DULUTH, Minn. (AP) University of Minnesota Duluth already owns the Glensheen mansion. Now, Chancellor Kathryn A. Martin has expressed an interest in taking over the Great Lakes Aquarium.

But in a recent meeting with Duluth News Tribune editors, Martin said if that happens, the university would probably change the aquarium's mission. She says it would likely be used for research and labs.

Duluth City Council President Roger Reinert proposed the idea and stresses there are no plans in the works. He compares his idea to the university's ownership of the Glensheen mansion.

He said he would encourage lawmakers to offer a financial break to UMD if it agreed to take over operations.

The aquarium has no comment on the idea.

Information from: Duluth News Tribune, http://www.duluthsuperior.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-21-08 1137CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list