On the agenda: River Falls meeting — Flock camera (Sep 22)

COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA
September 22, 2026
The public may view/listen to the meeting by:
Viewing the City's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/cityofriverfalls
Call Meeting to Order – 6:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of Minutes – September 8, 2026 Council Meeting, September 8, 2026 Fiscal Plan and CIP Workshop
Approval of Bills:
PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Public Comment If you are unable to attend the meeting in person but would like to submit a comment,
please e-mail to the City Clerk’s office ([email protected])
PUBLIC HEARING
2. First Reading: Ordinance 2026-04 Amending Title 17 Zoning, Chapter 17.08 (Driveway Regulations)
CONSENT AGENDA
3. Boards Commission Committees Minutes
a. BID Board
b. Park and Recreation Advisory Board
c. Plan Commission
d. Library Board
4. Preliminary Resolution Declaring Intent to Exercise Special Assessment Police Powers Under Section
66.0703 Wisconsin Statutes for the Benefit of the River Falls Business Improvement District
5. Resolution Approving Submittal of WIDNR Forestry Grant
ORDINANCE AND RESOLUTIONS
6. Resolution Approving the 2027-2031 Fiscal Plan
7. Resolution Approving the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
8. Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of $6,435,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A
REPORTS
9. Administrator Report
10. Mayor’s Good News
ADJOURNMENT
NOTE: Any person who has a qualifying disability accommodation the Americans with Disabilities Act that
requires the meeting or materials to be in an accessible location or format, may contact City Clerk Amy White at
(715) 426-3408 or in person at 222 Lewis Street, for accommodations. Requests for accommodation should be
made at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting. Every effort will be made to arrange
accommodation.
Posted at City Hall on 9/13/26; Publish: The Pierce County Journal: 09/16/26 Website: 09/16/26

CITY OF RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
September 8, 2026
Mayor Page called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
City Council Members Present: Mei Mei Abdouch, Todd Bjerstedt, Sean Downing, Diane Odeen,
Michael Page, Rose Walker
City Council Members Absent: Nick Carow
Staff Present: City Administrator Scot Simpson; Community Services Director/City Clerk Amy White;
City Attorney Chris Gierhart; Deputy Police Chief Matt Kennett; Utility Director Kevin Westhuis;
Assistant Director of Community Development Emily Shivley; Senior Planner Harley Muhlhorn; Chief of
Staff Jennifer Smith; Public Works Manager Erica Ellefson; City Engineer Todd Nickleski; IT Technician
Jonathan Thoen
The pledge of allegiance was said.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
August 25, 2026 meeting minutes
MSC Downing/Odeen to approve the minutes. Unanimous.
APPROVAL OF BILLS:
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt moved to approve the bills. Unanimous.
Mayor Page changed the order of the agenda to move the proclamation recognition to the beginning
of the meeting.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mayor Page read the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Proclamation
Mayor Page read the Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation
Councilmember Adbouch read the Chamber of Commerce Month Proclamation
PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
William Hansen – Hansen questioned the use of electric utility ratepayer funds, along with federal, state,
and local tax dollars, to finance the proposed removal of the Junction Falls hydroelectric facility, noting
that earlier plans anticipated the costs would be largely offset by private donations.
Alicia Cosgrove – Cosgrove expressed concern that recent planning and ordinance proposals have not
included sufficient information to fully evaluate their potential impacts. She encouraged the Council and
Plan Commission to ask questions about issues such as stormwater, parking, and future costs rather
than deferring concerns until they become problems.
Dana Linscott – Linscott warned that worsening economic conditions could increase homelessness in
River Falls and urged the City to plan proactively for additional community needs. He also raised
concerns about Flock cameras and called for the system to be shut down until stronger regulation and
oversight are in place.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Mayor Page opened the public hearing at 6:51 p.m. Second Reading and Disposition: Ordinance
2026-15 An Ordinance Amending Title 17 Zoning, Chapter 17.08.

City Council Minutes for September 9, 2026
Page 2
Alicia Cosgrove provided historical context on the fence ordinance, explaining that the original
landscaping/buffer requirement was intended to allow flexibility in fence design while reducing
maintenance concerns.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 6:52 p.m.
MSC Downing/Page to approve the ordinance. Unanimous.
Mayor Page opened the public hearing at 6:53 p.m. Second Reading and Disposition: Ordinance
2026-16 An Ordinance Amending Title 12 Streets, Sidewalks, Other Public Places and Property Use
Impacts, Chapter 12.04 Creating new section 12.04.050.
Administrator Simpson noted that the proposal would formally establish maintenance expectations for
boulevard areas.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 6:54 p.m.
Councilmember Abdouch asked whether adjacent property owners would be responsible for
maintaining or removing boulevard trees. Administrator Simpson clarified that the City would continue
to handle tree maintenance while residents would be responsible for lawn and vegetation maintenance.
He also noted that residents may use alternative landscaping within existing ordinance requirements.
MSC Odeen/Abdouch to approve the ordinance. Unanimous.
Mayor Page opened the public hearing at 6:58 p.m. Second Reading and Disposition: Ordinance
2026-17 An Ordinance Amending the Official Traffic Control Map. Administrator Simpson outlined the
changes to the official map as provided in the staff memo.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Councilmember Downing asked staff to explain the process for identifying traffic concerns, conducting
studies, developing recommendations, and bringing official map changes to the Council. Administrator
Simpson said River Falls does not have a formal traffic committee; requests come from staff, Police,
Council, residents, or planning and construction activities and are reviewed by the City Engineer using
established traffic standards, professional judgment, and studies as needed. Requests are prioritized
and addressed based on urgency, while the Police Chief may make certain temporary traffic or parking
changes under state law. He further added that speed-cart placement is an operational decision of the
Police Chief and does not require Council approval or an official map change. Requests for speed carts
may come from the Mayor, Council, staff, or Police Chief, with the Police Chief determining their
placement and rotation.
Councilmember Abdouch asked for clarification regarding the traffic configuration of Balmoral Place
and whether the street is currently two-way between the daycare exit and Newcastle Drive. City
Engineer Nickleski clarified that Balmoral Place was never designated as a one-way street; rather,
existing restrictions prohibit vehicles from entering Balmoral from Casey Street/Sutherland Drive. The
proposed stop sign would apply to traffic exiting the daycare and would not change the existing
restriction at Casey Street/Sutherland Drive.
MSC Abdouch/Downing to approve the Ordinance. Unanimous.
REPORTS:
Administrator’s Report
No questions or comments

City Council Minutes for September 9, 2026
Page 3
Comptroller Report
General Fund revenues through the end of August were $10,353,167 or 72% of total budgeted revenues
for the year. Revenues in August included $3,336,582 in property tax revenue, $33,366 in building
permit revenue, and $15,000 in right-of-way excavation permit revenue. Expenditures through the end
of August were $9,501,403, or 66% of total budgeted expenditures for the year. As of August 31, 2026,
net revenues over expenditures were $851,764.
Mayor’s Good News
Mayor Page highlighted upcoming community events, including Art on the Kinni and the final 2026
Cookout and Conversation. She talked about the River Falls School District’s recognized character
development program that reinforces positive character traits, beginning with curiosity.
MSC Bjerstedt/Walker to adjourn at 7:17 p.m. Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy White, Community Services Director/City Clerk

FISCAL PLAN/CIP WORKSHOP
September 08, 2026
City Hall – Council Chambers
Councilmembers Present: Mayor Alison Page, Rose Walker, Sean Downing, Diane Odeen, Mei Mei Abdouch,
Michael Page, Todd Bjerstedt
City Staff Present: City Administrator Scot Simpson, Finance Director Josh Solinger, Community Services
Director/City Clerk Amy White, Chief of Staff Jennifer Smith, Assistant to the City Administrator Jason Rohloff,
Office Support Specialist Brenda Randleman, Deputy Chief Matt Kennett, City Engineer Todd Nickleski, Utilities
Director Kevin Westhuis, Public Works Manager Erica Ellefson, Finance Manager Kristine Basom, IT Specialist
Jonathan Thoen, Assistant Director to Community Development Emily Shively
Mayor Alison Page opened the workshop at 5:04 p.m.
Finance Director Solinger and Council reviewed the draft 2027–2031 Fiscal Plan and Capital Improvement Plan
(CIP), Finance Director Solinger. explained that the Fiscal Plan and CIP are coordinated planning tools intended
to provide a five-year outlook and assist the Council with evaluating financial assumptions, priorities, and
tradeoffs. The plans do not constitute adopted budgets, authorize future spending, or replace subsequent
Council action on tax levies, purchases, construction contracts, or borrowing.
Finance Director Solinger also talked about the Fiscal Plan assumes approximately 3% annual net levy growth,
remaining below the City’s 4% policy limit. Finance Director Solinger explained that growth in the City’s tax base
helps fund increasing service and capital costs without placing the entire levy increase on existing properties.
The levy generally maintains an approximate 80/20 allocation between operations and capital, including funding
for the General Fund, Library, debt service, and capital projects. Major financial pressures include wage
increases, employee benefits, health insurance premiums, and uncertainty surrounding state funding. Wages
are projected to increase from approximately $6.64 million in 2027 to $7.79 million in 2031, while benefit costs
are projected to increase from approximately $2.34 million to $2.93 million. The plan assumes 6% annual growth
in health insurance premiums and the addition of only one employee during the five-year period.
City Administrator Simpson and Finance Director Solinger discussed the City’s reliance on state and other
outside revenues. Supplemental shared revenue began at approximately $533,000 in 2024, with future
adjustments tied to state sales and use tax collections. State transportation aids declined from approximately
$652,000 in 2021 to $633,000 in 2025. To remain conservative, the Fiscal Plan holds total state transportation
aids at $650,000 annually rather than assuming future increases. Finance Director Solinger noted that when
outside revenues do not keep pace with service costs, a larger portion of those costs must be supported by
locally generated revenue.
Council discussed the use of fund balance for eligible one-time expenses. The City’s policy establishes a fund
balance range of 40% to 50% of the following year’s budget, and projected balances remain within that range
throughout the planning period. The plan includes the use of $340,000 in fund balance for self-contained
breathing apparatus equipment. Finance Director Solinger explained that strategically using reserves for onetime needs may reduce borrowing costs and preserve future levy capacity. Recurring City services continue to
be supported by recurring revenues, and the plan does not rely on repeated reserve withdrawals to balance
ongoing operations.

Council Workshop Minutes
September 8, 2026
Page 2
Debt service is projected to remain between approximately 13% and 15% of the total levy during the planning
period. Finance Director Solinger described this level as manageable within the modeled levy while
acknowledging that the City’s future financial flexibility is limited. Small recurring changes can produce significant
long-term effects. By 2031, a 1% change in the levy would equal approximately $104,000, while a 1% change in
wages would equal approximately $78,000. Administrator Simpson advised that new staffing, expanded
services, and other ongoing commitments should be accompanied by sustainable revenues, expenditure
reductions, or revised priorities. The importance of maintaining a strong bond rating to minimize borrowing costs
was also discussed.
Finance Director Solinger reviewed funding for road maintenance. The Fiscal Plan proposes increasing the
annual vehicle registration fee from $10 to $20 beginning in 2028. The increase is projected to generate
approximately $115,000 in additional annual revenue, bringing total registration fee revenue to approximately
$230,000 per year. Finance Director Solinger explained that this funding would help reduce reliance on the
property-tax levy for road maintenance as maintenance and transportation debt-service costs increase. Total
road-related costs are projected to rise from approximately $1.63 million in 2027 to $2.01 million in 2031.
The five-year CIP totals approximately $122.2 million, with annual spending projected to peak at approximately
$31.6 million in 2029 and $38.6 million in 2030. The peak is primarily attributable to downtown reconstruction,
dam removal and river restoration, implementation of the Kinnickinnic River Corridor Plan, and the Connect River
Falls trail projects. The downtown reconstruction project has an estimated five-year cost of $34.86 million and
includes extensive replacement and improvement of public infrastructure. Other major projects include the
Highview water tower, a new municipal well, Glen Park improvements, Huppert Street reconstruction, the Lametti
interceptor, and the State Highway 29 east extension. The ten largest projects represent approximately 70% of
the total CIP.
Finance Director Solinger reviewed CIP’s funding sources, noting that approximately 55% of the plan is expected
to come from grants and donations. Additional funding sources include non-levy-supported debt, utility cash, tax
increment financing districts, developer contributions, impact fees, levy-supported debt, internal service and
facility funds, existing reserves, tax-levy cash financing, and local or shared resources. Based on a property
value of $350,000, the estimated combined annual property-tax impact of debt service and cash financing ranges
from approximately $234 to $279 during the planning period, or approximately $20 to $23 per month.
Administrator Simpson and Finance Director Solinger emphasized that the CIP remains flexible because project
costs, grant awards, construction conditions, interest rates, organizational capacity, and Council priorities may
change. The Council may adjust the timing, scope, phasing, service standards, or funding method for individual
projects. Councilmembers were asked to evaluate whether the proposed capital priorities are appropriately
sequenced, whether the funding mix is suitable, and whether the anticipated effects on property taxes, debt, fund
balance, and utility rates are sustainable.
Administrator Simpson summarized that the City spent less than expected but is spending more on operating
and on debt in the general fund. He said the city had unanticipated additional revenue from new growth. He
stated the City has more than 50% fund balance projected at the end of this year, which can be used for projects
or unanticipated expenses.
Councilmember Sean Downing proposed identifying the Kinnickinnic Riverway as the City’s fourth regional park
and establishing it as a long-term planning priority without committing the City to specific projects or funding. He
highlighted opportunities for interconnected multimodal trails, improved public spaces along the downtown
riverfront, and a future community gathering and educational facility. He noted that improvements could
potentially be funded through park impact fees, grants, and other sources rather than property taxes.

Council Workshop Minutes
September 8, 2026
Page 3
Councilmember Bjerstedt asked about what would a rebuild of the downtown all include
Administrator Simpson discussed restructuring priorities related to water, sewer, stormwater, trees, curbs, and
gutters. It does not include grants or additional marketing. Essentially, we look at how many lane miles we have
and how many feet of each type of infrastructure we maintain. That is how we develop the budget and how we
arrive at our submitted figures. Regarding the regional park discussion, staff’s priority has been to complete the
main project. The more attention we direct elsewhere, even toward worthwhile projects, the more we risk losing
focus. A fourth regional park was considered a lower priority, which is why we removed the funding We needed
to remain focused on these other priorities. Ultimately, however, the council may choose to change that.
Council members Diane Odeen and Rose Walker and Mayor Page also emphasized the importance of remaining
focused on the park projects the council has already planned and prioritized. The priority should be to complete
the projects already underway before considering additional initiatives.
Mayor Page closed the workshop at 6:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Brenda Randleman, Office Support Specialist

2
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Harley Mehlhorn, Senior Planner

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

ORDINANCE 2026-04 AMENDING TITLE 17 ZONING, CHAPTER 17.08,
SECTION 17.08.020 – DRIVEWAY REGULATIONS (DRIVEWAY WIDTH)

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Hold a public hearing for the first reading of ordinance 2026-04 amending Title 17 Zoning
regarding driveway width.
BACKGROUND
The City’s current driveway regulations establish maximum driveway widths based on zoning
district. The current standard allows a maximum width of 25 feet at the property line for singlefamily residential properties.
As new residential development has increasingly incorporated three-car garages, staff has found
that the existing 25-foot standard can be difficult to accommodate while also providing an
appropriate driveway transition to larger garages. The proposed amendment would increase the
maximum driveway width at the property line for single-family residential uses from 25 feet to 30
feet.
Staff also proposes reorganizing the standards around land use rather than zoning district. This
approach more directly ties the driveway standard to the type of development being served and
provides a more consistent standard across zoning districts and uses.
The Plan Commission considered the proposed amendments at their September 1, 2026 meeting
and forwarded it with a unanimous favorable recommendation.
DISCUSSION
Staff surveyed 125 existing homes through a random sampling of five neighborhoods across the
City that were developed within the last 20 years to evaluate existing driveway widths. On
average, 55.4% of the driveways surveyed exceeded the current 25-foot allowance. Across the
five neighborhoods, the average driveway width was approximately 27 feet.
The proposed 30-foot maximum would more closely reflect existing development patterns while
providing sufficient width to accommodate three-car garages and the necessary driveway taper.
Based on the survey, the increase would bring the majority of existing driveways into compliance,
with only a small portion remaining above the proposed standard.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 2
The proposed change is intended to better reflect existing residential development and provide a
reasonable standard for new construction without broadly increasing driveway widths beyond
what is necessary.
The City Engineer has evaluated the proposed increase in driveway width and found no adverse
stormwater impacts associated with the change. The existing code provisions already account for
additional impervious surfaces above the prescribed threshold, and the proposed increase in
driveway width does not alter those requirements.
CONCLUSION
The proposed amendment updates the driveway width standards to better reflect existing
development patterns and current residential construction practices. Increasing the maximum
width for single-family residential uses from 25 feet to 30 feet would provide additional flexibility
for properties with three-car garages while maintaining a reasonable limitation on driveway width.
The proposed change also has no anticipated adverse stormwater impacts.

2

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-06
ORDINANCE AMENDING
TITLE 17 ZONING, CHAPTER 17.08, SECTION 17.08.020 – DRIVEWAY REGULATIONS
(DRIVEWAY WIDTHS)
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. That Chapter 17.08 – General Requirements, Section 17.08.020 – Driveway
Regulations of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be amended as follows:
A. Driveway Width. Driveway transitions exceeding those shown may be approved by the city
engineer for drives entering arterial streets if necessary to accommodate anticipated truck turning
movements.
Max. Driveway Transition
Max. Width at Prop. Line
Zoning District
Taper
Radius
Single Drive
Combined Drive
RS, R-1, C
5’
5’
25’
40’
R-3, B-2, A,
10’
10’
35’
50’
MHP, R-2
B-3, I-1, I-2, U,
20’
20’
35’
50’
B-1
Land Use
Single- and
Two-Family
Multi-Family*,
Mobile-Home
Park** and
Commercial
Industrial

Max. Driveway Transition
Taper
Radius
5’
5’

Max. Width at Prop. Line
Single Drive
Combined Drive
30’
40’

10’

10’

35’

50’

20’

20’

35’

50’

*Three or more units
**Park entrance drive; individual units shall be considered single family

Section 2. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as
provided by law.
FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS

Alison Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

Adopted:

_____________________________

Published: ____________

Amy White, City Clerk

____________

City of River Falls Business Improvement District
MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
JULY 21, 2026 AT 8:00 A.M.
FOSTER CONFERENCE ROOM – CITY HALL
222 LEWIS STREET RIVER FALLS, WI 54022
Members present: Joleen Larson, Vince Seidling, Amy Halvorson, Amy Freeman, Andrew
Singerhouse, Mike Miller, Kerri Olson, Terry McKay
Members Absent: Rosa Magnus
Others present: Emily Shively, City of River Falls; William Hanson
CALL TO ORDER: Larson called the meeting to order at 8:06 a.m.
AGENDA/MEETING MINUTES
The meeting minutes for the June 9, 2026 meeting were approved. M/S Seidling/Freeman.
Unanimous.
FINANCIALS
Olson presented the financials and noted that the website invoice was submitted. Larson ordered
additional wicks and plugs for the flower baskets and some replacement pots for some that were stolen.
SIGN AND FAÇADE GRANTS
Application: 125 North Main Street (Jim Leske) – façade grant request
It was noted that the application requests $6,000 for the north façade improvements and $6,000 for the
east façade improvements (brick tuckpointing with a total cost of approximately $50,000). Larson noted
that typically, only $6,000 would be granted as this is one project. However, the Board has provided
larger grant awards for larger projects such as the south wall of the Glass Express building. Olson
mentioned that if one wall was done this year, and one next year, the Board would likely approve both
requests. The Board discussed increasing grant awards for larger projects while maintaining a limit of
35% of total project costs. As the Board has sufficient funds, it was decided to increase awards for
larger projects while the funds are available and gather information from building and business owners
about what their needs are and how grant funds can be effective in supporting investment downtown.
M/S Halvorson/Miller for a $12,000 total grant award. Unanimous.
Application: 114 East Elm Street (Amy Freeman) – façade grant request
The Board reviewed photos of the window that needs replacing at 114 E. Elm Street and Freeman
answered questions. The request is for a grant of $1,710.45 (35% of the total project cost of $4,887).
M/S Miller/Halvorson for a $1,710.45 grant award. Unanimous (Freeman abstained).
Discussion: 117 South Main Street (Heather Williams) – sign and awning grant request
An application has not yet been submitted, but is anticipated for a sign/awning grant for Fox Den. Larson
also mentioned that she would stop by Buttons and Bows (a new business opening on W. Walnut Street)
and let them know about BID grants.

BID Board Chair:
BID Staff:

Joleen Larson
Emily Shively

715-426-7776
715-426-3437

[email protected]
[email protected]

OTHER BUSINESS
2027 Budget discussion
Larson reminded the Board that a preliminary 2027 budget would need to be adopted at the August
meeting. Options to consider include an increase for Public Works staff support for downtown and
sponsorships for events. Larson provided some history of past BID Board operations including running
events with volunteers when there was a paid staff member; placing lights on the buildings; fireworks
over Lake George. The events were turned over to the Chamber when the paid staff member left; the
lights started to fail on the buildings after a hailstorm; and there were fire concerns about the fireworks
(dry conditions; housing on W. Cascade; etc.) so all of those things shifted over time.
The Board could consider increased support for the River Falls Business Leaders and the Chamber for
events since that is a core programming element for a downtown area. It would be helpful to gather
information about the success of the various events.
The Board could also consider an increase in the assessment if there are projects/programs that would
warrant an increase and benefit the downtown. The assessment has not been increased during the
history of the BID.
WEDC Connect Communities resources
Shively described resources available to the BID as part of the Connect Communities program including
webinars, promotions calls, and handbooks on various topics such as event evaluation. Shively said
she will continue to share these resources with the Board and they can feel free to share them with
others as well.
Main Street Updates
McKay said that the former Anytime Fitness space in the Radisson hotel is still available. The hotel is
under new ownership, but is seems like the rent is still higher than many prospective tenants are looking
for.
There was discussion about the property at 431 N. Second Street that was recently demolished due to
fire damage.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Larson adjourned the meeting at 8:43am

BID Board Chair:
BID Staff:

Joleen Larson
Emily Shively

715-426-7776
715-426-3437

[email protected]
[email protected]

City of River Falls Business Improvement District
MINUTES
AUGUST 11, 2026 AT 8:30 A.M.
FOSTER CONFERENCE ROOM – CITY HALL
222 LEWIS STREET RIVER FALLS, WI 54022
Members present: Joleen Larson, Vince Seidling, Amy Halvorson, Amy Freeman, Andrew
Singerhouse, Mike Miller, Kerri Olson, Terry McKay
Members Absent: Rosa Magnus
Others present: Harley Mehlhorn, City of River Falls; William Hanson
CALL TO ORDER: Larson called the meeting to order at 8:35 a.m.
AGENDA/MEETING MINUTES
The meeting minutes for the July 21, 2026 meeting were approved. M/S Seidling/McKay. Unanimous.
FINANCIALS
Olson spoke very briefly on the financial report.
OTHER BUSINESS
Preliminary 2027 BID Budget
Larson introduced the budget which was templated on the 2026 FY budget. Olson asked about the email
that was sent to the Board by Emily Shively, River Falls regarding the garden line item (hanging plants)
cost adjustment. The board deliberated and agreed on increasing the budget from existing to $4,000 to
cover cost of City. Seidling then asked about the printing line item. Larson replied that it is not a large
amount but that it has been used in the past. Halvorson raised the question of Main Street benches and
bike racks as a possible use of funds, especially bike infrastructure. Seidling spoke on behalf of, playing
devil advocate’s for, the minority business owner opinion, stating that the funds available in the budget
for grants are ~20% of the total, which seems a small portion of the total assessment. Olson agreed but
made the counterpoint that the grants are not maxed out in any given year. Larson said in the near
future, an increase in the amount per grant and total could be contemplated. The board deliberated and
shifted some line items slightly leaning the budget to allow more for grants.
Main Street Updates
McKay stated that she has anytime fitness space for lease, but that it has proven difficult to fill.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Larson adjourned the meeting at 9:15 am

BID Board Chair:
BID Staff:

Joleen Larson
Emily Shively

715-426-7776
715-426-3437

[email protected]
[email protected]

Community Development Department

222 Lewis Street
River Falls, WI 54022
715.425.0900
www.rfcity.org

PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD MINUTES
August 19, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting convened at 5:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Staff Present:

Matt Janquart (Chair), Sean Downing (Council Rep), Phil Galli,
Brenda Gaulke, Eli Guthrie, Melissa Pedrini, and Natasha
Schaefer.
None.
Brooks Ostendorf - Conservation and Parks Manager, Levi Myers Natural Resources Coordinator, Kyle Mackey - Recreation
Coordinator, and Brenda Rundle - Customer Service
Representative.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. MSC Schaefer/Downing approve the minutes of the July 15, 2026 Park and
Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) meeting. Unanimous.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
William Hansen of the Town of River Falls expressed concern about protecting the native
beaver population and removing non-native invasive brown trout when the City removes
the Junction Falls Dam which he says creates renewable energy, and that the removal will
be partially paid for by utility customers.
ACTION ITEMS
2. Natural Resources Coordinator Levi Myers discussed a proposed 2026 Forestry
Management Plan which would establish the City’s first comprehensive update to its
forestry management strategy in more than twenty-five years and provide a clear
roadmap for protecting, managing and expanding River Falls’ urban forest. The plan
will guide budgeting, annual work plans, grant applications, and long-term decisionmaking while ensuring the City’s urban forest continues to provide environmental,
economic, and social benefits for present and future generations. Downing asked
about ordinances or incentives for developers regarding tree removal and/or
preservation. Janquart asked about incentives for landowners. PRAB appreciates tree
interns, planting events, giveaways, low-cost programs, and rebates, and they
encourage public to assist with overall City canopy. The City appreciates it when
homeowners help with occasional deep watering their new boulevard trees especially
during hot, dry spells.
MSC Gaulke/Galli to forward the proposed Forestry Management Plan and resolution to
City Council for adoption. Unanimous.
DISCUSSION ITEMS

None.
STAFF REPORTS
3. The Conservation, Parks, and Public Works Staff Report was shared by Brooks.
Thank you to Eagle Scout Candidate Jackson Tody for adding a dog agility course at
the dog park.
CALENDAR
The next Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting will be Wednesday, Sept. 16,
2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
ADJOURNMENT
MSC Galli/Guthrie to adjourn the meeting at 6:13 p.m. Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Brenda Rundle, Customer Service Representative

Community Development Department
222 Lewis Street
River Falls, WI 54022
715.425.0900
www.rfcity.org
MINUTES
PLAN COMMISSION
AUGUST 4, 2026
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Staff Present:

Rob Gormanson, Arriety Lowell, Diane Odeen, Steven Severson, Michael
Woolsey, Alison Page
Chris Holtkamp
Emily Shively, Becky Corson, Jonathan Thoen

CALL TO ORDER
Meeting convened at 6:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
M/Odeen, S/Woolsey to approve minutes. Motion carried 6/0.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
William Hanson (N8723 1025th Street) – Spoke about the Junction Falls Dam and Hydro facility.
Hanson noted the recent relicensing of the hydro facility and the estimated continued renewable
electricity for another 40 years. Hanson also discussed the condition of the Dam and Hydro facility
and the benefits it provides to the City.
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
(None)
REPORTS
Comprehensive Plan Implementation Updates
Emily Shively, Assistant Director of Community Development, presented about implementation of
the City’s 2023 Comprehensive Plan. Shively indicated that the previous Comprehensive Plan
had been adopted in 2005 and that the purpose of the presentation was to review
accomplishments since adoption of the updated plan, implementation actions and next steps.
Shively covered that the Comprehensive Plan serves as the City’s guide for community, physical,
social, and economic development and establishes a long-term vision over a twenty-year period,
while functionally serving as a 10-year planning document. Shively mentioned that this plan
establishes the foundation for other City regulations and planning tools, including the official map,
subdivision regulations, and zoning regulations.
Shively mentioned that the 2023 planning process also included updates to the City’s Outdoor
Recreation Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Shively said the Comprehensive Plan has a

Page 1 of 5

10–20-year planning vision, while the Outdoor Recreation and Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans have
a shorter 5-year vision.
Shively highlighted the community engagement process used to develop the 2023 plans.
Engagement included a community kickoff, presentations to community organizations, pop-up
events, stakeholder discussions, interactive mapping, walking and biking tours, open houses,
surveys, and use of the Engage River Falls website. Shively mentioned that stakeholder
discussions focused on areas including housing, economic development, transportation, and
future growth. Shively said there were more than 5,000 interactions with community members
during the planning process. Shively summarized that community engagement identified River
Falls’ community, river, parks, downtown, businesses, and trails among the characteristics people
were proud of. Housing, downtown, maintaining community character, water, and affordability
were among concerns identified for the future.
Shively covered the six overarching goals of the Comprehensive Plan: connections, livability,
access, resources, partnerships, and resiliency. Shively explained how each goal is applied
across the various plan elements and how goals provide broad policy direction rather than
detailed operations direction.
Shively highlighted each of the six goals and their relationship to community input. Connection:
creating connections among residents, opportunities, places, and services considering quality of
life when making infrastructure, regulatory, service, and programming decisions. Livability:
supporting intentional growth management, diverse housing, local businesses, and a strong
connection to place. Access: providing safe, sustainable, and efficient transportation options for
multiple modes of travel. Resources: protecting natural and cultural resources and providing
opportunities for outdoor recreation and healthy lifestyles. Partnerships: maintaining mutually
beneficial relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and state and
regional agencies. Resiliency: maintaining resilient infrastructure, community facilities, and
utilities to protect health, safety, and welfare, and quality of life.
Shively noted that the community’s interest in natural resources, parks, greenways, and open
space was significant enough that recreation was included as a separate chapter in the
Comprehensive Plan. Shively also discussed the community’s interest in a potential community
center and the role of partnerships in providing recreation facilities and programming.
Shively reviewed the chapters of the Comprehensive Plan, including housing, natural and cultural
resources, economic development, transportation, utilities, and facilities, land use, recreation, and
intergovernmental cooperation. She explained that each chapter includes background
information, data and analysis, strategies, and implementation tools. Technical memorandum
data provides additional detail and supporting data behind the plan chapters.
Shively discussed that the implementation section identifies approximately 100 implementation
actions. Actions are categorized by type, including regulatory, programmatic,
planning/exploration, decision-making guidance, and physical development. Each action also
identifies complexity, anticipated benefit, potential partners, and a lead department, division, or
committee. Shively highlighted several priority implementation actions, including: updating zoning
regulations to support missing middle housing, continuing collaboration with Wisconsin DNR and
U.S Army Corps of Engineers regarding the Kinnickinnic River and other water resources,
supporting infill commercial development through local financial tools and policy guidance,
developing policies to support trail connections as development occurs, planning for infrastructure
Page 2 of 5

capacity and long-term resilience, exploring the feasibility and funding opportunities for a
community center, and reviewing cooperative agreements with surrounding towns.
Shively explained that City Council’s two-year strategic initiatives help prioritize the approximately
100 Comprehensive Plan implementation actions and direct resources towards areas of current
opportunities and community benefit. Shively highlighted some of the completed or ongoing
initiatives included the 2025 National Community Survey, relicensing of the Junction Falls
Hydroelectric facility, work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Kinnickinnic River
corridor, support the UW-River Falls Science and Technology Center, completion of a Safe
Streets and Roads for All Action Plan, Glen Park improvements, Mann Valley Corporate Park
infrastructure, the downtown/Main Street planning effort, the Powell Avenue Bridge
reconstruction, library improvements, fire station planning, public utility investments, construction
of the biosolids processing facility, financial planning, and review of impact fees.
Shively next reviewed the City’s Future Land Use Map and explained how it guides future
development, including consideration of land uses, development densities, infrastructure
capacity, and natural resource protection. Shively noted that the map is intended to provide
flexibility over a 10 to 20-year period rather than indicate that all identified areas will be annexed
or developed within that timeframe. Shively discussed recent land use implementation, including
updates to residential zoning categories and dimensional standards, creation of the Corporate
Park zoning district, review of growth policies and statutory growth boundaries, updates related
to electronic signs, regulation of electric bicycles and motorized bicycles downtown, and recent
fence and boulevard setback amendments.
Shively reviewed implementation actions related to housing, including missing-middle housing,
accessory dwelling units, multifamily housing standards, and tools to encourage mixed-income
housing. Shively indicated that more than 1,000 housing units had been constructed, were under
construction, or approved since adoption of the 2023 Comprehensive Plan. This amount
represents the total number of units associated with the identified developments and does not
subtract housing units that were removed as part of redevelopment.
Shively explained that recent zoning amendments allow additional density within existing
neighborhoods, including duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units. Shively also
discussed redevelopment opportunities near downtown, parks, and educational institutions, while
noting that redevelopment can be more complicated because it often requires acquisition of
multiple properties. Shively also talked about the importance of utilizing existing infrastructure
where possible while balancing new development at the City’s edges with preservation of natural
resources. She provided the example of the Thompson annexation, where existing wetland was
incorporated into the neighborhood design with a trail around the wetland, providing a recreation
amenity while preserving natural resources.
In the area of Agriculture, Natural and Cultural Resources, Shively highlighted implementation
actions related to habitat restoration and preservation, collaboration with the DNR and the Army
Corps, community environment designations, river access, education, public art, and historic
preservation. Shively covered the creation of the Conservation and Parks Division and the
addition of staff focused on natural resources, along with the creation of the Forestry Management
Plan, Emerald Ash Borer management, and restoration of the City’s urban forest through tree
removals and replanting.
Shively covered a few other accomplishments including the City’s bee-friendly initiatives and
designations of a bee city park, historic preservation work that resulted in two historic homes
Page 3 of 5

being added to the National Register of Historic Places, planning for rehabilitation of the Swinging
Bridge, historic interpretive signage, Glen Park’s 125th anniversary, library interpretive exhibits,
and preservation planning for Foster Cemetery.
For Economic Development, Shively reviewed implementation actions related to supporting local
businesses and entrepreneurs, business incubation, maker spaces, home occupations, infill
development, financing tools, corporate parks, and partnerships with economic development
organizations. Shively talked about the St. Croix Valley Innovation Business Center as an
important business incubation and resource to the community. Shively also talked about efforts
to update regulations related to home occupation users. Shively highlighted that the City created
a tax increment district for Mann Valley Corporate Park to assist with infrastructure financing and
completed construction of the Mann Valley Infrastructure in 2024. Other examples she highlighted
of economic development and redevelopment activity included new industrial and commercial
development, redevelopment of the former Value Stay Motel property, and the recently approved
development agreement for The Creamery at Cedar.
Shively next talked about transportation implementation actions such as implementation of the
Bike and Pedestrian Plan, pavement preservation, trail connections associated with development,
and passenger rail. Some of the accomplishments include Powell Avenue Bridge reconstruction,
North Main Street sidewalk infill, South Wasson Lane reconstruction, Cascade Ave/South Main
Street roundabout, Mann Valley Trail improvements, Paulson Road Trail extension, Safe Routes
to School program, Safe Streets and Roads for All Action Plan, and continued roadway
maintenance and transportation-related ordinance updates.
In Utilities and Community Facilities, Shively highlighted different implementation related to
infrastructure capacity, water quality, stormwater management, electric utility resilience, and
public facilities. Some of the completed projects include a new water tower, looped water service
from Paulson Road to Sterling Ponds, water, sewer, and electric expansions to Mann Valey
Corporate Park, the biosolids facility at the wastewater treatment plant, the library remodel, fire
station improvements, the Hoffman Basin flood study, and updates to the City’s wetland
ordinance.
For Recreation, Shively discussed the implementation of the Outdoor Recreation Plan, greenway
and multimodal connections, future park needs, recreation partnerships, and minimum park
standards. Shively talked about the Glen Park improvements, partnership with local recreation
organizations, new parks planned for Wildflower Meadows and Iron Horse, and the Fox
Recreational Easement. Shively explained that the Fox Recreational Easement will extend
Whitetail Ridge trail system and allow public use of privately owned land through an easement.
She noted that the Kinnickinnic Off-Road Cyclists have already constructed more than one mile
of trail in the area. Shively reviewed the Greenway Recreation Plan developed with the National
Park Service, including potential opportunities for river access and kayak launch/takeout
locations.
Shively next covered ongoing cooperation with surrounding towns, the school district, counties,
employers, and the state and regional organizations. Shively mentioned that the City has had
discussions regarding a cooperative boundary agreement with adjacent towns and currently has
a cooperative boundary agreement with the Town of Kinnickinnic. Highlights also include
collaborations with the school district on the Safe Routes to School Plan and future gateway
signage, as well as the St. Croix Valley Innovation Center and related economic development
partnerships.
Page 4 of 5

Shively explained that City will continue implementation of the Comprehensive Plan while
recognizing that not all 100 implementation actions can be pursued simultaneously. Shively
expects a review of the Comprehensive Plan, Outdoor Recreation Plan, and the Bicycle and
Pedestrian Plan in the upcoming year (2027). Both plans will need to be refreshed by 2028, while
the Comprehensive Plan will be approximately five years old at that time. Shively indicated the
review will evaluate accomplishments, determine whether priorities remain appropriate, identify
emerging issues, collect updated data, and consider whether implementation actions should be
modified, removed, or added. Shively explained that the Plan Commission served as the steering
committee for the Comprehensive Plan, and that the Park Board will have a primary role in
reviewing the Outdoor Recreation Plan, and the City may consider reestablishing or utilizing an
existing committee for the Bicycle and Pedestrian and Safe Streets and Roads For All work.
Discussion on the upcoming downtown/Main Street project and the importance of communicating
the need for the project to the community. It was also noted the age of the City’s infrastructure
and the importance of explaining the long-term planning and infrastructure needs behind the
project. Discussion was also had on the value of the Comprehensive Plan and related planning
documents as tools for explaining City decisions to the community and demonstrating that major
projects and policies are based on established planning, data, and community input. Discussions
continued regarding the City’s identity and whether future planning should address how River
Falls is perceived and marketed, including its identity as a university community and its arts,
cultural, recreational, and community assets. Discussions continued into opportunities to use
roundabouts and other gateway locations to strengthen community identity.
Shively explained that over the next several months, an outline will be developed for reviewing
each Comprehensive Plan chapter, identifying additional data needs, and incorporating review
into regular Plan Commission and Park Board meetings. These discussions will provide
opportunities to evaluate priorities and make adjustments as appropriate. Shively emphasized
that the Comprehensive Plan establishes broad direction rather than serving as an operational
plan, and that the Bicycle and Pedestrian and other functional plans can be reviewed and updated
as necessary, including maintaining current plans for grant eligibility and implementation
opportunities.
Discussion was had with appreciation for the City’s planning work and noted that the City’s strong
planning foundation has helped position River Falls to successfully pursue grants and attract
development/investment.
Planning Update
Emily Shively gave a planning update that the next meeting will be September 1st and that it is
expected to bring the driveway width ordinance back to the Commission for consideration after
additional work on the ordinance package. Shively also mentioned the July Community
Development update that went out includes information regarding ongoing implementation of the
City’s day-to-day Community Development activities.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Woolsey made a motion to adjourn at 8:01 p.m. S/Gormanson; motion carried 6/0.
Respectfully submitted,
Becky Corson, Community Development Coordinator
Page 5 of 5

River Falls Library Board of Trustees Minutes
August 3, 2026
Present: Tiffany Alexander, Nick Carow, Lorraine Davis, Rebecca Ferguson, Kari
Heinselman, Jayne Hoffman Mike Metro, Tanya Misselt, Ann Nelson,
Absent: Jean Ritzinger
Guests: Amy White
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

The meeting was called to order by President Metro.
A quorum was established.
Misselt confirmed the meeting was in compliance with opening meeting laws.
Guest: Amy White needed no introduction!
Agenda. Davis moved, Nelson seconded, and the Board passed a motion to
approve the agenda as submitted.
6. Minutes of Last Meeting: Anderson moved, Heinselman seconded and the Board
passed a motion to accept the minutes of June 1, 2026.
7. Foundation Meeting: Misselt presented a summary of the last Foundation
meeting. Because the Foundation funds the library’s loanable technology, and in
order to introduce the public to the wide range of possible loaners, the
Foundation requested the library staff to organize a “technology petting zoo” to
introduce patrons to the variety of available rentals.
8. President’s Report: Metro reported on information shared with Misselt about an
installation highlighting immigrant farm-working women and including the
farmer employers’ perspectives. Misselt was able to get the installation for our
library for December and January.
9. Director’s Report: Misselt led discussion about the various components of her
report, including current finances, continuing construction and renovation,
HVAC and Solar updates, the coming blood pressure hub, and policy revisions.
10. Consent Agenda: Anderson moved, Ferguson seconded, and the Board
approved the consent agenda regarding:
• May 2026 Library Expense Report of $43,407.99
• June 2026 Library Expense Report of $24,826.18
• Amended Room Use Policy
11. Adjournment: It was moved, seconded, and approved by the Board that the
meeting be adjourned circa 7:15 pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Rebecca Ferguson,
Temporary secretary

4
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION DECLARING INTENT TO EXERCISE SPECIAL
ASSESSMENT POLICE POWERS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE RIVER FALLS

BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt the attached resolution which will authorize proceeding with special assessments for the
downtown Business Improvement District (BID).
BACKGROUND
The BID assessment has been in place since 1988. The request from the Business Improvement
District Board is to continue with an annual assessment of $44,500 to fund improvements in the
downtown district. Each property in the business improvement district pays a portion of the
assessment based on the assessed values as of January 1, 2026. The City’s administrative costs
of $2,500 are included in the assessment total.
A public hearing on the final assessment is scheduled for October 27, 2026, to allow property
owners within the district to provide comments and voice concerns before the final assessments
are approved. City Council will be provided the proposed 2027 budget.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The assessment is spread over all properties in the business improvement district, based on the
assessed value of the property. A schedule of the assessment for each parcel will be included in
the information presented at the public hearing.
CONCLUSION
Upon approval from the Council, affected property owners will be notified of the proposed
assessment and the date of the public hearing.

RESOLUTION NO.
PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION DECLARING INTENT
TO EXERCISE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT POLICE
POWERS UNDER SECTION 66.0703 WISCONSIN STATUTES
FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE RIVER FALLS
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
RESOLVED, by the Common Council of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin:
1.
The Common Council hereby declares its intention to exercise its police power under
Section 66.0703 Wisconsin Statutes, to levy special assessments upon property for the benefit
of the River Falls Business Improvement District (BID), the Common Council having approved
the operating budget submitted by the Business Improvement District Board. The special
assessments that will be levied by the Common Council are upon the following described real
property located in the BID, City of River Falls:
NORTHERN BOUNDARY
Commercial properties included south of the line running easterly from the
northeast portion of the intersection of Lewis and Division Streets, continuing
across the Kinnickinnic River, and then running along the southern portion of
Division Street to the northwest portion of the intersection of Division and Third
Streets.
EASTERN BOUNDARY
Commercial properties included west of the line running southerly from the
northwest portion of the intersection of Division and Third Streets to Cedar
Street; then easterly across the alley; then southerly to include property
identification number (PIN) 1009-04 (State Bank of River Falls); then easterly to
the west side of Third Street; then southerly to the northeast intersection of Third
and Walnut Streets; then westerly across the alley; then southerly to the
northwest portion of the intersection of the alley and Locust Street; then westerly
to the northeast portion of the intersection of Second and Locust Street; then
southerly along Second Street crossing Spring Street continuing southerly along
Oak Street to the southeast portion of the intersection of Oak Street and
Cascade Avenue; then westerly to southeast corner of Main and Cascade;
thence generally south to the northeast corner of South Main and Vine.
SOUTHERN BOUNDARY
Commercial properties included north of the line which starts at the northeast
portion of the intersection of Vine and South Main Streets and which runs

westerly along the northern portion of Vine Street to the northeast portion of the
intersection of Vine and State Streets.
WESTERN BOUNDARY
Commercial properties included east of the line running northerly from northeast
portion of the intersection of State and Vine Streets across Cascade Street; then
easterly to the southwest corner of PIN 1097-10; then northerly to Lake George;
then generally north and northeast along the east shore of Lake George and the
Kinnickinnic River to a point on the east end of the Maple Street bridge; then
northerly to the northeast portion of the intersection of Pine and Clark Street;
then westerly to the northeast portion of the intersection of Pine and Clark
Streets; then north to the northeast portion of the intersection of Lewis and
Division Streets.
2.
The improvements which shall constitute the special assessment levies shall be for the
payment of general operating expenses and project expenses, said improvements and
expenses to be incurred for the benefit of those properties that are in the BID.
3.
The total amount assessed against the properties within the BID shall not exceed 100
percent of the total cost of the operating budget approved for the operation of the BID for
calendar year 2026. The Common Council determines that the assessment for the operating
budget of the BID constitutes an exercise of police power and benefits the properties in the BID
based upon the assessed valuation of the properties within the BID.
4.
The assessment against any parcel shall be included on the real estate property tax rolls
and shall be paid in full by January 31, 2027. All special assessments received by the City for
use in the Business Improvement District shall be placed in a segregated account in the
municipal treasury pursuant to Section 66.1109(4) of the Wisconsin Statutes.
5.

The BID Board of Directors shall prepare a report which shall consist of:
A. The proposed operating budget of the BID for calendar year 2027, showing
all planned payments, receipts and expenditures for the BID.
B. A listing of each parcel in the BID, and its assessed valuation, and its record
owner, and current tenant if different from the owner.
C. A schedule of the proposed assessments against each parcel in the BID.

6.
When the report is completed, the President of the BID Board of Directors shall file a
copy of the report with the City Clerk for public inspection.
7.
Upon receipt of the report of the President of the BID Board, the City Clerk shall cause
notice to be given stating the nature of the proposed expenditures within the BID, the general
boundary lines of the BID (including a small map thereof), the time and place at which the report
may be inspected, and the time and place of the public hearing on the matters contained in the
preliminary resolution and the report. This notice shall be published as a Class I Notice and a
copy shall be mailed at least 10 days before the hearing to every interested party.

8.
The hearing shall be held in the Council Chambers in the City of River Falls at a time set
by the Clerk in accordance with Sections 66.0703(7)(a) of the Wisconsin Statutes.
Dated this 22nd day of September, 2026.
FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS

Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

5
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Levi Myers, Natural Resources Coordinator

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING WI DNR URBAN FORESTRY GRANT
APPLICATION

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Approve the resolution authorizing the WI DNR urban forestry grant application.
BACKGROUND
Since 2020, the City of River Falls has applied annually for the WI DNR Urban Forestry Grant,
most recently being awarded in 2025. In 2026, grant funds were used to expand the City’s tree
planting efforts and replant trees removed due to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). Additionally, funds
allowed for the hiring of a forestry intern from UW-River Falls to aid in a tree inventory update of
the City’s boulevard and park trees. The forestry intern collected data for approximately 75% of
the City’s currently inventoried trees. Prior grants have been used to create an ash tree inventory,
an Emerald Ash Borer Preparedness Plan, ash tree removals, and Emerald Ash Borer treatments.
This grant requires a 50-50 funds match with a maximum award of up to $25,000 and will
reimburse up to 50% of eligible costs. Grant applications are due October 1 and grant recipients
will be notified of funding status in November of 2026. The grant is effective January 1 through
December 31, 2027.
DISCUSSION
Staff will apply for the full $25,000 from the WIDNR and requests funds in-kind to plant trees
throughout the City and establish an educational “Tree Walk” at DeSantis Park. These plantings
will focus on increasing canopy coverage, increasing tree diversity, and partnering with
community organizations to advance urban forestry in the City. More trees are needed in parks
and low-canopy areas to ensure all residents can easily access and enjoy the benefits trees
provide. Diverse tree species will be planted in these areas to increase forest resilience, expand
the City’s urban forest, and promote more equitable canopy coverage throughout the community.
DeSanctis Park “Tree Walk”:
A primary focus of the grant proposal will be DeSanctis Park, the City’s regional nature-themed
park where the City would establish an educational “Tree Walk” featuring a wide variety of tree
species labeled with high quality arboretum-style signs. This project will not only replace trees lost
to EAB but will enhance the park through nature-focused education. A diverse mixture of trees
will be planted to showcase trees that residents could plant at their own home. Trees will be
planted along trails throughout the park with signage noting the tree’s species. Approximately 50

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 2
1.5-3” caliper balled-and-burlapped or container trees would be planted by a contractor
throughout the park. Larger trees would be planted because they offer the highest impact (visually
and ecologically) upon planting.
Grow to Share Wildlife Hedge:
As part of Grow to Share’s move to DeSanctis Park, the City would partner with Grow to Share to
plant approximately 40 small trees and shrubs as part of their proposed wildlife hedge. The City
would work with Grow to Share to design and plant a hedge using native trees and shrubs around
the perimeter of their new location. This hedge will provide aesthetic value in addition to providing
food and shelter for various wildlife species. It will also provide educational value by
demonstrating how native trees and shrubs can be used in landscaping. This project will help
support Grow to Share’s transition to DeSanctis Park while furthering the City’s forestry objectives
aimed at tree planting and community partnerships.
Bareroot Trees:
Approximately 100 bareroot trees will be planted throughout the City, targeting areas with lower
canopy cover. These will help replace trees lost due to Emerald Ash Borer. Bare root trees are a
lower cost option and easier to install compared to larger, balled-and-burlapped or container trees.
These are the smallest size tree that the City plants and require frequent maintenance while
stored in the gravel bed located at the City Public Works Facility. The Public Works Department
would plant these trees as part of the City’s annual tree planting efforts.
Container Trees:
Approximately 50 additional container trees will be purchased and planted throughout the City to
replace trees lost due to EAB. These trees will be planted by Public Works Staff in City parks and
boulevard areas.
FISCAL IMPACT
Below is a table detailing expected expenditures. The grant requires a 50-50 funds match with a
maximum award of up to $25,000, for which Staff are applying for the full amount. Funds will be
used to plant approximately 250 park and street trees and will be planted through a combination
of staff, contractor, and volunteer tree plantings. It is anticipated that 100 bare root trees ($5,000)
and 50 container trees ($10,000) will be planted by City staff, 40 trees will be planted in
coordination with Grow to Share ($5,600), and 60 trees will be planted by contractors ($28,500).
Additionally, $988 will be allotted for high quality arboretum style signs to showcase different tree
species and establish the “Tree Walk” in DeSanctis Park.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 3

Tree Inventory and Planting Projects
Sources
Forestry Operating Budget
WI DNR Urban Forestry Grant
Total all Sources

Uses
$25,018.86 Tree Planting

$50,018.86

$25,000
$50,018.86 Total all Uses

$50,018.86

CONCLUSION
Staff recommends approving the resolution authorizing the WI DNR Urban Forestry Grant
application. The proposed project would use grant funds and matching City funds to plant
approximately 250 trees throughout the community, with a focus on increasing canopy cover,
improving tree diversity, replacing trees lost to EAB, and expanding urban forestry partnerships
with community organizations. The project would also establish an educational Tree Walk at
DeSanctis Park to promote public education about urban forestry.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING URBAN FORESTRY GRANT APPLICATION
WHEREAS, the applicant, the City of River Falls, is interested in obtaining a cost-share grant
from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the purpose of funding urban and
community forestry projects or urban forest catastrophic storm projects specified in §23.097(1g)
and (1r), Wis. Stats.; and
WHEREAS, the applicant will attest to the validity and veracity of the statements and
representations contained in the grant application; and
WHEREAS, the applicant requests a grant agreement to carry out the project; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the applicant, the City of River Falls, will comply with
all local, state and federal rules, regulations and ordinances relating to this project and the costshare agreement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the applicant will budget a sum sufficient to fully and satisfactorily
complete the project and hereby authorize the City Administrator to complete the grant
requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
1. Sign and submit the grant application.
2. Sign a grant agreement between the applicant and the DNR.
3. Submit interim and/or final reports to the DNR to satisfy the grant agreement.
4. Submit grant reimbursement request to the DNR.
5. Sign and submit other required documentation.
Dated this 22nd day of September, 2026.

Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

6
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Josh Solinger, Finance Director

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2027-2031 LONG RANGE FISCAL PLAN

RECOMMENDATION
Staff are presenting the 2027-2031 Fiscal Plan for review and approval by the City Council. The
complete plan documents can be found on the City’s website. The Fiscal Plan provides a fiveyear framework for evaluating future capital improvement plans and operating budgets.
BACKGROUND
The Fiscal Plan primarily focuses on the City’s General Fund but also maps out future tax levies
and debt service. The Plan evaluates expense and revenue assumptions, property tax strategy,
debt management, and fund balance strategy over the five-year period. The Plan is intended to
support policy discussion and long-range decision making.
DISCUSSION
The Plan primarily evaluates the following:
1. Structural balance of the City’s General Fund
2. Estimated tax levy growth over time
3. Total indebtedness
4. Debt’s share of the tax levy
Structural balance of the City’s General Fund
As the single largest recipient of the tax levy, the Fiscal Plan primarily focuses on the General
Fund. Over the five-year period shown in the Fiscal Plan, recurring revenues match recurring
expenses. The result is that there is no deficit spending for which reserves will be used to make
a balanced budget.
Estimated tax levy growth over time
The tax levy is planned to grow anywhere from 3.8% to 5.3% per year over the next five years.
When accounting for new growth in the community, net levy growth will be held to around 3%
each year. The net levy growth is what the existing tax base feels from year to year.
Total indebtedness
The State limits the total General Obligation indebtedness each municipality may have. This limit
is calculated as 5% of the community’s total equalized value. Over the next five years, the City is
projected to be at anywhere from 38.5% to 45.5% of the State’s limit. This leaves ample capacity
and flexibility for the future.
Debt’s share of the tax levy
The Fiscal Plan measures how much of the tax levy is comprised by operations, capital cash
financing, and debt service as a percentage of the total tax levy. The Plan includes an

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 2
administration’s target for debt service to comprise no more than 20% of the total tax levy. Over
the next five years, debt service is projected to comprise anywhere from 12.8% to 14.9% of the
total tax levy.
CONCLUSION
The 2027-2031 Fiscal Plan is presented for review and approval by the City Council via resolution.
This Plan provides a financially sustainable framework for the City to utilize for capital and
operating budgets over the next five years.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2027-2031 LONG RANGE FISCAL PLAN
WHEREAS, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recommends long-term
financial planning as a best practice for municipalities; and
WHEREAS, the City last updated the financial plan in 2023 for the years 2024 through 2028;
and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to update the fiscal plan to promote ongoing fiscal stewardship over
the next five years; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of River Falls
hereby approves the long-range Fiscal Plan for 2027 through 2031.
Dated this 22nd day of September, 2026.

Alison H. Page, Mayor

ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

7
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Josh Solinger, Finance Director

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 2027-2031 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

RECOMMENDATION
Staff is presenting the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for review and approval by the
City Council. The complete plan documents can be found on the City’s website. The CIP contains
projects that are either in development now or planned to be implemented within the next five
years. Projects included in the CIP are subject to the City’s purchasing policy and could be
changed by Council direction, availability of funding, and organizational capacity.
BACKGROUND
The five-year Capital Improvement Plan is currently updated biennially in conjunction with the
City’s five-year Fiscal Plan. On September 8, 2026, staff presented Council with the draft CIP.
The draft CIP includes projects incorporated using feedback from City boards, commissions, the
Council, and staff to support both community growth and taking care of existing assets. The CIP
does not eliminate the need for future Council action when bid approvals, construction
authorization, and purchase authorization are required.
DISCUSSION
The CIP is built around three themes:
1. Maintaining today
2. Building for tomorrow
3. Leveraging opportunity
Maintaining today
Capital planning is about both preparing River Falls for future needs and protecting prior
investment. The CIP creates a useful framework for discussing why routine replacement and
rehabilitation are important even when those projects are less visible than major construction.
Building for tomorrow
The CIP process provides a chance for forward-looking discussions about investments – both
new and old. The City is planning not only for today’s asset replacement needs, but also for future
transportation, utility capacity, community development, technology, and public service demands.
Leveraging opportunity
Outside funding from grants and donations, and funding from growth, allow the City to pursue
investments that would be difficult to support through the property tax alone. Outside funding
creates opportunity, and continued growth in the community adds local funding sources that help
avoid an over-reliance on outside funding.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 2
FISCAL IMPACT
The 2027-2031 CIP totals approximately $122.3 million in investments over five years.
Approximately 70 percent of the total dollar amount in the CIP is made up of 10 projects:
1. Downtown reconstruction
2. US Army Corps of Engineers dam removal and river restoration
3. Kinni Corridor – plan implementation
4. Highview water tower
5. Connect River Falls: trail extensions
6. Well #7
7. Glen Park phase 2
8. Reconstruct Huppert
9. Lametti interceptor
10. State Highway 29 east extension
The CIP uses a mix of grants and donations, levy-backed and non-levy-backed borrowing,
development-related revenues, tax increment financing, cash financing, and other funding
sources. The five-year Fiscal Plan is used as a guide to ensure anticipated future tax levies and
debt service for the CIP remain within established Council policies and targets.

CONCLUSION
The 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is presented for review and approval by the City
Council via resolution. Planned expenses for 2027 will be appropriated as part of the 2027-2028
Biennial Budget in November. Planned expenses for 2028 and beyond may change in future
years as circumstances require.
Staff appreciate the City Council’s sound fiscal stewardship and this CIP supports financial
sustainability. The Plan also includes the investments needed for a rapidly growing community.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING 2027-2031
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, the City desires to formalize the planned capital expenditures for the next five years;
and
WHEREAS, a five-year plan has been developed to include those projects that are important to
the growth and maintenance of infrastructure in the City; and
WHEREAS, input has been received from Mayor and Council members, staff and other boards
and commissions; and
WHEREAS, the Council has reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of River Falls
hereby approves the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan as a guide for future planning.
Dated this 22nd day of September, 2026.
Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

8

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Josh Solinger, Finance Director

DATE:

September 22, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF $6,435,000
GENERAL OBLIGATION PROMISSORY NOTES, SERIES 2026A

RECOMMENDATION
Approve the sale of $6,435,000 in General Obligation (G.O.) Promissory Notes to finance remodel
and renovation costs for the fire station.
BACKGROUND
On August 25, 2026, the City Council authorized a resolution providing for the sale of $6,435,000
in G.O. Promissory Notes to finance costs of the fire station remodel and renovation. Following
adoption of the set sale resolution, an Official Statement was prepared to solicit bids and a credit
rating was requested from Moody’s.
DISCUSSION
The bids will be received after 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 22 and available at the Council
meeting. A final resolution reflecting the recommended bid will be distributed at the meeting. A
draft resolution has been provided for reference.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Official Statement contains a table of planned principal installments for the City’s borrowing.
A complete amortization schedule, including interest payments, will be prepared after bids are
received and available at the Council meeting. The tables below provide planned principal
payments and the City’s G.O. borrowing capacity, including this borrowing.
Year
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033

Table 1. Planned Principal Installments
Amount
Year
Amount
Year
$230,000
2034
$280,000
2041
230,000
2035
295,000
2042
240,000
2036
305,000
2043
245,000
2037
315,000
2044
255,000
2038
330,000
2045
265,000
2039
340,000
2046
270,000
2040
355,000

Amount
$370,000
385,000
405,000
420,000
440,000
460,000

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
September 22, 2026
Page 2

The table portraying the City’s G.O. borrowing was prepared by the City’s financial advisor,
Ehlers. Borrowing capacity is calculated as five percent of the community’s total equalized value.
For this table, no future growth in equalized value is assumed. This is a conservative estimate.

CONCLUSION
Sean Lentz will be available on behalf of Ehlers to present the bid results and make a
recommendation to the Council.

RESOLUTION NO. ______
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE
OF $6,435,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION PROMISSORY
NOTES, SERIES 2026A
WHEREAS, on August 25, 2026, the Common Council of the City of River Falls, Pierce
and St. Croix Counties, Wisconsin (the "City") adopted a resolution (the "Set Sale Resolution"),
providing for the sale of General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2026A (the "Notes") for
public purposes, including paying the cost of remodeling and renovating the fire station (the
"Project");
WHEREAS, the Common Council hereby finds and determines that the Project is within
the City's power to undertake and therefore serves a "public purpose" as that term is defined in
Section 67.04(1)(b), Wisconsin Statutes;
WHEREAS, the City is authorized by the provisions of Section 67.12(12), Wisconsin
Statutes, to borrow money and issue general obligation promissory notes for such public
purposes;
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Set Sale Resolution, the City has directed Ehlers &
Associates, Inc. ("Ehlers") to take the steps necessary to sell the Notes to pay the cost of the
Project;
WHEREAS, Ehlers, in consultation with the officials of the City, prepared a Notice of
Sale (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference)
setting forth the details of and the bid requirements for the Notes and indicating that the Notes
would be offered for public sale on September 22, 2026;
WHEREAS, the City Clerk (in consultation with Ehlers) caused a form of notice of the
sale to be published and/or announced and caused the Notice of Sale to be distributed to potential
bidders offering the Notes for public sale on September 22, 2026;
WHEREAS, the City has duly received bids for the Notes as described on the Bid
Tabulation attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein by this reference (the "Bid
Tabulation"); and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the bid proposal (the "Proposal") submitted by
the financial institution listed first on the Bid Tabulation fully complies with the bid
requirements set forth in the Notice of Sale and is deemed to be the most advantageous to the
City. Ehlers has recommended that the City accept the Proposal. A copy of said Proposal
submitted by such institution (the "Purchaser") is attached hereto as Exhibit C and incorporated
herein by this reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City that:

QB\104492978.1

Section 1. Ratification of the Notice of Sale and Offering Materials. The Common
Council hereby ratifies and approves the details of the Notes set forth in Exhibit A attached
hereto as and for the details of the Notes. The Notice of Sale and any other offering materials
prepared and circulated by Ehlers are hereby ratified and approved in all respects. All actions
taken by officers of the City and Ehlers in connection with the preparation and distribution of the
Notice of Sale, and any other offering materials are hereby ratified and approved in all respects.
Section 1A. Authorization and Award of the Notes. For the purpose of paying the cost
of the Project, there shall be borrowed pursuant to Section 67.12(12), Wisconsin Statutes, the
principal sum of SIX MILLION FOUR HUNDRED THIRTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS
($6,435,000) from the Purchaser in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Proposal.
The Proposal of the Purchaser offering to purchase the Notes for the sum set forth on the
Proposal, plus accrued interest to the date of delivery, resulting in a true interest cost as set forth
on the Proposal, is hereby accepted. The Mayor and City Clerk or other appropriate officers of
the City are authorized and directed to execute an acceptance of the Proposal on behalf of the
City. The good faith deposit of the Purchaser shall be applied in accordance with the Notice of
Sale, and any good faith deposits submitted by unsuccessful bidders shall be promptly returned.
The Notes shall bear interest at the rates set forth on the Proposal.
Section 2. Terms of the Notes. The Notes shall be designated "General Obligation
Promissory Notes, Series 2026A"; shall be issued in the aggregate principal amount of
$6,435,000; shall be dated October 13, 2026; shall be in the denomination of $5,000 or any
integral multiple thereof; shall be numbered R-1 and upward; and shall bear interest at the rates
per annum and mature on October 1 of each year, in the years and principal amounts as set forth
on the Pricing Summary attached hereto as Exhibit D-1 and incorporated herein by this
reference. The term of the Notes will be 20 years. Interest shall be payable semi-annually on
April 1 and October 1 of each year commencing on October 1, 2027. Interest shall be computed
upon the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months and will be rounded pursuant to the
rules of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board. The schedule of principal and interest
payments due on the Notes is set forth on the Debt Service Schedule attached hereto as
Exhibit D-2 and incorporated herein by this reference (the "Schedule").
Section 3. Redemption Provisions. The Notes maturing on October 1, 2035 and
thereafter shall be subject to redemption prior to maturity, at the option of the City, on October 1,
2034 or on any date thereafter. Said Notes shall be redeemable as a whole or in part, and if in
part, from maturities selected by the City, and within each maturity by lot, at the principal
amount thereof, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption.

[The Proposal specifies that [some of] the Notes shall be subject to mandatory
redemption. The terms of such mandatory redemption are set forth on an attachment hereto as
Exhibit MRP and incorporated herein by this reference. Upon the optional redemption of any of
the Notes subject to mandatory redemption, the principal amount of such Notes so redeemed
shall be credited against the mandatory redemption payments established in Exhibit MRP for
such Notes in such manner as the City shall direct.]

-2QB\104492978.1

Section 4. Form of the Notes. The Notes shall be issued in registered form and shall be
executed and delivered in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit E and incorporated
herein by this reference.
Section 5. Tax Provisions.
(A) Direct Annual Irrepealable Tax Levy. For the purpose of paying the
principal of and interest on the Notes as the same becomes due, the full faith, credit and
resources of the City are hereby irrevocably pledged, and there is hereby levied upon all of the
taxable property of the City a direct annual irrepealable tax in the years 2026 through 2045 for
the payments due in the years 2027 through 2046 in the amounts set forth on the Schedule.
(B) Tax Collection. So long as any part of the principal of or interest on the
Notes remains unpaid, the City shall be and continue without power to repeal such levy or
obstruct the collection of said tax until all such payments have been made or provided for. After
the issuance of the Notes, said tax shall be, from year to year, carried onto the tax roll of the City
and collected in addition to all other taxes and in the same manner and at the same time as other
taxes of the City for said years are collected, except that the amount of tax carried onto the tax
roll may be reduced in any year by the amount of any surplus money in the Debt Service Fund
Account created below.
(C) Additional Funds. If at any time there shall be on hand insufficient funds
from the aforesaid tax levy to meet principal and/or interest payments on said Notes when due,
the requisite amounts shall be paid from other funds of the City then available, which sums shall
be replaced upon the collection of the taxes herein levied.
Section 6. Segregated Debt Service Fund Account.
(A) Creation and Deposits. There shall be and there hereby is established in the
treasury of the City, if one has not already been created, a debt service fund, separate and distinct
from every other fund, which shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles. Debt service or sinking funds established for obligations previously
issued by the City may be considered as separate and distinct accounts within the debt service
fund.
Within the debt service fund, there hereby is established a separate and distinct account
designated as the "Debt Service Fund Account for General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series
2026A" (the "Debt Service Fund Account") and such account shall be maintained until the
indebtedness evidenced by the Notes is fully paid or otherwise extinguished. There shall be
deposited into the Debt Service Fund Account (i) all accrued interest received by the City at the
time of delivery of and payment for the Notes; (ii) any premium which may be received by the
City above the par value of the Notes and accrued interest thereon; (iii) all money raised by the
taxes herein levied and any amounts appropriated for the specific purpose of meeting principal of
and interest on the Notes when due; (iv) such other sums as may be necessary at any time to pay
principal of and interest on the Notes when due; (v) surplus monies in the Borrowed Money
Fund as specified below; and (vi) such further deposits as may be required by Section 67.11,
Wisconsin Statutes.
-3QB\104492978.1

(B) Use and Investment. No money shall be withdrawn from the Debt Service
Fund Account and appropriated for any purpose other than the payment of principal of and
interest on the Notes until all such principal and interest has been paid in full and the Notes
canceled; provided (i) the funds to provide for each payment of principal of and interest on the
Notes prior to the scheduled receipt of taxes from the next succeeding tax collection may be
invested in direct obligations of the United States of America maturing in time to make such
payments when they are due or in other investments permitted by law; and (ii) any funds over
and above the amount of such principal and interest payments on the Notes may be used to
reduce the next succeeding tax levy, or may, at the option of the City, be invested by purchasing
the Notes as permitted by and subject to Section 67.11(2)(a), Wisconsin Statutes, or in permitted
municipal investments under the pertinent provisions of the Wisconsin Statutes ("Permitted
Investments"), which investments shall continue to be a part of the Debt Service Fund Account.
Any investment of the Debt Service Fund Account shall at all times conform with the provisions
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and any applicable Treasury
Regulations (the "Regulations").
(C) Remaining Monies. When all of the Notes have been paid in full and
canceled, and all Permitted Investments disposed of, any money remaining in the Debt Service
Fund Account shall be transferred and deposited in the general fund of the City, unless the
Common Council directs otherwise.
Section 7. Proceeds of the Notes; Segregated Borrowed Money Fund. The proceeds of
the Notes (the "Note Proceeds") (other than any premium and accrued interest which must be
paid at the time of the delivery of the Notes into the Debt Service Fund Account created above)
shall be deposited into a special fund (the "Borrowed Money Fund") separate and distinct from
all other funds of the City and disbursed solely for the purpose or purposes for which borrowed.
Monies in the Borrowed Money Fund may be temporarily invested in Permitted Investments.
Any monies, including any income from Permitted Investments, remaining in the Borrowed
Money Fund after the purpose or purposes for which the Notes have been issued have been
accomplished, and, at any time, any monies as are not needed and which obviously thereafter
cannot be needed for such purpose(s) shall be deposited in the Debt Service Fund Account.
Section 8. No Arbitrage. All investments made pursuant to this Resolution shall be
Permitted Investments, but no such investment shall be made in such a manner as would cause
the Notes to be "arbitrage bonds" within the meaning of Section 148 of the Code or the
Regulations and an officer of the City, charged with the responsibility for issuing the Notes, shall
certify as to facts, estimates, circumstances and reasonable expectations in existence on the date
of delivery of the Notes to the Purchaser which will permit the conclusion that the Notes are not
"arbitrage bonds," within the meaning of the Code or Regulations.
Section 9. Compliance with Federal Tax Laws. (a) The City represents and covenants
that the projects financed by the Notes and the ownership, management and use of the projects
will not cause the Notes to be "private activity bonds" within the meaning of Section 141 of the
Code. The City further covenants that it shall comply with the provisions of the Code to the
extent necessary to maintain the tax-exempt status of the interest on the Notes including, if
applicable, the rebate requirements of Section 148(f) of the Code. The City further covenants
-4QB\104492978.1

that it will not take any action, omit to take any action or permit the taking or omission of any
action within its control (including, without limitation, making or permitting any use of the
proceeds of the Notes) if taking, permitting or omitting to take such action would cause any of
the Notes to be an arbitrage bond or a private activity bond within the meaning of the Code or
would otherwise cause interest on the Notes to be included in the gross income of the recipients
thereof for federal income tax purposes. The City Clerk or other officer of the City charged with
the responsibility of issuing the Notes shall provide an appropriate certificate of the City
certifying that the City can and covenanting that it will comply with the provisions of the Code
and Regulations.
(b)
The City also covenants to use its best efforts to meet the requirements and
restrictions of any different or additional federal legislation which may be made applicable to the
Notes provided that in meeting such requirements the City will do so only to the extent
consistent with the proceedings authorizing the Notes and the laws of the State of Wisconsin and
to the extent that there is a reasonable period of time in which to comply.
Section 10. Designation as Qualified Tax-Exempt Obligations. The Notes are hereby
designated as "qualified tax-exempt obligations" for purposes of Section 265 of the Code,
relating to the ability of financial institutions to deduct from income for federal income tax
purposes, interest expense that is allocable to carrying and acquiring tax-exempt obligations.
Section 11. Execution of the Notes; Closing; Professional Services. The Notes shall be
issued in printed form, executed on behalf of the City by the manual or facsimile signatures of
the Mayor and City Clerk, authenticated, if required, by the Fiscal Agent (defined below), sealed
with its official or corporate seal, if any, or a facsimile thereof, and delivered to the Purchaser
upon payment to the City of the purchase price thereof, plus accrued interest to the date of
delivery (the "Closing"). The facsimile signature of either of the officers executing the Notes
may be imprinted on the Notes in lieu of the manual signature of the officer but, unless the City
has contracted with a fiscal agent to authenticate the Notes, at least one of the signatures
appearing on each Note shall be a manual signature. In the event that either of the officers
whose signatures appear on the Notes shall cease to be such officers before the Closing, such
signatures shall, nevertheless, be valid and sufficient for all purposes to the same extent as if they
had remained in office until the Closing. The aforesaid officers are hereby authorized and
directed to do all acts and execute and deliver the Notes and all such documents, certificates and
acknowledgements as may be necessary and convenient to effectuate the Closing. The City
hereby authorizes the officers and agents of the City to enter into, on its behalf, agreements and
contracts in conjunction with the Notes, including but not limited to agreements and contracts for
legal, trust, fiscal agency, disclosure and continuing disclosure, and rebate calculation services.
Any such contract heretofore entered into in conjunction with the issuance of the Notes is hereby
ratified and approved in all respects.
Section 12. Payment of the Notes; Fiscal Agent. The principal of and interest on the
Notes shall be paid by [________________, ___________, ______, which is hereby appointed
as the City's registrar and fiscal agent pursuant to the provisions of Section 67.10(2), Wisconsin
Statutes] [the City Clerk or City Treasurer] (the "Fiscal Agent"). [The City hereby authorizes
the Mayor and City Clerk or other appropriate officers of the City to enter into a Fiscal Agency
-5QB\104492978.1

Agreement between the City and the Fiscal Agent. Such contract may provide, among other
things, for the performance by the Fiscal Agent of the functions listed in Wis. Stats. Sec.
67.10(2)(a) to (j), where applicable, with respect to the Notes].
Section 13. Persons Treated as Owners; Transfer of Notes. The City shall cause books
for the registration and for the transfer of the Notes to be kept by the Fiscal Agent. The person in
whose name any Note shall be registered shall be deemed and regarded as the absolute owner
thereof for all purposes and payment of either principal or interest on any Note shall be made
only to the registered owner thereof. All such payments shall be valid and effectual to satisfy
and discharge the liability upon such Note to the extent of the sum or sums so paid.
Any Note may be transferred by the registered owner thereof by surrender of the Note at
the office of the Fiscal Agent, duly endorsed for the transfer or accompanied by an assignment
duly executed by the registered owner or his attorney duly authorized in writing. Upon such
transfer, the Mayor and City Clerk shall execute and deliver in the name of the transferee or
transferees a new Note or Notes of a like aggregate principal amount, series and maturity and the
Fiscal Agent shall record the name of each transferee in the registration book. No registration
shall be made to bearer. The Fiscal Agent shall cancel any Note surrendered for transfer.
The City shall cooperate in any such transfer, and the Mayor and City Clerk are
authorized to execute any new Note or Notes necessary to effect any such transfer.
Section 14. Record Date. The 15th day of the calendar month next preceding each
interest payment date shall be the record date for the Notes (the "Record Date"). Payment of
interest on the Notes on any interest payment date shall be made to the registered owners of the
Notes as they appear on the registration book of the City at the close of business on the Record
Date.
Section 15. Utilization of The Depository Trust Company Book-Entry-Only System. In
order to make the Notes eligible for the services provided by The Depository Trust Company,
New York, New York ("DTC"), the City agrees to the applicable provisions set forth in the
Blanket Issuer Letter of Representations, which the City Clerk or other authorized representative
of the City is authorized and directed to execute and deliver to DTC on behalf of the City to the
extent an effective Blanket Issuer Letter of Representations is not presently on file in the City
Clerk's office.
Section 16. Payment of Issuance Expenses. The City authorizes the Purchaser to
forward the amount of the proceeds of the Notes allocable to the payment of issuance expenses
to a financial institution selected by Ehlers at Closing for further distribution as directed by
Ehlers.
Section 17. Official Statement. The Common Council hereby approves the Preliminary
Official Statement with respect to the Notes and deems the Preliminary Official Statement as
"final" as of its date for purposes of SEC Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and
Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Rule"). All
actions taken by officers of the City in connection with the preparation of such Preliminary
-6QB\104492978.1

Official Statement and any addenda to it or final Official Statement are hereby ratified and
approved. In connection with the Closing, the appropriate City official shall certify the
Preliminary Official Statement and any addenda or final Official Statement. The City Clerk shall
cause copies of the Preliminary Official Statement and any addenda or final Official Statement to
be distributed to the Purchaser.
Section 18. Undertaking to Provide Continuing Disclosure. The City hereby covenants
and agrees, for the benefit of the owners of the Notes, to enter into a written undertaking (the
"Undertaking") if required by the Rule to provide continuing disclosure of certain financial
information and operating data and timely notices of the occurrence of certain events in
accordance with the Rule. The Undertaking shall be enforceable by the owners of the Notes or
by the Purchaser on behalf of such owners (provided that the rights of the owners and the
Purchaser to enforce the Undertaking shall be limited to a right to obtain specific performance of
the obligations thereunder and any failure by the City to comply with the provisions of the
Undertaking shall not be an event of default with respect to the Notes).
To the extent required under the Rule, the Mayor and City Clerk, or other officer of the
City charged with the responsibility for issuing the Notes, shall provide a Continuing Disclosure
Certificate for inclusion in the transcript of proceedings, setting forth the details and terms of the
City's Undertaking.
Section 19. Record Book. The City Clerk shall provide and keep the transcript of
proceedings as a separate record book (the "Record Book") and shall record a full and correct
statement of every step or proceeding had or taken in the course of authorizing and issuing the
Notes in the Record Book.
Section 20. Bond Insurance. If the Purchaser determines to obtain municipal bond
insurance with respect to the Notes, the officers of the City are authorized to take all actions
necessary to obtain such municipal bond insurance. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to
agree to such additional provisions as the bond insurer may reasonably request and which are
acceptable to the Mayor and City Clerk including provisions regarding restrictions on investment
of Note proceeds, the payment procedure under the municipal bond insurance policy, the rights
of the bond insurer in the event of default and payment of the Notes by the bond insurer and
notices to be given to the bond insurer. In addition, any reference required by the bond insurer to
the municipal bond insurance policy shall be made in the form of Note provided herein.

-7QB\104492978.1

Section 21. Conflicting Resolutions; Severability; Effective Date. All prior resolutions,
rules or other actions of the Common Council or any parts thereof in conflict with the provisions
hereof shall be, and the same are, hereby rescinded insofar as the same may so conflict. In the
event that any one or more provisions hereof shall for any reason be held to be illegal or invalid,
such illegality or invalidity shall not affect any other provisions hereof. The foregoing shall take
effect immediately upon adoption and approval in the manner provided by law.
Adopted, approved and recorded September 22, 2026.

_____________________________
Alison Page
Mayor
ATTEST:

____________________________
Amy White
City Clerk
(SEAL)

-8QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT A
Notice of Sale
To be provided by Ehlers & Associates, Inc. and incorporated into the Resolution.
(See Attached)

QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT B
Bid Tabulation
To be provided by Ehlers & Associates, Inc. and incorporated into the Resolution.
(See Attached)

QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT C
Winning Bid
To be provided by Ehlers & Associates, Inc. and incorporated into the Resolution.
(See Attached)

QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT D-1
Pricing Summary
To be provided by Ehlers & Associates, Inc. and incorporated into the Resolution.
(See Attached)

QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT D-2
Debt Service Schedule and Irrepealable Tax Levies
To be provided by Ehlers & Associates, Inc. and incorporated into the Resolution.
(See Attached)

QB\104492978.1

[EXHIBIT MRP
Mandatory Redemption Provision
The Notes due on October 1, ____, ____ and ____ (the "Term Bonds") are subject to
mandatory redemption prior to maturity by lot (as selected by the Depository) at a redemption
price equal to One Hundred Percent (100%) of the principal amount to be redeemed plus accrued
interest to the date of redemption, from debt service fund deposits which are required to be made
in amounts sufficient to redeem on October 1 of each year the respective amount of Term Bonds
specified below:
For the Term Bonds Maturing on October 1,
Redemption
Date
____
____
____

Amount
$______
______
______ (maturity)

For the Term Bonds Maturing on October 1,
Redemption
Date
____
____
____

Amount
$______
______
______ (maturity)

For the Term Bonds Maturing on October 1,
Redemption
Date
____
____
____

Amount
$______
______
______ (maturity)

For the Term Bonds Maturing on October 1,
Redemption
Date
____
____

Amount
$______
______

____

______ (maturity)]

QB\104492978.1

EXHIBIT E
(Form of Note)
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
STATE OF WISCONSIN
PIERCE AND ST. CROIX COUNTIES
CITY OF RIVER FALLS
GENERAL OBLIGATION PROMISSORY NOTE, SERIES 2026A

REGISTERED

DOLLARS

NO. R-___

$_______

MATURITY DATE:

ORIGINAL DATE OF ISSUE:

INTEREST RATE:

CUSIP:

October 1, _____

October 13, 2026

____%

______

DEPOSITORY OR ITS NOMINEE NAME: CEDE & CO.
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT:

_______________________ THOUSAND DOLLARS
($__________)

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the City of River Falls, Pierce and St. Croix Counties,
Wisconsin (the "City"), hereby acknowledges itself to owe and promises to pay to the Depository
or its Nominee Name (the "Depository") identified above (or to registered assigns), on the
maturity date identified above, the principal amount identified above, and to pay interest thereon
at the rate of interest per annum identified above, all subject to the provisions set forth herein
regarding redemption prior to maturity. Interest shall be payable semi-annually on April 1 and
October 1 of each year commencing on October 1, 2027 until the aforesaid principal amount is
paid in full. Both the principal of and interest on this Note are payable to the registered owner in
lawful money of the United States. Interest payable on any interest payment date shall be paid
by wire transfer to the Depository in whose name this Note is registered on the Bond Register
maintained by [________________, ___________, ______] OR [the City Clerk or City
Treasurer] (the "Fiscal Agent") or any successor thereto at the close of business on the 15th day
of the calendar month next preceding each interest payment date (the "Record Date"). This Note
is payable as to principal upon presentation and surrender hereof at the office of the Fiscal
Agent.
For the prompt payment of this Note together with interest hereon as aforesaid and for the
levy of taxes sufficient for that purpose, the full faith, credit and resources of the City are hereby
irrevocably pledged.
This Note is one of an issue of Notes aggregating the principal amount of $6,435,000, all
of which are of like tenor, except as to denomination, interest rate, maturity date and redemption
provision, issued by the City pursuant to the provisions of Section 67.12(12), Wisconsin Statutes,
for public purposes, including paying the cost of remodeling and renovating the fire station, as

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authorized by a resolution adopted on September 22, 2026. Said resolution is recorded in the
official minutes of the Common Council for said date.
The Notes maturing on October 1, 2035 and thereafter are subject to redemption prior to
maturity, at the option of the City, on October 1, 2034 or on any date thereafter. Said Notes are
redeemable as a whole or in part, and if in part, from maturities selected by the City, and within
each maturity by lot (as selected by the Depository), at the principal amount thereof, plus
accrued interest to the date of redemption.

[The Notes maturing in the years ________ are subject to mandatory redemption by lot
as provided in the resolution referred to above, at the redemption price of par plus accrued
interest to the date of redemption and without premium.]
In the event the Notes are redeemed prior to maturity, as long as the Notes are in
book-entry-only form, official notice of the redemption will be given by mailing a notice by
registered or certified mail, overnight express delivery, facsimile transmission, electronic
transmission or in any other manner required by the Depository, to the Depository not less than
thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the redemption date. If less than all of the
Notes of a maturity are to be called for redemption, the Notes of such maturity to be redeemed
will be selected by lot. Such notice will include but not be limited to the following: the
designation, date and maturities of the Notes called for redemption, CUSIP numbers, and the
date of redemption. Any notice provided as described herein shall be conclusively presumed to
have been duly given, whether or not the registered owner receives the notice. The Notes shall
cease to bear interest on the specified redemption date provided that federal or other immediately
available funds sufficient for such redemption are on deposit at the office of the Depository at
that time. Upon such deposit of funds for redemption the Notes shall no longer be deemed to be
outstanding.
It is hereby certified and recited that all conditions, things and acts required by law to
exist or to be done prior to and in connection with the issuance of this Note have been done, have
existed and have been performed in due form and time; that the aggregate indebtedness of the
City, including this Note and others issued simultaneously herewith, does not exceed any
limitation imposed by law or the Constitution of the State of Wisconsin; and that a direct annual
irrepealable tax has been levied sufficient to pay this Note, together with the interest thereon,
when and as payable.
This Note has been designated by the Common Council as a "qualified tax-exempt
obligation" pursuant to the provisions of Section 265(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended.
This Note is transferable only upon the books of the City kept for that purpose at the
office of the Fiscal Agent, only in the event that the Depository does not continue to act as
depository for the Notes, and the City appoints another depository, upon surrender of the Note to
the Fiscal Agent, by the registered owner in person or his duly authorized attorney, together with
a written instrument of transfer (which may be endorsed hereon) satisfactory to the Fiscal Agent
duly executed by the registered owner or his duly authorized attorney. Thereupon a new fully
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registered Note in the same aggregate principal amount shall be issued to the new depository in
exchange therefor and upon the payment of a charge sufficient to reimburse the City for any tax,
fee or other governmental charge required to be paid with respect to such registration. The
Fiscal Agent shall not be obliged to make any transfer of the Notes (i) after the Record Date, (ii)
during the fifteen (15) calendar days preceding the date of any publication of notice of any
proposed redemption of the Notes, or (iii) with respect to any particular Note, after such Note has
been called for redemption. The Fiscal Agent and City may treat and consider the Depository in
whose name this Note is registered as the absolute owner hereof for the purpose of receiving
payment of, or on account of, the principal or redemption price hereof and interest due hereon
and for all other purposes whatsoever. The Notes are issuable solely as negotiable, fullyregistered Notes without coupons in the denomination of $5,000 or any integral multiple thereof.

[This Note shall not be valid or obligatory for any purpose until the Certificate of
Authentication hereon shall have been signed by the Fiscal Agent.]
No delay or omission on the part of the owner hereof to exercise any right hereunder shall
impair such right or be considered as a waiver thereof or as a waiver of or acquiescence in any
default hereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City of River Falls, Pierce and St. Croix Counties,
Wisconsin, by its governing body, has caused this Note to be executed for it and in its name by
the manual or facsimile signatures of its duly qualified Mayor and City Clerk; and to be sealed
with its official or corporate seal, if any, all as of the original date of issue specified above.
CITY OF RIVER FALLS
PIERCE AND ST. CROIX COUNTIES,
WISCONSIN

By: ______________________________
Alison Page
Mayor
(SEAL)
By: ______________________________
Amy White
City Clerk

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[Date of Authentication: _______________, ______
CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION
This Note is one of the Notes of the issue authorized by the within-mentioned resolution
of the City of River Falls, Pierce and St. Croix Counties, Wisconsin.
_______________________
_________, _____________

By____________________________
Authorized Signatory]

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ASSIGNMENT
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned sells, assigns and transfers unto
____________________________________________________________________________
(Name and Address of Assignee)
____________________________________________________________________________
(Social Security or other Identifying Number of Assignee)
the within Note and all rights thereunder and hereby irrevocably constitutes and appoints
______________________________________, Legal Representative, to transfer said Note on
the books kept for registration thereof, with full power of substitution in the premises.
Dated: _____________________
Signature Guaranteed:

_____________________________
(e.g. Bank, Trust Company
or Securities Firm)

________________________________
(Depository or Nominee Name)
NOTICE: This signature must correspond with the
name of the Depository or Nominee Name as it
appears upon the face of the within Note in every
particular, without alteration or enlargement or any
change whatever.

____________________________
(Authorized Officer)

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