City council discusses boat launch and breakwater project

The agenda for the February 10 meeting was lighter, which allowed Council to move through things fairly quickly upon approving the consent agenda. There were several letters from community members regarding the Snowmobile path on the north side of the highway and maintenance on the south side. Council wisely moved the topic to the next meeting to allow the Streets Department to attend. They also hope the extra time will encourage more feedback from the community.

Dave Tersteeg (Parks Department) was present with an extensive and interesting presentation on the Master Plan, which was adopted in 2009. Tersteeg detailed the history of changes that have occurred since 2009, specifically in regards to land allocation, the pool closure and the 2015 park office updates. He described how the current number of campsites (300) is similar to the 2009 plan when 321 existed. There was a bit of discussion on the bathhouses and how meticulously they have been maintained without full renovations. It was interesting to hear how well the Park Board has kept the 2009 document active and relevant in their discussions to date.

Tersteeg also brought the Council up to speed on the upcoming boat launch and breakwater project. It was noted that bids for the job are currently being accepted. The Park Board anticipates that the movement of materials up to the marina may begin as early as March 2021. Essentially the breakwater construction project will modify the existing structure to mitigate easterly waves. Work is expected to officially begin in June. The result will be an L/J shaped concrete capped structure that will be accessible to all. It is expected to be very pedestrian-friendly and will extend the current structure by an additional 100’ or so. Given the work to come, access to this area will be closed through fall of 2022. Tersteeg noted that boater parking is expected to be an issue and stated that the goal is to reserve a few stalls at the eastern launch. This two-year project is anticipated to aesthetically enhance this end of the rec park.

In other business, the council unanimously approved an amendment request from the PUC in regards to the current contract with SMMPA. Grand Marais currently has a contract with SMMPA to purchase all wholesale power. To remain in compliance with federal laws, the city also has an obligation to purchase any power generated through the use of solar panels. The amendment essentially states that SMMPA will reimburse the City of Grand Marais at a percentage for any power that may need to be purchased. The council passed this amendment unanimously.