With some hesitancy the Grand Forks council voted last night (Monday) to continue discussions with a company looking to locate an ecosystem aquarium at the Grand Cities Mall. The proposed site for the 17,000 square foot SeaQuest would be the former Kmart building.
One of the hurdles is a potential $1 million dollar subsidy to seal the deal. Mayor Brandon Bochenski says it’s a big “ask” that needs more assessment. “I am not a huge fan of having public money involved in these projects but something has to start the growth.”
Council President Dana Sande says it would be nice if there were other competing companies showing interest. “Who knows if we put out a press release in the New York Times that says Grand Forks is considering a million dollar investment into an aquarium who knows who would knock on our door.”
Council member Bret Weber says he sees a lot of upside to bringing this type of attraction to town. “This looks to be a fantastic opportunity to enhance our local retail and family friendly events.”
Council member Jeannie Mock says she is concerned about the “risk” and size of the subsidy.
Seaquest CEO Vince Covino defended the company against allegations of animal mistreatment and said in other locations the business accounts for up to 50% of all mall traffic.
The council voted to 5-1 to continue the talk.
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