Although Energy Transfer, the Texasbased company that is constructing the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), also known as the Bakken Oil Pipeline, asserts that the pipeline project is being constructed in accordance with federal guidelines, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe disagrees. The Sioux Nation has gained support from approximately 150 other tribes across the United States, as well as support from […]
School bus infractions now caught on camera
School is back in session so drivers are once again sharing the road with school buses. The year is getting off to a good start with bus drivers, parents and children learning pick up times and routes. Cook County Schools Maintenance Director Tom Nelson and Maintenance Worker Greg Pearson paused on the busy first day of school to remind motorists […]
School board considers the ABCs of budget cuts
Principal Adam Nelson started the September 1 School District 166 school board meeting on a high note, reflecting on the open house that was held at the school the night before. Nelson said it was the most people he has seen in attendance at an open house in his four years with the school and he said, “I want to […]
Construction manager sought for city public works facility
A public works facility for the city of Grand Marais is moving ahead. At the Wednesday, August 31 meeting, the Grand Marais City Council reviewed a draft request for proposal (RFP) for a firm to serve as construction manager for the proposed facility at the former Tomteboda Motel/Grand Marais Inn site. City Administrator Mike Roth said LHB Engineers had created […]
Governor won’t call special session for Minnesota
When Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton announced that he wouldn’t call a special session it spelled a delay for three projects in Cook County. For the second year in a row Tofte Township will be left without legislation that was crafted to give it special housing authority and allow it to build and manage houses that could be leased to workers […]
Education needed to maintain thriving community
I am a seasonal resident of Cook County and Cook County has been an important part of my life for over 60 years. I recently attended an informational session on the two upcoming issues regarding our schools. The work done by the board and the administration resulted in an excellent meeting. I look forward to paying my share to sustain […]
Christians need to vote
I majored in applied math and physics at UCLA. So I was somewhat shocked and amazed when I received the following information from myfaithvotes.com. In the last presidential election, 25 million registered Christians did not vote! The last four presidential elections were won by less than 5 million votes! So I am encouraging all my brothers and sisters who are […]
Tax hikes could be budget breakers
In a recent ISD 166 promotional ad in the Cook County News Herald the cost of the 2016 bond issue and levy was presented in per monthly payment figures. I expect this was done to steer voters into believing how little the bond and levy would add to property tax payments. The amounts presented did seem low…maybe even a bit […]
Taxes are reality for strong schools
Once again we are asked to vote for or against needed financial support for our school students. Of course, we have already voted for school board representatives who have unanimously identified the need for added finances. Our family is all-in with our school board and will vote “yes” on both ballot propositions. Our elected state government has set up a […]
Demmer epitomizes what good government should be
News that David Demmer is leaving his post as wetlands administrator in the Cook County Land Services Department came as a surprise. But our loss is Minnesota’s gain. In his new post with the Minnesota Board of Soil & Water Resources, he will surely do well, for David epitomizes what good government should be. David is young and knowledgeable and […]