The first order of business of the January 4 meeting of Grand Marais’ Public Utilities Commission (PUC) was to approve two energy-efficiency rebates for local businesses. The North Shore Hospital received $20,161 through the PUC while Mike’s Holiday received $10,192. Rebates such as these are available to any customer of the PUC and gives funds to residents and businesses that incorporate energy saving improvements in building remodels. Usually the rebate is given through a credit on a bill but since these sums were so large, North Shore Hospital and Holiday received their funds through check. For interested parties, more information about these rebates and initiatives can be found at smmpa.org/ members/ grand- marais public-utilities.
After outstanding bills were approved by the PUC, Water/Sewer Superintendent Tom Nelson brought up an issue he had to deal with previous to the meeting.
“A contractor used a water hydrant without being permitted for directional boring in a project,” Nelson said. A company subcontracted by AT&T was tasked with adding an Internet fiber line to the Forest Service building off Highway 61 just west of Grand Marais.
At some point, according to Nelson, the hydrant got bumped, causing a shockwave to go down the waterline and eventually rupture a weak point.
“There was water spilling all over Highway 61,” Nelson said.
Commissioner George Wilkes asked, “Is that all fixed now?”
“It was fixed the next day. We calculated the bill for our work,” Nelson said.
“The cost was close to $6,000,” added Secretary Jan Smith.
As a last order of business Commissioner Wilkes brought up a possible contract with Rural Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL).
“They assist rural communities in rural energy issues. They understand our region and have the capability to help us make a good pick,” Wilkes said.
RREAL is a nonprofit consulting firm whose mission, according to their website is to “make solar energy accessible to people of all income levels.” By hiring RREAL the PUC hopes to understand the feasibility of solar energy production in Grand Marais.
Wilkes motioned to approve the RREAL contract as presented. Commissioner Tim Kennedy seconded the motion and all present voted aye.
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