Given the political gridlock and partisan debates in Washington, it is encouraging to see bipartisan and common sense legislation passed that will positively impact our community and district. I am referring to H.R. 2947, introduced by U.S. Representative Chip Cravaack last September 15, 2011, during the 1st Session of the 112th Congress. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar introduced a companion bill in the Senate during the 2nd Session of the 112th Congress, April 25, 2012, with Senator Al Franken cosponsoring the legislation. The bill that allows the transfer of 40 acres of land from the Grand Marais Airport to Cook County was signed into law Friday, June 8, 2012, by the President.
The project had been in development for a decade, waiting for congressional action to end the federal restrictions. According to Cook County Engineer David Betts, County Road 8 was relocated in the 1950s. At that time, the deed to the land was transferred from the federal government to the state and then to the county. The deed stated that if the land was not used for an airport, it would revert into federal hands. An act of Congress was needed in order for the airport to transfer the land to the county and not have it revert to the federal government.
The issue was first brought to the attention of Representative Cravaack’s staff during an open meeting held in Grand Marais shortly after Cravaack took office. Mr. Betts emphasized, “This bill will benefit the residents and visitors of Cook County by allowing the Highway Department to improve the safety and ride quality of this heavily traveled roadway. Representative Cravaack and his staff have been very helpful.”
Representative Cravaack continues to demonstrate he intends to be responsive to the identified needs of the district regardless of political party or outside influences. This is just another great example of why we are fortunate to have him represent us in Washington.
Garry Gamble
Grand Marais
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