Cloquet’s local sales tax revenue is dedicated to specific projects and needs in our community. Seven years ago, the Minnesota Legislature and local voters allowed Cloquet to collect the tax — to be used specifically for park/trail improvements, public infrastructure and infrastructure improvements for a potential commercial development — but required that specific dollar amounts be tied to the three project areas.

That included $5.8 million to develop the swampy corner adjacent to Highway 33 and Interstate 35. At the time, that area was thought to be a prime spot for development, wi...