Two bonding projects top the 2014 legislative priorities adopted by the Cook County Chamber of Commerce board of directors.
“The Chamber’s legislative agenda addresses issues identified by Go Cook County’s Prosperity Priority goals and other issues of specific county concern,” said Jim Boyd, Chamber executive director.
The Chamber evaluated bonding projects based on their potential to strengthen Cook County’s economy and achieve other goals outlined in the Prosperity Priorities. “This is a traditional bonding year for the Legislature, and the two local bonding projects are our top priority this session,” Boyd said.
The first priority is to support $1.1 million in additional funds for the Lake Superior-Poplar River pipeline project. This project provides reliable snowmaking for Lutsen Mountains, irrigation for the Superior National Golf Course, drinking water for businesses, resorts and homeowners in the area and provides needed water for firefighting. Funds are in place from the 2012 bonding bill to begin construction of the pipeline, but not to complete it or the drinking water portion.
The second priority is securing $1.7 million in state funds for development of the Gitchi Gami Trail from Grand Marais to Cut Face Wayside. The state funding would be added to $810,000 in federal funds already committed to the project.
Judy Erickson was retained to lead the Chamber’s legislative effort in St. Paul.
In other action, the board set March 19-20 as Cook County Lobby Day in St. Paul. Chamber Board members and other community leaders will meet with key legislators and agency staff on the Chamber’s legislative priorities.
For more information on the Chamber’s legislative agenda, contact Jim Boyd at (218) 387-3067 or at ccchamber@boreal.org
Other legislative priorities adopted by the board include:
. Changes in the definition of seasonal recreation properties in the state property tax classification system. Several Cook County properties are being moved from the seasonal rec classification to the commercial classification because they do not meet the statutory definition of “resorts.”
. Assistance, as needed, to support the proposed housing project for Cedar Grove Business Park by the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency. Affordable and livable housing was identified as a key need for attracting and retaining young families and residents in Cook County.
. Support for funding for the Grand Marais Biomass District Heating Project if it proves financially viable. Additional information will be forthcoming when the Step 2 feasibility study is completed.
. Support Sunday liquor sales for the convenience of visitors, especially from Canada.
. Support a phased-in increase to the state minimum wage, with foreign worker exemptions similar to those for youth workers, plus state conformity to federal exemptions.
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