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The International Falls City Council met for its regular meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. All five members were present: Mayor Dill and Councilors Buller, Holden, Kalar, and Wegner.
Ann Dailey of 1025 2nd Street addressed the council, asking whether the City screens potential employees for domestic violence or child abuse history, and whether a policy exists to address convictions of that nature for current employees.
Police Chief Wherley responded that such convictions are a disqualifying factor in the Police Department’s hiring process, with moral and ethical conduct reviewed extensively through a thorough background check. Wherley noted the City’s employee handbook addresses workplace violence and sexual harassment.
The council approved a special assessment for bituminous paving of 6th Avenue West between 17th Street and 19th Street. The motion carried 4-0-1 — Mayor Dill and Councilors Buller, Holden, and Wegner voted in favor; Councilor Kalar abstained.
The council unanimously approved the use of Kerry Park Arena and support from Public Works staff for the Community Bike Rodeo, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Chief Wherley noted last year’s event was well attended and promotes positive engagement between kids and law enforcement and EMS, as well as bicycle safety education. The Sports Shop will also be on hand to inspect bicycles and review rules of the road. Councilor Wegner asked about e-bike instruction; Chief Wherley said he would follow up with Kootasca on that. Motion was moved by Councilor Kalar and seconded by Councilor Holden.
The council unanimously approved a Managed Information Technology Services Agreement between the City and 3S Design LLC. Motion by Councilor Wegner, seconded by Councilor Kalar.
The council unanimously approved hiring Kayla Towner as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Mayor Dill used the opportunity to note that EMTs and paramedics are in short supply statewide, and encouraged interested residents to contact Fire Chief Mannausau.
The council accepted the resignation of Robert Heinlen, Maintenance Worker I, effective April 3, 2026. Mayor Dill thanked Mr. Heinlen for his service with the Street Department. Motion by Councilor Kalar, seconded by Councilor Wegner.
The 2026 restaurant license for Ronning’s Inc. was approved unanimously. Motion by Councilor Buller, seconded by Councilor Wegner.
The council acted on five Public Works items:
The council approved minutes from the March 2, 2026 regular City Council meeting and the March 9, 2026 Committee-of-the-Whole meeting. (Motion: Holden/Kalar, unanimous)
Among the larger payments approved in Resolution No. 20-2026:
Payroll-related blanket payments included $35,621.29 to PERA (Public Employees Retirement), $42,540.69 in federal withholding, and $8,307.68 in state withholding.
International Falls, Minnesota, is often recognized for its exceptionally cold winters, earning it the nickname "The Icebox of the Nation."
International Falls serves as the county seat of Koochiching County. Often called the “Icebox of the Nation” for its frigid winters, the city’s local government plays a crucial role in ensuring that residents and businesses thrive despite the unique challenges posed by its geographic location. From public safety and infrastructure to community development and tourism, the city government works to maintain a high quality of life for its citizens while promoting economic growth.
The local government of International Falls provides a wide range of essential services to its... Read more
