07.08 - Update on Highway 371 Project

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December 17, 2003 The Honorable Cathy Malecha Mayor, City of Pequot Lakes P.O. Box 239 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Dear Ms. Malecha, The purpose of this letter is to state my position as to the location of the proposed Highway 371 improvement. I am writing this from the perspective of my long- time involvement in community affairs and from having been in business here in Pequot Lakes for over forty years, first as part of the bank insurance agency and now as a self-employed real estate appraiser. The fact that my wife and I own property in the city is likewise of some consequence. It is my preference that the proposed Highway 371 remains going through the City of Pequot Lakes. Just as many cars travel through Baxter as will pass through Pequot Lakes. I am sure that Baxter is not clamoring for a bypass of their business development area. This thought is primarily for keeping our business community intact to enhance present as well as future growth of our current businesses. Secondly, the destination concept has been discussed. When I saw the picture in the Brainerd Dispatch of Paul Bunyan being moved to the Old Farm location, I was saddened. This was further enhanced by driving by Paul's new home in a shed at the new location, and I thought, "How many tourists are going to go out of their way and beat a path out here to get a glimpse of Paul?" Therefore, I say, "We got a good thing." We have the businesses that are making Pequot Lakes a destination. They are making a go of it. Plus, we have the uniqueness that we have worked cooperatively for generations to build. So, why venture fo something unknown? This is to reinforce my position of leaving State Highway 371 remain as is with an through-town location. Yours very truly, Eugene T. Kennedy PO Box 97 \.. Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Cc: Council Members