Cannabis ordinance, 2025 goals, and welcoming new wastewater treatment superintendent focus of city council meeting

As the new year approaches, the city council is working to finalize a cannabis ordinance and outline 2025 priorities.

On Nov. 13, the city council held a work session to identify and set city goals for 2025. Grand Marais Tracy Benson said the goals include resuming discussions about the development of Sawtooth Bluffs, city infrastructure, the wastewater treatment plant, how to move forward with the Coast Guard station property, and more.

Many of the goals discussed during the work session have been the focus throughout the last year; however, Benson said moving into the new year, the council wants to keep these items as a top area of focus.

Following the work session, the city council held its regular meeting and introduced the new wastewater treatment superintendent. Scott Warner steps into the wastewater superintendent position following Neil Hansen’s retirement. Warner started part-time in the position in October, splitting his time between his home in New Prague, Minn., and Grand Marais. Benson said he has now fully transitioned and is working full-time. “I think he has a lot to offer us,” she said. “Very happy to have him here, and he’s extremely excited.”

During the Nov. 13 meeting, the council resumed cannabis ordinance discussions. Benson said the city explored establishing buffer zones surrounding playgrounds, schools, and daycares. The council approved the first reading of the cannabis ordinance but will continue discussions on establishing the buffer zone distances.

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Grand Marais Mayor Tracy Benson following the Nov. 13 city council meeting. The audio from the interview is below.

Kalli Hawkins November 18, 2024