FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Reflecting on Successful Legislative Bonding Tours
Cook County Celebrates Strengthened Connections with State Leaders.
October 9, 2025 – Grand Marais, Minn. – The Cook County Chamber of Commerce expresses its appreciation following the successful completion of the Minnesota House and Senate Capital Investment Committee bonding tours. These two separate visits, which occurred on October 8th and October 9th, provided the community with a platform for direct engagement with our state leaders. Our bonding needs for refurbishment of the Grand Marais wastewater treatment plant was the focus of the tour.
Securing inclusion on both the House and Senate bonding tours represents a significant achievement, validating the strategic advocacy efforts led by the Chamber and our lobbying firm, Carnival Berns PA. This effort was supported by a video made by M Baxley of Bear Witness Media. This video clearly highlights the local wastewater plant infrastructure needs, funding for Cook County Higher Education, and the North Shore Waste transfer station.
"We are truly grateful to have hosted both the House and Senate committees." said Linda Jurek, Executive Director of the Cook County Chamber of Commerce. "These direct interactions were a huge opportunity to show our state leaders precisely why these projects are necessary for our region's future".
The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the success of these visits including Representative Roger Skraba and Senator Grant Hauschild, both who were in attendance. The Chamber specifically recognizes the leadership and partnership with Mayor Tracy Benson and Administrator Mike Roth in planning and hosting this milestone visit. We also recognize the contributions of: Carnival Berns PA, Odyssey Resorts, Lutsen Mountains, and North Shore Event Rentals. We also thank all of our Chamber members, local government leaders and community members whose strong presence demonstrated unified support for this project. . The Chamber plans to build on the relationships and positive momentum generated by these tours as we continue to advocate for projects in Cook County.
