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Detroit Mountain seeks county funds to unlock $2.3 million campground grant
Summary
Detroit Mountain’s general manager asked Becker County commissioners to consider a $174,000 contribution to build a regional campground that he said would unlock a $2.3 million grant; commissioners expressed concern about using general fund dollars and asked for a formal July presentation before deciding.
Detroit Mountain’s general manager told Becker County commissioners the nonprofit’s proposed campground could expand outdoor recreation and tourism but needs local seed money to move forward. "I think it does unlock a $2.3 million grant, which is obviously dollars that I think that we all could put to very good use," Thomas said while outlining the project and the nonprofit’s role in operating the facility.
The request on the board’s agenda asked for $174,000 in county support to help the city‑owned nonprofit qualify for larger grant funding and accelerate infrastructure work. Thomas said the county contribution would help leverage a $2.3 million grant and emphasized the nonprofit’s mission to expand recreation opportunities across the region.
Commissioners welcomed the project’s potential economic benefits but repeatedly questioned using general fund dollars for a campground. One commissioner said the county does not typically fund private campgrounds and asked whether sales‑tax or “smart tax” allocations or in‑kind contributions (road improvements or infrastructure) might be more appropriate. Concerns included the short turnaround for a funding decision and the need to consult the township and neighboring property owners before committing public dollars.
Several commissioners suggested routing support through highway budgets for road or access work rather than a direct grant, and the board asked Detroit Mountain to prepare a more detailed, formal presentation that would include concrete budget figures, highway impacts and a timeline. The board did not approve funding at the meeting and scheduled a fuller presentation for a July meeting so members could weigh options and any budget implications.
The discussion is the most recent step in an exchange between county officials and community recreation partners about balancing tourism development with local levy and taxpayer priorities. Commissioners said they were open to ideas that reduce the county’s direct operating commitment while still supporting access and infrastructure improvements that would make the campground viable.
