Please click here for a printout of the process which describes each step in the developing a plan to move Baraga County forward.

Currently the plan is in the ”Develop Smart Strategies” stage in which research results are followed up by consultation with community leaders in order to select strategies for implementation. Three preliminary strategies have been developed and are discussed on the home page. Research and contacts with knowledgeable individuals will reveal whether these strategies are feasible and realistic.

Project Objectives

  • Identify opportunities to create jobs and attract private investment based on community strengths and assets.
  • Energize the community during the process.
  • Develop a plan driven from research.
  • Develop a plan that can be implemented within reasonable resources by community members and a diverse group of community leaders.
  • Pull together all current planning projects to ensure all efforts lead toward the same goal.
  • Discover ways to partner with the Tribal Community.
    • Economic Development
    • Support efforts to convert Ojibwa Community College to a fully accredited University
    • Support tribal projects, events and cultural activities through promotion
  • Cover areas of opportunity for community development: Tourism, industrial parks, infrastructure, finance and loan programs for small business, incubator opportunities, beautification

Java Group

This is the group of community leaders who provide guidance and feedback on the project. “Java” comes from the early morning meetings that initiated the process. The following group represents a cross-section of businesses, government, and organizations in Baraga County. The participants are taking time out of their busy schedules to be a part of the process. :

  • Scott Rafaelli, Pettibone
  • Linnea Riipi, CertainTeed
  • Tim Zwickey, CEO, BCMH
  • Faye Lozier, BCMH
  • Paul Werner, Economic Educator, MSU Extension
  • Ron Miasso, Enterprise Facilitator, Sirolli Institute
  • Steve Koski, Owner, Indian Country Sports
  • Jennifer Lynn, Superintendent, Baraga Schools
  • Carrie Meyer, Principal, L’Anse Jr./Sr. High School
  • Tracey Barrett, President, Baraga County CVB
  • Deb Parrish, KBOCC
  • Mark Masicotte, President, Baraga County Chamber
  • Deb Stouffer, Vice President, Baraga County Chamber
  • Bob LaFave, Manager, Village of L’Anse
  • Roy Kemppainen, Manager, Village of Baraga
  • Wendy Goodreau, Clerk, Baraga County
  • Chris Swartz, KBIC