EDA director says $1.7 million from IRRR is a “win for the community”
Many businesses, project developers, and individuals involved within the Cook County/Grand Marais Economic Development Authority (EDA), and the Cook County Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA), celebrated on Mar. 26 following the approval of $1.7 million for five Cook County projects from the Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR).
On Tuesday, Mar. 26, the IRRR Board met to review and approve $9.5 million in economic development funding for various northern Minnesota projects, including five in Cook County. All five projects were approved.
“It’s a win for the community,” Theresa Bajda, the executive director of the EDA, said. “That’s a big chunk of funding coming to our community.”
Bajda said she is “extremely grateful” to Commissioner Ida Rukavina, her staff, and the IRRR Board for “continuing to partner with Cook County and showing their support financially.”
She said it is of great significance that the IRRR Board approved a significant amount of funding for Cook County in one meeting and in one grant cycle. “I think the EDA and HRA are extremely proud.”
The two projects approved through the EDA are:
Mayhew Commercial Project: $400,000
To construct infrastructure and site work for the development of a 10,000-square-foot mixed-use commercial space in Grand Marais that will replace three businesses lost to a fire in 2020. The “Mayhew Commercial Project” will feature an event center, lodging units, a restaurant, retail spaces, a lounge, and rooftop open space.
Papa Charlie’s: $400,000
To construct infrastructure and site work for the development of a 9,300-square-foot mixed-use commercial space that will replace Papa Charlie’s restaurant and event venue at Lutsen Mountains, which was lost to a fire last year. The new building will include a restaurant, event center, bar/lounge, and four lodging units for resort guests.
Following the news, Bajda said she connected with Jim Vick, the general manager of Lutsen Mountains, and Charles Skinner, the owner of Lutsen Mountains. “Their team is really grateful for the IRRR funding,” she said.
She also spoke with the owners, Joel and Amy St. John, of the Mayhew Commercial Project slated for downtown Grand Marais. She said they are “extremely grateful and looking forward to hitting the ground running.”
Both projects are seeking additional funding sources, but Bajda said the IRRR grants “definitely helps leverage additional funding.”
The three housing projects approved through the HRA are: Bjorkberg for $225,000, Temperance Trails for $100,000, and The Heights for $630,000.
WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Theresa Bajda, the executive director of the EDA, following the Mar. 26 IRRR news. The audio from the interview is below.
Kalli Hawkins March 28, 2024
