ST. PAUL (AP) — Mesabi Metallics is suing the state of Minnesota over its iron ore leases which regulators terminated last week.

The state Department of Natural Resources says the company failed to live up to terms of its contract, specifically by having $200 million in land by May 1.

Mesabi Metallics is suing the DNR in Ramsey County District Court for breach of contract and breach of good faith as it attempts to keep its long-delayed mining project from collapsing.

The DNR declined to comment on the lawsuit.

The mineral leases are critical for Mesabi Metallics' taconite project in Nashwauk which has not been completed.

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The 25 Best Places to Live in Minnesota

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Minnesota using data from Niche. Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather. Cities, suburbs, and towns were included. Listings and images are from realtor.com.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums. Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

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