BIIGTIGONG NISHNAABEG/MARATHON — Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and the Town of Marathon signed a Memorandum of Understanding to move forward with the development of a commercially viable port on Lake Superior. The MOU is said to be based on the principles of mutual trust, respect and co-operation. The planned site for the port is that of the former pulp mill wharf, in Marathon.
Reacting to this MOU, Chief of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, Duncan Michano expressed his gratitude over entering into this partnership with the Town of Marathon. “Biigtigong Nishnaabeg are pleased to enter into a partnership with the Town of Marathon to create a Port Authority which will operate a commercial port at the site the former mill site dock. We look forward to the economic opportunities this will bring to both Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and Marathon. When we work together, we prosper together. Miigwetch,” shared Chief Michano.
The Mayor of the Town of Marathon, Rick Dumas said after having worked together on this idea for several years, he is pleased to see that they are moving forward with this project.
“We are pleased to announce this new agreement with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg. We have worked in partnership on this concept for several years now, so it is exciting to see that we are moving forward with this project and unlocking its economic potential. This will be a critical development to help build and sustain the local and regional economy and create new business and industry opportunities,” said Dumas.
It is believed by both partners that this MOU, which was signed on April 20, represents the first step between the communities in working together in good faith towards what is being described as, “the finalization of formal agreements that will facilitate the establishment, creation and operation of a commercial Port Authority on Peninsula Harbour.”
Some positive outcomes as a result of this project, is the creation of new employment and development of economic opportunities. It will serve the region's mining, forestry, logistics and manufacturing industries, while at the same time respect the environment and Lake Superior.
