True's Picks: Larsen, Lenz and Costello for Mayor and City Council

True’s thoughts on the Grand Marais city election:

Among the important issues in the upcoming election of mayor and city council are those related to the questions of what kind of city do we want and what kind of government. Do we want a city that is identical to other development we can see up and down the North Shore and across the nation? Or, do we want a city that is unique in its look and character?

Do we want a city where the heart of the commercial area is taken over by eyesore buildings that all look alike and block the views for all but a privileged few? Or, do we want a city with a dynamic street front that is active, prosperous and welcoming to everyone?

Do we want a city where the once active and picturesque harbor, enjoyed by all, is now jammed with the boats of the wealthy, and closed off to the general public and made inhospitable for tourists and wildlife alike? Or, do we want a city with a harbor that welcomes boaters and people on its beaches, wildlife and birdwatchers, dragon boat racers, kayakers and local fishermen?

Do we want a city hall that is open only to the privileged and smacks of favoritism and secrecy? Or, do we want a city government that treats everyone fairly, equally and openly?

Do we want a city that is run with fiscal recklessness or is fiscally responsible?

All of these are questions of character; the character of the city itself and of those who are elected to city office.

There are three incumbents running for city offices, Mark Sandbo for mayor, Bob Spry, and Kay Costello for city council. There are two other choices on the ballot; Evelyn Larsen for mayor, and Bill Lenz for city council.

The past few years in Grand Marais have seen our community divided as never before. This is primarily due to Sandbo and Spry. Their legacy, while in office, has been development at any cost to the people and the environment, handing the harbor and the city’s future over to the DNR and wealthy out of town boaters, shutting ordinary people out of city government, doing all they can to cater to a privileged few; all while jeopardizing the city’s financial future. If that is what you like, vote for them.

If, on the other hand, you want a city whose character is defined by a unique, dynamic downtown, a harbor whose special character is protected and strengthened and that is open to everyone, a city government that is open to everyone and not just a privileged few, and a city that is run in a fiscally responsible way, then vote for Larsen, Lenz, and Costello. They are the promise of a Grand Marais that is back on track and a city hall that is serving all the citizens.

Larsen, Lenz, and Costello are people of good character, who are rooted in Grand Marais, and are not in the service of any special interests. They are for smart growth, not reckless development. They have and will work to protect the special character and heritage of Grand Marais. And, they will do so with a clear sense of fiscal responsibility.

Larsen, Lenz, and Costello, being true friends of Grand Marais, have the full endorsement of True North.