to absorb and much of it is complex. But, it's important to understand this proposed tax in order to make an informed decision when you vote in the November 2009 Referendum.

Efforts are currently underway to further educate the public about the (7) projects, as well as the Sales Tax itself. Watch for information in the coming weeks. Take the necessary time to understand the benefits and the issues surrounding the proposed Sales Tax; it's important.

Good News for the Pool

2009-08-25T17:51:00.003-05:00

Mayor Hakes, supported by Councilors Kennedy and Sivertson, Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor and Dave Tersteeg, came before the County Board this morning to ask the County Commissioners to re-affirm their March 2009 committment to partner with the City in financing the operation and maintenance of the Grand Marais Pool. (See Mayor Minutes March 4, 2009).

After a brief discussion, the County Board agreed to share 1/3 of the Pool's Operating Deficit for the Year 2009. They also agreed to share 1/3 of the Year 2010 Pool Operating Deficit up to $75,000. Both the City Council and the County Board recognize the Pool as an important community asset.

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting

2009-08-12T19:42:00.008-05:00

Mayor Hakes and City Councilors Tim Kennedy, Bill Lenz, and Jan Sivertson were in attendance at today's City Budget and City Council meetings. Councilor Kay Costello was absent. Also in attendance were Mike Roth and Kim Dunsmoor. Together they welcomed newly hired City Attorney Christopher Hood of Flaherty & Hood who participated in the regular City Council Meeting via telecommunication.

Budget Worksession

City Department heads are currently preparing their 2010 budget requests; departments supported by the General Levy will will appear before the Council to present their budgets at the end of August. The preliminary levy will be set in early September.

Significant considerations to the budget include wages, Local Government Aid cuts, the potential impact of State of Minnesota budget deficits (~$7 Billion), capital planning, and funding for the advancement of 2009/2010 priorities including a new maintenance facility, marina/safe harbor and Rec Park Master Planning.

Council also spent a significant time discussing the Pool finances; the Pool lost approximately $219,000 in 2008 with a similar loss anticipated annually. This loss is supported by the City with Rec Park profits and levy dollars. Last April, County Board representatives Bob Fenwick and Bruce Martinson expressed willingness to cost-share the Pool losses with the City and agreed to ask the County Board to increase their participation in the pool funding. The City has submitted a letter requesting additional funding as part of the County's 2010 budget process.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Nobody from the public opted to address the Council at today's meeting.

Planning Commission Report
The Cook County Tennis Association was granted a variance from the side yard setback to construct a wall for a tennis practice court near the existing tennis courts. The Planning Commission supported this request 4-0. The City Council approved this variance 4-0.

David Mills and Beth Ferry were granted a variance from the front yard setback to construct a deck and (3) dormers on their building in the R-1 district. The Planning Commission supported this request 4-0. The City Council approved this variance 4-0.

Tim Kennedy informed the Council that the Planning Commission will be reviewing Roof Signs and making a recommendation to the Council.

IRR Community Business Partnership Grant
Council voted to accept the Community Business Partnership grant from Iron Resources Board for $25,000. Combined with a $12,500 (2 for 1) match from the storefront loan program, there is a total of $37,500 to create a grant/loan program for business rehabilitation projects.

Lake Superior Coastal Program Grant for North House Folk School
Contracts and paperwork were received by the City for a previously awarded project from the MN DNR's Lake Superior Coastal Program. This $90K award will be used at North House Folk School to make improvements to the outdoor common space including planting trees & shrubs and replacing old asphalt with pervious surfaces. The work will also include relocation of parking, managing storm water runoff and improving the driveway entrance. The project is being matched with $151K of North House funds for a total of $241,300 to do this work.

Council & Staff Reports

Tim Kennedy updated the Council on several issues.

1% Sales Tax--The County Board has scheduled a Public Meeting on Monday August 24 at 7 PM to give the Public a very brief overview of the projects currently under consideration for funding through the 1% Sales Tax. The City Council unanimously supports the inclusion of a Community Center--including a swimming pool--on the referendum ballot. The Council would like to see the cost of the Community Center reduced to approximately $6M, assuming development of a sound business plan.

Biomass District Heating Project --The Biomass Project Working Group meets weekly and is making its way through the many issues surrounding this project.

A long-term affordable and reliable supply of biomass is critical to success. Patty Johnson is scheduling a meeting with potential suppliers of biomass to begin addressing this need. Seeking a commitment from the Superior National Forest (USDA), Fish and Wildlife (USDI), and the MN DNR that biomass will be available for life of the facility was also discussed. The Forest Service is also conducting a technical review of the technical aspects of the proposed project. Buck Benson is working to identify major commercial end users for the heat produced from the project; Mike Roth will talk with SMMPA. Ehlers & Associates--the City's Bond Counsel--is scheduled to meet with the City Council on August 28 at 1:00 PM to discuss the feasibility of selling bonds to support the proposed biomass facility. Ways to raise public awareness and understanding about the project were also discussed.

County-wide Broad Band Service--The County is pursuing federal stimulus funds, as well as 1% funding for County-wide broad band services. The total project cost is estimated to be $51M with $32M funded through a federal grant, $9M requested to be funded with 1% sales tax monies, and $10M funded through bonding.

Sue Hakes reported that she followed up with DNR personnel (Stan Linnell, Les Ollila, Larry Killien, Cheryl Erickson) by thanking them for their participation in the July Meeting in Grand Marais. Killien updated Hakes on the progress being made on the Joint Powers Agreement to be drafted by the DNR; other priorities have taken precedence, but the draft document is anticipated to be completed soon. Hakes will also explore the status of the Water Resources Development Act as a possible funding source with Jackie Morris of Congressman Oberstar's office.

Mark Your Calendars
Mon Aug 24 7:00 PM 1% Sales Tax Public Meeting at Courthouse
Wed Aug 26 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Fri Aug 28 Morning Time TBD Budget Meetings w/Department Heads
Fri August 28 1:00 PM Ehlers & Associates Bond Counsel Meeting
Wed Sept 9 3:30 PM Worksession Topic TBD
Wed Sept 9 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed Sept 30 4:40 PM City Council Meeting

No Council Report This Week

2009-07-30T20:10:00.004-05:00

On July 29, the City Council held a Worksession on Capital Planning as well as our regularly scheduled Council Meeting. I was unable to attend due to the death of my beloved brother-in-law and friend, Mike Gorski.

Thanks to everybody on the Council and at City Hall who filled in for me so that I could be with family in Minneapolis.

Pedestrian Safety Improvements in Grand Marais

2009-07-25T21:08:00.005-05:00

Slowly but surely the City is improving Pedestrian Safety and slowing traffic along Highway 61 in Grand Marais. The Council has been working with MnDOT Traffic Engineer Rob Ege and the Street Department and have accomplished the following:

1. Pedestrian crosswalks have been repainted.
2. An additional crosswalk was added near 3rd Avenue and the Dairy Queen.
3. Additional "STOP FOR PEDESTRIANS" signs have been purchased and placed at the new crosswalk and at the 5th Avenue crosswalk.
4. Two "EVENT CONGESTION AHEAD" signs have been ordered and will arrive in August. In the meantime, two signs of this type have been borrowed from MnDOT for the Dragon Boat Festival and Fisherman's Picnic.
5. The City has applied for a permit to install an electronic "YOUR SPEED IS" sign at the west end of town on Highway 61.

The City intends to continue working with MnDOT and Sheriff Falk to resolve pedestrian and traffic safety issues in Grand Marais.

Each of us can help improve safety issues in our town by remembering to "Watch out for the other guy!"

City Hosts Department of Natural Resources

2009-07-14T08:00:00.006-05:00

City of Grand Marais and DNR Safe Harbor and Marina Meeting

The City of Grand Marais hosted the DNR last week to do the following:

A) Re-establish trust between the City of Grand Marais and the DNR
B) Discuss City of Grand Marais, DNR, and Army Corp of Engineers requirements for building a Safe Harbor and Marina in the Grand Marais Harbor.
C) Identify next steps in the process

DNR Attendees: Stan Linnell, Les Ollila, Larry Killien, Cheryl Erickson
City Attendees: Sue Hakes, Mike Roth, Dave Tersteeg, Kim Dunsmoor

Key topics discussed included:

1) Meeting City Resolution No. 2007-5 parameters
2) Satisfying the Army Corp of Engineers requirements including a Cost Benefit Ratio Analysis
3) DNR requirements for Safe Harbor and Land Side Uses & Easements

Points of Particular Interest:
a. Riparian Rights---Public funding may not be used to enhanced private property. In other words, a new or improved break wall cannot benefit private land owners.
b. Basin Size---Our City Resolution identifies the new basin size to be of about 6 acres
c. Land Ownership---DNR agrees that the City may retain land ownership and provide lease or easement. (The City has a current example of a successful lease arrangement with North House Folk School.)
d. Marina Size--may be built incrementally with limited number of slips.

The DNR agreed to discuss the results of this meeting with Commissioner Mark Holsten and Sue Hakes will report to the City Council. The DNR offered to draft an agreement outlining how the DNR and City of Grand Marais might work together. Safe Harbor and Marina are on the City's Top Priority List as established in early 2009.

75 Years of the Grand Marais Garden Club

2009-07-13T14:53:00.004-05:00

Join the Grand Marais Garden Club in celebrating 75 summers of flowers at the Community Center this Friday--July 17--from Noon to 5:00 pm. The Garden Club has been an amazing community asset since 1934, most significantly by promoting the beautification of the City of Grand Marais through gardening. The Garden Club continues to work closely with the City by creating and maintaining gardens in areas such as the Triangle, downtown flower boxes, Johnson Heritage Post, Bear Tree Park, Care Center, Memorial Rose Garden, and Harbor Park. Your participation is welcome in Friday's celebration. You may bring your own flower arrangement; drop off is before 11 AM. For details, contact Carol Forstad by sending email to retired@boreal.org

Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department Training

2009-07-12T16:23:00.004-05:00

The Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department (GMVFD) conducted an all-day training exercise on Saturday July 11, 2009. About a dozen firefighters in the GMVFD and (4) trained instructors participated in a planned and controlled burn of a Grand Marais home. The exercise provided an excellent opportunity for firefighters to create a reasonably safe environment to observe how fire behaves in an actual burning house. It also gave them additional experience in extinguishing the home once fully engulfed in flames. The exercise was well-planned and safely executed. The Firefighters were supported by the local Emergency Management Team.

Be sure to thank the individuals on the local fire departments and emergency response teams next time you see them around. They work hard, take risks, and give up a lot of personal time to keep our community safe.

Biomass Proposal Worksession and City Council Meeting

2009-07-08T22:00:00.009-05:00

All City Council Members were present at both the City Council Worksession on the Biomass District Heating Grant Opportunity and the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting.

Worksesssion on Biomass District Heating Grant Opportunity

Chuck Hartley, Director of Energy Management Services for LHB Corporation and Buck Benson of Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) gave an overview of their proposed project entitled "Boundary Waters Renewable District Heat and Combined Heat & Power" to be submitted to the Department of Energy for funding.

To summarize, Grand Marais will join with the City of Ely to submit a proposal for a ~$20 million District Heating project. Ely and Grand Marais would each build a Centralized District Heating Plant; in Grand Marais the plant would generate electricity and provide heat to the School, Hospital, County Courthouse, the proposed Cook County Community Center and 100-300 homes. Benefits of such a plant are believed to be job creation, energy savings, reduction in fuel oil and propane, fossil fuel displacement, energy independence and reduction of CO2 emissions.

There is a 50/50 cost-share so if the proposal is successful, Grand Marais will receive $5.646 million and provide cost-share of $5.646 million, most likely by selling bonds. The proposal is due Tuesday 7/14 with awards to be announced in October 2009.

Council discussed the many unanswered questions in this proposal, and voted 4-1 to take a "leap of faith" and submit the proposal, using the 3 months between now and October to determine project feasibility both technically and financially.

Mayor Hakes cast the dissenting vote stating that while she supports the overall objectives and exploration of Centralized District Heating with Biomass, she feels it is irresponsible to move forward with so many unanswered questions and critical unknowns about the technical and financial viability of the project and whether it is a good use of public funds.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum
Bradley Peterson of the Coalition of Greater MN Cities gave an overview of the services provided by the Coalition. The Grand Marais membership in the Coalition expires at the end of 2009.

Permits Granted
Council granted several permits including The American Legion's Fisherman's Picnic Bingo Permit and Temporary ON-Sale Liquor Permit and Beer Tent, the NSFCU Street Permit for Customer Appreciation Days, the Dragon Boat Festival Permit, the Fisherman's Picnic Permit, and the Sawtooth Challenge Bike Race Street Permit.

Planning Commission Report
Council unanimously supported the the Planning Commission's approval for a Conditional Use Permit to allow (2) roof signs at the Cook County Whole Foods Coop.

Council voted unanimously to officially deny a request to rezone a lot in the EDA Business Park to R-1 to accomodate an affordable housing development. Funding used for the construction of the Business Park would not allow this rezone. Both the Planning Commission and Council expressed their disapointment in the EDA for moving this proposal forward in the first place.

Grand Marais Area Tourism Association (GMATA)
GMATA Director Diane Brostrom gave an overview of the 2009 GMATA Budget and County Lodging Tax. The Budget is on plan. The Lodging Tax Report through May 2009 shows a 16.5% reduction in tax for the Lutsen-Tofte Area, a 5.0% reduction for Grand Marais, and 11.4% reduction for the Gunflint Trail. There is optimistic that this downturn will change during the last half of 2009.

Noise Ordinance 2009-02 Second Reading
A second reading of Ordinance No. 2009-02 aka the Noise Ordinance was read and approved by Council 4-1. Councilor Bill Lenz cast the dissenting vote stating he wasn't convinced that we needed any change to the existing ordinance. He also expressed concern about no noise limits during the exception periods. Council appreciated the value of Public input in this matter and agreed to hold a Public Hearing in the Fall to solicit public input about the effectiveness of the amended ordinance.

County Prosecution Services
Council unanimously approved the Agreement for Prosecution Services provided by County Attorney Tim Scannell. In the agreement, the County agrees to provide the City of Grand Marais prosecution services for petty misdemeanors, misdemeanor, and gross misdemeanor violation of state law or city ordinance that occur within the city limits of Grand Marais. A quarterly fee of $3125 will be paid to the County. This agreement will now move to the County Board for approval.

Resolution 2009-05 Declaring Costs to be Assessed and Ordering Preparation of Proposed Assessment for 2008 Improvements Project
Council voted unanimously to pass this resolution authorizing Mike Roth to prepare the Assessment Role for the 2008 Improvements Project.

MN DOT Pedestrian Safey Project
Council and Mike Roth continue to work with Rob Ege of MN DOT to slow traffic along Highway 61 through Grand Marais. Of most significance, a new crosswalk has been added between the Dairy Queen and the Pumphouse. "EVENT CONGESTION AHEAD" signs have been ordered. And, MN DOT has provided the specifications for a "YOUR SPEED IS" sign to be placed along with a REDUCED SPEED AHEAD sign at approximately MM 108.593. MN DOT will also monitor traffic before/after these signs are placed to determine effectiveness.

Council Reports
Tim Kennedy reported on the Broadband Project noting that the Committee continues to work on Grant Funding for this County-wide project. Arrowhead Electric Coop is the proposed vendor for this service. Broadband is also a candidate for the 1% sales tax opportunity.

Bill Lenz reported that the Park Board has agreed upon a final recommendation for the Park Master Plan. Lenz reported that the Board was in agreement about the Plan to be presented to the Public on July 28 at 7 PM. The recommended Master Plan will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration and approval.

Mike Roth said (2) bids for wetland delineation in the Rec Park are being solicited.

Mayor Hakes updated the Council on her conversations with the DNR regarding the Safe Harbor/Marina project. The DNR suggested a face-to-face meeting with the City to discuss both DNR and City requirements for a Safe Harbor/Marina. The City will use Resolution 2007-05 as passed under Mayor Larsen as its basis for requirements.

Hakes also reported that the Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Department is working on a grant proposal to expand the current Fire Station in Grand Marais. The grant will be submitted to FEMA this week.

Mark Your Calendars
Tues July 28 at 7 PM Park Board Presentation of Master Plan at location TBD
Wed July 29 at 3:30 PM Capital Improvement Worksession
Wed July 29 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed Aug 12 at 3:30 PM Budget Worksession
Wed Aug 12 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

Worksession, Council Meeting and Noise Ordinance Public Hearing

2009-06-24T22:02:00.010-05:00

It was a very busy day at City Hall. There was a full Council present for the City Auditor Report, the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting and the Public Hearing on the Noise Ordinance. Also in attendance at today's meetings were Mike Roth, Kim Dunsmoor, Don Davison and Sheriff Mark Falk.

City Auditor Report Worksession

Gary Giroux of the CPA firm Walker, Giroux & Hahn presented the Independent Auditor's Report for the City of Grand Marais. The findings of this annual audit were presented in a 51 page report entitled "Financial Statements and Supplementary Information for Year Ended December 31, 2008." The report states that the City of Grand Marais' practices for the Year 2008 conform with accepted accounting principles.

City Council Meeting

Law Enforcement
Sheriff Mark Falk and the Council discussed several City Law Enforcement matters including a Hell's Angels rally planned this summer in Carlton, the Noise Ordinance, Highway 61 traffic issues, downtown parking, and summer law enforcement staffing. Sheriff Falk also attended the Public Hearing for the Noise Ordinance.

MN DOT Update
Rob Ege from MN DOT has been out of the office, but will prepare a written summary of the MN DOT proposal to use additional signage and monitoring on the west end of town to slow traffic down as it enters on Highway 61. (Refer to City Council Meetings Minutes from June 10, 2009.) Ege will provide this written summary for the next Council Meeting.

Shawn Perich of the Hovland Fire Department contacted Sue Hakes with an idea for Hovland and Grand Marais to work together in the pursuit of grant funding for an EVENT CONGESTION AHEAD sign that would be shared. Council decided that the need for signage in Grand Marais immediate and moved to authorize Mike Roth to purchase (2) EVENT CONGESTION AHEAD signs for $1000; there was also concern about both Hovland and Grand Marais needing the sign on the same dates. The Council appreciated the offer from HVFD to partner.

Shawn Perich also made Hakes aware of the STOP program established by Keck Melby for the Hovland Volunteer Fire Department to provide traffic control/safety on scenes. Mike Roth will follow up with Shawn to see if the City might benefit from such a program.

City Attorney Request for Proposal
Council approved the Request for Proposals for Attorney Services. This RFP will be available on the City's website, the Cook County News Herald, the League of MN Cities classifieds. It will also be sent to several firms along the North Shore. Current City Attorney Don Davison has resigned his position effective July 15, 2009. Individuals or firms interested in learning more about submitting a proposal may contact Mike Roth at City Hall at 218 387 1848. Proposals are due July 17, 2009.

Street Project Payment
Pay estimate #4 for the Reconstruction and Creechville Improvements project was approved for payment.

Personnel
Lenny Bloomquist will be the new Street Department Supervisor for the City.

Council Reports
Tim Kennedy expressed his concerns about the growing urgency for decisions to be made about the 1% Sales Tax. The effort is being led by the County Board; the City is eager to move forward in an effort to pass the needed referendum.

Bill Lenz stated that the Park Board will have a Master Plan Recommendation for the City Council that will be presented to the Public on July 28 at 3:30 at City Hall.

Sue Hakes reported that Aaron Mielke of the Grand Marais Fire Department talked with Steve DuChien about the costs and needs to upgrade fire hydrants in the City. Mielke reported that to replace a hydrant will cost an estimated $3-4,000; approximately 20 hydrants will need to be upgraded or replaced over time.

Public Hearing for Amendment to Ordinance No. 2009-02

The first reading of An Ordinance Amending Grand Marais Code, Chapter 46, by Creating an Exception fo Noise Nuisances within the City for Live Musical Performances (aka the Noise Ordinance) was held at 5:00 PM at City Hall. Approximately 20 members of the public were in attendance at this hearing.

Members of the Public speaking at this hearing included: Jan Nosker, Andy Brostrom, Mary St. John, Bob St. John, Nancy Nosker, Jeff Gecas, Jane Shinners, Jeff Cerniak, Todd Miller, Michelle G., Joan Farnum, Rhonda Silence, John Gorski. Public feedback on the matter was delivered in a positive manner with great respect shown to persons with differing opinions on this matter. A spirit of cooperation was evident with several attendees expressing a desire to compromise.

Sheriff Mark Falk was asked to discuss the enforcement issues around the Noise Ordinance. Sheriff Falk expressed his concerns about use of a noise meter, stating that controlling noise by established times is easier to enforce.

After a lengthy discussion, the Council moved to amend further the existing Ordinance by changing the distance stated in Section (d) to 100 feet (from 50 feet) and by including the 4th of July in the exceptions. Here is the newly proposed wording for Section (d) Amplified Sound. Changes made today are in bold:

It shall be a violation of this section to play, operate or permit the playing, use or operation of any radio, tape player, disc player, loud speaker or other electronic device used for the amplification of sound, unless otherwise permitted by law, located inside or outside, the sound of which carries to points of habitation or adjacent properties, and is audible above the level of conversational speech at a distance of 100 feet or more from the point of origin of the amplified sound. This section shall not apply to live musical performances:

1) between the hours of 12:00 o'clock noon and 10:00 o'clock p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; and
2) between the hours of 12:00 o'clock noon and 12:00 o'clock midnight on Friday and Saturdays;
3) between the hours of 12:00 o'clock noon and 12:00 o'clock midnight on the 4th of July, the Sunday before Labor Day and the Sunday before Memorial Day.
4) The City Council may permit other exceptions to the foregoing restrictions in connection with the application for a festival or street and sidewalk use permit.

The wording is confusing in the Ordinance. An attempt to simplify follows:
It is okay to play amplified music either inside or outside as long as the sound being made cannot be heard above the level of conversational speech beyond 100 feet from the place the music is originating. It's okay to play or make music above this level during the exception times stated above. In most cases, music played indoors will not pose a problem. This amendment basically makes it possible for music to be played outdoors until 10 pm Sun-Thursday and until 12 midnight on Fri-Saturday, 4th of July, the Sundays before Memorial Day and Labor Day, or by permit during city festivals.

It is important to note that the (2) Grand Marais establishments that play the most amplified music are eager to be considerate to the community and have made strides to reduce the volume level including reconfiguring their stage, moving speakers, installing air conditioning, etc.

The 2nd Reading of this Ordinance will be conducted at the City Council Meeting scheduled for July 8, 2009 at 4:30 in City Hall. The Public is encouraged to attend.

Mark Your Calendars

Tues July 7 at 3:30 Regular Park Board Meeting

Wed July 8 at 3:30 pm Worksession on Capital Improvements
Wed July 8 at 4:30 pm City Council Meeting
Tues July 28 at 7:00 pm Park Board Master Planning Presentation w/Carduus Consulting
Wed July 29 4:30 pm City Council Meeting

Take Nothing for Granted

2009-06-18T17:28:00.003-05:00

Water In and Water Out
Yesterday morning I toured the Water and Waste Water Treatment Facilities for the City of Grand Marais. Supervisor Tom Nelson hosted the very educational tour by explaining step by step how water moves through both the Water Treatment Plant and the Waste Water Treatment Facility. I've generally been one of those folks who never thought too much about how our water is treated, so I learned a lot. I was impressed by the very meticulous and necessary scientific procedures, as well as the mechanical expertise involved in keeping these systems up and running, clean & safe.

I appreciate the work that Nelson, Steve DuChien, Neil Hansen and Colin Vos do to ensure public safety and meet strict government regulations. From now on, I'll take nothing for granted when I take a safe drink of water from my faucet, wash a load of clothes, or drain the bathtub.

Big Weekend Ahead

2009-06-16T17:59:00.005-05:00

Undoing Racism
Ron Chishom, co-founder of the People's Institute for Survival and Beyond, will be speaking in Grand Marais this Friday, June 19th at 7 PM at the Grand Marais Community Center. Mr. Chishom's presentation on the history of the People's Institute and on-going Undoing Racism work, as well as an analysis of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, promises to be informative and thought provoking. Coffee, desert and conversation will follow the presentation. There is no charge for admission, but a free will offering will be accepted to offset travel expenses. Everyone is welcome.

Boats to Tools Auction, Puppets & Pageantry, Food & Music
North House Folk School is gearing up for it's biggest and best summer celebration, the "Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival". Don't miss this most wonderful event in celebration of the longest day of the year! The festivities begin Friday at noon and conclude with a Wooden Boat Parade on Sunday at 2 PM. Highlights include Friday's Harbor Side BBQ (sponsored by the Cook County Historical Society and Grand Marais Lions Club), Saturday's Live Auction, and the Summer Solstice Pageant featuring the Good Harbor Hill Players and GAMEPELAJ. Don't miss this fun family event marking the first day of Summer!

Car Shine in the Sun Shine!

2009-06-13T08:36:00.006-05:00

Chamber of Commerce Classic Car Show

Come on down to Artist's Point and enjoy the Classic Car Show today (June 13) from 10 AM to 2 PM. Vote for your favorite!

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting Notes

2009-06-10T21:04:00.020-05:00

Mayor Hakes and Councilors Kennedy, Lenz and Sivertson were present for today's Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting. Councilor Costello was absent. Park Manager Dave Tersteeg, City Administrator Mike Roth, Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor and City Attorney Don Davison were also present at one or both meetings.

Budget Worksession

The Council continues to work hard on the budget to prepare for proposed Local Government Aid (LGA) cuts, increased expenses, and spending in accordance with Council priorities.

Dave Tersteeg has already implemented cost saving measures resulting from labor savings, minor reduction in pool hours, storage & marina revenues and resale of some novelty items in the Park Office.

Librarian Linda Chappell has also identified and implemented cost savings measures for the Library including the decision to not hire a Library Page.

Council examined the allocation of space and rent payments by tenants at City Hall (City, PUC, Liquor Store, Visitor Center, City Attorney, EDA) Adjustments to rents paid will be made as appropriate resulting in a more accurate understanding of costs.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum

Grand Marais resident Jan Nosker carefully articulated his concerns about loud music in Grand Marais and asked the Council to consider noise abatement and EPA Guidelines in the revised Noise Ordinance. He also expressed his concern about amplified music being played at night and causing sleeping problems for residents.

Agenda Items

Vendor Permit
Council granted a vendor permit to Jack Stone of Fall River Trading to demonstrate and sell Langford canoes in the Grand Marais Harbor.

Chamber of Commerce/Grand Marais Area Tourism Association (GMATA) Update
Mark Sandbo reported on the progress being made on the proposed merger of the Chamber of Commerce, GMATA and Grand Marais Business Council. Inclusion of the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau is also under consideration and discussion.

Noise Ordinance
An amendment to the existing noise ordinance to allow live musical performances was discussed. Council is proposing the allowance of amplified live music from Noon until Midnight on Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays and from Noon until 10:00 PM Sunday through Thursday. These changes will be incorporated into the existing noise ordinance. A PUBLIC HEARING on the proposed noise ordinance has been scheduled for 5:00 PM on Wednesday June 24, 2009. The public is strongly encouraged to attend and voice their preferences and concerns.

MN DOT Traffic Control Proposal
At the request of District Traffic Engineer Rob Ege, the St. Paul MN DOT Traffic Department has considered our request to change the speed limit from 40 mph to 30 mph on Highway 61 at the top of the hill west of town. MN DOT is not convinced that this action would achieve the speed compliance we are seeking. Instead they are proposing that MN DOT install a 48" black/yellow "REDUCED SPEED AHEAD" sign in the same location the City is intending to place a permanent "YOUR SPEED IS" sign. MN DOT is also planning to do a before/after study to determine effectivness of these actions. Sue Hakes will request a written summary of MN DOTs proposal for review. Mike Roth will obtain pricing for the "YOUR SPEED IS" sign. It is anticipated that Council will approve purchase and installation of this sign at their next meeting.

City Attorney Work and Request for Proposals
City Attorney Don Davison resigned his position as Grand Marais City Attorney effective July 15, 2009. The City Council will meet Wednesday June 17 at 5:00 to discuss an RFP and solication of proposals to replace Davison.

Council & Staff Reports

Councilor Kennedy reported that the 1% Sales Tax Committee will be meeting Monday June 15 at 7:00 pm at the Courthouse. He also noted the public is invited to a 1% Sales Tax meeting on Tuesday June 16 at 7:00 pm at the Courthouse to address the expanded community center as part of the 1% sales tax. Kennedy also gave a progress report on the Cook County Local Energy Project.

Councilor Sivertson reported on the Economic Development Authority (EDA) including their progress on marketing/selling the Business Park Lots, Small Cities Development Grant projects, and the Benefits Analysis the EDA is preparing for the County Board.

Mayor Hakes reported that she is working to re-schedule a telecon with Larry Killian to discuss further the DNR requirements for a Safe Harbor and Marina in the Grand Marais Harbor, and how this might blend with Resolution 2007-05 passed under Mayor Evelyn Larsen.

Mark Your Calendars

Mon June 15 7:00 pm 1% Sales Tax Committee Meeting at the Courthouse
Tues June 16 7:00 pm Community Center as part of 1% Sales Tax at Courthouse
Wed June 17 5:00 pm City Council Meeting on Attorney RFP
Tues June 23 3:30 Park Board Master Plan Worksession at City Hall
Wed June 24 4:30 pm City Council Meeting
Wed June 24 5:00 pm PUBLIC HEARING on Noise Ordinance
Wed July 8 3:30 pm Worksession on Capital Improvements
Wed July 8 4:30 pm City Council Meeting
Wed July 29 4:30 City Council Meeting

Boreal Birding & Northern Landscapes Festival

2009-06-01T18:43:00.004-05:00

Welcome one and all to the Boreal Birding & Northern Landscapes Festival hosted by North House Folk School June 4-7. Enjoy 4 days of field workshops and speakers focused on birds, wildflowers, the Boreal Forest and Lake Superior landscape.

The Beautification of Grand Marais

2009-05-31T18:02:00.004-05:00

The local Garden Club will be sharing their love of gardening by voluntarily doing the town planting in Grand Marais on June 1. Their efforts are greatly appreciated and the result of their hard work is enjoyed thoroughly by one and all. Tell 'em thanks when you see them with their hands in the dirt tomorrow as they fill the flower boxes and tend to the Rose Garden.

Entering the USA from Canada

2009-05-28T18:55:00.002-05:00

Passport Requirement

Effective June 1, 2009, U. S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials will begin to require that all travelers, including citizens of both Canada and the United States, present a valid passport, passport card, or WHTI compliant document when entering the U.S. through a land or sea border. For more information go the United States Embassy Consular Services Canada at: http://www.consular.canada.usembassy.gov/passport_requirement.asp

Capital Improvement Worksession and City Council Meeting

2009-05-27T20:36:00.005-05:00

A full City Council was present for today's Capital Improvement Worksession and City Council Meeting. Tom Nelson, Dave Tersteeg and Hal Greenwood were also present for the worksession on Capital Improvements.

Capital Improvement Worksession

On March 2, 2009, the City Council identified the need for a plan to improve/replace City Buildings and City Infrastructure (water, sewer, electric, roads). The plan needs to set priorities and identify funding sources. Today's worksession was the first meeting to begin that planning process.

Approximately two dozen potential projects were identified and discussed in terms of importance, readiness, and how they might be funded. The Council agreed that it is important to identify projects that could be ready now should funding from any source become available. Priority will be given to projects that keep work within Cook County.

Mayor Hakes has sent a request to Congressman Oberstar regarding the potential for any future stimulus funding.

City Council Meeting

Several members of the Public were present at today's Council Meeting; nobody opted to speak at the Open Forum.

Permits Granted
- The Lions Club was granted a permit allowing their traditional Fisherman's Picnic raffle.
- The Lions Club was granted a permit for a fireworks display at Fisherman's Picnic.
- Dan Anderson was granted a permit to conduct Scenic Airplane Rides in the Harbor.
- The Chamber of Commerce was granted a permit for the Classic Car Show on June 13.
- The Chamber of Commerce was granted a permit for the 4th of July Parade.

Downtown Parking
Abuse of the 90-minute parking in the downtown district by business owners and their employees was brought to the attention of the Council. Short-term parking availability for customers is critical during the tourist season. In lieu of asking Sheriff Falk to issue tickets or tow violators, the Council opted to ask the Chamber of Commerce and the Grand Marais Business Council to discuss the problem within their respective organizations and with other business owners. The Council hopes that the business community will talk with each other and resolve the problem using common sense as opposed to law enforcement. Mayor Hakes sent the request via email.

Noise Ordinance
Council discussed the framework for a Grand Marais Noise Ordinance. Generally, the Noise Ordinance will allow music from 9 AM to Midnight with no differentiation between seasons or days of the week. Council agreed unanimously to hold a public hearing before adopting any change/newly created Noise Ordinance.

Contract for Animal Shelter Operation Services
The Agreement between the City of Grand Marais and the Animal Advocates of the Arrowhead was reviewed. Only minor changes were made to the contract to be signed by the parties.

Council & Staff Reports
Councilor Costello asked the Council to consider agenda items for the May 28 CCST (County/City/School Board/Tribal Council) meeting in Grand Portage. The 1% Sales Tax will be proposed as an agenda item.

Councilor Lenz reported on the most recent Park Master Planning Listening Session.

Councilor Kennedy discussed the MN DOT meeting held last week.

Councilor Sivertson reported on public comments she's heard regarding Biomass District Heating as a general concept.

Don Davison reported that law enforcement is preparing for increased group traffic on the North Shore.

Kim Dunsmoor requested Council approval for hiring Rhonda Hubbard part-time in the Rec Park. Council unanimously approved the request.

Mayor Hakes suggested Council meet with Sheriff Falk in the near future to discuss several issues including downtown parking, enforcement of the noise ordinance, efforts being made to slow traffic through town, possible change in speed limit west of town, etc. Hakes also reported on the May 26 County ATV Meeting. And, Hakes reported on the notification received by Grand Marais Motors regarding potential contract termination of their dealership; a letter requesting reversal of this decision was sent by Hakes to General Motors Corporation.

Mark Your Calendars
Thurs May 28 at 4:00 PM Joint CCST in Grand Portage
Wed June 10 at 3:30 PM Budget Worksession
Wed June 10 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting
Wed June 24 at 4:30 PM City Council Meeting

Small Footprint Living Fair

2009-05-25T18:00:00.005-05:00

Learn more about alternative energy use through sustainable living and community lifestyles at the Small Footprint Living Fair on June 12-13. Information is available on the County Website at http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/component/content/article/596-small-footprint-living-fair

This fair is sponsored by Cook County Extension and certainly has something for everyone. Pre-registration is encouraged.

MN Department of Transportation Meeting

2009-05-21T18:14:00.007-05:00

The City of Grand Marais hosted Robert R. Ege, MN DOT District Traffic Engineer out of the Duluth Traffic Office this morning. Attendees included Mayor Hakes, Councilors Kay Costello and Tim Kennedy, City Administrator Mike Roth, and City Finance Director Kim Dunsmoor. Several interested members of the general public were also in attendance and were able to ask questions and participate in the discussion.

The purpose of this two-hour meeting was to discuss potential short term and long term solutions to traffic and pedestrian safety issues in the City of Grand Marais. About half of the meeting was discussion, the second half of the meeting was a walking tour. Both were helpful.

One of the major concerns addressed was how to reduce the speed of traffic as it goes through Grand Marais along Highway 61. If the 30 mph speed limit could be moved further west to the top of the hill at the west end of the city it would be extremely helpful. Rob Ege will check into this and will advise.

The near-term ideas and possible solutions discussed today were:
- Move the 30 mph speed limit further west (top of the hill)
- Purchase and install permanent "YOUR SPEED IS" sign at the 30 mph sign
- Purchase/borrow (from MN DOT) "EVENT CONGESTION AHEAD" sign for special events
- Re-paint existing crosswalks
- Create (1) new crosswalk now

Several traffic/pedestrian problem areas were identified including the areas around 5th Avenue West (old Gunflint Trail), the Dairy Queen, the Post Office and the Hospital. Long term, the City intends to continue working with MN DOT to build more pedestrian crosswalks, curb & gutters, sidewalks where appropriate. Today's meeting was the first step.

Funding for these projects is, of course, important. Ege said there is possible funding (up to 80%) for safety projects through a Highway Safety Improvement Project. Ege will provide information to us on this potential funding source.

The information gathered today will be discussed with the full City Council at the next meeting on May 27, 2009 so the Council can determine future actions.

Budget Worksession and City Council Meeting Notes

2009-05-13T21:19:00.007-05:00

Budget Worksession

A full City Council participated in the Budget workshop. With the anticipation of cuts to Local Government Aid (LGA) in the amount of $50K for 2009 and $100K in 2010, City Staff prepared budget amendment options for Council review. Some budget amendments have already been implemented, others are being considered by the Council for immediate implementation, others will need more study, and a few may be rejected outright. Budget management and cuts will be on the Agenda at the May 27 City Council Meeting.

City Council Meeting

Open Forum

Jeff Cerniak shared his views about the potential Noise Ordinance in Grand Marais requesting that it be lenient toward musicians playing in downtown establishments. He also suggests Rec Park guests signing a waiver acknowledging that there is noise in the City of Grand Marais and that they accept City Ordinances and Policies.

Bob Glirbas expressed several safety concerns in the City including the need for stop signs in residential locations, crosswalks conflicting with parking, kids riding ATVs. He also questions why the City plows the snowmobile trail in front of the Post Office but not City sidewalks.

Variance(s) Granted

Mike Raymond was granted a variance from the shoreline setback of Lake Superior to expand his existing building on the north side. The intended use of this expansion is vacation rental. Raymond has agreed that any trees and shrubs removed during construction will be replaced.

Bruce Block and Mike Raymond were granted a variance from the shoreline setback of Lake Superior to allow an addition to the Sydney's Custard Shop for indoor dining space and restrooms. Conditions for fencing, handling of trash/recycling and replacement of any trees and shrubs removed during construction are part of the variance.

Fire District Boundary Changes

Council unanimously approved Fire Chief Ben Silence's request to expand the boundaries of the Grand Marais Fire Department Service Area from 21.33 acres to 83.38 acres to include the unorganized territories mostly along the Pike Lake Road. Official expansion of the response area will make it easier for dispatching calls. It will also help in getting grants. Property taxes will be affected for persons being added to the response area.

Noise Ordinance

Council agreed there is a need for revision to the current Grand Marais Noise Ordinance. Discussion was held around the importance of indoor and outdoor music for downtown businesses, festival sponsors, North House Folk School, local residents and tourists. It was also noted that some Grand Marais residents and guests are disturbed by the music, particularly late at night. Council agreed that the newly revised Noise Ordinance should be kept as simple as possible and that time constraints on when music is allowed are likely. Mike Roth will provide a draft for review at the next City Council Meeting. Before any new ordinance is passed, a public hearing will be held.

Personnel

Council unanimously approved the Library Board's recommendation to hire Ann Ward in the position of Library Clerk.

Council unanimously approved the Personnel Committee's recommendation to hire a new full-time Supervisor in the Property Maintenance Department and to retain Tom Stockman as a full-time property maintenance worker. Council regrets that the (2) part-time positions in this department will be eliminated once the Supervisor position is filled.

Creechville Annexation

The second reading of Ordinance 2009-01 passed 4-1 with Bill Lenz voting against it. This Ordinance will be in full force and effect and final upon the date it is approved by the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

Council & Staff Reports

Tim Kennedy reported that the City/County are still waiting for legislative approval of the 1% Sales Tax. Kennedy also reported that the PUC is exploring the possibilities of biomass technology.

Jan Sivertson reported that the EDA is proposing an 80% reduction in hours/salary/benefits for EDA Director Matt Geretschlaeger, as well as the elimination of the part-time EDA administrative support position.

Bill Lenz reported that the finger piers have arrived and should be installed by the end of next week. He also reported that the Army Corp of Engineers is in the Grand Marais Harbor working to reinforce the outer breakwater.

Sue Hakes reported that the Harbor Friends have raised concerns about the wetland area near the PUC garage in the Rec Park. Molly Hoffman called Hakes last week to make her aware of:

a) concern about snowplowing into/near the wetland area,

b) a piece of plywood debris in the wetland area, and

c) PUC spools and other materials being stored too close to the wetland.

Mike Roth contacted Cook County Soil & Water Conservation Technician Tristen Beaster. After reviewing the site, Beaster acknowledged that some snowplowing debris (gravel) had entered the wetland area. Beaster recommended no action to remove this debris. Beaster did recommend adding more fencing where the snow was piled last winter to clearly define the wetland area.

The source of the plywood is unknown, but if anybody sees debris in the wetland or other park areas, they are encouraged to remove it or ask to have it be removed.

The boundary of the wetland is marked with rope and the PUC spool and other materials are not infringing on the wetland area.

Mark Your Calendars

Wed May 27 at 3:30 Capital Improvement Plan Worksession

Wed May 27 at 4:30 City Council Meeting

Thurs May 28 at 4:00 Joint City/County/School/Tribal Council at Grand Portage