2009 Grand Marais City Accomplishments
(in no particular order)
- Established Council Goals & Objectives for 2009-2010
- Purchased and installed Finger Piers in the Municipal Marina
- Successfully completed Creechville annexation
- Obtained DNR commitment to create and present draft Joint Powers Agreement for Marina/Harbor based on Resolution 2007-05
- Approved and installed Aqua Climbing Wall in the City Pool
- Seamlessly re-organized City Attorney responsibilities
- Passed Rec Park Master Plan with Goals & Policies
- Worked earnestly to pass the County One Percent Sales Tax
- Passed City Noise Ordinance
- Improved Pedestrian Safety with addition of Highway 61 crosswalk
- Worked with Mn DOT to slow traffic on Highway 61 through Grand Marais by purchasing "Event Congestion" signs and planning for purchase and installation of "Your Speed Is" sign
- Passed annual audit; maintained "A" bond rating.
- Asked for and received commitment from County to support the swimming pool up to $75,000 in 2009 and 2010
- Executed plan to re-finance the $1.63M EDA Temporary Bonds for the Business Park
- Minimized tax levy increase in spite of significant Local Government Aid cuts
- Worked with IRRB to obtain $140K to help offset costs for Business Park infrastructure
- Partnered with Grand Marais business community and the Cook County Events and Visitors Bureau with $5K cost-share commitment to decorate downtown for "A North Shore Holiday"
On a personal note, it's been my absolute pleasure to serve as the Mayor of Grand Marais. I'm grateful for the growing cooperative spirit within our community and look forward to a productive 2010.
Happy New Year to All!
Sue Hakes
