Overview: In a recent Benton County Board of Commissioners meeting, officials announced the successful acquisition of a $1 million grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development aimed at addressing the economic impacts of the Granite City power generation facility closure. This significant funding will support local infrastructure projects, notably the Road 29 and 8 extension, by covering unbudgeted expenses for relocating Excel Energy power line poles. The grant, part of a broader $10 million initiative for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, was celebrated by board members as an achievement for the county.