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![]() The International Falls Economic Development Authority (EDA) held a special meeting on June 5, 2023, to discuss and approve a significant renovation project for the International Falls National Park. The project, which has been long overdue, involves the replacement of carpets and a fresh coat of paint for the entire building. The EDA is required to paint the interior of the building every five years and replace the carpet every seven years as part of their lease agreement. However, this is the first time such a renovation is taking place, 12 years into the lease. The total contract for the flooring package is $116,064, while the painting package is estimated to cost $110,635. The funds for this project will be drawn from the reserve fund, which currently holds over a million dollars. The reserve fund is specifically set aside for expenses exceeding $15,000. The renovation project is not just a requirement but also a necessity as the building has reached a point where refurbishment is essential. The EDA has worked closely with the park staff to ensure they are satisfied with the renovation plans. The staff was involved in choosing the carpet pattern and will also be responsible for moving their personal items, files, and computers during the renovation. The EDA also discussed potential future renovations and modifications to the building. As the lease nears its 15 to 17-year mark, the General Services Administration (GSA) will start working with the park staff to determine what changes they would like to see in their next lease. The building, which was constructed in 2011 at a cost of $11.5 million, is now estimated to be worth between $15 to $18 million. The EDA views the $226,000 renovation project as a sound investment into the facility. The renovation work is expected to commence towards the end of summer and be completed by fall. The EDA members unanimously approved the project, expressing their eagerness to see the improvements to the facility.
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![]() The City Council of International Falls, Minnesota, convened on June 5, 2023, for a public hearing to discuss the 27th Street project. The meeting, attended by all council members, was an opportunity to provide updates on the project and address questions from the public. Overview of the 27th Street Project The 27th Street project, which has been following the special assessment 429 process allowed through state statutes, involved road reconstruction, replacement of sanitary and storm systems, and the extension of new water facilities. The project also received funding from the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The project was initiated in conjunction with a BDPI grant, the specifics of which were not detailed during the meeting. The development was contingent on the city doing something with the road, which was successfully accomplished. Assessment Process and Public Input The final step in the process is the assessment hearing, where the council shares how much of the project will be assessed to the property owners and the method of assessment. The project was not based on a petition but was started in conjunction with the BDPI grant and for development purposes. During the public input segment, property owner Ricky Roach asked about the special assessment on property taxes. He was informed that the interest is for the processing of handling it and that if he chose to pay upfront, there would be no service charge. However, if he decided to stretch it out for the full ten years, interest would be applied. Ricky also asked about a parcel listed under his name and the state of Minnesota. He was informed that the tax-forfeited piece of property that he bought after the original public hearing could not be assessed until he bought the property. Future Plans and Conclusion of the Meeting Ricky further inquired about the plans for Main Avenue, specifically the area between the UPS building and another property. He asked if it would remain a big, unused road or if there were plans to fill it in. After Ricky's questions, the floor was opened for additional public input. However, there were no further comments or questions from the public. The council then discussed the next steps for the assessment process. They confirmed that there was ample time to get the assessment approved to have it on this year's taxes. With no further questions or comments, the public hearing was closed, and the meeting was adjourned. For a more detailed account of the meeting, you can watch the full video on the City of International Falls, Minnesota YouTube channel. ![]() International Falls, MN City Council Meeting - The International Falls City Council recently held a meeting to discuss a range of topics impacting the community. New Garbage Management Ordinance The council deliberated on the first reading of a proposed ordinance aimed at improving garbage management in the city. The ordinance is designed to address issues of garbage accumulation in properties and to simplify the process of garbage disposal. While there was consensus on the necessity of the ordinance, some councilors expressed concerns about the potential impact on residents who currently manage their own garbage disposal. A public hearing was decided upon to gather residents' opinions and feedback. 2024 Capital Budget Request for Kerry Park Health and Wellness Center The council approved a resolution authorizing the city administrator to file an application with the Minnesota Management Budget for a 2024 capital budget request for the Kerry Park Health and Wellness Center. The potential for additional funding for the project in the future was discussed, with a focus on phased development. While there was consensus on the need for the project, some councilors expressed concerns about the potential financial implications for the city. City Beach Renovation Update An update on the ongoing City Beach project was provided during the meeting. The project, which involves the removal of contaminated wood chips, the addition of new sand, and the final cleanup, is expected to be ready for public use by mid-June. The council unanimously agreed on the importance of the project for the community. Fourth of July Celebrations Planning The council discussed plans for the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations. The planned activities include a concert at the amphitheater, a kids fun run down the Blue Ox Trail, a movie at Kerry Park, a family campout at Kerry Park, and various festivities in the park. The council reached consensus on the planned activities, but there was some discussion about the potential need for public input on the final plans for the celebration. Rescheduling of the Next Council Meeting After some discussion and consideration of various commitments of the council members, the council approved moving the next council meeting to June 20th at 2 PM. Reports from Various Committees and Commissions Council members shared updates from various committees and commissions they are part of, including the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Visitors and Convention Bureau, and International Falls Recreation Commission. Public Input and Engagement The council emphasized the importance of public input in decision-making processes, particularly in relation to the new garbage management ordinance and the Fourth of July celebrations. They encouraged residents to attend the public hearing and provide their feedback. Discussion on City Infrastructure Projects The council also discussed ongoing city infrastructure projects, including the City Beach project and the Kerry Park Health and Wellness Center project. There was consensus on the importance of these projects, but some councilors expressed concerns about the potential costs. Source: https://youtu.be/e2moMNDQU8A
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