Remer creating tourism center at old depot

WALKER -- The Cass County Board voted to affirm county support Tuesday for the Chamber of Commerce and city of Remer's project to create a tourism center in the old Soo Line Depot there.

The county will act as fiscal agent for processing grants to the city for the project. This will involve handling the bid processes and accepting and disbursing money for the project.

Brian Nicklason and Donna Buchanan reported to the board $40,000 has been raised locally. Another $50, 000 needs to be raised to maintain the facility. A $175,000 Blandin Foundation grant is being sought for remodeling and development.

MnDOT has scheduled $520,000 for land acquisition and remodeling, with $130,000 from a local match.

Land has been purchased, Nicklason said, with grant proceeds to repay purchase costs. Local fund raising continues, he said.

Eventually, the Remer group also hopes to remodel for a community center the former potato factory adjacent to the depot, he added.