The most noteworthy development from the meeting was the presentation and subsequent discussion of a draft space agreement regarding the law enforcement center between the city and Cuching County. A county board member, representing the county administration, presented the draft, which outlines a lease agreement of $50,000 per year for 20 years. The city requested this arrangement, and the county agreed to maintain essential infrastructure such as heating, lighting, and air conditioning. The agreement also specifies that refurbishment costs, estimated at around $160,000, will be equally divided between the city and county, although final details are yet to be confirmed.

A unique aspect of the agreement is the freeze on lease costs for the first two years, after which any increases will be tied to the consumer price index. This change was introduced following discussions at the county board level. The city will have exclusive use of the first floor, including three garage bays for emergency equipment, and potential negotiations for a fourth bay. Shared basement space will be available to the city at no additional cost, with designated parking spaces along the facility’s south side.

The county representative mentioned a longer-term vision, including a potential new engineering and maintenance garage to free up more space within the law enforcement center. Discussions also covered signage for the International Falls Police Department, funded by the city, and a lease clause granting the city the first right of refusal if the building is sold while the lease is active.

Councilor Holden expressed gratitude for the efforts to draft the agreement and emphasized the importance of reviewing the agreement with city legal counsel. A motion was made to continue discussions at the next committee of the whole meeting, which received unanimous approval.

In other significant proceedings, Scott Worley was sworn in as the new chief of police. The county attorney officiated the ceremony, during which Worley expressed gratitude to the mayor and council for the opportunity. He acknowledged his family’s support, especially thanking his parents for instilling strong work ethic and moral values. Worley voiced eagerness to serve the community and collaborate with the police department to ensure public safety.

The council also tackled new business items, including resolutions for 2026 wages and benefits for non-union salaried employees. A 3% salary increase was proposed, discussed, and ultimately passed with a 4-to-1 vote. This decision aligned with state pay equity requirements. In a similar vein, a resolution on pay equity implementation, mandated by state law every three years, was approved unanimously.

Additionally, the council addressed a resolution to accept an operating deficit grant from the Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services. This grant is part of legislative efforts to support rural ambulance services, recognizing the unique funding challenges faced in rural areas compared to urban settings. The chief of the ambulance service explained the grant’s purpose, and a motion to accept it was unanimously approved after support from a representative present at the meeting.

Routine but necessary business included appointments to various internal and external committees, which were approved en masse following a motion. The council also approved reappointments to the International Falls Public Library Board of Trustees.

The meeting concluded with the approval of a temporary on-sale liquor license for an event at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, and a proclamation declaring January 25th through January 31st, 2026, as Catholic Schools Week. The council set payroll dates for 2026, agreed on a resolution for city administrator positions, and amended a resolution regarding the designation of depositors.