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Cook County–Grand Marais EDA approves assisted‑living market study cost share, adopts 2026 calendar and several Superior National agreements
Summary
At its Dec. 16 meeting the Cook County–Grand Marais Joint Economic Development Authority approved a $7,250 EDA cost share for an assisted‑living market study, adopted the 2026 meeting schedule, approved several Superior National agreements and passed grant support resolutions; the board also discussed a One Roof subordination request and conflict‑of‑interest revisions.
The Cook County–Grand Marais Joint Economic Development Authority met Dec. 16, 2025, and approved a slate of routine and project‑specific actions, including a cost share for an updated assisted‑living market study and several Superior National (golf course) agreements.
The board voted unanimously to provide a $7,250 share of a $14,500 market demand study intended to test whether the community can support assisted‑living and memory‑care units. Executive Director Jeff Brand told commissioners the study would update a 2015 analysis and project to 2030, noting regulatory changes since 2019 that have raised operating costs for assisted‑living operators. He said a successful Phase 1 would be followed by Phase 2 community engagement if warranted.
In a roll call vote the board also approved the EDA’s 2026 regular meeting schedule (third Tuesday monthly, with Grand Marais City Hall as a preferred venue), employment agreements for four salaried Superior National staff (3% cost‑of‑living adjustment and an appointment clause tied to sale of the course), a winter operations plan for Superior National designed to maintain business continuity through winter months, and a professional services agreement with Mike Larson to continue management and sale‑related oversight through May 1, 2026 and, where needed, beyond to manage irrigation and septic projects.
The EDA approved two grant‑support actions: a letter of support for a Minnesota DNR Transportation Alternatives Program application for the Gitchi‑Gami State Trail extension and authorization to apply for up to $145,000 from the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation for infrastructure tied to a CESU/LOI expansion.
On other business, the board discussed a subordination request from One Roof Community Housing to borrow against property equity to purchase office space in Duluth; staff recommended additional legal and county‑level review before One Roof incurs legal costs. Commissioners also reviewed an updated, fillable conflict‑of‑interest questionnaire and asked staff to cross‑reference Minnesota statute 469.098 and clarify procedures for disclosure, investigation and recusal.
The meeting ended with an honorary resolution recognizing Howard Hedstrom for 12 years of service to the EDA. The meeting adjourned at 5:35 p.m.; the next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20, 2026.
