Grand Marais City Council Advances Preliminary 2025 Tax Levy Amid Budget Uncertainties

Overview: In a session marked by budgetary concerns, the Grand Marais City Council approved the preliminary 2025 tax levy, set to rise by 4.97% from the previous year, amid discussions on utility charge restructuring and labor cost unpredictability. The council also tackled liquor license renewals and scheduled a public hearing on Third Street improvements, among other issues.

Cook County Planning Commission Approves Conditional Use Permit for Third Dwelling on Highway 61 Property

Overview: The Cook County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for a third dwelling on a property located on West Highway 61, owned by Superior Heights LLC. The request involves converting an existing bunkhouse into a fully functional dwelling with sanitary and kitchen facilities to accommodate a caretaker or the property owner. Concerns about potential zoning conflicts were alleviated by the property’s compliance with current residential regulations.

Cook County Board of Adjustment Approves Garage Variance Amidst Community Debate

Overview: The Cook County Board of Adjustment convened on September 10, 2025, to discuss a variance request submitted by Keith and Pam Alteringer regarding their property on Wolfpoint Trail. The Alteringers sought permission to build a residential garage with a reduced setback from the right-of-way, sparking substantial public discussion and mixed opinions. After thorough deliberations, the board approved the variance request with conditions, including an adjusted height limit for the structure.

Cook County Commissioners Approve Sale of Superior National Golf Course Amid Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, the sale of Superior National Golf Course was a central topic, with the board approving a motion to sell the property to Brady Hatcher, owner of Golden Eagle Golf Course. The sale, which involves a price sufficient to cover existing bonds, agent fees, and legal costs, raised questions about tax implications, community access, and potential conflicts of interest.

Cook County Board Tables Construction Contract Over Bonding Concerns

Overview: During a special meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners on September 3rd, the board unanimously decided to table a construction manager contract for the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) project due to unresolved issues regarding bonding obligations. The commissioners expressed concerns about the absence of explicit bonding requirements in the contract with Johnson Wilson Constructors. The board determined that further review by the county attorney was necessary to clarify these obligations before moving forward.