WHAT HAPPENED: The council split 5 to 4 in a vote to spend $50,000 to be a part of the Minneapolis-Duluth/Superior Passenger Rail Alliance, which is developing a high-speed train line between the Twin Ports and the Twin Cities. Spending the money allows the city to have a vote on the alliance and help steer the direction of the train's development. The city has participated since 2006.
WHAT THEY SAID: Councilors in favor of spending the money said it was a small amount that could result in millions of dollars in economic development. "I think it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity," said councilor Jeff Anderson. "Because we have financial challenges doesn't mean we can stop investing in our future." Councilor Gary Eckenberg, the swing vote on the issue, said the train would be useful for older riders who want to visit family members in the Twin Cities. Councilors who opposed it argued that it would not be a feasible project that would attract riders. If the train were to travel at 200 mph instead of about 100 mph and get to the Twin Cities in an hour, it would be more feasible," councilor Garry Krause said.
HOW THEY VOTED: Anderson, Tony Cuneo, Gary Eckenberg, Sharla Gardner and Greg Gilbert in favor; Todd Fedora, Jay Fosle, Krause and Jim Stauber opposed.
