Commissioner Mark Phillips came before the Mining and Forestry Committee this week for a hearing on his confirmation to the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB). Phillips was first appointed as commissioner under the Dayton administration and was chosen to continue his tenure by Governor Walz. He has a long career of community economic development, with 35 years of experience in addition to serving as the former Commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).
The IRRRB is a state economic development agency that reinvests local taconite production taxes back into northeastern Minnesota businesses and communities to strengthen and diversify the economy. Their mission is to invest resources to foster vibrant growth and economic prosperity in the region.
The Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation provides vital funding, including low or no interest loans, grants, and loan guarantees for businesses relocating or expanding in the region. Additionally, the IRRRB provides a variety of grants to local units of government, education institutions, and nonprofits that promote workforce development and sustainable communities.
Commissioner Phillips’ confirmation passed the Mining and Forestry Committee with bipartisan support and is headed to the Senate Floor for a final vote of the full body.
