Listen to this story
Audio reading for accessibility.
Ready to play.
Table of Contents
Duluth Mayoral candidate Roger Reinert released the second in a series of five issue-focused videos today. Last week he discussed housing across all income levels, and this week dove into the importance of developing Duluth’s commercial tax base.
"Reinert argues, 'We have to work hard to give Duluth a reputation as a great place to do business. Right now that’s not our reality.'
He stressed the role commercial property plays in paying for core city services.
'In Minnesota, commercial property tax pays most of the property tax bill. That’s the way it’s historically been structured. When we’re not doing a good job growing our commercial tax base, we see the burden shift to residential.'
Last year the Administration proposed a 9% property tax levy, at the same time the Duluth homeowners were experiencing near record 9% inflation.
'That’s not sustainable for homeowners,' said Reinert. 'Especially our seniors, the disabled, and veterans. Those living on fixed incomes.'
Reinert addresses tangible steps to take so Duluth can earn a better reputation.
'It begins with an attitude of the Administration, and every City employee. If it fits within existing code and zoning, our job is to be a good partner. Our job is to help get to yes.'
'Our campaign has consistently talked about these ‘Big Five’ issues,' Reinert said. 'They are the direct result of the 1,000+ conversations we’ve had with Duluthians since our campaign launched last January. Over and over Duluthians have said we are concerned about housing, commercial tax base development, streets, affordable property taxes, and downtown Duluth.'
Over the next several weeks Reinert will continue to speak in-depth about each of these. Answering these questions: Why is this an issue in Duluth? Why should Duluthians care? What tangible steps can the next Mayor and Administration take to move these issues forward?
Reinert’s full comments can be found online at:
https://www.youtube.com/@RogerForDuluth"
Mayoral candidate Emily Larson's campaign video
"Laura’s story is our city at its best," said Duluth Mayor Emily Larson. "Together, we are ensuring Duluth works for all families and we’ve committed to fairness and equity in everything we do – from elevating the Office of Human Rights, establishing the first ever cross-department Equity Action Team, and to building genuine community engagement into how we do business. We can’t afford to go backward on these commitments. My record is clear and as long as I’m mayor, we won’t. Join us: larsonforduluth.com"
Editor's Note: Reinert and Larson press releases. The Duluth Times publishes candidates' press releases at no charge as a public service. Email releases here.
Quote Me
Executive Director Shane Bauer on the 2023 Grandma's Marathon:
"It was a record-setting weekend in a lot of ways. It’s the first time the weather cooperated for both the runners and the post-race activities since the move to Bayfront. It was an absolute party over there, and it’s been important to Grandma's Marathon since the early days that people are able to celebrate their achievement for the remainder of race day. We certainly saw that happen this year.
After talking to some of the restaurants and hotels, it’s pretty clear that marathon weekend has fully returned – bigger and better than ever. That was verified for me on Friday with the activities for kids, and during the race course cleanup over two full days. (Normally it takes a crew of Denfeld HS volunteers to sweep it). All things considered, we may have just had the perfect Grandma’s Marathon weekend this year."
Urshan Retirement Group, Inc. strives in helping people achieve retirement goals. This is accomplished through education of the financial planning process, analyzing each individual's investment needs, as well as continuously reviewing and monitoring their personalized plan. Jordan Urshan and Dan Urshan work as partners to ensure long-term consistency to your investment portfolio. They look forward to earning your business. Please give them a call to schedule your appointment. Call 218.625.7575 or stop by their office located at 5033 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN 55811.
Securities offered through Securities America, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Urshan Retirement Group and Securities America are separate entities.
