Proctor Passes Additional Sales Tax for Improvements

PROCTOR, Minn. - Proctor residents recently filled out a survey detailing changes they would like to see in their city. This month they passed a sales tax to pay for new parks and trails as well as fix crumbling roads. "Our sidewalks suck and that's the only way to put it," Proctor Mayor Dave Brenna said. Almac Street is 60-years-old. "It was substandard when it was put in," said Brenna. Underneath the snow and ice are cracks and bumps. "You put a black top over it, it looks good for two or three years and then the bad spots come back up," said Brenna. To keep the spots down on Almac and other streets, nearly 78 percent of Proctor voters this election season passed a half percent sales tax to pay for road repairs. "We have a lot of plans, we don't have a lot of money," said Brenna. The additional tax on food, beverages and entertainment will generate an extra $200,000 per year. "Not only do the residents help pay, but the people that come in from Hermantown and Duluth to use our stores," said Brenna. Funds will also go toward building new parks and creating a trail system connecting Proctor to Hermantown and the Munger Trail. "So people could rollerblade up here, bicycle up here, and walk up here," said Brenna. To a city, they're hoping to make more of a destination."It's a beautiful place to live." The additional sales tax will go in effect next spring. Proctor residents also expressed a strong desire for a new grocery store.