Grand Marais City Council will host a public meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 29 at City Hall to discuss the future of the city’s burn pile.
The burn pile has been a topic of discussion for council and city staff since last October. Smoke from the burning debris of a very full burn pile caused problems for both the North Shore Hospital and the Cook County schools. In response to the smoke complaints, the city has limited the size of the pile to what can burn in a single day. This has meant burning more often, including approximately seven times this year.
Many residents and contractors who use the pile near the water tower have noticed the more frequent closing of the site as the city waits for optimal weather for burning. City staff considers moisture levels, current weather, and forecast wind speed and direction before lighting the fire. “Even with the precautions we have taken, there is no guarantee that smoke will not cause problems with a burn pile this close to town,” said City Administrator Mike Roth.
In recognition of both the negative effects and the popularity of the burn pile, the city council is encouraging residents to attend their next council meeting. Community members are invited to share their views and listen to those who have been affected positively or negatively by the burn pile. Data will be available on burn piles throughout the county, the cost of maintaining the existing burn pile, potential alternate locations, and alternatives to the burn pile.
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