Duluth And St.Louis County Days Are On At The State Capital

   The Minnesota State Capital turns its attention to Duluth and St. Louis County, in a legislative effort known as Duluth And St. Louis County days.

 Duluth Days gives lobbyists the opportunity to have face time with their state representatives and share issues important to their region.

 This was the 19 th consecutive year that Duluth law makers have lent an ear to Duluth’s concerns.

 “We are hoping to get the Maxium of projects funded for our region” Duluth City Councilor, Zach Filiovich said. 

Funding the Duluth’s steam plant was a main talking point with both lobbyists and lawmakers.

General Manager of Duluth Energy system, Jim Green sees today’s effort to upgrade the 80 year old plant as pretty cut and dry..

 “We are here to talk to state legislature about the  conversion from a one legged steam system to a closed looped hot water system on Superior Street. Its a project that fits into the niche of what legislators feel is important right now infrastructure projects,” Green said. 

 Other priorities up for funding included Glensheen, Lake Superior Zoo and UMD chemistry bldg.

 And hearing these concerns is something Minnesota House Rep. Jason Rarick looks forward to.

 “It’s great to have the people of Duluth to come down and talk to you personally instead getting an email or a packet,” Rarick said. 

 Representative Jennifer Schulz hopes to get 50 million dollars for all of the bonding projects.

“It’s really important for Duluth folks to come here and lobby,” Schulz said.