FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Listening Session on Wildfire Economic Impact
Cook County Leaders & Agency Representatives Gather to Address Local Economic Strain from Regional Wildfires.
July 27th, 2026 -- Cook County, Minn.- The Cook County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Cook County Government, will host a community listening session on wildfire economic impact on Friday, July 31st, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at Hungry Jack Lodge. This informational and interactive session is designed to address urgent concerns regarding the financial fallout from wildfires affecting Northeastern Minnesota and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). This gathering will focus directly on exploring potential relief options for local businesses and building support for legislative action during a potential special legislative session.
Local business owners suffering from economic strain–including drops in tourism, cancellations, supply disruptions, or operational challenges are encouraged to attend and come prepared to share their experiences. For community members unable to attend in person, the session will be broadcast live by WTIP Community Radio, with details available on wtip.org.
“When cancellations roll in during peak season, it’s not just a bad week–it’s lost payroll, unsold inventory, and immense financial strain on families who rely on these short summer months to survive the year,” said Linda Jurek, Executive Director of the Cook County Chamber of Commerce. “We are bringing state leaders into the room to give local business owners a direct seat at the table, so decision makers understand the full scope of the financial damage and help us to find relief for our local businesses.”
Minnesota State Senator Grant Hauschild, Minnesota State Representative Roger Skraba, and Rachel Loeffler-Kemp representing U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar have confirmed their attendance. Sheriff Ben Hallberg and Kyle Stover of the USFS will also be present to answer any questions you might have. It is important for these leaders to hear your stories.
In addition to the panel, representatives from a broad coalition of government, tribal, economic development, and emergency management partners will be present to hear community concerns and discuss relief options. Attending organizations include the Cook County Chamber of Commerce, Cook County Government, City of Grand Marais, Grand Portage Tribal Council, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation, Explore Minnesota, Northland Foundation, Small Business Development Center, United Way of Northeastern Minnesota, Entrepreneur Fund, Arrowhead Regional Development Commission, Office of Governor Tim Walz, U.S Forest Service, and local Emergency Management.
This event is open to the public and will take place at Hungry Jack Lodge, 372 S Hungry Jack Rd, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (Mid Gunflint Trail). If you have questions, are unable to attend in person, or wish to submit written comments or financial impact statements ahead of the session, please reach out directly to Linda Jurek at director@cookcountychamber.org.
About Cook County Chamber of Commerce
The Cook County Chamber of Commerce, established in 2016, is the leading voice for businesses in Cook County, Minnesota. We serve as a powerful advocate for over 165 members, representing a diverse range of for-profit and non-profit businesses. Our mission is to foster a thriving economic environment by championing collaboration, promoting our members, and supporting the overall prosperity of Cook County. We believe that strong businesses are the backbone of a vibrant community, and we're dedicated to ensuring our community remains a welcoming destination for visitors and residents alike. Connect with us on social media using Facebook. Learn more at www.cookcountychamber.org/
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