Hancock Council Wrap: Mayor Paul LaBine Resigns

Hancock Mayor Paul LaBine has officially resigned from the city council ahead of being sworn in as the newly appointed Houghton county Prosecutor. LaBine’s position on the council is an at large position on the council until 2024. At the upcoming regular August council meeting the city council will appoint a new member to fill the empty seat, followed by voting in a new mayor. The city will have 30 days to fill the position, and asks that applications are submitted no later than August 11^th. Applications for the vacant council position should be mailed or emailed to city manager Mary Babcock.

Last, the city will submit a grant application with the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation for 10,000 dollars to aid in purchasing the Ryan Street Community Gardens from Finlandia University. The institution’s state receiver has been allowed to sell select smaller properties after communicating with the U.S. Department of Education. Hancock will continue to work with the state receiver toward a purchase agreement for the Ryan Street Community Gardens, as well as the Quincy Green.