Cook County officials welcomed both the Minnesota House and Senate Capital Investment Committees to Grand Marais last week, marking the first time both groups have toured the region as part of their bonding visits. The focus was the city’s aging Wastewater Treatment Facility, which sits on the shore of Lake Superior.

Grand Marais is seeking $5 million in state bonding towards a $10 million renewal project that would modernize the facility, improve odor control, replace deteriorating infrastructure, and prevent effluent discharge into Lake Superior.

“We don’t ask for bonding funds often, and we’re far from the Twin Cities,” said Cook County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Linda Jurek. “Having both committees here was a huge opportunity to show our isolation and why this project is vital.”

City Administrator Mike Roth noted that water rates are already lower than sewer rates because wastewater treatment is far more expensive in Cook County’s rugged topography. Grand Marais currently has the third-highest wastewater rates among Minnesota cities with mechanical systems, averaging $92.29 per month. Without bonding support, resident rates could rise as much as 125 percent.

Mayor Tracy Benson shared that the city takes pride in always being “ready for company” — a reflection of how the community prepares for both visitors and partners.

With only approximately 1,300 residents but more than a million visitors each year, Grand Marais faces unique challenges in maintaining essential infrastructure on a limited tax base.

Minnesota Representative Roger Skraba and Senator Grant Hauschild helped bring the legislative tours north — an important step in securing understanding and support for this critical project.