David Hovel

The Utility Advisory Board meeting agenda included several key items for discussion and potential action. New business featured a resolution to support the City of River Falls' 2026 Fiscal Year BUILD Grant Application for a future downtown reconstruction project, which includes significant utility improvements such as replacing aging water, sewer, and undergrounding electric utilities. Another resolution concerned recommending approval for the 2026-2028 Tree Service Contract, with Zielies Tree Service, Inc. being the lowest responsible proposer for electric line-clearance tree trimming. Reports scheduled for presentation included the Finance Report, Utility Dashboards, Monthly Utility Report, and the Utility Director's Report, which notably included an update on the WWTP Biosolids Dryer Project.

The Plan Commission meeting agenda included the approval of minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting. Key items involved consideration of a Specific Implementation Plan and Final Plat for Wildflower Meadows subdivision, a request to rezone property at 659 St. Croix Street from I-1 Industrial to B-3 Highway Commercial District for expansion of Jerry's Automotive, and proposed ordinance amendments to Title 10 regarding bicycles, electric bicycles/scooters, and ATVs/UTVs. A Planning Update was also scheduled.

The meeting included discussions and presentations regarding downtown snow removal processes, including alternate side parking and sidewalk snow removal expectations. A public hearing was held concerning Resolution Approving the Temporary Relocation of District 1, Wards 1-5 Polling Place for all 2026 Elections, which was subsequently approved. The Consent Agenda covered several resolutions, including approvals for Election Inspectors, Weights and Measures Assessments, a Lease Agreement with Bearcat Investments, LLC, Tree Services with Willow River, and development/purchase agreements with Sterling Ponds II, LLC. A resolution approving the partial forgiveness of a 2021 loan to Our Neighbor's Place was also approved, highlighted as supporting regional housing stability. Financial reports indicated revenues were 102% of the budget year-to-date. The session concluded with the approval of mayoral appointments to the MBOC and MBAC.

The podcast features Josh Solinger, Finance Director for the City of River Falls, discussing the city's financial health, budgeting process, and long-range fiscal planning. Key topics include understanding tax impacts from property reassessments, the role of Tax Increment Districts (TIDs) in economic development, and the funding mechanisms for major projects like the fire station renovation. The long-range fiscal plan acts as a roadmap for responsible tax levy, debt management, and strategic cash financing, demonstrating the city's commitment to continuous financial improvement and providing essential tools and support for community services and asset maintenance for future generations.

The meeting agenda for the Common Council included several key items. Consent agenda items involved the resolution approving uncollectible EMS accounts for Fiscal Year 2025 and the resolution approving the Planned Unit Development Specific Implementation Plan for Valley View Apartments. Ordinances and Resolutions focused on approving exemptions for special events requested by River Falls Business Leaders, specifically for open container, noise control, street closure, and general city assistance requests related to events like the St. Patrick's Day Potato Soup Crawl, Celebrate River Falls, and Ladies Night Out. Reports included updates from the Comptroller, Administrator, and Mayor.