Eric Ringsred News Today

While Duluth officials are exploring alternatives to demolishing the fire-damaged property, the court noted that option has yet to be ruled out.

However, a recent opinion from the Minnesota Supreme Court significantly reduces the scope of his retaliation claim.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (Legal Newsline) - A lawsuit claiming Duluth city officials retaliated against a property owner for exercising his right of free speech may be barred by the statute of limitations, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled, reversing an appeals court that said the 20-year battle between the city and the property owner could be a “continuing violation.”

The Duluth Economic Development Authority has agreed to pay New History Inc. up to $40,000 to assess the historic structure and offer recommendations for the future of the property.

One of two ongoing lawsuits filed by the longtime local preservationist reached the state's highest court this week.

I was informed the city attorney's office does not track time and expenses for specific matters.

The future of the 1887 building remains unclear, as the city is prohibited from tearing it down and no other developers have been come forward.

Justices agreed to review a decision that reinstated a once-dismissed lawsuit and cleared the way for the local preservationist to add several defendants, including Mayor Emily Larson.

Litigation over the Pastoret Terrace property has again been placed on hold while Rod Raymond pursues a last-ditch effort to preserve the 135-year-old building.

A three-judge panel said the former owner of the Kozy Bar and Apartments can proceed with defamation and retaliation claims, reversing two Duluth judges who dismissed the allegations.