Thief River Falls Fire Department

This strategic plan for the City of Thief River Falls aims to provide a quality life for all citizens, fostering a regionally recognized welcoming community with a robust economy and opportunities for working, learning, and recreation. It focuses on building an ever-improving community through solid planning for future growth and continuous delivery of excellent services. Key strategic issues addressed include Communication & Decision Making, Employee Work Culture, Financial Stability & Growth, Planned Infrastructure Investment, Recreational Asset Stewardship, Transparent/Accountable Governance, Sustainable Growing Economy, and Citizen Focused Service.

The City Council convened to discuss various resolutions and actions. Key items included a public hearing regarding the vacation of an alley, budget presentations, and the approval of payments for bills and council per diems. The council also approved the appointment of volunteer firefighters, progression raises for city employees, changes to a job description, and the purchase of gas masks for the police department using CARES Act funds. Additionally, they discussed street and utilities improvements, declared a vehicle as surplus property, approved a computer upgrade, considered the removal of a bird watching shelter, and approved the employment of a patrol officer. An ordinance related to zoning codes was presented for its first reading, and the council discussed surplus property and the purchase of a service truck. The council also evaluated the performance of the Public Works Director, approved the Visit Thief River Falls 2021 budget, and discussed filling a part-time position in the Liquor Department. Finally, they held a hearing and adopted the 2020 Street and Utilities Improvements Project assessment roll.

The council meeting included discussions and actions related to city management and COVID-19 response. A Bike Month Proclamation was made, and updates were provided on collaborative efforts to support local businesses. The council approved a stump grinding contract with B&K Stump Grinding after releasing TRF Tree Solutions from their contract due to equipment issues. A State of Emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic was extended through May 13, 2020. The council also urged the Governor to allow businesses in Thief River Falls to reopen, and additional funds were allocated to the Emergency Micro Loan Fund Program to support businesses affected by the pandemic. Upcoming meetings and events were announced, and informational items such as the NW MN mask task force, budget reviews, and the 2020 Census were discussed.

The City Council met in a special session to discuss and approve two resolutions related to bond issuances. Resolution No. 8-162-20 authorized the issuance and sale of $5,940,000 General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds, Series 2020A, for financing improvements to the city's water, storm sewer, and sewer utilities. The council also approved the terms, security, and issuance of the bonds. Resolution No. 8-163-20 authorized the issuance and sale of $3,405,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2020B, to finance highway reconstruction, water utility improvements, capital equipment, and refunding of previously issued bonds. The council approved the terms, security, and issuance of these bonds as well.