As the May 11, 2010 meeting of the Cook County – Grand Marais Economic Development Authority (EDA) wound down and EDA board members had the opportunity to discuss “other matters that come before the board,” Don Davison noted that the city of Grand Marais was concerned about dilapidated buildings in the city. Davison said the EDA should ask its director, Matt Geretschlaeger, to work with the city to do what it can to rehabilitate or remove such structures.
Director Geretschlaeger didn’t disagree, but said, “The city’s attorney is researching this. What the city can do will depend on the teeth in the city’s ordinance.”
Davison noted that as an economic development entity, the EDA has the power of eminent domain. “The EDA could help,” he said.
EDA Chair Mike Littfin suggested that Geretschlaeger talk to Dick Grabko of Short, Elliot, Hendrickson (SEH). Grabko has assisted the EDA in finding money for various projects. “There may be rehabilitation money available. If the EDA is called upon, we definitely should lend assistance.”
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