Funding from Iron Range Resources to help projects around the region

At Wednesday’s Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board meeting, approximately $7 million dollars were approved to advance projects in northeastern Minnesota.

The funding comes from production taxes paid by mining companies.

One of the projects is L&M’s new 200,000 square foot distribution center planned for Grand Rapids. It’s expected to add up to 50 new jobs.

Dave Cowan, the executive vice-president, told us they are really excited about this. “We’ve been working on this for two years, trying to find the right spot for growth. And we’re happy we’re in our hometown of Grand Rapids. We are so thankful to Iron Range Resources and all the partners,” he shared.

The plan is to break ground next spring.

Another is $500,000 for a new childcare/clinic facility in Chisholm, next to the Delta Airlines Reservation Center. The childcare center will be licensed for 90 kids.

Mike Jugovich, a St. Louis County Commissioner from Chisholm said, “This is huge for our area. Not only for Chisholm. For the whole region, as an economic development tool.”

He told us this all started when the clinic in Chisholm closed a few years ago. They are working with Essentia Health as well on this project. As for the county’s space in the building, he hopes it can be for chemical and mental health help.

These projects, and many others, are expected to increase the regional tax base, retain and create new jobs, provide essential services, increase the housing inventory, expand outdoor recreation and enhance higher education. The loans are anticipated to impact 178 jobs. The infrastructure projects are projected to impact 22 jobs and create 169 construction jobs. 

For more details: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNIRRRB/bulletins/3699e11