Members of the public from across the Iron Range are invited to weigh in with ideas on how to recharge Iron Range communities and the economy at the “Recharge the Range” forum on Monday, June 6, at Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm.

The event is the fourth in a series of forums aimed at generating momentum around new and existing projects and ideas to help improve quality of life and diversify the economy of Iron Range communities. Community and business leader forums were held in February along with a Cool and Creative Get Together in April. 

More than 350 people have participated in Recharge the Range events to date. This public session is open to anyone who wants to take part in shaping the future of the Range. 

Ideas focusing on existing and new business development, arts, culture, natural resource development, tourism and recreation, education, talent development, rebranding the Iron Range, local food, and other subjects were topics at the earlier forums. 

“Community and business leaders have already suggested hundreds of great ideas to improve quality of life and grow the regional economy,” said IRRRB Commissioner Mark Phillips. “We’re anticipating a large turnout and even more bold ideas to come from the June public forum.”

The forum begins with networking and refreshments from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guest speakers and action group breakout idea sessions are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Leading ideas derived from the forums will be moved forward by forum participants who are willing to serve on topic-specific committees.  

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board, Range Association of Municipalities & Schools, and ALLETE are hosting the forums. 

Registration for the forum is due by noon on Thursday, May 26.