We typically avoid weighing in on public matters but occasionally circumstances call out for some type of response. We love the North Shore. We love Lake Superior. We love Grand Marais. These things combined have created a very unique charm. It is this charm that keeps us coming back.
The park board is currently looking at its policy/rates/plans regarding seasonal sites. I know it’s not a new topic and one that’s probably been discussed to death. My hope is that all aspects be taken into consideration.
Many of my points have already been brought up but perhaps I can bring something new to the table for discussion. We come/pay/stay in spite of the weather – we’re not just fair weather friends.
We plan/budget for our site in spite of the economy. We deliberately buy locally even though it would be cheaper to bring it from home. This includes groceries, gas, propane, firewood, beer and wine, books, souvenirs and toys for the kids and grandkids and other local stuff. Miscellaneous needs come up and have resulted in a true love of going to Joynes’ and Buck’s! We visit each at least 1-2 times when we’re in town!
We invite family and friends to visit. It has become “tradition” and keeps them coming back as well.
We promote all of the wonderful activities, events, arts, and music – word of mouth advertising is some of the best and it’s free!
Plus, I provide free nursing support to our neighbors as needed! I say this lightheartedly, of course.
This all translates into a dependable source of revenue. Not just for the RV Park but for local merchants. Just as with all budgeting and fiscal management… if necessary we have to pull from one source to apply to another. It would sadden us to have to decrease local spending to keep up with significant rate hikes. I suspect the merchants might feel these shifts more quickly than the city itself.
Financial planners always stress the need to have a balanced portfolio… wonder if this could apply here?
We have a true appreciation for all that Grand Marais and Cook County have to offer. We hope to continue our time there. We’ve developed many relationships that are really special. We hope the community shares some of the same.
Janice and Scott Cobb
Duluth
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