The council tackled the issue of IT support first, prompted by the recent resignation of a key IT personnel, Todd. The absence of dedicated IT professionals was highlighted as a significant risk, prompting an agreement to secure temporary IT services for three weeks. A representative from the Minnesota Security Consortium emphasized the urgency, noting the city had no IT professionals assigned or contracted, which was a serious concern given the reliance of various departments, including the police, on IT infrastructure. The temporary contract includes on-site support and after-hours service, crucial for maintaining city operations and security. The council unanimously approved the contract, allowing the managed services provider to start work within 15 business days. This interim solution enables the city to manage immediate needs while assessing long-term IT strategies. Concerns were raised about the potential influence of this contract on upcoming requests for proposals (RFP) for permanent IT services, but assurances were given that all candidates would be treated equally in the bidding process.

In another critical discussion, the council showed strong support for local tourism efforts as highlighted by a presentation from Katrina Hibel, executive director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). Hibel detailed the substantial impact of tourism on the local economy, with a 57% increase in lodging tax revenue over the past five years, and the role of Voyagers National Park in attracting nearly 200,000 visitors in 2024. The CVB’s marketing strategies, including a significant rise in website traffic and social media engagement, were discussed as key factors in promoting International Falls. Hibel’s presentation underscored the financial benefits tourism brings to the community, emphasizing that tourism helps save Minnesota households around $1,000 annually in taxes.

The council also addressed infrastructure improvements with a resolution supporting the Voyager Country ATV trail plan. This plan aims to connect trail segments in the Arrowhead region, potentially generating a net economic impact of over $30 million. The resolution of support was approved unanimously.

On a related note, the council unanimously approved a letter of support for the International Falls Recreational Hockey Association’s application for a Rotary grant. The grant would fund necessary repairs at Kerry Park Arena, including sandblasting, painting, and roof insulation. The council expressed appreciation for the collaboration with the hockey association and confirmed no city funds were required for the grant match.

In personnel matters, the council approved the reappointment of Cindy Yuso to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board of Commissioners for a five-year term, and the appointments of Todd Ogula and Glenn Davis to the charter commission, extending their terms through December 2028. Both decisions were supported unanimously after brief discussions.

The council also reviewed and approved a resolution to increase the benefit level for firefighters vested in the statewide volunteer firefighter plan. Fire Chief Manassa explained that the increase from $5,500 to $6,000 per year of service aligns with the city’s policy and does not require additional city contributions. Incremental increases were cited as essential for recruitment and retention.

Lastly, the council discussed the sustainability of the International Falls Ambulance Service. Optimism was noted regarding the future of the service, with potential funding methods, including a per-parcel fee, being considered as alternatives to a general property tax levy.

The meeting concluded with Administrator Bergstrom discussing data security during the IT transition period, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding city information. The council also approved a proposal for soil borings to determine the foundation type for a new band shell, following the demolition of the previous structure.