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The International Falls City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building. All five members were present: Mayor Drake Dill and Councilors Buller, Holden, Kalar, and Wegner.
The council unanimously approved the agenda as presented and the minutes from both the February 17, 2026 special and regular City Council meetings.
The meeting’s most substantial business involved the Water Treatment Plant rehabilitation project — both its construction progress and the city’s effort to secure state funding.
City lobbyist Rob Ecklund of Capitol Hill Associates reported that February’s state budget forecast looks favorable, with a surplus that could benefit capital projects. Ecklund plans to meet with Senator Hauschild and other senators on the bonding bill. Representative Skraba indicated no Legacy funding will be available, though grants remain an option.
The city has applied for $4.6–$4.8 million toward the Water Treatment Plant rehabilitation, though Ecklund noted cuts to Capital Investment monies will be required. He recommended the council send a formal letter to Senator Hauschild and Representative Skraba to maintain their attention and support. Ecklund also encouraged the mayor and council to visit the State Capitol after Easter to meet with state officials in person. Mayor Dill directed City Administrator Betty Bergstrom to draft the letter on behalf of the city.
Luke Heikkila of Bolton & Menk Inc. followed with a construction progress report, noting strong momentum with multiple subcontractors and Rice Lake Construction on site. Key milestones:
The council’s approved claims included $214,986.14 to Rice Lake Contracting Corp for Water Treatment Plant construction and $16,115.50 to Bolton & Menk Inc. for engineering services.
The council approved the second and final reading of the contract ordinance setting water and sewer rates. Motion by Councilor Kalar, seconded by Councilor Holden, carried unanimously.
The council unanimously accepted two letters of resignation:
The council approved a quote from Forestland Sales & Service and authorized purchasing a Hustler Super Z lawnmower for $14,514.26, a budgeted item. Motion by Councilor Buller, seconded by Councilor Wegner, carried unanimously.
The council approved a letter of support for the Voyageur Country ATV Federal Recreational Trails Program (FRTP) Equipment Grant. Motion by Councilor Holden, seconded by Councilor Wegner, carried unanimously.
Under Resolution No. 17-2026, the council approved all accounts payable. Notable claims:
Mayor Dill offered congratulations on behalf of himself and the full council to the Bronco PeeWee A Hockey Team for advancing to the State Tournament in Faribault, MN. The mayor called it a remarkable achievement that hasn’t happened in 36 years.
Mayor Dill also thanked Police Chief Wherley for his work on the 2025 International Falls Police Department Annual Report, which was made available for council review alongside City Administrator Bergstrom’s bi-weekly report.
Two events are scheduled for Monday, March 16, 2026 at the Municipal Building:
The March 2 meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
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
