Ely’s Economic Development Authority

John Fedo has been involved in a wide variety of successful public and private economic development projects over the course of the last 30+ years. In a capacity of project coordinator, consultant or owner, Mr. Fedo has extensive experience in securing grants, low interest and market rate financing as well as working with local, regional, state and federal funding resources in assembling funding partnerships on behalf of public/private clients.

John Fedo was first elected to public office as a city councilman in Duluth, Minnesota. Four years later, at only 29 years old, Fedo became the youngest mayor in Duluth history and the youngest chief executive of a “first class” city, in the nation.  He went on to serve three consecutive four-year terms and is credited with bringing about major change in Duluth‘s economy and developing its reputation as a major tourism center. Projects such as the Duluth Waterfront and Lakewalk, Fond Du Luth Casino, Canal Park, construction of Lake Superior Paper, the Duluth I – 35 Freeway completion, renovation of the downtown and the D. E. C. C. State Convention Center are a few of the accomplishments during his term of service. 

Mr. Fedo‘s experience includes 25+ years as a private development consultant and principal of John A. Fedo and Associates with clients ranging from the City of Ely and City of Chisholm‘s EDA, Granite Broadcasting (KRII-KBJR), Minnesota Twist Drill Manufacturing, Range Development, Breezy Point Resorts, General Waste, to name just a few. John was also the Hibbing City Administrator and EDA Director for three years as well as an alumnus of the Blandin Leadership Program.