Statewide conference gives mayor appreciation for Grand Marais civility
Mayor Tracy Benson said her time at a recent League of Minnesota Cities conference gave her a greater appreciation for the civil discourse and productive conversations she experiences while serving on the Grand Marais City Council.
Benson attended the conference last month, participating in small-group discussions and events with mayors from across Minnesota.
She said she appreciated the opportunity to connect with other city leaders on shared issues, including emergency services and funding for municipal projects.
“We know up here that emergency services are very important, and what our issues are here,” Benson told WTIP. “I’ve sat down with Metro Area mayors and heard they have those same issues, but for completely different reasons. ”
Benson said the conversations reinforced that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges cities face.
However, her biggest takeaway from the conference was gratitude for the way Grand Marais residents and community leaders engage in public dialogue and debate.
“When I sit down with mayors and hear the tit-for-tats that are going on, and the completely inappropriate behavior, you just have to recognize the reality of what’s going on around you,” Benson said.
The City Council has debated a number of projects and spending decisions in recent months. In June, the council voted 3-2 to reject a cost-sharing proposal with Cook County for the Sawtooth Bluffs project.
Council members also regularly hear concerns from residents. During the open forum at the July 1 council meeting, one resident raised concerns about vehicles speeding on their street.
While disagreements and complaints are not uncommon, Benson thanked both city officials and residents for maintaining a civil approach to public discussions.
“We’re not perfect, but compared to what I hear in other parts of the state, I feel lucky that we can move forward fairly productively,” Benson said.
WTIP spoke to Benson about the July 1 city council meeting. The audio of that conversation is available below.
Josh Hinke July 9, 2026
