REGIONAL- St. Louis County residents can learn how federal grant money has been put to work locally, and weigh in on the next round of funding, during two public open houses in September.
The county’s Economic and Community Development Department distributed $1.5 million in Community Development Block Grant funds to communities and nonprofit organizations during the past year.
The money supported housing projects, including the rehabilitation of two homes by One Roof Community Housing in southern St. Louis County and work by North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity on six properties.
Funding also went toward infrastructure projects in Aurora, Cook, Ely, Floodwood, Hibbing, and Leonidas, along with 13 nonprofit programs providing supportive services for low-income residents and people experiencing homelessness. Improvements at the Embarrass Region Community Association’s Timber Hall and Floodwood Services and Training facilities also received support.
As the county prepares for the next funding cycle, staff will host open houses and public hearings at the following locations:
 Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 1-3 p.m. at the Proctor City Hall and Community Center, 100 Pionk Dr., Proctor.
 Thursday, Sept. 17, from 1-3 p.m. at the Mt. Iron Community Center, 8586 Enterprise Dr. S, Mt. Iron.
Both sessions will include the same presentation, featuring an overview of fiscal year 2025 accomplishments through the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs.
St. Louis County distributes block grant funding to communities and nonprofit organizations throughout the county outside Duluth, which receives its own allocation.
Questions about the meetings or the grant program may be directed to Community Development Manager Jayson McQueary at 218-471-7336 or McQuearyJ@StLouisCountyMN.gov.