The most significant news came from the grant awarded by the Great Lakes Cities Initiative, linked with the St. Lawrence Seaway. This $120,000 grant is earmarked for design work, offering a substantial boost to local infrastructure projects. The council’s discussions with the organization’s CEO clarified the grant’s implications, particularly concerning the Coast Guard Station, local parking lot conditions, and addressing sinkhole issues. The council expressed optimism about leveraging this grant to secure further funding, potentially catalyzing broader project initiatives.

The council also received updates on the divestiture of a property involving the Coast Guard Station. The divestiture was approved, and the council is now coordinating with legal and environmental offices to conduct a necessary environmental assessment. This assessment is a prerequisite for any transactions and is expected to take over a year. However, efforts are being made to expedite the process, acknowledging the area’s seasonal nature.

Another collaborative effort discussed was the East Bay project, which involves local stakeholders, including the Grand Portage Band. This project aims to develop a realistic funding plan and assess proposals from the Army Corps of Engineers. The council recognized the value of local expertise, particularly from the Grand Portage Band, in informing project implementations.

Further extending their focus on community development, the council addressed the harbor-side project. Discussions suggested incorporating this project into the Coast Guard Point and Artist Point Master Planning process. The council views this project as a potential catalyst for securing funding for additional initiatives. Plans are underway to engage with the designated engineer to explore these possibilities.

In terms of environmental initiatives, the council discussed a new grant opportunity from the Minneapolis Foundation. This grant, part of the Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grant program, targets smaller communities, including tribal ones, with a focus on issues like wastewater management, healthy homes, food security, and emergency preparedness. Council members expressed a strong interest in this grant, recognizing its potential relevance to ongoing projects, particularly in areas such as wastewater management and community engagement.

Transitioning from grants and projects, the council received updates on the ongoing construction of the new Municipal Liquor Store and City Hall. A representative from mgov construction reported on the progress, noting that the office area windows had been delivered, with all glass expected soon, allowing installation to begin shortly. The project saw advancements, with drywall taping at 95%, framing at 98%, and tile work in the bathrooms at 85%. Painting was about 65% complete, and floor polishing was scheduled for the upcoming week. Ceiling grid installation in City Hall is set to commence once wood beams are delivered, and the ambient temperature inside the building remains comfortable.

The council also delved into budget and levy discussions. A public hearing on the budget and levy received no comments, possibly indicating satisfaction with the council’s fiscal management. The draft budget summary highlighted two major changes: an increase in anticipated revenue from the liquor store and an adjustment to the library expense budget due to reduced insurance costs. The liquor store’s contribution to revenue was raised from $50,000 to $66,000, expected to balance against the new debt payment of about $134,000. A recommendation to increase the levy by 2.97% was also noted.

Additionally, there were updates on board openings within various city boards, such as the park board, planning commission, library board, and Economic Development Authority (EDA). The council emphasized the critical role of the EDA and the importance of filling its vacancy with a competent individual, encouraging community participation in governance.