Wildfire Economic Impact Listening Session
Cook County, MN – State Representative Roger Skraba (R-Ely) is encouraging local business owners, tourism operators, and community members impacted by this summer's wildfires to attend an upcoming listening session focused on the economic effects the fires have had across Northeastern Minnesota.
The Cook County Chamber of Commerce will host a Wildfire Economic Impact Listening Session on Friday, July 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hungry Jack Lodge. The meeting will provide an opportunity for business owners and community members to share firsthand how the wildfires and resulting closures have affected their livelihoods while discussing potential relief options and possible legislative action during a special session.
"Wildfires don't just threaten our forests, they threaten the livelihoods of families, small businesses, and entire communities that depend on a strong tourism season," said Rep. Skraba. "I want to hear directly from those who have been affected so we can better understand the challenges they're facing and work together on meaningful solutions. Your stories are critical as we explore ways to provide relief and support our local economy."
Joining Rep. Skraba at the listening session will be State Sen. Grant Hauschild, Rachel Loeffler-Kemp representing U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Cook County Sheriff Ben Hallberg, and Kyle Stover of the U.S. Forest Service. Representatives will be available to hear concerns, answer questions, and discuss ongoing wildfire response and recovery efforts.
For those unable to attend in person, the listening session will be broadcast live by WTIP Community Radio. More information is available at wtip.org.
Event Details:
What: Wildfire Economic Impact Listening Session
When: Friday, July 31, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Hungry Jack Lodge, Cook County, Minnesota
###