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Howie Hanson

Minnesota’s Daily Columnist

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City of Duluth

City of Duluth

Mountain Lion spotted in Duluth

"As with any wild animal, we want to remind the community that you should exercise caution in their presence and never approach them." -- Duluth Police Department

1-minute read
City of Duluth

Salinas new city finance director

She most recently served as chief administrative officer for the City of San Antonio’s Council District 6, overseeing constituent services, zoning, public works and community outreach. She supported the district’s review of the city’s $4 billion annual budget and worked across multiple departments.

2-minute read
City of Duluth

Howie: The city budget they don't want you to understand

Local Government Aid alone covers nearly $35 million, about one-third of the budget. It’s the difference between black ink and red. Lose even 5 percent of that aid, and Duluth’s “balanced” budget implodes by millions. That’s not financial strength — that’s dependence disguised as stability.

7-minute read
Downtown Duluth

Howie: Lot D optics in motion

Duluth’s short-term goal is tactical — keep Inland’s exclusivity alive, hit the paperwork milestones, and convince the Legislature to fund the $10.85 million in site-prep money the city calls the key that unlocks $250 million in private investment.

3-minute read
City of Duluth

Howie: City of Duluth levy up 52% in eight years

In 2025, for instance, they raised the levy by 1.85 percent but declared it a “0 percent” year for current taxpayers because new development supposedly absorbed the increase. But that’s a shell game. The levy still grew by nearly $800,000.

4-minute read