 PolyMet is offering Minnesota a $544 million package of financial insurance assurances. The money would serve as insurance to protect taxpayers from having to cover the costs of shutting down and cleaning up the copper nickel mine it proposes for Northeastern Minnesota. The company says the package of bonds, letters of credit, and a trust fund is sufficient to cover all costs, including treating the mines wastewater as long as necessary. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.