Business

The sale of ALLETE closed Dec. 15, 2025. The Public Utilities Commission approved the controversial move in October.

Site preparation for future development includes demolishing three structures in various stages of decay. The work will make room for a new YMCA and 98-room hotel.

Those who have high hopes for cannabis dispensaries in Greater Minnesota say the bottleneck is contributing to supply shortages, stymying businesses trying to break into the industry.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, most MN workers can apply for up to 12 weeks of medical leave, or 12 weeks of family leave. A payroll tax evenly split between the employer and employee.

The Council heard a proposal to bring in the industry and 150 jobs after the Shade Store closed manufacturing operations in 2025. But the cannabis ordinance would need changes.

Quarterdeck Resort on the west shore of Gull Lake used to be one of the lake's smallest, but the new owner is planning its second expansion in three years.

The Public Utilities Commission, which must approve the sale, is taking comment on a judge's recommendation to block the sale and a settlement between the investors and the Department of Commerce.

Firefighters encountered an 18,000-gallon propane tank with 40-foot flames that destroyed a shed and was spreading to the main facility.

Also Greater Bemidji, partnering with other economic development groups, is launching a rapid-response no-interest loan program to assist storm-damaged small businesses.

Manufacturers are pushing for the renewal of funding for a program that helps small to mid-size companies.