A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) report, delivered by HR Director Jeff Brand. Brand detailed the HRA’s mission, which extends beyond Grand Marais to encompass all of Cook County. Emphasizing the importance of local partnerships, he outlined strategies for overcoming tightening federal and state funding. Brand highlighted the potential for collaboration with philanthropic organizations to support housing initiatives, particularly in light of the county’s designation as an opportunity zone, which could spur economic development and housing projects.

Brand also outlined the HRA’s strategic plan, which includes building new housing, rehabilitating existing structures, and exploring redevelopment opportunities. A notable initiative is the creation of a local housing trust fund aimed at rent stabilization and supporting pre-development costs. The council recognized the need for diverse housing solutions, including safe and attainable options for current and future residents. The importance of infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, was underscored, given its integral role in facilitating housing development.

A comprehensive analysis of housing permits revealed trends in new home and multi-unit developments, with a particular focus on meeting the demand for affordable housing. The council identified a shortfall in housing for those earning up to 50% of the area median income, acknowledging that existing initiatives have not fully addressed this need. The Gunflint View Apartments project was cited as an example of efforts to bridge this gap, with public financial support contributing to its development.

Another major topic was the investment in housing units, particularly the “Heights” project, which represents a $9.1 million investment with $875,000 in public financial support. This development, featuring modular housing construction, is expected to deliver 87 units by year-end. Similarly, the Norris Skogan project aims to construct 12 new single-family homes with funding from a $350,000 grant and additional support from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Senior housing was also a focal point, as many residents aged 65 and older are moving out of Grand Marais. The council examined studies indicating a potential demand for up to 115 assisted living units, yet current options remain limited. This gap highlights the ongoing challenge of providing suitable housing for all demographics, including young families and seniors.

Infrastructure funding discussions brought attention to the complexities of securing financial support for essential services. The council emphasized the necessity of a consistent flow of funds from state and federal programs to enhance sewer and water systems vital for residential development. A resolution was introduced for a grant application concerning the city’s wastewater system planning, focusing on Geographic Information System (GIS) work to establish a robust infrastructure backbone for future city planning.

The meeting also addressed the potential for battery storage technology within the community. Although previous attempts to implement this technology were unsuccessful, the council expressed optimism for future discussions, recognizing its importance in supporting renewable energy sources and mitigating outages in the isolated Grand Marais area.

Additionally, the session included updates on the local YMCA, which is fully enrolled in dance and gymnastics classes, and the child care program recently achieved a four-star rating. The council also discussed the utilities department’s new contract with Zap Energy for a high-speed charging station, projected to be operational by the end of the year.

Other topics included revisions to the donation policy, emphasizing streamlined language and alignment with council discussions. The park board provided updates on grant programs for brush and tree cleanup on Sweetheart Bluff, aimed at reducing fire hazards, and deliberated on the construction of a new bathhouse with budget considerations for both pre-cast and custom-built options.