Thief River Falls public meetings in 2024

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will hold a public hearing on street and utility improvement assessments, then consider adopting the final 2025 budget and tax levy. The agenda includes numerous routine approvals, such as year-end accounts payable, utility write-offs, and several public works appointments, as well as a resolution to sponsor a multi-use trail connection at Lincoln High School.

• Public hearing on street & utility improvement assessments
• Adopt final 2025 budget and approve 2025 tax levy
• Approve uncollectible utility account write-offs and Falls Liquor Store NSF checks
• Approve 2025 water treatment plant chemical bids and CO2 tank replacement project
• Resolution to act as sponsoring agency for 1st St. Lincoln High School multi-use trail connection

The City Council unanimously approved the final 2025 budget and certified a 2025 tax levy of $3,909,417, which is a 6.79% increase over 2024. The council also approved several infrastructure projects, personnel appointments, and a new artificial intelligence policy.

• Adopted Final 2025 Budget (unanimous)
• Certified 2025 Tax Levy at $3,909,417 (unanimous)
• Approved $542,262.28 assessment roll for 2024 Street & Utility Improvements (unanimous)
• Approved low bid from Municipal Service, Inc for Water Treatment Plant CO2 Tank replacement (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with GSG Hospitality Group for a Retail Market Study (unanimous)
• Approved Artificial Intelligence Policy for City users (unanimous)
• Authorized $2,075,972.71 in bills and disbursements (unanimous)
• Approved $88,024.35 in uncollectible utility account write-offs (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several items, including a second reading and approval of Ordinance 114.02 on cannabis and lower-potency hemp edibles, step reclassifications in the Water Department, and authorizing advertising for a Ward 3 council vacancy. The meeting also includes a public forum, consent agenda, and a Truth in Taxation hearing at 6 p.m.

• Second reading and approval of Ordinance 114.02 - Cannabis and Lower Potency Hemp Edibles
• Step reclassifications in Water Department
• Authorize City Administrator to advertise for Council Member Ward 3 January 2025 vacancy
• Approval of November 19, 2024 Council Proceedings
• City bills and disbursements and Council per diems

The Thief River Falls City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 114.02, which regulates cannabis and lower-potency hemp edibles, setting a 300-foot buffer from schools and other sites and adopting state hours. The council also approved step reclassifications for seven water department employees, authorized advertising for a Ward 3 council vacancy, approved an electronic poll book agreement with KNOWiNK, accepted a hazardous property at 517 Crocker Ave South for demolition, and authorized a letter of support for a Safe Routes to School grant. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Ordinance 114.02 (Cannabis and Lower Potency Hemp Edibles) (unanimous)
• Approved step reclassifications for 7 water department employees (unanimous)
• Authorized advertising for Ward 3 council vacancy (unanimous)
• Approved KNOWiNK electronic poll book agreement (unanimous)
• Accepted conveyance of 517 Crocker Ave South for demolition (unanimous)
• Authorized letter of support for Safe Routes to School grant (unanimous)
• Approved $1,521,678.77 in bills and disbursements (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will certify the November 5 election results and vote on several new business items including equipment purchases, utility billing software, and land conveyances. A presentation on the 2025 Visit TRF budget will also be given.

• Certify November 5 election results
• Approve $13,000+ in purchases for Public Works (wall partitions, ceiling tile, furniture)
• Authorize UtilityConnect credit card processing with Nuvei ($10,000+)
• Purchase 2025 Ford F350 truck
• First reading of Cannabis and Hemp Edibles Ordinance 114.02

The City Council certified the results of the November 5, 2024, election for Mayor and Council members. The council also approved several equipment purchases for public safety and public works, and authorized a new credit card processing system for city utilities.

• Certified election results: Mike Lorenson (Mayor), Jason Aarestad (At Large), Julie Bolduc (Ward 2), and Michele McCraw (Ward 4)
• Approved $1,461,053.87 in bills and disbursements
• Approved $117,732.35 for Public Works wall partitions, furniture, and ceiling tiles
• Approved UtilityConnect with Nuvei credit card processing with a 3.5% customer transaction fee
• Approved $53,101.00 for a 2025 Ford F350 Crew Cab Truck for the Fire Department
• Approved $93,789.00 three-year ESRI software agreement shared with Pennington and Red Lake Counties
• Approved $1,262,015.40 for 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements and scheduled assessment hearing for Dec 17
• Approved $16,500.00 contract for Melissa Benoit for flower garden services

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several routine and new business items, including a drinking water protection policy and plan, appointments to library boards, employment approvals, and a 2024-2026 labor agreement with M.A.P.S. The meeting also includes a public forum and a presentation on the surface water intake protection plan.

• Approval of 2024-2026 M.A.P.S. Labor Agreement and MOU
• Approve TRF Professional Building Commercial Energy Renovation Loan Request
• Appoint Beth Nelson to TRF Library and Northwest Regional Library Boards
• Approve employment of Robert Hout as Public Works Foreman
• Approval to fill two Public Works Maintenance positions

The Thief River Falls City Council unanimously approved $2,307,724.15 in bills and disbursements. They also ratified 2024-2026 labor agreements for M.A.P.S. employees with wage increases, approved several new hires in Public Works and the Liquor Store, and appointed new members to library boards. Additionally, the council approved a $71,990.60 energy renovation loan for a local business.

• Approved payment of bills and disbursements totaling $2,307,724.15 (unanimous)
• Approved 2024-2026 M.A.P.S. Labor Agreement with 3% wage increase in 2024 and 4% in 2025-2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Commercial Energy Renovation Loan of $71,990.60 to TRF Professional Building, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Robert Huot as Public Works Foreman at $35.31/hour (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Mark Beedy and Brandon Kasprowicz as Off Sale Clerks (unanimous)
• Authorized filling two Public Works Maintenance positions (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Beth Nelson to TRF and Northwest Regional Library Boards (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Alan Johnson, Phyllis Johnson, and Gena Wambsganss to TRF Library Board (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several routine and notable items, including a one-year storm water utility rate increase for 2025, a commercial energy renovation loan, and an interim use permit request. The agenda also includes approvals for personnel transfers, a building code amendment, and a land conveyance. Most items are routine approvals, but the rate increase and loan are concrete financial decisions.

• Approve one-year storm water utility rate increase for 2025 (item 8.12)
• Approve Commercial Energy Renovation Loan to the Legends Building (item 8.5)
• Interim Use Permit Request – Lisa Robson Properties, LLC (item 8.6)
• Second reading amendment to City Code Chapter 152.02 Building Permits Required (item 8.7)
• Approve 6th street land conveyance, C.S.5701(01=033) 001 parcel 1, Pennington County (item 8.13)

The Thief River Falls City Council unanimously approved a $70,000 energy renovation loan for the Legends Building and a one-year increase to storm water utility rates. The council also amended building code requirements to include fire alarm permits and approved several internal staff transfers and infrastructure projects, including a new CO2 tank for the water plant.

• Approved $70,000 Commercial Energy Renovation Loan for Legends Building
• Approved one-year storm water utility rate increase for 2025
• Amended City Code to require fire alarm system permits
• Approved $19,421.00 bid for Depot/City Hall front door replacement
• Approved Task Order 17 for CO2 tank replacement at Water Treatment Plant
• Approved internal transfer of Nick Olson to Cemetery Technician
• Approved employment of Marea Gryskiewicz as GIS Mapping Technician
• Tabled Resolution 10.235.24 for 6th street land conveyance

Public Safety/Liquor Committee

The Public Safety/Liquor Committee approved moving forward with a request for council action (RCA) to hire an internal applicant for the Investigator position, with the officer splitting time 50% as Task Force Officer and 50% as Investigator. The committee also scheduled a labor meeting for the liquor store on October 15 and discussed several operational items, including a drone purchase, a garage door opener, and a cannabis ordinance public hearing. No formal votes were taken; decisions were made by consensus.

• Approved RCA to council for police Investigator position (internal applicant, 50% Task Force Officer/50% Investigator)
• Scheduled liquor store labor meeting for October 15 at 4pm
• Agreed to seek THC drinks from NW Beverage for liquor store sale
• Discussed drone purchase for search and rescue, with grant potential
• Noted ambulance sale funds to be used for garage door opener at ITS building ($1,965 estimate)
• Reviewed cannabis ordinance; public hearing set for November at Planning & Zoning

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider authorizing the issuance and sale of General Obligation bonds (series 2024A), approving a credit/debit card transaction fee for utility bills, and acting on public safety aid purchases and a school wetland notice. It will also vote on opening a Public Works Foreman position and a Lead Public Works Maintenance Worker position. The agenda includes routine consent items and a presentation by Flaherty & Hood.

• Resolution authorizing issuance and sale of General Obligation bonds, series 2024A
• Authorize City Administrator to calculate credit/debit card transaction fee for utility bills
• Public Safety Aid Purchase
• Challenger Elementary School WCA Notice of Decision
• Approve opening of Public Works Foreman position and Lead Public Works Maintenance Worker position

The City Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including issuing general obligation bonds (series 2024A), authorizing a transaction fee for credit/debit card utility payments effective January 1, 2025, spending about $30,000 from Public Safety Aid for a new wildland firefighting vehicle, and approving the Challenger Elementary wetland delineation. The council also authorized opening a Public Works Foreman position and a new Lead Public Works Maintenance Worker position, with the latter passing 4-2 with one abstention.

• Approved issuance and sale of General Obligation Bonds, series 2024A (unanimous)
• Authorized City Administrator to set credit/debit card transaction fee for utility bills, effective Jan 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 from Public Safety Aid for new wildland firefighting vehicle (unanimous)
• Approved Challenger Elementary wetland delineation (unanimous)
• Authorized opening of Public Works Foreman position (unanimous)
• Approved job description and grading for Lead Public Works Maintenance Worker, opened position (4-2, Aarestad abstained)
• Approved bills and disbursements totaling $3,233,797.91 (unanimous)
• Approved September 17, 2024 council proceedings (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several routine items, including filling a Cemetery Technician position, opening an Investigator position, approving a Towards Zero Death proposal, and authorizing repair work on the Carnegie and Depot elevators, the Carnegie foundation and steps, and the Public Library garage wall. They will also hold a first reading of a building permit code amendment and approve a municipal advisory service agreement with Northland Securities. The meeting includes a consent agenda for minutes and bills, and a public forum for non-agenda items.

• Approve filling Cemetery Technician position
• Approve opening Investigator position
• Approve Towards Zero Death (TZD) Proposal 2024/2025
• Approve modernization proposal for Depot Elevator
• Approve repair work on Carnegie Elevator, foundation, and front steps

The City Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including funding for elevator repairs and modernization at the Depot and Carnegie buildings, a $921,494.83 disbursement of bills, and the opening of two positions. The council also approved a $18,500 traffic safety grant and a first reading of a building code amendment for fire alarm permits.

• Approved $921,494.83 in bills and disbursements (unanimous)
• Approved filling Cemetery Technician position (unanimous)
• Approved opening Investigator position (unanimous)
• Approved $18,500 TZD grant for traffic enforcement (unanimous)
• Approved $80,384.88 Depot elevator modernization (unanimous)
• Approved $70,394.37 Carnegie elevator repair (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of building code amendment for fire alarm permits (unanimous)
• Approved $2,800 Carnegie foundation repair and $3,000 library wall repair (unanimous)

Administrative Services Committee

The Administrative Services Committee denied a request from Venuworks to pay severance to employees, while agreeing to pay owed PTO. The committee also approved sending four repair and modernization proposals to the City Council for approval. Security system upgrades for the arena east entrance were declined pending further research.

• Denied Venuworks request for severance pay
• Approved RCA to Council for Depot Elevator modernization
• Approved RCA to Council for Carnegie Elevator repair
• Approved RCA to Council for Carnegie front step repair
• Approved RCA to Council for Library loading dock wall repair
• Declined arena security system quote of $72,693

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider adopting the preliminary 2025 budget and tax levy, along with several rezoning requests and ordinance amendments. The agenda includes routine consent items, new business, and informational items. No major policy decisions are expected beyond these routine approvals.

• Adopt preliminary 2025 budget and approve proposed 2025 tax levy
• Second reading and approval of Valley Assisted Living rezoning request
• Second reading and approval of amendment to Ordinance 152.069 off-street parking requirements
• Second reading and approval of Interim Use Ordinance
• Approve agreement with MNDOT for federal aid on projects S.P. 170-105-014, S.P. 170-111-023, S.P. 170-111-025

The City Council unanimously adopted the preliminary 2025 budget and approved a proposed 2025 tax levy of $4,051,075, a 10.66% increase over last year. The council also approved several zoning changes, including rezoning a Valley Assisted Living property back to residential and adding new parking requirements for day care facilities. A new interim use ordinance was adopted, and the council approved hiring a power plant operator and a contract for wastewater repair services.

• Adopted preliminary 2025 budget (unanimous)
• Approved proposed 2025 tax levy of $4,051,075, a 10.66% increase (unanimous)
• Rezoned Valley Assisted Living property from C-2 to R-2 (unanimous)
• Amended off-street parking ordinance to add day care requirements (unanimous)
• Adopted interim use ordinance with $150 application fee (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Jim Nelson as Power Plant Operator at $32.45/hour (unanimous)
• Approved Bolton & Menk contract for lift station repair services (unanimous)
• Rescinded resolution to open Investigator position (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider issuing $6,225,000 in general obligation bonds, approve a contract for bond services, and vote on several land-use items including an interim use ordinance, off-street parking amendment, a conditional use permit for a daycare, and a rezoning for assisted living. They will also approve a new union contract for law enforcement and benefit packages for non-union employees, plus equipment purchases and job description updates.

• Resolution for $6,225,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2024a
• Contract with Robert Thomas CPA for bond services
• First reading of Interim Use Ordinance
• First reading of amendment to Ordinance 152.069 (off-street parking)
• Conditional Use Permit for Discovery Place Early Learning Center

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council is meeting to consider two new business items: a temporary intoxicating liquor license for VFW Post 2793 and a new Rural Fire Contract for 2024-2029. The agenda also includes routine consent items (approval of prior meeting minutes and city bills/disbursements) and public forum time. No other substantive actions are listed.

• VFW Post 2793 Temporary Intoxicating Liquor License with Addendum
• Rural Fire Contract 2024-2029
• Approval of July 16 and July 22, 2024 Council Proceedings
• City Bills and Disbursements and Council Per Diems

The City Council approved a 2024-2029 rural fire contract with six townships, a temporary liquor license for VFW Post 2793, and authorized $1,469,083.36 in bills and disbursements. Councilmembers were appointed to committee meetings, and the meeting adjourned at 4:34 p.m.

• Approved $1,469,083.36 in bills and disbursements (unanimous)
• Approved VFW Post 2793 temporary liquor license with addendum for Sept 13-14, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved 2024-2029 Rural Fire Contract with six townships (unanimous)
• Appointed Bolduc to Public Works and Lorenson to Administrative Services committee meetings (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet on July 22, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The main item is a closed session to discuss pending or threatened litigation related to the Lift Station 9 Improvements and Force Main Replacement Project. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including agenda approval, upcoming meeting announcements, and adjournment.

• Closed session on pending/threatened litigation for Lift Station 9 Improvements and Force Main Replacement Project
• Next regular council meeting scheduled for August 6 at 4:30 p.m. at Pioneer Village
• Upcoming committee meetings: Public Utilities (Aug 12), Public Safety/Liquor (Aug 12), Administrative Services (Aug 13), Public Works (Aug 14)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider a second reading and adoption of an interim moratorium on commercial cannabis cultivation and retail sales, approve election judges for the 2024 primary and general elections, and act on several financial items including a delinquent CDAB loan and a commercial energy renovation loan. The agenda also includes routine approvals, a closed session on pending litigation, and a 2023 audit presentation.

• Second reading and adoption of interim moratorium ordinance on commercial cannabis cultivation and retail sales
• Approve election judges for 2024 Primary and General Elections
• Authorize legal action to collect delinquent CDAB loan
• Approve Commercial Energy Renovation Loan to Movement Evolution of TRF
• Closed session on Lift Station 9 Improvements and Force Main Replacement Project litigation

The City Council adopted an interim moratorium prohibiting commercial cannabis sales and cultivation until January 1, 2025, to allow time for study and ordinance development. The council also approved several routine items, including election judges, a $73,000 energy renovation loan, and a $800,000 commitment to the Chief's Coulee flood project. A closed session was held to discuss pending litigation on Lift Station 9 improvements.

• Adopted interim moratorium on commercial cannabis sales and cultivation (unanimous)
• Approved $73,000 Commercial Energy Renovation Loan to Movement Evolution of TRF (unanimous)
• Approved $800,000 commitment to Chief's Coulee flood project (unanimous)
• Approved $636,464.58 in bills and disbursements (unanimous)
• Approved election judges for 2024 primary and general elections (unanimous)
• Authorized legal action to collect delinquent CDAB loan from Quotable Kids (unanimous)
• Approved $22,858.61 for office furniture for Utility Billing and IT (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Jennifer Myers as Deputy City Clerk (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed interim moratorium on commercial cannabis cultivation and retail sales within city limits. The council will also conduct a first reading of the ordinance to adopt this moratorium.

• Cannabis Moratorium Public Hearing
• First reading of ordinance to adopt interim moratorium on commercial cannabis cultivation and retail sales
• Approval of June 18 and June 24 Council Proceedings
• City bills, disbursements, and council per diems
• Approval of city surplus items list

The City Council conducted a first reading of an ordinance to prohibit the sale, cultivation, and distribution of cannabis products for 12 months to allow for further study. The council also approved city disbursements and a special beer permit for a VFW event.

• Approved $2,164,935.00 in bills and disbursements and $942.50 in council per diems (Unanimous)
• Approved list of unused city items as surplus for public auction (Unanimous)
• Conducted first reading of cannabis moratorium ordinance; no action taken
• Approved Beer in the Park Permit for VFW Post 2793 at Oakland Park on August 18, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved June 18 and June 24, 2024 Council Proceedings (Unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet to discuss and potentially approve a new contract with Oak View Group for management services of the Ralph Engelstad Arena, Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center, MEC, and Tourist Park. The meeting will also include procedural items and scheduling for upcoming committee meetings.

• Approve contract with Oak View Group for management services of Ralph Engelstad Arena, Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center, MEC, and Tourist Park

The City Council voted 5-4 to approve a management agreement with Oak View Group for the Ralph Engelstad Arena, Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center, MEC, and Tourist Park, effective July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2030. A prior resolution to deny the contract failed. The city administrator and mayor are authorized to execute the agreement after final review by the city attorney.

• Approved management contract with Oak View Group for four facilities (5-4)
• Denial resolution for Oak View Group contract failed (4-5)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several ordinances and agreements, including a second reading and approval of a loitering prohibition, a moratorium on commercial cannabis cultivation and retail sales, and a contribution agreement and real property transfer to North Star Neighbors, a nonprofit land trust. The council will also decide on a fire station roof replacement, reclassification of the Deputy Police Chief, and temporary liquor licenses for American Legion Post 117. Consent agenda items include approval of June 4 proceedings and bills/disbursements.

• Ordinance adding Section 130.30 to prohibit loitering, with penalties by reference
• Moratorium on commercial cultivation and retail sales of cannabis
• Contribution agreement and transfer of real property to North Star Neighbors
• Fire station roof replacement approval
• Temporary intoxicating liquor licenses for American Legion Post 117 on July 19-20, 2024

The City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting loitering in public places and scheduled a hearing for a potential cannabis business moratorium. The council also approved several land transfers for low-income housing and various city infrastructure and staffing updates.

• Approved ordinance prohibiting loitering in public places (unanimous)
• Scheduled July 2 hearing for interim moratorium on cannabis cultivation and retail sales (unanimous)
• Approved $13,984.77 bid from Northwest Roofing for fire station roof replacement (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of two Parkview Street parcels to North Star Neighbors for low-to-moderate income housing (unanimous)
• Approved $3,750/month agreement with Shpigler Group for meter data management consulting (unanimous)
• Approved reclassification of Deputy Police Chief to Grade 10, Step 4 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with True Check, LLC for building inspection services at $115/hour (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills and disbursements totaling $868,143.71 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a first reading of an ordinance to prohibit loitering by amending City Code Chapter 130. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a housing study with Maxfield Research & Consulting, LLC and various personnel and rental approvals.

• First reading of ordinance amending City Code Chapter 130 to prohibit loitering
• Approval of housing study with Maxfield Research & Consulting, LLC
• Employment of Tiffany Tureson as Patrol Officer
• Opening of a GIS Mapping Technician position
• Rental agreement with Megger USA

The Thief River Falls City Council held a first reading of an ordinance adding Section 130.30 to City Code Chapter 130 prohibiting loitering; no action was taken and it will return at the next meeting. The council unanimously approved a housing study by Maxfield Research & Consulting, several personnel actions, a Megger USA equipment rental, and a Beer in the Park permit. It also approved the May 21, 2024 minutes and payment of bills and disbursements totaling $1,452,268.21.

• First reading held on ordinance adding Section 130.30 prohibiting loitering; no action taken, to return at next meeting
• Approved May 21, 2024 Council Proceedings (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills and disbursements totaling $1,452,268.21 (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Tiffany Tureson as Patrol Officer at grade 5 step 2, $30.29 rate (unanimous)
• Authorized opening of GIS Mapping Technician position (unanimous)
• Approved rental agreement with Megger USA for EZT12 Easy Thump at $1,875/month or $125/day (unanimous)
• Accepted Housing Study report by Maxfield Research & Consulting, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Beer in the Park Permit for Teri Vetsch at Oakland Park on June 12, 2024, 3-8 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet on May 21, 2024, to decide on several infrastructure and operational items, including approval of a new water treatment plant pump house, street improvements on Kendall Ave and Crocker Ave, and the purchase of a 2025 sanitation truck. The meeting also includes routine approvals, personnel decisions, and temporary liquor license applications.

• Approve Water Treatment Plant High Service Pump House
• Approve 2024 LOCAL Street Improvements Project (Kendall Ave from 1st St. to 3rd St. & Crocker Ave. from 1st St. to Mussey St.)
• Approve 2025 Sanitation Truck Purchase
• Approve 2-week extension on Venuworks Management Contract termination date
• Resolution Approving Master Partnership Contract with MN Department of Transportation for 2024 center & fog line striping

The City Council approved a $1,267,480.50 street improvement contract for Kendall and Crocker Avenues, a $294,487 sanitation truck purchase, and a $15,398 ventilation upgrade for the Water Treatment Plant. The council also approved creating and filling an Apprentice Lineworker position, adjusted existing lineworker pay steps, and extended the Venuworks management contract termination to June 30, 2024. Several liquor licenses and beer-in-the-park permits were approved, along with a resolution for a MnDOT striping partnership.

• Approved $1,267,480.50 street improvements contract to Davidson Construction
• Approved $294,487 purchase of 2025 Peterbilt/McNeilus sanitation truck
• Approved $15,398 Brodin Comfort Systems quote for High Service Pump House ventilation
• Approved Apprentice Lineworker job description and grading at Grade 7
• Authorized filling Apprentice Lineworker position, opened to union first
• Approved step increases for four Electric Lineworkers effective May 22, 2024
• Approved 2-week extension of Venuworks contract termination to June 30, 2024
• Approved MnDOT Master Partnership Contract for 2024 road striping

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet on May 7, 2024, to conduct routine business including approving past meeting minutes, bills, and disbursements. New items include hiring a Human Resource Coordinator, approving a gambling license for the Hive Bar and Grill, and authorizing police department upgrades to a mobile command trailer.

• Approve employment of Les Backer as Human Resource Coordinator
• Approve TRFAHA Premises Permit Application for Gambling License at the Hive Bar and Grill
• Authorize staff to negotiate with Oakview Group 360
• Approve TRF Police Department mobile command and SRT Trailer upgrades
• Approve April 16, 2024 Council Proceedings and bills/disbursements

The City Council approved several resolutions, including authorizing staff to begin negotiations with Oakview Group 360 for full management of the Ralph Engelstad Arena, Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center, Multi-Events Center, and Tourist Park. The council also approved hiring Les Backer as Human Resource Coordinator, a gambling license for TRFAHA at the Hive Bar and Grill, and $16,821.73 for a police mobile command trailer. All votes were unanimous except the Oakview negotiation, which passed without a recorded tally.

• Approved negotiations with Oakview Group 360 for arena management (passed)
• Approved employment of Les Backer as HR Coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved TRFAHA gambling license at Hive Bar and Grill (unanimous)
• Approved $16,821.73 for police mobile command trailer (unanimous)
• Approved bills and disbursements of $2,403,598.40 (unanimous)
• Approved April 16, 2024 council proceedings (unanimous)

General

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet to discuss routine items and new business, including a request to support a funding application for Edge Housing LLC and a vote on a temporary liquor license for American Legion Post 117. The meeting will also include public forum, presentations, and committee reports.

• Request for Support for Funding Application for Proposed Edge Housing LLC
• Approve American Legion Post 117 Temporary Intoxicating Liquor License

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet to discuss and vote on several key items, including a $800,000 commitment for the Chief’s Coulee Project, rezoning requests for Edge Housing LLC, and approvals for temporary liquor permits and fireworks displays. The meeting will also include routine approvals and informational updates.

• Approve $800,000 commitment for Chief’s Coulee Project
• Call for first reading to rezone Edge Housing LLC properties (Former MAK Properties, LLC and Vacant Valley Home Property)
• Approve resolution regarding Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act administration
• Approve 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements (Non-Federal projects)
• Approve TRF Police Department purchase of 2 keyboards for Microsoft Surface Pro Tablets

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider amendments to city codes regarding excluded signs and C-2 yard setback requirements. The meeting also includes several equipment purchase requests for the Police Department and Public Safety Aid.

• Amendment to City Code Chapter 152.087.2 regarding excluded signs
• Amendment to C-2 Yard Setback Requirements (City Code 152.095.4C)
• Purchase of 2 Microsoft Surface Pro Tablets for Police Chief and Deputy Chief cars
• Purchase of new office desks and 2 workstations for the Police Department
• Public Safety Aid purchase for fire blankets, extrication tools, fans, and foam

The council unanimously approved a comprehensive new Code of Ordinances, adopted amendments to sign regulations, and authorized multiple public safety equipment purchases. It also accepted a state grant for the ice plant project and hired a new forester.

• Adopted new Code of Ordinances (unanimous)
• Approved $3,340 for 2 Microsoft Surface Pro tablets for police (unanimous)
• Approved $8,655 for police office desks and workstations (unanimous)
• Approved ~$22,932 for fire equipment (car fire blankets, extrication tool, fan, foam) (unanimous)
• Accepted $166,367 Mighty Ducks grant for ice plant project (unanimous)
• Amended sign ordinance to require conditional use permits for most government signs (unanimous)
• Amended C-2 yard setback requirements for signs (unanimous)
• Hired Christopher Matter as Forester at $27.09/hr (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several routine approvals and new business items, including amendments to city code on governmental signs and C-2 yard setbacks, a library bathroom project, a hazardous building declaration, and a rental inspection workgroup. The consent agenda covers prior meeting minutes and city bills/disbursements.

• Approve amendment to City Code 152.087.2 on excluded signs of a governmental body
• Approve amendment to C-2 yard setback requirements (City Code 152.095.4C)
• Approve 2024 Library Bathroom Project
• Declare 1209 Main Avenue North a hazardous building (Lindsey J. Bernard)
• Approve Animal Control Service Agreement with Pennington County Humane Society

The City Council approved several infrastructure and service contracts, including a library renovation and an animal control agreement. The council also initiated a repair order for a hazardous building and called for first readings on two city code amendments.

• Approved $265,000 contract with Schmitz Builders, Inc. for Library Bathroom Project (unanimous)
• Approved $85,000 purchase of a 2024 Chevy Silverado squad car (unanimous)
• Approved animal control agreement with Pennington County Humane Society at $1,400 per month (unanimous)
• Approved order for repair of hazardous building at 1209 Main Avenue North (unanimous)
• Approved permanent summer hours for City Hall (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of GrayKey forensics tool for Police Department (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills and disbursements totaling $806,922.86 (unanimous)
• Called for first reading of ordinances amending sign exclusions and C-2 yard setbacks (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will meet to consider routine consent items, including approval of previous meeting minutes and bills/disbursements. Under new business, they will vote on purchasing a public works sanding unit, issuing General Obligation Equipment Certificates Series 2024a, and approving an independent service contract with Holly Eckstein. The meeting also includes a public forum and reports from boards and commissions.

• Approve purchase of public works sanding unit
• Issue General Obligation Equipment Certificates, Series 2024a
• Approve Independent Service Contract with Holly Eckstein
• Approval of February 20, 2024 Council Proceedings
• Approval of City bills and disbursements and Council per diems

The City Council approved a resolution to issue $3.75 million in general obligation equipment certificates to finance arena refrigeration and associated equipment. The council also approved several other items, including a sanding unit purchase, an independent contractor agreement for HR services, and the hiring of multiple full-time off-sale clerks. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $3.75M equipment certificates for arena refrigeration (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 purchase of used tailgate sanding accessory (unanimous)
• Approved independent service contract with Holly Eckstein at $55/hour for HR, payroll, training (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Tara Weigel as full-time Off-Sale Clerk at $22.77/hour (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Michelle Niska as full-time Off-Sale Clerk at $21.91/hour (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Benjamin Robson as full-time Off-Sale Clerk at $21.91/hour (unanimous)
• Approved employment of Scott Fogarty as full-time Off-Sale Clerk at $27.52/hour (unanimous)
• Approved February 20, 2024 council proceedings and $1,654,049.10 in bills/disbursements (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements project and consider approving its plans and specifications. The agenda also includes several routine approvals, such as bills, police department purchases, union contracts, and a request for proposals for venue management services.

• Public hearing and approval of 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements project
• Purchase of plastic refuse bags from Revolution Materials, Inc.
• Resolutions to maintain and sponsor 1st Street Corridor Transportation Alternatives Project
• Approval of 2024-2026 Teamster #320 Public and Fire Union Contracts
• Approval of RFP for Venue Management Services

The Thief River Falls City Council unanimously ordered the 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements project and called for plans and specifications, following a public hearing on the work. The council also approved 2024-2026 Teamster #320 Public and Fire union contracts with wage increases of 3% for 2024 and 4% each for 2025 and 2026, and approved issuing an RFP for management of the Ralph Engelstad Arena, Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center, Multi-Events Center and Tourist Park. Two police purchases were tabled and sent back to committees, and two public safety aid purchases passed with Mayor Brian Holmer voting Ney.

• Ordered 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements project and called for plans and specifications (unanimous)
• Approved February 6, 2024 Council Proceedings (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills and disbursements totaling $922,047.31 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of plastic refuse bags from Revolution Materials for $35,700.00 (unanimous)
• Approved city as sponsoring agency for 1st Street Corridor Carbon Reduction Project; estimated construction $873,000, ~$282,000 local match (unanimous)
• Approved 2024-2026 Teamster #320 Public and Fire union contracts with 3% wage increase for 2024, 4% for 2025, 4% for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved issuing RFP for venue management services; proposals due April 10, 2024 (unanimous)
• Tabled police office desks and Microsoft Surface Pro tablets, sending both back to committees (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider routine consent items, including approval of prior meeting minutes and city bills, and will vote on two new business items: a copier agreement for the Electric Department and a Joint Powers Agreement for the Multi-Events Center. The meeting also includes a public forum and a proclamation acknowledging the 50th anniversary of a tragic accident.

• Approval of agreement for a copier for the Electric Department
• Authorize City Administrator to sign Joint Powers Agreement for Multi-Events Center
• Approval of January 16, 2024 Council Proceedings
• Approval of City bills and disbursements and Council per diems
• Public forum for items not on the agenda

The City Council approved a grant application for a CO2 ice plant installation at the Ralph Engelstad Arena and Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center. The council also appointed election judges for 2024 and approved a new copier lease for the Electric Department.

• Approved $300,000 James Metzen Mighty Ducks Grant application for CO2 Ice Plant installation (unanimous)
• Authorized $2,246,163.70 in bills and disbursements and $1,570.00 in council per diems (unanimous)
• Approved 60-month lease for a Canon C5535i III copier at $127.61 per month (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for the Multi-Events Center (unanimous)
• Appointed 18 Election Judges for 2024 elections (unanimous)
• Authorized appointment of additional election judges as needed (unanimous)
• Approved January 16, 2024 Council Proceedings (unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council will consider several routine and new business items, including approving the final plat for the South Greenwood Cemetery addition, setting 2024 mileage and meal reimbursement rates, adopting an elected officials mobile device policy, and making board and commission appointments. The council will also authorize a $13,000 payment to Marshall County for a used police pickup, approve an animal capture services agreement, and review the 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements Feasibility Report. The meeting includes a public forum and consent agenda for routine approvals.

• Approve final plat for First Addition to South Greenwood Cemetery
• Approve 2024 mileage and meal reimbursement rates
• Approve $13,000 payment to Marshall County for 2013 Ford Pickup
• Authorize purchase of 10 executive chairs for council room
• Approve 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements Feasibility Report

The Council approved a feasibility report for several street and utility reconstruction projects and scheduled a public hearing for February 20. Other actions included authorizing payments for city bills and a police vehicle, and renewing an animal capture services agreement.

• Approved 2024 Street and Utilities Improvements Feasibility Report and called for public hearing (Unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills and disbursements totaling $641,775.08 (Unanimous)
• Approved final plat for First Addition to South Greenwood Cemetery (Unanimous)
• Approved animal capture services agreement with Dana Klos from Jan 16, 2024 to Jan 16, 2027 (Unanimous)
• Approved $13,000 payment to Marshall County for a 2013 Ford Pickup (Unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 10 executive chairs for the council room at $469.00 each (Unanimous)
• Adopted 2024 federal mileage rate and Northern Minnesota meal reimbursement schedule (Unanimous)
• Approved updated Elected Officials Mobile Device Policy (Unanimous)

City Council

The Thief River Falls City Council is meeting to handle routine administrative business for the new year, including approving the consent agenda, designating the official newspaper, and making appointments and committee assignments. No major policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Approval of December 19, 2023 council proceedings
• Approval of bills and disbursements (pages 18-46)
• Designate Times Newspaper as official newspaper
• Appoint Councilmember Steve Narverud as Acting Mayor for 2024
• Reaffirm decision not to waive municipal tort liability limit

The Thief River Falls City Council held its first meeting of 2024, unanimously approving a series of routine administrative resolutions. These included authorizing $4,593,630.92 in bills and disbursements, designating The Times as the official newspaper, appointing seven financial institutions as city depositories, and approving committee assignments for the year. The council also reaffirmed its decision not to waive the statutory limit on municipal tort liability.

• Approved $4,593,630.92 in bills and disbursements plus $455 council per diem (unanimous)
• Designated The Times as the official city newspaper (unanimous)
• Appointed 7 institutions as official depositories for city funds for 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Northern State Bank collateral agreement exceeding FDIC $250,000 limit (unanimous)
• Appointed Councilmember Steve Narverud as Acting Mayor for 2024 (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed decision not to waive municipal tort liability limits under MN Statute 466.04 (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 council committee assignments for standing and ad hoc committees (unanimous)
• Approved schedule of council meetings authorized to charge per diem (unanimous)