HIBBING — The St. Louis County Board of Commissioners is authorizing the construction of a new public works facility to serve the central part of the Iron Range.
According to a news release, the commissioners voted Tuesday, April 15, to authorize $45 million in bond sales to fund the construction of the new campus, which will be located in Balkan Township to serve Hibbing, Chisholm and surrounding communities.
The release states the county’s public works crews and equipment currently operate out of a facility in Hibbing, sharing space with city and state transportation crews. The county’s portion of the building is the oldest, built in 1940, and is insufficient for modern-sized road maintenance vehicles.
The city of Hibbing plans to create a public safety campus at the current public works facility. The new Central Range Transportation Building is expected to ensure faster and more effective response for road maintenance, as well as saving personnel time and prolonging the life of the equipment.
"This is a win-win situation for both the City of Hibbing and St. Louis County," stated Commissioner Mike Jugovich in a news release. Jugovich's district includes the communities of Hibbing, Chisholm and Balkan Township.
"It's been impressive to see how we all are working together, recognizing opportunities to improve efficiencies and better serve our citizens."
The bonds will be financed through the county's transportation sales tax, which should not impact St. Louis County's property tax levy. Bonds will be issued later this month, with site work planned for later this summer. Construction is anticipated to be completed by summer 2027.
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