On the agenda: River Falls meeting — Flock Safety (Nov 10)

COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA
November 10, 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 – October 27, 2026 Council Meeting
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. Second Reading: Ordinance 2026-18 Appropriating the Necessary Funds for the Operation of the
Government and Administration of the City of River Falls Wisconsin for the Year 2027
CONSENT AGENDA
3. Resolution Amending the City’s Fee Schedule
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
4. Resolution Approving the Public Participation Plan for an Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan
REPORTS
5. Comptroller Report
6. Administrator Report
7. Mayor’s Good News
ANNOUNCEMENTS
8. Crash Responders Safety Week Proclamation
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 10/29/26; Publish: The Pierce County Journal: 11/04/26; Website: 11/05/26

CITY OF RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
October 27, 2026
Mayor Page called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
City Council Members Present: Mei Mei Abdouch, Todd Bjerstedt, Nick Carow, Michael Page, Sean
Downing, Diane Odeen, Rose Walker
Staff Present: City Administrator Scot Simpson; Community Services Director/City Clerk Amy White;
City Attorney Chris Gierhart; Chief of Police Gordon Young; Utility Director Kevin Westhuis; Human
Resources Director Karen Bergstrom; Finance Director Josh Solinger; Chief of Staff Jennifer Smith;
Public Works Manager Erica Ellefson; IT Technician Jon Smits
The pledge of allegiance was said.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
October 13, 2026 meeting and workshop minutes
MSC Bjerstedt/Odeen to approve the minutes. Unanimous.
APPROVAL OF BILLS:
MSC Abdouch/Carow moved to approve the bills. Unanimous.
PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
Wendy DiPeso – DiPeso urged for stronger safeguards for large developments and recommended
delaying data center approvals until the Wisconsin DNR completes its statewide environmental impact
review.
Patricia La Rue – La Rue explained how touchscreen voting machines print voter selections on a paper
ballot for review before inserting into the tabulator, emphasizing that voters can verify their choices
before submitting their ballots.
William Hansen – Hansen argued that costs associated with increased electricity demand from AI data
centers should be paid by those requiring the service, not taxpayers or local utility customers. He
opposed using public funds or utility customer revenue to remove the Junction Falls hydroelectric
facility.
Bridget Faricy – Faricy recommended that the City consider establishing a community development
division to coordinate funding and resources for housing, youth and childcare, older adults, employment
and training, and neighborhood needs, noting that limited staff capacity can prevent residents from
accessing available assistance programs.
Dana Linscott – Linscott urged the City to consider allowing the campground to serve as temporary
emergency shelter during the off-season for residents experiencing homelessness, with oversight by a
qualified organization, screening requirements, and no taxpayer-funded operating costs.
Alicia Acken – Acken raised concerns about two apparent sinkholes near Cedar Street and Bartosh,
along with recurring sewer odors near the Kinnickinnic River. She requested information about possible
sewer infrastructure failures, repair plans, and consideration of infrastructure needs in future budgets.
Elizabeth Boden – Boden raised concerns about lengthy wait times for state-funded home rehabilitation
assistance and urged the City to provide greater support for homeowners facing aging water and sewer
infrastructure.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:

City Council Minutes for October 27, 2026
Page 2
Mayor Page closed the Council meeting and opened the public hearing at 6:47 p.m. for Resolution
No. 7126 Authorizing Special Assessment Police Powers Under Section 66.0703 Wisconsin Statutes
for the Benefit of the River Falls Business Improvement District.
Joleen Larson, Business Improvement District Board President provided an overview of the district’s
history, accomplishments, and 2026 activities, noting that more than $1.2 million has been reinvested
in downtown improvements since its establishment. The BID continues to support business retention,
historic preservation, façade improvements, beautification, accessibility, and community events. Larson
highlighted ongoing challenges with rising costs and workforce shortages, expressed appreciation for
City staff and volunteers, and discussed future collaboration on the Main Street redesign and downtown
improvements.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 6:56 p.m.
MSC Downing/Page to approve the Resolution. Unanimous.
Mayor Page closed the Council meeting and opened the public hearing at 6:56 p.m. for the First
Reading: Ordinance 2026-18 Appropriating the Necessary Funds for the Operation of the Government
and Administration of the City of River Falls Wisconsin for the Year 2027.
Josh Solinger, Finance Director, presented the proposed 2027 budget ordinance, emphasizing the
continuation of existing services, inflationary adjustments, and long-term financial sustainability. The
proposed levy represents a 3% net increase after accounting for growth. A 1.96% increase in the City
tax rate is contemplated which equates to an estimated $20–$25 annual increase for an average
residential property. He noted that no significant fee increases are proposed for 2027, although future
consideration may include vehicle registration fees, impact fees, sewer rates, and other City fees.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 7:09 p.m.
Councilmember Carow commended staff for the comprehensive and transparent budget process,
emphasizing the importance of continued growth in supporting City services and minimizing the property
tax impact on residents.
CONSENT AGENDA
Acknowledgement of Board Commission Committee Minutes: BID Board, Park and Recreation
Advisory Board, Plan Commission, Library Board, Police and Fire Commission, Utility Advisory Board
Resolution Approving the 2027 Health and Dental Insurance Renewal→→pulled by Page
Resolution Approving Yard Waste Site Grinding Services Contract→→pulled by Downing
Resolution Approving Shared Ride Taxi Operating and Capital Grant Application to State of Wisconsin
Department of Transportation for 2027→→pulled by Carow
Resolution Approving 2027 Public Transit Lease Agreement with Running, Inc.→→pulled by Abdouch
Resolution No. 7127 Authorizing City Administrator to Negotiate and Approve Reimbursement
Agreements Between City of River Falls and Pierce/St. Croix Counties Regarding Shared Ride Taxi
Funds for the Year 2027
Resolution No. 7128 Approving the Acceptance of FY26 Cops Technology and Equipment Program
Award
Resolution Supporting the Termination of the City’s Agreement with Flock Group Inc, dba Flock
Safety→→pulled by Downing
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt moved to approve the remaining consent agenda items. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7129 Approving the 2027 Health and Dental Insurance Renewal
Councilmember Page pulled the item as he will need to abstain. MS Odeen/Downing to approve the
Resolution. Motion carried with Page abstaining from the vote.

City Council Minutes for October 27, 2026
Page 3
Resolution No. 7130 Approving Yard Waste Site Grinding Services Contract
Councilmember Downing questioned whether the yard waste grinding services contract would allow the
City to relocate the yard waste site during the three-year agreement. Administrator Simpson and City
Attorney Gierhart clarified that the contract does not restrict services to a specific location, but relocation
could require renegotiation of costs. Councilmember Odeen noted that contract terms could be
renegotiated if the site changes.
MSC Bjerstedt/Odeen to approve the Resolution. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7131 Approving Shared Ride Taxi Operating and Capital Grant Application to State of
Wisconsin Department of Transportation for 2027
Councilmember Carow expressed support for the shared-ride taxi program, emphasizing its importance
in providing accessible transportation. Councilmember Abdouch asked about program funding, vehicle
ownership, contractor responsibilities, and employee wages. Administrator Simpson explained that the
program is supported by federal and state grants, local funding, and fares, with Running, Inc.
responsible for operations and staffing. He indicated that wage requirements are not included in the
current procurement process but could be evaluated for future contracts. Councilmember Downing
recommended a transportation workshop with neighboring municipalities and counties to explore
service improvements. Discussion also included limited contractor availability, program costs, and
potential future alternatives while recognizing the importance of maintaining the service.
MSC Abdouch/Walker to approve the Resolution. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7132 Approving 2027 Public Transit Lease Agreement with Running, Inc.
MSC Abdouch/Walker to approve the Resolution. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7133 Supporting the Termination of the City’s Agreement with Flock Group Inc, dba
Flock Safety
Councilmember Downing made a statement in support of terminating the Flock agreement.
MSC Downing/Bjerstedt to approve the Resolution. Unanimous.
REPORTS:
Administrator’s Report
Administrator Simpson responded to an earlier public comment, clarifying that the City has secured
CDBG funding for water and sewer improvements in the past and continues to pursue stateadministered grant opportunities that provide the greatest benefit to residents.
Mayor’s Good News
Mayor Page congratulated the River Falls High School Marching Band on winning the Wisconsin School
Music Association Class AAA State Championship and several additional awards. Mayor Page
encouraged residents to vote in the upcoming election and highlighted strong early voting participation.
She also promoted the annual AAUW book sale. Councilmember Abdouch announced downtown trickor-treating. Clerk White provided additional election information, stating in-person absentee voting
would continue through Friday, with no voting available the Monday before Election Day.
MSC Bjerstedt/Abdouch to adjourn at 7:50 p.m. Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy White, Community Services Director/City Clerk

2
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Josh Solinger, Finance Director

DATE:

November 10, 2026

TITLE:

ORDINANCE APPROVING 2027 BUDGET AND LEVY

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Second reading and approval of an ordinance appropriating funds for the operation of the
government and administration of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin, for Fiscal Year 2027. The
total all funds budget is $70,517,996, of which approximately 13% is budgeted to be financed by
general property taxes. The total property tax levy will be set at $8,950,151 for Fiscal Year 2027.
BACKGROUND
The 2027-2028 biennial budget was reviewed with the City Council at the budget workshop on
October 13, 2026. Councilmembers must adopt each year of the biennial budget and the tax
levies separately. Thus, Councilmembers are being asked to approve the budget and tax levy for
Fiscal Year 2027. The budget and tax levy for Fiscal Year 2028 will be adopted next year.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The tax levy totaling $8,950,151 is primarily allocated to the General Fund, Library, debt service,
and capital cash financing. Staff use the long-range Fiscal Plan as a guide when determining the
proposed tax levy. For 2027, the levy is comprised as follows:
Funding Use for Levy
General Fund
Library
Debt Service
Capital Cash Financing
Total

Dollar Amount
$ 6,427,949
975,000
1,262,080
285,122
$ 8,950,151

Share of Total Levy
72%
11%
14%
3%
100%

Budgets for non-levy financed funds are set within the framework of a variety of policies and
targets. Such targets include unassigned fund balance or working capital, debt limits, and more.
CONCLUSION
The first reading and public hearing for the 2027 budget ordinance was on October 27, 2026, with
a second reading, public hearing, and approval scheduled for November 10, 2026. The budget
transmittal message included in the budget document provides more information to guide
policymakers and other readers through the budget. The full draft document can be found here:
Financial Reports & Budgets | River Falls, WI - Official Website

TRANSMITTAL LETTER
Date:

October 13, 2026

To:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

From:

Josh Solinger, Finance Director and Scot Simpson, City Administrator

Re:

2027-2028 Biennial Budget Transmittal

Members of the City Council:
The 2027-2028 biennial budget is presented as the City’s two-year financial plan for providing
day-to-day services while preparing for the community’s longer-term needs. The budget translates
Council priorities into funding for public safety, streets, parks, utilities, development services,
technology, facilities, and other City services.
The proposed budget for all funds totals approximately $70.5 million in 2027 and $71.5 million in
2028. All funds include tax-supported operations, utility operations, capital improvements, tax
increment districts, debt service, special revenue funds, and internal service funds.
The budget was developed alongside the City’s five-year Fiscal Plan and 2027-2031 Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP). Together, these documents are intended to balance current service
needs with infrastructure investment, financial sustainability, and the City’s ability to respond when
conditions change.

A Budget Built Around Ongoing Services
The General Fund finances many of the services residents interact with most directly, including
police, fire, streets, parks, administration, community development, and other general
government functions. The proposed General Fund budget is approximately $13.7 million in 2027
and $14.1 million in 2028.
Property taxes remain the General Fund’s largest locally controlled revenue source. Property tax
revenue for the General Fund increases from approximately $6.36 million in 2026 to $6.43 million
in 2027 and $6.52 million in 2028. State shared revenue is budgeted at approximately $2.74
million in both 2027 and 2028. The General Fund budget continues the City’s practice of using a
mix of revenues, such as property taxes, State aids, service revenues, and transfers from utilities
and other funds, rather than relying on a single revenue source.
An important change from 2026 is that the proposed General Fund does not include the use of a
one-time drawdown of fund balance. The 2026 budget included approximately $898,000 of fund
balance applied for cash financing a portion of the fire station renovation and remodel project.

The proposed 2027-2028 biennial budget does not contemplate the need for drawing down fund
balance. Staff will continue managing the General Fund’s unassigned fund balance within policy
parameters established by the City Council.

People and Public Safety
Personnel remains the largest component of budgeted General Fund expenses. The budget
reflects contractual and planned wage adjustments, employee benefits, staffing assumptions, and
the cost of maintaining a high quality workforce capable of delivering City services.

Operations
9,494,000
34%
Personnel
18,316,000
66%

Public safety continues to represent the largest concentration of General Fund personnel costs.
The Police Department budget increases from approximately $4.43 million in 2026 to $4.68 million
in 2027 and $4.83 million in 2028. A significant portion of this change is personnel-related to
incorporate updates to the police union contract executed in late 2025.

1,375,000
Transfers

11,640,000
Public Safety

5,465,000
Admin &
Community
Services

6,483,000
Operations
2,847,000
Community
Development

The Fire Department budget also contains significant updates. One of the largest changes is an
increase in budgeted paid-per-call expenses from $255,000 in 2026 to $400,000 annually in 2027
and 2028. This does not represent an expansion of service levels. Actual Fire Department paidper-call expenses were approximately $400,000 in 2025, meaning the new budget more closely
reflects recent cost experience.
Similar adjustments are being made elsewhere. Streets incurred more than $60,000 of personnel
standby expenses 2025 and incurred approximately $54,000 through June 2026. This was related
to snow removal operations. The proposed budget establishes a $65,000 appropriation in 2027.
These adjustments reflect the cost of providing existing streets-related services, particularly snow
removal.

General Fund
Library
Special Revenue
Internal Services
Utilities
Total

FTEs by Fund / Function
2025
2026
61.87
63.37
9.27
9.27
0.11
0.11
7.66
7.66
38.89
38.89
117.80
119.30

2027
64.37
9.27
0.11
7.66
39.89
121.30

2028
64.37
9.27
0.11
7.66
39.89
121.30

From 2025 through the biennial period ending in 2028, the City will add four employees totaling
3.5 full-time equivalents. Two of the additions occur in 2027, and no new additions are planned
for 2028. One of the additions planned in the 2027-2028 budget is a contingency-type position to
be filled based on workload within the organization, if needed. The other addition is in the utilities
for an additional water/wastewater operator.

Maintaining Services While Costs Change
The cost of insurance, utilities, professional services, equipment, technology, and contracted
services continues to change, while several accounts have been adjusted based on recent actual
experience.
For example, the City Attorney budget increases from $75,000 to $100,000 in 2027 and $120,000
in 2028, reflecting a higher allowance for legal services. The proposed budgets anticipate
increased costs for prosecution services following bids for a new contract later in 2026.
The budget also reorganizes how the City accounts for facility costs. A new Building Maintenance
Fund consolidates the former City Hall and Maintenance funds. This change improves efficiency
in managing the finances for facilities maintenance-related activities. Expenses incurred in the
fund are charged back to other City funds and departments benefitting from the work. Proposed
expenses total approximately $1.31 million in 2027 and $1.64 million in 2028.

Utilities and Infrastructure
The City’s utilities account for a significant share of the total budget because they operate large
infrastructure systems and finance substantial capital improvements. Monthly customer service
charges for utility consumption represent the main sources of revenues for these funds.

Fund
Electric – Operating
Electric – Capital
Water – Operating
Water – Capital
Sewer – Operating
Sewer – Capital
Stormwater – Operating
Stormwater – Capital
Ambulance – Operating

2026
$17.4M
$2.37M
$3.30M
$637k
$3.75M
$1.11M
$652k
$494k
$330k

2027
$19.06M
$3.05M
$3.73M
$1.29M
$4.68M
$3.08M
$738k
$106k
$446k

2028
$19.79M
$2.78M
$3.80M
$838k
$4.77M
$584k
$752k
$375k
$461k

Electric
The Electric Utility has the largest budget among the City’s utilities, totaling $22.11 million in 2027
and $22.57 million in 2028. Purchased power continues to represent its largest operating
expense, totaling $12.70 million in 2027 and $13.40 million in 2028.
The City purchases power wholesale from WPPI and then assumes the responsibility for
distributing the energy across the City. Wholesale power costs are highly sensitive to
macroeconomic conditions. The budget also provides funding for electric distribution
improvements, equipment, system maintenance, and transfers supporting shared City services.
Water
The Water Utility’s budget totals $5.02 million in 2027 and $4.64 million in 2028. The 2027
operating budget includes increased cost allocations for a water/wastewater operator position. In
addition, the allocations for personnel costs of the City’s mechanics are being adjusted, which
slightly increases the cost for each of the utilities. The capital increase for the Water Utility in 2027
is largely due to the Locust Street extension project.
Sewer
The Sewer Utility budget totals $7.76 million in 2027 and $5.35 million in 2028. The operating
increase from 2026 to 2027 involves costs for the water/wastewater operator position, the City
mechanic allocation, and utility costs for the water needed at the new biosolids dryer facility. There
is also a contingency budget to be used in the event the biosolids facility goes offline and sludge
is hauled elsewhere. The capital increase is due to the Lametti Interceptor and Locust Street
extension projects.
Stormwater
The Stormwater Utility budget totals $844 thousand in 2027 and $1.13 million in 2028. This utility’s
budgeted increases generally involve standard inflationary adjustments for both personnel and
non-personnel operating costs. A variety of smaller capital costs drive the budgeted increase for
Stormwater capital projects in 2028, including the Collins outfall repair and the Hazel Street box
culvert installation.
The proposed budget continues the approach outlined in the CIP: utility cash is used for system
investment when practical, while borrowing allows the cost of long-lived infrastructure to be
shared over the period in which customers benefit from those assets. Like the General Fund’s

unassigned fund balance, staff manage the cash positions and indebtedness of the utilities within
Council established financial targets.

Growth, Development, and Tax Increment Financing
River Falls continues to experience development activity, and that growth is reflected throughout
the budget. The City maintains dedicated Park, Library, and Fire impact fee funds so that new
development contributes toward eligible public improvements needed to serve a growing
community. The Water Utility and Sewer Utility also receive impact fee revenues accounted for in
each utility’s fund. Tax increment financing also continues to support development and
redevelopment in areas such as Sterling Ponds, the Whitetail Ridge and Mann Valley corporate
parks, the former Shopko property, and the 700 S. Main Street area. These tools help connect
growth with the infrastructure and public services needed to support it.
General Fund Revenue
Transfers from TIDs
Change from Prior Year

2026 Budget 2027 Budget 2028 Budget
$ 338,000

$ 405,862

$ 395,790

-

+ $67,862

− $10,072

The financial benefits of development, particularly in tax increment districts (TIDs), are visible in
the General Fund. Transfers from the City’s TIDs to the General Fund are budgeted to increase
from approximately $338,000 in 2026 to $406,000 in 2027, before remaining near that level at
approximately $396,000 in 2028.
These transfers include reimbursements for eligible General Fund costs associated with
administering and supporting the districts, as well as interest payments on interfund loans
previously provided by the General Fund to finance TID activities. These revenues offset what
would otherwise be levied across the whole tax base.
TID #5 was terminated by the City Council in May 2025, with the final year of tax increment
revenue collection being 2026. Originally created in 1994, the TID contributed to $28.3 million in
property tax base growth that all taxing jurisdictions in the community now benefit from.
In addition, the TID repaid the General Fund approximately $1.2 million in interest for prior year
interfund loans. This interest is accounted for as operating income that reduces the amount of tax
levy needed for the General Fund. The TID also contributed approximately $450,000 for
affordable housing in 2026. Because the TID is terminated, there is no budget for this fund in the
2027-2028 biennial budget.

Capital Investment and Debt
The operating budget and CIP were developed together. The 2027-2031 CIP includes
approximately $122.3 million of planned investment in streets, utilities, facilities, vehicles,
equipment, technology, parks, and other community assets. Major projects include downtown
reconstruction, dam removal and river restoration, Kinni Corridor improvements, water system
expansion, trails, and recurring replacement of existing infrastructure.
The City does not expect property taxes alone to finance this investment. The CIP uses grants
and donations, utility cash, development contributions and impact fees, TID resources, tax levy,

fund balance, and both levy-financed and non-levy-financed borrowing. This diversified approach
is intended to match funding with the purpose and useful life of each investment while limiting
pressure on any one revenue source. The CIP identifies more than $27 million of Federal grant
funding over the five-year period, although some outside funding remains subject to future awards
and project timing.
Borrowing will continue to be evaluated in the context of the City’s entire debt profile rather than
one project at a time. The City’s financial plans are intended to maintain capacity for major
infrastructure needs while avoiding debt for costs that can be financed with current resources.

Financial Sustainability
The proposed budget continues the City’s focus on maintaining financial flexibility. Fund balance
and utility working capital provide resources to respond to unexpected costs, revenue volatility,
emergencies, and one-time capital needs without requiring abrupt tax or rate changes.
The General Fund budget does not depend on fund balance for recurring operations in either
2027 or 2028. The CIP currently anticipates only limited use of General Fund unassigned fund
balance for capital purposes - $25,000 in 2027 and $340,000 in 2030 - while projected unassigned
fund balance remains above the Council’s 40 percent policy threshold through the five-year plan.
The same philosophy applies to the utilities. Cash reserves, rate revenues, and debt are
evaluated together so that current customers contribute to ongoing system needs while the cost
of long-lived infrastructure can be spread among the customers who will benefit from it.

Closing
The 2027-2028 biennial budget is intended to provide a transparent view of how the City plans to
finance services over the next two years. It maintains existing services, supports employees and
public infrastructure, and coordinates operating decisions with the City’s longer-term capital and
financial plans.
As with the CIP, the budget is also a planning document built on assumptions. Development
activity, State revenues, utility costs, interest rates, project schedules, personnel costs, and other
conditions will change. Staff will continue monitoring those assumptions and bring significant
changes to the City Council, if needed.
We appreciate the work of department directors and staff who developed the individual budgets
and evaluated service needs, operating costs, revenues, and capital priorities. We look forward
to working with the City Council to work toward adopting a financial plan that supports reliable
services and long-term financial sustainability.
Respectfully submitted,
Scot Simpson
City Administrator

Josh Solinger
Finance Director

ORDINANCE 2026-18
AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR THE
OPERATION OF THE GOVERNMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE
CITY OF RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN, FOR THE YEAR 2027
The Common Council of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin, does ordain as follows:

Section 1.

There is hereby appropriated out of the revenue shown below of the City of River Falls for
the year 2027, including monies received from the general property tax levy, to the various
funds and General Fund functional levels set up in the budget presented herewith, for the
purposes therein stated, in the following amounts:
Fund

General Fund
Streetlight Fund
Parking Improvement Fund
Taxi
Solid Waste
Library
Park Impact Fee
Library Impact Fee
Fire Impact Fees
Library Trust
Park Land Dedication
Environmental Fee Utility
Revolving Loan
Housing Reserve
Business/Tourism
TID #6 Spruce Street
TID #8 University Falls
TID #9 Downtown District
TID #10 Sterling Ponds
TID #11 Industrial Park
TID #12 Mann Valley
TID #13 Whitetail Ridge
TID #14 Clark Street
TID #15 S. Main Street
TID #16 DeSanctis
TID #17 Tattersall
TID #18 700 S. Main
TID #19 Mann Valley
Debt Service - City Hall
Debt Service - Public Safety
Debt Service - Radio Road
Debt Service - Mann Valley Land
Debt Service - Glen Park
General Capital Projects
Capital Equipment
Electric
Water
Sewer
Storm Water
Ambulance
Internal Service - Motor Pool
Internal Service - I.T.
Internal Service - Building Maintenance
Total All Funds

Revenues

$

13,721,311
44,500
2,400
374,424
1,319,200
1,794,423
1,170,000
30,500
40,000
6,000
24,000
36,000
8,239
131,311
212,500
163,648
118,912
155,111
1,002,480
73,985
40,091
551,750
977,860
150,538
279,388
436,950
305,700
978,838
416,550
759,675
110,775
149,987
288,173
4,244,507
1,373,725
22,111,966
5,015,370
7,767,887
843,949
446,137
37,500
1,294,263
1,307,473

$

70,517,996

Expenditures

$

13,721,311
244,500
2,400
374,424
1,319,200
1,794,423
1,170,000
30,500
40,000
6,000
24,000
36,000
8,239
131,311
212,500
163,648
118,912
155,111
1,002,480
73,985
40,091
551,750
977,860
150,538
279,388
436,950
305,700
978,838
416,550
759,675
110,775
149,987
288,173
4,244,507
1,373,725
22,111,966
5,015,370
7,767,887
843,949
446,137
37,500
1,294,263
1,307,473
70,517,996

General Fund Revenues and Other Financing Uses:
Functional Level
General Property Taxes

$

6,427,949
21,100

Other Tax
Special Assessments

4,200,700

Intergovernmental Revenues
Licenses and Permits

295,000

Fines, Forfeitures and Penalties

145,000

Public Charges for Service

389,600

Miscellaneous Revenues

197,200

Other Financing Sources

2,044,762

Total Revenues and
Other Financing Sources

$

13,721,311

General Fund Expenditures and Other Financing Uses:
Functional Level
General Government

$

2,675,787

Public Safety

5,687,864

Public Works

2,251,446
1,725

Health Services
Culture, Recreation & Education

1,236,619

Conservation & Development

1,137,384

Capital Projects

-

Debt Service

730,486

Other Financing Uses
Total Expenditures and
Other Financing Uses

$

13,721,311

Section 2.

There is hereby levied a tax of $ 8,950,151 upon all taxable property within the City of
River Falls, Wisconsin, as returned by the Assessor in the year 2027 for uses and
purposes as set forth in said budget.

Section 3.

The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to levy taxation against the tax
incremental districts located in the City of River Falls and allocate the proceeds thereof in
accordance with Section 66.1105 the Wisconsin Statutes.

Section 4.

The City Clerk be and hereby is authorized and directed to spread the said tax upon the
current tax roll of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin.

Section 5.

Budget appropriations are established by fund and function. Additional details included
in the budget are presented as supplementary information.

Section 6.

The Ordinance shall take effect and be in force after its passage and publication.
FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS
_____________________________

ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

Alison H. Page, Mayor

ADOPTED:________
PUBLISHED:______

3

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Kristine Basom, Finance Manager

DATE:

November 10, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION AMENDING FEE SCHEDULE

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt the resolution amending the City’s Fee Schedule.
BACKGROUND
The Common Council first established a comprehensive fee schedule in 1997. Since then, it has
been updated by resolution- either amending the fee schedule as a whole or by specific section.
Each year, the Council reviews and, if necessary, amends the Fee Schedule.
DISCUSSION
The proposed amended Fee Schedule is attached to this memo. Proposed changes are
highlighted in yellow or strikethrough font. They include:
Revised Fees:
o Building Code:
 State Seal changed from $33 for new single-family homes only to actual
costs incurred
o Equipment:
 Salt Brine increased from $.40 to $.42
 Labor rate increased from $60 to $65 and total rate adjusted based on that
increase
 Picnic tables increased from $10 to $15
 Garbage Barrels or Cones: fees were separated and increased from
Garbage Barrels: $3 to $10 and Cones remained the same Cones: $3
o Recreation Fees:
 Field Rentals: (Non-Resident Fees)
• Pickleball Court Rental increased from $15/hour to $20/hour
• Field Reservations increased from $30/hour to $35/hour
• Volleyball Court Reservations increased from $30/hour to $35/hour
*Field and Court Cancellation Fee $15 per day, if cancelled at least two days (48 hours) in
advance.
•

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
November 10, 2026
Page 2
•

New Fees:
o Fire Department:
 Rural Fire Inspections: $50/inspection
o Stormwater Utility:
 Small Site Stormwater Management Fee: $500

CONCLUSION
The attached fee schedule updates the presentation and references within the document and
makes minor updates to the fees themselves. Adoption of the attached fee schedule is
recommended.

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
City Clerk
Copies -Black and White
(per side)
Copies -Color (per side)
Fax Charges
Personal Property - Interest
Personal Property - Penalties
Special Assessment Searches
Engineering
Address Changes (Owner
Color Plots of Existing Drawings

Engineering Fees-Public Imp.
Engineering Labor
GIS data
Right of Way Excavation Permit
Finance/Customer Service
Finance Charge (Interest Rate)
Special Billing Charge
Special Meter Reading Charge
Missed Appointment
NSF Check Charges
Reconnection Fees
Electric Service
Water Service
Payment in Lieu of Taxes
Room Tax - Tax Return Late Fee
Fire Department
Burning Permit
Rural Fire Inspections
Extrication
False Alarm Fees
False Alarm Fees-Refusal to
Cooperate
Fire Call Supplies
Hazardous Materials Response
Specialty Equipment needed for
Response Mitigation
Acceptance Testing for Fire
Protection Systems

RATE
$.25 - 8.5"x 11"; $.30 - 8.5"x14"; $.35 - 11"x17";
$10.00 - 22"x34"; $2.00/sq. ft - 36"wide roll
$1.00 - 8.5"x11"; $1.25 - 8.5"x14"; $1.75 -11"x17"
$.50/page
1% per month on delinquent accounts
0.5% one-time charge on delinquent accounts (St. Croix County
$25 per search/$26 additionalonly)
for utility information/$20 for rush
request within 5 business days

FEE SET BY

AUTHORIZATION

Res. 4945, 05/08/2007

Mun. Code 2.76.040

Res. 4945, 05/08/2007
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Wis. Stat. §74.47(1)
Wis. Stat. §74.47(2)
Res. 5601, 05/08/2012

Mun. Code 2.76.040

$35
Res. 4572, 07/26/2005
No additional manipulation, 22" x 17" $10; 22x34 $15; 34x44 $25; Res. 3667, 06/27/2000;
Additional cost for customer requested manipulation of electronic Res. 3876, 10/09/2001
drawings for plotting at $50 per hour
Design Engineering: 10% of construction cost, Administrative, Legal, Res. 4945, 05/08/2007
and Construction services: 10% of construction cost
1.5 x Salary + Benefits
Res. 6353, 3/12/2019
Minimum $25 charge for CD, plus $5 per 1/4 section
Res. 3876, 10/09/2001
$130 (A bond will also be required)
Res. 6013, 03/22/2016
1.5% over City bond rate
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
$26
$26
$13 during normal hours / 1st missed appt waived; $26 after normal Res. 5601, 05/08/2012
hours
$20 on all accounts
Res. 5601, 05/08/2012
$35 during normal hours / after normal hours up to $75
$40 during normal hours / $60 after normal hours
Calculation based on housing receipts for H/A; or
Based on the property value for electric/water
$100

Res. 6562, 04/13/2021
Res. 5601, 05/08/2012

$0; RFFD staff will review burning plans with applicants
$50/inspection
$500 per vehicle
1st alarm Free; 2nd alarm fee $250; 3rd alarm fee $500; 4th alarm
fee $750; 5th and above $1,000 each occurrence
1st alarm Free; 2nd alarm fee $250; 3rd alarm fee $500; 4th alarm
fee $750; 5th and above $1,000 each occurrence
Actual costs
FEMA Schedule of equipment rates and labor costs
Rate billed for equipment.

Ord. 2003-17, 06/24/2003

1st: Free, 2nd: $ 100, 3rd and above: Doubles from previous fee.

Ord. 2008-19, 06/24/2008

Wis. Stat. §74.47(1)
Wis. Stat. §74.47(2)
Utility Rate Schedule

Mun. Code 3.16.010

Mun. Code 12.12.010

Utility Rate Schedule
Utility Rate Schedule
Utility Rate Schedule
Utility Rate Schedule
Utility Rate Schedule
Utility Rate Schedule
Per Housing Authority Agreement; PSC for
Electric/Water
Mun. Code 3.14.050
Mun. Code 8.20.040(I)
Per Rural Fire Association contract agreement

Res. 5057, 12/11/2007
Res. 5021, 10/09/2007

Mun. Code 8.21.010(B)

Res. 5021, 10/09/2007

Mun. Code 8.21.010(E)

Res. 5057, 12/11/2007
Res. 5057, 12/11/2007

Mun. Code 8.24.030

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
RATE
FEE SET BY
For all code and/or ordinance
$200 per violation
violations except Smoke Alarms,
Fire Alarm Systems, Malicious
False Fire Alarms, Careless Use
of Smoking Materials, Negligent
Handling of Burning Materials,
Illegal Burning in the City Limits,
Negligent Strike of a Properly
Marked Gas Line.
Smoke Alarms
$350 per smoke alarm
Fire Alarm and Sprinkler Systems
$2,500
Malicious False Fire Alarms
$2,500
Careless Use of Smoking
$250
Negligent Handling of Burning
$500
Materials
Illegal Burning in the City Limits
$250
Negligent Strike of a Properly
$1,500
Marked Gas Line
General Licenses
Cigarette Licenses
$100 per year
Res. 6291, 08/14/2018
Direct Seller (includes transient) $20/month or $200 per year, plus $25 investigation fee and $12 per Res. 6291, 08/14/2018
employee
Dog Licenses
$5 neutered/spayed, $10 unaltered; fees half price as of July 1 for Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
first time licensing
Late Dog License Penalty
$5
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Lost License Tag
$2
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Dog Park Permit
$25 for non-resident
Res. 6291, 08/14/2018
Wild Animal License
$300
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Garbage Collectors
$50 1st vehicle, $10 each additional vehicle
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Mobile Home Park License or
$100 for each 50 spaces or fraction of 50 spaces within each
Wis. Stat §66.0435(3)(a)
Renewal
community
Mobile Home Park Application
$5 per lot
Res. 3431, 06/08/1999
Mobile Home Park License
$10
Wis. Stat §66.0435(3)(b)
Transfer
Permit Mobile Home Out of
$5
Res. 3431, 06/08/1999
Pawnbrokers
Taxicab (Other than SharedTaxicab Drivers (Other than
Shared-Ride)
Weights and Measures License
Liquor Licenses
Intoxicating Liquor
Retail "Class A"
Retail "Class B"
Retail Reserve "Class B"
Club

AUTHORIZATION

Mun. Code 15.04.160; State Statute 101.645
Wis. Stat. SPS 314.13 (1)
Mun. Code 8.21.010(B), State Statute 941.13
Mun. Code 9.04.010; State Statute 254.76.
Mun. Code 9.04.010; State Statute 941.10.
Mun. Code: 8.20.040

Mun. Code 5.24.050(C)
Mun. Code 5.12.040(C)
Mun. Code 6.04.020(A)
Mun. Code 6.04.020(B)
Mun. Code 6.04.040
Mun. Code 6.08.060
Mun. Code 5.24.040
Mun. Code 5.16.020
Mun. Code 17.64.030(D)
Mun. Code 17.64.040(B)

$210 + $1.50 per transaction fee
$50 1st vehicle, $10 each additional vehicle
$15 initial, $10 renewal, plus actual cost of background check, nonrefundable
$25 annually

Res. 4945, 05/08/2007
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Res. 6013, 03/22/2016

Mun. Code 17.64.160(D)
Mun. Code 5.18.140
Mun. Code 5.20.040
Mun. Code 5.20.040

Res. 4157, 05/13/2003

Mun. Code 5.24.070(F)

$500 per year
$500 per year
$10,000
$250 per year

Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997

Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.04.010

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
Fermented Malt Beverage
Retail Class "A"
Retail Class "B"
Temporary Class "B" (Picnic)
Wholesalers
Wines
Class C Wine
Temporary "Class B" (Picnic)
Wine
Operators
Provisional/Temporary
Replacement Card
Publication Fees
Library Card-Lost Card
Replacement Fee
Collins Room (Lower Level)
Damage Deposit for After hours
Rental Service
Collins Room (Lower Level)
Rental Fee
Fax
Color copies/prints
B&W copies/prints
Municipal Court
See Bond Schedule

RATE

FEE SET BY

AUTHORIZATION

$100 per year
$100 per year
$10 per event and $10 per premises participating in a beer walk,
plus actual cost of background check per officer, non-refundable
$25 per year

Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Res. 6013, 03/22/2016

Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.08.030

Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997

Mun. Code 5.08.030

$100 per year
$10 per event and $10 per premises participating in a wine walk,
plus actual cost of background check per officer, non-refundable
$40 for a two-year period expiring June 30 in the second year, $20
renewal, plus $7 application fee, non-refundable
$10
$5
$30 per liquor license
$2

Ord. 1997-17, 11/25/1997
Res. 6013, 03/22/2016

Mun. Code 5.08.030
Mun. Code 5.08.030

Res. 6013, 03/22/2016

Mun. Code 5.08.140

Res. 4018, 07/23/2002
Res. 6562, 04/13/2021
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Res. 5210, 01/13/2009

Mun. Code 5.08.140
Mun. Code 5.08.140
Wis Stat. §125.04(3)(g)(6)

$100

approved by Library Board
11/2019

$50 lasting four or less hours. $10 for each additional hour

approved by Library Board
11/2019

$.50 per page or side
$.50 per page or side
$.50 per page or side
Res. 5858, 08/12/2014
Res. 7081, 05/12/2026
Res. 5858, 08/12/2014
Res. 7081, 05/12/2026

See Forfeiture Schedule
Police Department
CD/DVD
Flash Drive
Dog Impoundment Fee
Fingerprinting
Paper Service
Parking Fines
Handicapped Parking
Improper, Prohibited, Alternate
Parking, Etc.
Overtime Parking
Parking in Fire Lane
Residential Parking Permit
Violation
Residential Parking Permits

$1 photos and data
Res. 3876, 10/09/2001
$10 per flash drive
Res. 6117, 02/14/2017
$20 1st offense within 1 calendar year; $25 2nd offense within 1 Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
calendar year; $30 3rd offense within 1 calendar year (same animal)
$35
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
$50 per service/$6 for second and subsequent paper service
Res. 4945, 05/08/2007
$50 up to 28 days; $105 (Suspension/Collection) after 28 days
$20 up to 28 days; $75 (Suspension/Collection) after 28 days
$20 up to 28 days; $75 (Suspension/Collection) after 28 days
$50 up to 28 days; $105 (Suspension/Collection) after 28 days
$20 up to 28 days; $75 (Suspension/Collection) after 28 days
Initial permits-no fee; replacement permits $50, transfers $10

Mun. Code 10.08.040
Mun. Code 10.08.050

Mun. Code 6.04.140(D)

Res. 5692, 03/26/2013
Res. 5692, 03/26/2013
Res. 6562, 04/13/2021
Res. 5692, 03/26/2013
Mun. Code 12.06.120
Res. 6562, 04/13/2021
Res. 4945, 05/08/2007

Mun. Code 12.06.130

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
Temporary Handicapped Parking
Permits
Towed and Impound Vehicles
Public Works
Equipment
Mechanical Labor
Public Works Labor
Auto Shop Rate
Supplies to Public Entities
Lawn Mowing/Weed Removal
Snow Shoveling/Ice Removal
Refuse/Recycling Charges
Refuse Collection Fee
CORE Fee
Refuse Tags
Streetlight Special Charge
Single Residential
Multi-residential
Commercial
Industrial
Schools
Parks, Ag, Conservancy
Taxi Service
Senior Citizens over 62
Disabled Persons
Adults under 62
Children 3 thru 17
Children 2 and under

RATE
Free

FEE SET BY
Prior Code § 12.18

AUTHORIZATION
Mun. Code 10.12.040(E)

$50 Administration fee + cost of tow + $10 per day after 72 hours

Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Res. 5684, 02/26/2013

See separate Equipment Fee Schedule
1.5 x Salary + Benefits
1.5 x Salary + Benefits
$80.79/hr. for 2019
Actual cost of supplies plus 10% administration fee
$80 + actual cost
$80 + actual cost

Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Res. 3876, 10/09/2001
Res. 3876, 10/09/2001
Res. 6353, 3/12/2019
Res. 5210, 01/13/2009
Res. 5385, 07/13/2010
Res. 5385, 07/13/2010

Mun. Code 8.40.050
Mun. Code 12.04.030

$21.30 per unit/month
$1.25 per unit/month
$0

Res. 6562, 04/13/2021
Res. 6294, 08/28/2018
Res. 5385, 07/13/2010

Mun. Code 8.36.110(A)
Mun. Code 8.36.110(A)
Mun. Code 8.36.110(A)

$2.00/month (1 REU)
$2.00/month (1 REU)
$8.00/month (4 REU)
$12.00/month (6 REU)
$30.00/month (15 REU)
$30.00/month (15 REU)

Res. 6801, 06/27/2023
Res. 6801, 06/27/2023
Res. 6801, 06/27/2023
Res. 6801, 06/27/2023
Res. 6801, 06/27/2023
Res. 6801, 06/27/2023

Mun. Code 13.26.010
Mun. Code 13.26.010
Mun. Code 13.26.010
Mun. Code 13.26.010
Mun. Code 13.26.010
Mun. Code 13.26.010

Corporate limits $1.50, City limits to 5 mile limit $1.50/mile
Corporate limits $1.50, City limits to 5 mile limit $1.50/mile
Corporate limits $2.75, City limits to 5 mile limit $1.50/mile
Corporate limits $1.25, City limits to 5 mile limit $1.50/mile
Free if accompanied by adult - all areas

Res. 5896, 12/09/2014
Res. 5896, 12/09/2014
Res. 5896, 12/09/2014
Res. 5896, 12/09/2014
Res. 5896, 12/09/2014

Wis Stat. §85.20
Wis Stat. §85.20
Wis Stat. §85.20
Wis Stat. §85.20
Wis Stat. §85.20

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended March 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION

Resolution 6956 3/11/2025

RESIDENT RATES

NON-RESIDENT RATES

$65 / team
Free
$65 / team
$125 / team
$665, $680, $725/ Team
$665, $680, $725/ Team
$415 / team
$415 / team
$330, $295, $245 / Team
$200 / team
$415 / team
Free

$65 / team
Free
$65 / team
$125 / team
$665, $680, $725/ Team
$665, $680, $725/ Team
$415 / team
$415 / team
$330, $295, $245 / Team
$200 / team
$415 / team
Free

$30 / hour
$2.00
$75 for up to 15 Swimmers
Single $50.00, Family (2-4)
$100.00 Family (5-8) $150.00
$3.00

$30 / hour
$3.00
$100 for up to 15 Swimmers
Single $75, Family (2-4) $150
Family (5-8) $200
$4.00

$35.00
$15.00

$50.00
$25.00

Adult Recreation Programs:
Cornhole
Drop-In Tennis
Pickleball
Summer Co-Rec Adult Volleyball
Umpired Adult Men's Softball (based on 8, 10 or 12 team league)
Umpired Adult co-rec Softball (based on 8, 10 or 12 team league)
Umpired Fall Men's Softball
Umpired Fall Adult co-rec Softball
Un-umpired Adult co-rec Softball (based on 8, 10 or 12 team league)
Un-umpired Fall Adult co-rec Softball
Un-umpired Fall Men's Softball
Wednesday Walkers
Glen Park Pool:
Additional Lifeguard
Lap Swimming
Private pool party rentals (one hour swim)
Season pool pass

Swim pass
Hoffman Park Campground:
$5
Additional Guest
$5
$5
Camping Dump Station (free for paid campers)
$5
$30 per night
Hoffman Park RV Camping Fees (electric)
$30 per night
$15 per night
Hoffman Park Tent Camping Fees (non-electric sites on grass)
$15 per night
Campground Cancellation Fee $10 per day , if cancelled at least two days (48 hours) in advance.
Mini-Camps:
CSI Camp (led by RFPD)
Minicamps level 1

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended March 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION

RESIDENT RATES

Resolution 6956 3/11/2025

NON-RESIDENT RATES

$30.00
Minicamps level 2
$20.00
$35.00
Minicamps level 3
$25.00
$45.00
Minicamps level 4
$35.00
$35.00
Sports of All Sorts
$25.00
Shelter Facility Rental:
$45
Open-Air Park Shelter - Half Day
$30
$90
Open-Air Park Shelter – Full Day
$60
$65
Hoffman Park Octagon Shelter – Half Day
$50
$130
Hoffman Park Octagon Shelter – Full Day
$100
$90
Glover School House – Half Day
$75
$180
Glover School House – Full Day
$150
$90
Hoffman Park Storm Shelter – Half Day
$75
$180
Hoffman Park Storm Shelter – Full Day
$150
$140
Glen Park Pavilion – Half Day
$125
$280
Glen Park Pavilion – Full Day
$250
$50 / hour
Shelter Cleaning/Repair Fee (during business hours)
$50 / hour
$150 / hour
Shelter Cleaning/Repair Fee (weekend or after-hours)
$150 / hour
Shelter rentals are subject to a refund, less a $40 cancellation fee for enclosed shelters or $10 for open-air shelters, if cancelled at
least 14 days prior to the reservation. Cancellations made with less than 14 days prior to the reservation are not eligible for a refund.
Field Rentals:
Pickleball Court Rental

$15 / hour

Field Light Usage Fee
Field Reservations

$10 / hour
$30 / hour

Volleyball Court Reservations

$30 / hour

Field and Court Cancellation Fee $15 per day, if cancelled at least two days (48 hours) in advance

$15/ hour
$20 / hour
$10 / hour
$30/ hour
$35 / hour
$30/ hour
$35 / hour

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended March 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION

RESIDENT RATES

Sports and other:
Soccer Camps (spring and summer)
$30
Swimming - Guard Start
$60
Swimming Lessons (PL1-L6)
$40
Swim Lessons Parent/Child
$30
T-Ball (All age groups)
$45
Tennis: Youth
$45
Tennis: Middle School
$75
Flag Football (5&6, 7&8, 9&10 year olds) (meets 4 hours)
$35
Baseball: Fighting Fish Baseball Clinic
Free
Baseball: Cub A / Cub B leagues
$50
Baseball: Pony league
$70
Baseball: Mini-Traveling
$100
Park and Play
$10 per family
Pickleball (Tween & Teen drop-in)
$10
Volleyball (Tween & Teen drop-in)
$10
Wresting with Coach Loomis
$30
Activity cancellation fee - $10 if cancelled at least three days in advance

Resolution 6956 3/11/2025

NON-RESIDENT RATES

$45
$75
$55
$45
$60
$45
$75
$45
Free
$65
$85
$115
$20 per family
$10
$10
$30

Instructors set the fee for activities that are NOT led by seasonal Parks & Rec staff. Examples: Cheer & Stunt, Dance, Flag Football, Fly Fishing,
Youth Golf, Ladies Golf, Pickleball 101, Sing/Play/Learn Music, Youth and Middle School Tennis, Track & Field, and Theatre. *Recreation keeps $10
per registration.

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
RATE
FEE SET BY
AUTHORIZATION
Building Code
Building Permit Fees - New Construction,
Estimated Building Cost must represent a reasonable Res. 3179, 04/14/1998 Mun. Code 15.04.030(J)2
Alterations, Additions, and Repairs
value which includes both labor and materials. If only the
materials cost is presented, the City will determine the
total Estimated Building Cost by multiplying the material
value by 1.5.
$1.00 to $500.00
$22.50
$501.00 to $2,000.00
$22.50 for the first $500 plus $3 for each additional $100,
or fraction thereof, to and including $2,000
$2,001.00 to $25,000.00
$67.50 for the first $2,000 plus $13.50 for each additional
$1,000, or fraction thereof, to and including $25,000
$25,001.00 to $50,000.00
$378 for the first $25,000 plus $9.75 for each additional
$1,000, or fraction thereof, to and including $50,000
$50,001.00 to $100,000.00
$621.75 for the first $50,000 plus $6.75 for each additional
$1,000, or fraction thereof, to and including $100,000
$100,001.00 to $500,000.00
$959.25 for the first $100,000 plus $5.25 for each
additional $1,000, or fraction thereof, to and including
$500,000
$500,001.00 to $1,000,000.00
$3,059.25 for the first $500,000 plus $4.50 for each
additional $1,000, or fraction thereof, to and including
$1,000,000
$1,000,001.00 and up
$5,309.25 for the first $1,000,000 plus $3.00 for each
additional $1,000, or fraction thereof
Demolition (Razing) Permit
$135
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 15.04.040(C)
Moving Permit
$435
Res. 4157, 05/13/2003 Mun. Code 15.04.080(G)
Plan Check Fee
$100
Res. 3179, 04/14/1998 Mun. Code 15.04.030(J)3
Plan Review Fee
Included in Building Permit Fee
Res. 3179, 04/14/1998 Mun. Code 15.04.030(J)3
State Seal
$33 for new single-family homes only
Res. 5544, 12/13/2011
Actual cost
Voluntary Inspection
$100
Res. 5385, 07/13/2010 Mun. Code 15.04.030(J)5
Plumbing Code - Plumbing Permits
Included in Building Permit Fee
Prior Code § 15.04
Mun. Code 15.08.040
Plumbing Inspection
$75 per hour
Res. 4572, 07/26/2005 Mun. Code 15.08.030(F)
Prior Code § 16.05
Mun. Code 15.12.040
Electric Code - Electric Permits
Included in Building Permit Fee
Housing Code - Rental Dwelling Unit
New Rental Dwelling
Inspection Fee

$10
$100

Res. 5385, 07/13/2010 Mun. Code 15.16.110(F)
Res. 5385, 07/13/2010 Mun. Code 15.16.110(I)

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION

RATE

FEE SET BY

AUTHORIZATION

Non-Residential
Impact Fees - Park/Fire/Library Facilities
Per
Single Family
Multi-Family
Improvement
Per Dwelling
Per Dwelling
Sq. Ft.
Park Facilities
Ord. 2002-17,
Mun. Code 14.12.080
$577.28
$463.96
$0.23
Ord. 2003-22,
Mun. Code 14.16.080
Library Facilities
08/12/2003
$352.09
$352.09
N/A
Fire Facilities
$345.71
$277.85
$0.03
Ord. 2002-17,
Mun. Code 14.12.080
Fees based on 70 REU, Equivalent Meters (5/8" & 3/4"
Impact Fees - Water/Sewer
Res. 5883, 10/24/2014 Mun. Code 14.08.060 Meter Size
Ratio
Water Impact Sewer Connection
Total Fee
3/4"
Res. 5883, 10/24/2014 Mun. Code 14.04.060 1
$2,454
$1,724
$4,178
1"
Updated to CPI 1/1/21
2.5
$6,138
$4,312
$10,450
1 1/2"
5
$12,276
$8,622
$20,898
2"
8
$19,642
$13,794
$33,436
3"
15
$36,829
$25,864
$62,693
4"
25
$61,381
$43,077
$104,458
6"
50
$122,764
$86,215
$208,979
8" or larger
80
$196,423
$137,945
$334,368
Irrigation meters greater than 1" will pay impact fees based on the size of the water meter(s) required.
Planning Department
Annexation
All capital costs and capital costs study to be borne by Ord. 2008-36,
Mun. Code 19.100.030
property owners petitioning annexation
12/09/2008
Annexation Review Fee (City)
Board of Appeals - City

$520 initial filing fee; plus $2,800 10 acres or less; $4,000 Res. 5057, 12/11/2007
10.01-50 acres; $5,500 10.01-100 acres; $7,500 100+
acres $1,275 multifamily and Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code
$670 single family residences;
non-residential

Board of Appeals - ETZ

17.104.030(F)(1)

$1,650

Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 17.108.180

Certified Survey Map (including Condos)

$750, up to 4 lots within or outside the City

Res. 4945, 05/08/2007 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)

Minor Subdivisions
Certified Survey Map - Appeals
Downtown Design Review Committee
Fence Permit
Home Occupation Permit
Land Management Plan Approval Managed Natural Landscaping

See Certified Survey Map fees
$1,450
$150
$50
$50
N/A

Mun. Code 16.04.040(E)
Res. 4945, 05/08/2007 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)
Res. 5601, 05/08/2012 Mun. Code 17.68.080
Res. 6562, 04/13/2021 Mun. Code 17.08.070
Res. 5601, 05/08/2012 Mun. Code
Ord. 2004-12,
Mun. Code 8.40.060(E)
07/27/2004

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

FEE DESCRIPTION
Park Land Dedication Fee

Planned Unit Developments (PUDs)
General Development Plan (PUD)
Specific Development Plan (PUD)
Planning/Admin Costs (General Plan
Review)
Plats (Including Condo plats)
Preliminary Plat
Reapplication Fee - Preliminary Plat
Final Plat
Reapplication Fee - Final Plat
Sign Permits
Real Estate Sign Recovery Fee
Special Sign Permits

RATE
FEE SET BY
AUTHORIZATION
$780 per residential unit; commercial/industrial: $1,000 up Res. 5544, 12/13/2011 Mun. Code 16.20.010
to 5,000 sq. ft. gross floor area, plus $100 for each
additional 1,000 sq. ft. gross floor area
$3,875 (If submitted as a preliminary plat, the preliminary Res. 6562, 04/13/2021 Mun. Code 17.72.070(A)
plat fee holds and the GDP fee is waived)
$4,150 (If submitted as a final plat, the final plat fee holds Res. 6562, 04/13/2021 Mun. Code 17.72.080(A)
and the SIP fee is waived)
Base Fee $100 + $50 per hour
Res. 4945, 05/08/2007

$5,950 for 5-50 lots; $8,925 50+ lots
$6,350 Major; $1,925 Minor
$7,750 for 5-50 lots; $10,725 for 50+ lots
$1,150
$62 plus $10 for each additional / Fee doubled without a
$5
$1,235

Mun. Code 16.08.010(E)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 16.08.030(E)
Res. 5684, 02/26/2013 Mun. Code 17.84.070(B)
Ord. 2005-26,
Mun. Code
Res. 5116, 04/22/2008 Mun. Code 17.84.060(D)

Temporary Sign Permit
Site Plan Review
Special Use Permit
Bed and Breakfast - Annual Permit
Off Street Parking Facilities
ETZ Special Use Permit
ETZ Special Use Permit - Mining
(Business)

$25
$1,775
$2,060
$50
$1,975
$2,060
0-1,000 c.y. $25; 1,001-25,000 c.y. $100; 25,001-50,000
c,y. $250; 50,000-250,000 c.y. $500; 250,000+ c.y.
$1,000; Grading/restoration plans required plus City
Engineer review at current billable rate

Res. 5601, 05/08/2012 Mun. Code 17.84.70(B)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code
Prior Code § 21.18(4) Mun. Code 17.20.040(J)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code 17.80.010(C)
Res. 6468, 04/28/2020 Mun. Code 17.108
Res. 3077, 09/09/1997 Mun. Code Ch. 17.108

ETZ Special Use Permit - Small wind
Street Vacations
Zoning Verification Letter Request

Fee to be determined (separate discussion)
$2,640
$50

Ord. 2007-18, 07/10/2007
Mun. Code Ch.
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Wis. Stat. §66.1003
Mun, Code 12.104.050
(B)(1)
Res. 4516, 04/26/2005 Mun. Code
Res. 6468, 04/28/2020 Mun. Code 17.104

Zoning and Plan Amendments
Zoning Violation

$2,270
$25 or no more than $200. Each day a violation is
continued shall be construed to be a separate offense.

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended June, 2025
FEE DESCRIPTION
Electric Utility Rates
Residential Service

Residential Service - Time of Day

General Service

General Service - Time of Day

Small Power Service - Time of Day

RATE
Single-phase Customer Charge: $14.00 per month
Three-phase Customer Charge: $19.00 per month
Non-Standard Meter Charge (NSM-1) $24.40
Energy Charge:
Standard Rate: $0.1257 per kilowatt-hour (kWh)
PCAC: Varies Monthly
Single Phase Customer Charge: $14.00 per month
Three Phase Customer Charge: $19.00 per month
Energy Charge :
On-Peak Rate: $0.2065 per kWh
Off-Peak Rate: $0.0815 per kWh
PCAC: Varies Monthly
Single Phase Customer Charge: $16.00 per month
Three Phase Customer Charge: $21.00 per month
Energy Charge:
Standard Rate: $0.1282 per kilowatt-hour (kWh)
PCAC: Varies Monthly
Single Phase Customer Charge: $16.00 per month
Three Phase Customer Charge: $21.00 per month
Energy Charge:
On-Peak Rate: $0.2075 per kWh
Off-Peak Rate: $0.0825 per kWh
PCAC: Varies Monthly
Customer Charge: $50.00
Energy Charge:
On-peak Rate: $0.0900 per kWh
Off-peak Rate: $0.0689 per kWh
Demand Charge: $8.50 per kW of on-peak billed demand
Distribution Demand Charge: $2.00 per kW
PCAC: Varies Monthly

Large Power Time-of-Day Service

Customer Charge $200.00
Demand Charge $9.50 per kW of on-peak billed demand
Energy Charge:
On Peak Rate $0.0890 per kWh
Off-peak Rate $0.0583 per kWh
Distribution Demand Charge: $2.50 per kW of distribution demand
PCAC: Varies Monthly

Large General Service

Customer Charge: $30.00
Demand Charge: $4.50 per kW of on-peak billed demand
Distribution Demand Charge: $1.25 per kW of distribution demand
Energy Charge:
On-Peak Rate: $0.1095 per kWh
Off-Peak Rate: $0.0890 per kWh
PCAC: Varies Monthly

FEE SET BY
Electric Rate Tariff
Effective 6/2/2025

AUTHORIZATION
River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended June, 2025
FEE DESCRIPTION
Industrial Power Time-of-Day
Service

Electric Late Payment Charge
Street Lighting
Area Lighting
Electric Department
Electric Primary Extension
Electric System Relocation
Permanent Electric Service
Temporary Electric Service
Winter Lateral Fee
Environmental Utility

Water Utility Rates
Monthly Service Charge - Meter
Size
3/4" or smaller
Non-Standard Meter (NSM)
Charge
1”
1 1/4”
1 1/2”
2”
3”
4”
6”
8”
10”
12”
Volume Charge
First 4,000 gallons
Next 4,000 gallons
Over 8,000 gallons
Volume Charge
All water used, per 1,000 gallons
Volume Charge
First 15,000 gallons
Next 135,000 gallons
Over 150,000 gallons
Volume Charge
All water used, per 1,000 gallons
Bulk Water Charge

RATE
Customer Charge $225.00
Demand Charge $10.00 per kW of On-peak billed demand
Energy Charge:
On-peak Rate: $0.0866 per kWh
Off-peak Rate: $0.0566 per kWh
Distribution Demand Charge: $2.75 per kW of distribution demand
PCAC Varies Monthly
A charge of no more than 1 percent per month will be added to bills
not paid within 20 days from date of issuance.
Based on size of lamp
Based on size of lamp

FEE SET BY
Electric Rate Tariff

MS-1 Amendment No. 83
MS-2 to MS-4 Amendment
No.83

River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

See Public Service Commission Rules
See Public Service Commission Rules
0 up to 150' - Residential service
$180 (+tax)
$250 (+tax)
Current Fees $0.00 for all Residential, Commercial, Industrial,
Health Care, School with Housing, and School without housing
customers.

Public Service Commission

PSC 113.1001 (updated May 2019)

Electric Rate Tariff
Utility Policy
Utility Policy
Res. 4891, 01/27/2007
Amended by Res. 6782,
05/24/2023

River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

General Service Meter
$8.90

Irrigation Service Meter
$8.90

$22.31

$22.31

$14.70
$14.70
$20.00
$20.00
$25.20
$25.20
$38.30
$38.30
$64.30
$64.30
$99.90
$99.90
$183.80
$183.80
$283.70
$283.70
$415.80
$415.80
$547.90
$547.90
General Service: Residential - Single Family
$1.71 per 1,000 gallons up to 4,000
$2.37 per 1,000 gallons next 4,000
$3.98 per 1,000 gallons over 8,000
General Service: Residential - Multifamily
$2.06 per 1,000 gallons
General Service: Non-Residential
$2.31 per 1,000 gallons up to 15,000
$2.15 per 1,000 gallons next 135,000
$1.87 per 1,000 gallons over 150,000
Irrigation Service
$5.14 per 1,000 gallons
Base Service Charge $40 per application
Volumetric Charge: $2.56 per 1,000 gallons

AUTHORIZATION
River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

Effective 6/2/2025

Res. 6902, 06/25/2024
Water Rate Tariff

River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

Mun. Code 8.16.030

Mun. Code 13.04.050(A)
River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

Effective 2/3/2025

Water Rate Tariff
Effective 2/3/2025

River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended June, 2025
FEE DESCRIPTION
RATE
Public Fire Protection - Meter Size
Residential
3/4” or smaller
1”
1 1/2”
2”
3”
4”
6”
8”
10”
12”
Private Fire Protection
Meter Size
2" inch or smaller connection
3" inch or smaller connection
4" inch or smaller connection
6" inch or smaller connection
8" inch or smaller connection
10" inch or smaller connection
12" inch or smaller connection
14" inch or smaller connection
16" inch or smaller connection
Water Department
Building Water Permits
Private Hydrant Flushing (Annual)
Security System
Water Assessment
Well Operation Permit
Water Late Payment Charge
Sewer Utility Rates
3/4" or smaller
1”
1-1/2”
2”
3”
4”
6”
Mobile Home - 1”
Mobile Home - 3”
Volume Charge
Surcharge - Flow
Surcharge - BOD
Surcharge - TSS
Surcharge - Phosphorus
Surcharge - NH3-N
Sewer Department
Building Sewer Permits
Hauled Waste
Holding Tank

$7.91
$19.78
$39.55
$63.29
$118.66
$197.77
$395.53
$632.85
$949.28
$1,265.70

FEE SET BY
Multifamily

Commercial

Industrial

Public Authority

$4.90
$12.25
$24.50
$39.20
$73.49
$122.49
$244.97
$391.95
$587.93
$783.91

$8.63
$21.57
$43.13
$69.01
$129.39
$215.65
$431.30
$690.08
$1,035.12
$1,380.16

$19.08
$47.71
$95.41
$152.66
$286.23
$477.05
$954.11
$1,526.57
$2,289.85
$3,053.14

$31.11
$77.77
$155.54
$248.86
$466.61
$777.69
$1,555.38
$2,488.61
$3,732.92
$4,977.22

Monthly Service Demand Charges
$12.90
$24.20
$40.30
$80.50
$128.80
$193.20
$281.70
$321.90
$434.50
Included in Water-Sewer Connection Fees
$85
$120
Installation, admin, engineering costs, interest at 1% over City
borrowing costs
$25
A late payment charge of 1 percent per month
Monthly Service Charge
$17.60
$67.60
$84.80
$136.00
$216.20
$325.80
$617.50
$38.00
$366.00
$7.04 per 1,000 gallons
$7.04 per 1,000 gallons
$0.43 per pound
$0.58 per pound
$13.34 per pound
$1.72/lb
Included in Water-Sewer Connection Fees
$112.78 per 1,000 gallons + $63.49
$9.14 per 1,000 gallons

Res. 6902, 06/25/2024
Water Rate Tariff
Effective 2/3/2025

Water Rate Tariff
Effective 2/3/2025

AUTHORIZATION
Mun. Code 13.04.050(A)
River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

River Falls Municipal Utility (5110)

Utility Policy
Utility Policy

Res. 3077, 09/09/1997
Water Rate Tariff
Res. 6922, 11/12/2024
Effective 1/1/2025

Mun. Code 13.20.030
River Falls Municipal Utility
(5110)
Mun. Code 13.04.050(B)

Prior code § 13.07

Mun. Code 13.12.040(B)(3)

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended June, 2025
FEE DESCRIPTION
Stormwater Utility
Stormwater Management Permit Fee

Small Site Stormwater Management Fee
Storm Water Utility Rate Structure
Property
Land Use
Class
0 Maintained Open Space
1 Residential
2 Medium Density Residential
3 Commercial
4 Industrial
5 Public/Quasi-Public (University)
6 Office/Service/Churches
7 City Property, developed
8 Parks/Open Space
9 Agriculture
10 Road, Lakes and Rivers
TOTAL

RATE

FEE SET BY

AUTHORIZATION

0-10 acres, $1,000 + $100 /acre; 10.01-100 acres, $1,500 +
$55/acre; 100.01+ acres, $6,000 + $10/acre (A financial guarantee
will also be required)

Res. 6013, 03/22/2016

Mun. Code 12.16.050(A)

Res. 4891, 01/27/2007

Mun. Code 13.24.050

$500
Adjacent
Surface
Areas
(Acres)

Residential
Equivalent
Factor (REF)
(1)

730
256
176
388
397
12
99
311
71
598
99
3137

1.00
1.30
2.22
2.72
3.30
3.74
4.23
Exempt
Exempt
Exempt
Exempt

Monthly Cost
Per Acre

Per Household

$2.64
$15.54
$20.24
$34.45
$42.22
$51.28
$58.11
$65.71

$3.14
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

EQUIPMENT
Salt Brine
Aerial Lift (JLG)

Unit Rate
$ / HR.
.40
0.42
$50

Labor Rate
$ / HR

Total Rate
$/HR

per gallon, w/minimum of 100 gallons

Aerial Lift (Scissor)

$40

Pick-Up

$35

1-Yd Dump

$35

5-Yd Dump, Snow Plow, Wing, Sander

$75

5-Yd Dump

$45

Air Compressor

$45

Anti-Icing unit including Pickup

$55

Bunker Rake

$35

Cat Loader 3-1/2 Yd

$100

Cat Loader with Snow Blower

$125

Delivery Fee

$95

$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$0

Garbage Barrels or Cones

$3

$0

$3

Garbage Barrels
Cones
Hazardous Waste Disposal
John Deere Loader 3-Yd

$10
$3
$25
$70

John Deere Loader with Plow and Wing

$125

John Deere 6' Mower

$55

John Deere with Broom or Blower

$45

Motor Grader

$100

Motor Grader with wing

$100

Tymco Sweeper

$100

Picnic Tables

$10
$15
$100

$0
$0
$0
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$0

$10
$3
$25
$130
$135
$185
$190
$115
$120
$105
$110
$160
$165
$160
$165
$160
$165
$10
$15
$160
$165

Quad Axle Dump Truck

Notes

$60
$65

$110
$115
$100
$105
$95
$100
$95
$100
$135
$140
$105
$110
$105
$110
$115
$120
$95
$100
$160
$165
$185
$190
$95

$25/ton for sand or salt w/minimum of $25 charged

Includes drop off and pick up (for Barricades,
Picnic Tables, garbage barrels, and small
equipment)
Per Day (Loaded by renter)
per yard, 2 yard minimum

Per Day (Loaded by renter)

City of River Falls Fee Schedule
Amended November, 2025

EQUIPMENT
Skid Loader

Unit Rate
$75

Skid Loader with Blower

$85

Staff Time

$0

Striper Ball Field, rider

$35

Striper Streets, walk behind

$35

Telehandler

$75

Tractor/Loader/Backhoe

$60

Toro Wide Area Mower

$60

Toro with Broom

$70

Bobcat Toolcat

$60

Bobcat Toolcat with attachment

$75

Tractor-Kubota

$60

Tractor with 2-Section Flail Mower

$85

Tractor with Sprayer

$75

Trailers
Brush Chipper

$35
$85

Vac-Tron

$75

Concrete Mixer with trailer

$25

Concrete Saw

$15

Misc. Small Equipment (push mowers, weed whips, trimmers,
snowblower, striper)
Barricades
Sand, gravel, crushed rock, salt, salt/sand

$15
$10
$0

Labor Rate
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$0
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$60
$65
$0
$60
$65

Total Rate
$/HR
$135
$140
$145
$150
$60
$65
$95
$100
$95
$100
$135
$140
$120
$125
$120
$125
$130
$135
$120
$125
$135
$140
$120
$125
$155
$160
$135
$140
$35
$145
$150
$135
$140
$85
$90
$75
$80
$75
$80
$10
$60
$65

Notes

+ Materials
+ Towing Unit
+ Mowing Unit + Labor

+ Tow unit labor & materials ; + 15%
Per Lineal Foot
+ Materials
Per Day (Loaded by renter)
City Cost + 10% Handling Fee

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION AMENDING THE CITY’S FEE SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls has established a comprehensive schedule for all City fees
and charges; and
WHEREAS, the fee schedule needs to be amended from time-to-time to incorporate changes in
certain fees and practices; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Council to approve these fee changes per the attached
schedule; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of River Falls
hereby approves the attached Fee Schedule and it is hereby put into full force and effect.
Dated this 10th day of November 2026.

ATTEST:

Amy White, City Clerk

Alison H. Page, Mayor

4
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Amy Peterson, Community Development Director
Emily Shively, Assistant Director of Community Development

DATE:

November 10, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN FOR THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Approve a resolution approving the public participation plan for the comprehensive plan
amendment.
INTRODUCTION
The City of River Falls is given authority through State Statutes to execute long range planning
efforts to ensure orderly growth and development, the efficient and sustainable extension of public
infrastructure (roads, water, sewer), and the preservation of natural resources. There are two
main components of this authority: the development of zoning and subdivision regulations to
manage growth activities and the adoption of a Comprehensive Plan to guide the ordinances.
The City executes this authority outside City boundaries via the Comprehensive Plan (§66.1001),
the Official Map (§62.23(6)), subdivision ordinances (§236.45), and zoning ordinances
(§62.23(7)).
As part of the process to modify the City’s extraterritorial authority, the Comprehensive Plan
Future Land Use Map will need to be amended. On November 4, 2026 the Plan Commission
unanimously approved forwarding the amended extraterritorial jurisdiction ordinance as well as
the Comprehensive Plan Amendments to City Council on November 24 and December 8, 2026.
This memo focuses on the required Public Participation Plan (PPP) amendment as part of the
Comprehensive Plan updates.
BACKGROUND
Section 66.1001(4)(a) of the Statutes requires that the governing body adopt written public
participation procedures, designed to “foster public participation, including open discussion,
communication programs, information services, and public meetings for which advance notice
has been provided, in every stage of the preparation of a comprehensive plan.” Proposed plan
elements must be widely distributed, and opportunities must be provided for written comments to
be submitted by the public to the governing body. A procedure for the governing body to respond
to those comments must also be identified. Public participation procedures must also be adopted
for amendments to a comprehensive plan. A plan update is considered a plan amendment.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
November 10, 2026
Page 2
DISCUSSION
In order to facilitate public knowledge and involvement in the Comprehensive Planning Process,
the City of River Falls has prepared the following Public Participation Plan. Public participation
helps to ensure that the Comprehensive Plan accurately reflects the needs, opportunities and
desires of our community. The outline below includes the procedures that will be used in the
Comprehensive Planning Process to foster public participation, and to ensure that there are
opportunities for public participation at every stage of the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan
amendment.
GOALS OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
The major goals of the Public Participation Plan are as follows:
• Provide opportunities for the residents and stakeholders of the city of River Falls to
participate in the Comprehensive Planning Process.
• Meet the standards set forth in Section 66.1001(4)(a), Wisconsin Statutes.
• Establish a formalized and recorded framework for public participation.
• Establish a plan that will implement the goals and vision of the City.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION STRATEGY AND METHODS
The public participation strategy provides a timeline, outlines notification methods and identifies
how to submit written comments.
Timeline
The timeline is project specific. It provides an approximate timeframe and a description of the key
events and opportunities for public participation. The exact dates are subject to revision as the
planning process unfolds.
• Plan Commission Meeting and Public Hearings: November 4, 2026
• City Council Meeting: November 10, 2026
• City Council Meeting and Public Hearings: November 24, 2026
• City Council Meeting and Public Hearings: December 8, 2026
Website
Plan Commission and City Council agenda’s are posted on the City website approximately five
days before the meeting.
In-Person and Virtual Meetings
All members of the public are invited to attend the aforementioned meetings in person. Public
comments may be provided orally or in writing. Said meetings are also live streamed via YouTube
for residents to watch.
Notification Methods
All meetings on the Comprehensive Plan will be open to the public. The City of River Falls posts
notice of all meetings at City Hall and on the City’s Website in accordance with Chapter 985.02(2)
of the Wisconsin Statutes. Notifications are also published in the newspaper of record. Meeting
agendas are posted at City Hall.
Written Comments
Written comments will be collected both electronically and on paper throughout the
comprehensive plan amendment process. Written and electronic comments should be directed

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
November 10, 2026
Page 3
to the Community Development Department at 222 Lewis St, River Falls, WI 54022 or emailed to
[email protected]. City staff will respond to the written comments within 10 business days by
acknowledging that the comment has been received, shared and considered for the final plan.
PLAN ADOPTION PROCESS
When complete, a draft plan will be available at the River Falls City Hall and on the City of River
Falls website. At least 30 days before the public hearing, written notice of when and where the
Comprehensive Plan amendment can be inspected and how a copy of the amendment can be
obtained will be sent to all the relevant parties as specified in Chapter 66.1001(4) of the Wisconsin
Statutes. Additionally, written notice will be sent to every governmental body that is located in
whole or part within the boundaries of the City of River Falls and the clerk of every local
governmental unit that is adjacent to the City of River Falls. The City published a class one notice
at least 30 days prior to the public hearing. The notice included the date, time, and place of the
public hearing; a summary; the name of an individual employed by the local governmental unit
who may provide additional information regarding the proposed ordinance; information relating to
where and when the draft plan or amendment may be inspected before the hearing; and how a
copy of the draft plan or amendment may be obtained.
A public hearing will be held in accordance with Wisconsin Statues 66.1001(4)(d) prior to City
Council approval of the draft plan. Subsequent to the public hearing and on the recommendation
from the Plan Commission, the City Council will enact an ordinance adopting the Comprehensive
Plan amendment. The City of River Falls will send one copy of the adopted Comprehensive Plan
amendment to all of the following: every governmental body that is located in whole or part within
the boundaries of the City of River Falls, the clerk of every local governmental unit that is adjacent
to the City of River Falls, the Wisconsin Department of Administration, and the Regional Planning
Commission. In accordance with Wisconsin Statutes section 66.1001(4)(a), the comprehensive
plan amendment will not affect the allowable use or intensity of use of property for the extracting
of nonmetallic mineral resources.
CONCLUSION
As part of the process to modify the City’s extraterritorial authority, the Comprehensive Plan
Future Land Use Map will need to be amended. State Statute requires a PPP for creation and
amendments of the Comprehensive Plan and thus the PPP for the upcoming Comprehensive
Plan amendment is included above in this memo.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN FOR THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
WHEREAS, on March 28, 2023, the Common Council of the City of River Falls adopted the Focus
River Falls Comprehensive Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.1001(4); and
WHEREAS, Wis. Stat. § 66.1001(4) establishes the required procedures by which the City of
River Falls may amend the Plan; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.1001(4)(b), the City of River Falls Plan Commission has
the authority to recommend amendments to the Plan to the Common Council; and
WHEREAS, the Plan Commission has recommended to the Common Council the need to amend
the Plan to expand the area within which the City exercises its extraterritorial plat approval
jurisdiction and ensure the Plan is consistent with the City’s subdivision ordinances; and
WHEREAS, public participation provides opportunities for members of the River Falls community
and stakeholders to participate in democratic decision-making processes and public input will be
considered in the plan amendment; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council of the City of River Falls
approve the Public Participation Plan for the River Falls Comprehensive Plan amendment.
Dated this 10th day of November, 2026.
FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS

______________________________
Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

_______________________________
Amy White, City Clerk

6
Administrator’s Report
November 24, 6:30 p.m. – Council Meeting
December 8, 6:30 p.m. – Council Meeting

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ensure sustained (re)development of the city from the prospect stage through construction
• Brookgreen – Occupancy granted for Buildings 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10 and Clubhouse. Buildings 7-9 are
under construction.
• Oak Hill – 1 permit issued, 1 CO issued.
• The Preserve – 4 permits issued, 2 COs issued.
• Thompson Heights – 0 permits issued, 0 COs issued.
• Wildflower Meadows – 4 permits issued
Permit Type
Building Permits
New Home Permits

BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED
Permit Value
OCTOBER
YTD
OCTOBER
28
247
$3,713,650
9
76
$2,505,000

Permit Value
YTD
$53,580,500
$19,611,000

Kinnickinnic River Corridor Plan Phase I
• Senator Baldwin included the Kinni Corridor Project design funding in her list for 2027 congressionally
directed spending initiatives. We’ll know more later this year if it advances.
Glen Park Swinging Bridge Rehabilitation
• The Glen Park Swinging Bridge is scheduled for rehabilitation in 2027. Construction plans and
specifications were developed, and the project is currently out for bid with an anticipated council review
and authorization on January 12th. Pending council approval, construction would begin on June 7th,
after River Falls High School Graduation, and be completed by November 2027
Glen Park Phase II
• Staff is working to determine next steps for implementing Phase 2 of the Glen Park Master Plan.
Innovation Center Expansion
• In September 2026, the City and River Falls Economic Development Corporation was awarded a
$2,195,204 grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to expand the Innovation
Center.
Conservation and Parks Division
• Construction of the pocket park in the Wildflower Meadows development is now complete. The parklet
includes a tot-lot play structure, swing set, and seating area.
• Staff submitted for the 2027 Urban Forestry Grant through the Wisconsin Department of Natural
resources. The proposed project amount is $50,088.00, with Staff requesting $25,000 in grant funding.
The proposal includes planting of 190 new trees and arboretum-style signage for DeSanctis Park.
Locust Street design
• Roadway design is ongoing and expected to be completed in 2026 and bid for construction in 2027. The
project will provide a looped watermain connection to the Oak Hill subdivision and a roadway and multiuse trail connection from Apollo Road to West Locust Street (adjacent to the School District Bus Garage).
The project is anticipated to go before Council upon design completion to request authorization to
proceed with the project.

Stewardship of Public Infrastructure
• The 2026 Mill and Overlay project was completed in September. City staff prepared a grant application
and the City was awarded a Wisconsin Local Roads Improvement Grant for $50,000 to support this
project.
• The proposed “Creamery at Cedar” project has public sanitary sewer installed in easements across the
site that was scheduled for replacement in 2027. To minimize costs to replace the sanitary sewer after
completion of The Creamery, the River Falls Wastewater Utility will be replacing the segment of sanitary
sewer located on The Creamery site in 2026. This work was approved by City Council at its October 13
meeting and is expected to start in November and last approximately two weeks.
Mapping
• Map of available sites for development
• Map of active development projects map

POLICE DEPARTMENT
Training
• October 7 – In-House Training – Ofc Austin, Ofc Fairbairn, Ofc Hoffman, Ofc Horn, Ofc R Miller, Ofc
Perronne, Ofc Sather, Ofc Zupanc, Inv R Miller, Sgt Bangert, Sgt Dohmeier, Sgt Rudesill, DC Kennett
• October 13 – Tech Bikes-OneDrive – Tricia Traynor
• October 19-23 – Advanced Traffic Law – Ofc Fleischhacker
• October 19 – Threat Evaluation and Reporting Overview – Ofc Amaro
• October 20 – Property Room and Evidence Management Basic – Ofc M Miller
• October 21 - Property Room and Evidence Management Advanced – Ofc M Miller
• October 21 – ERU Training – Ofc Fairbairn, Ofc Amaro, Sgt Rudesill, Sgt Walker
• October 24-27 – IACP Conference – DC Kennett
• October 26-28 – Mental Health & Wellness – Sgt Bangert, Sgt Rudesill
• October 26 – Safety Manual Refresher – Tricia Traynor, Ailene Splittgerber
• October 27 – Safety Manual Refresher – Kim Fischer
• October 28 – Breakthroughs for the Law Enforcement Officer – Ofc Pedersen, Ofc Perronne, Ofc
Sather
• October 28 – Public Secor Town Hall: Public Records Under Pressure – Kim Fischer, Tricia Traynor,
Ailene Splittgerber
• October 29 – Reducing Organizational Stress in Law Enforcement – Sgt Dohmeier, Sgt Rudesill
• October 30 – Breakthroughs for the Law Enforcement Officer – Ofc M Miller, Ofc Horo

FIRE DEPARTMENT
Run Volume
In October 2026, we responded to a total of 42 calls for service, which compares to 34 calls for the same
period in 2025. Year to date: 2026 = 348 calls; 2025 = 316 calls.
Activities/Highlights
• Completed Annual Fire Safety Education Program in River Falls Elementary Schools
o Completed our annual fire safety education program, reaching students from Pre-K through 5th
grade at each River Falls elementary school. The program provides age-appropriate fire
prevention and safety education and remains one of our department’s most important community
outreach efforts.
• Celebrated National First Responder Day
o Received some great community support and appreciation in recognition of National First
Responder Day:
 River Falls Chamber of Commerce and Quinn Motors of Ellsworth delivered doughnuts.
 Our House Senior Living dropped off a goody basket.
 The Moose Lodge hosted first responders for a complimentary meal.

We appreciate these organizations taking the time to recognize and support our local first
responders.
Participated in Community Halloween Activities
o Participated in Luther Memorial Church’s annual Trunk or Treat event.
o Welcomed more than 40 second-grade students who chose to visit the Fire and Police
Departments instead of having a traditional Halloween party. Students enjoyed fire truck tours
and learned about fire safety and other aspects of public safety.
o

•

UTILITIES
Customer Service
• Customer Service staff began the disconnection process by sending disconnection letters on October 8
to 133 residential customers and 8 businesses with a past due balance of $250.00 or more.
• Outbound reminder calls were made to 108 customers on October 14. In addition, 48 text messages
were sent October 16 as a final form of communication prior to disconnection.
• A total of 12 disconnections took place on October 19, with an additional disconnection on October 20
and 2 more on October 26 for failure to pay on a payment arrangement. There were 54 payment
arrangements in place on October 19 to avoid disconnections and provide more time to pay off the past
due utilities balance.
• Customer Service scheduled 40 service requests for the water department. These included new water
meters to be dropped off, water meter exchanges, water turned off for repairs, as well as irrigation
water meters out for the winter season.
• In person absentee voting began on October 20 and ran through the end of the month. This brought in
more foot traffic by about 1900 people.
Water/Wastewater department
• Sewer cleaning and televising is almost completed for the year. The crew has completed 94,000 feet of
100,000 feet goal per year.
• Reminder that the 2026 Consumer Notices must be delivered by December 31, 2026, to all consumers
served by lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR), or lead status unknown (LSU) service lines.
• Residents that have been informing staff about the smell of the wastewater treatment plant were invited
to the plant for a tour. They were shown the new dryer process and provided a tour of the plant.

PROCLAMATION
CRASH RESPONDER SAFETY WEEK
NOVEMBER 16–20, 2026
WHEREAS, Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW) is a national initiative dedicated to protecting emergency
responders and the public from the dangers associated with traffic incidents; and
WHEREAS, Wisconsin's first responders including law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical
services personnel, transportation and highway workers, and towing and recovery professionals—work tirelessly
to respond to traffic incidents, provide assistance, and keep Wisconsin's roadways safe; and
WHEREAS, these professionals put their lives at risk each time they respond to an incident on or near a roadway
and face the danger of being struck and injured in a secondary crash; and
WHEREAS, every driver has a responsibility to help protect roadway responders by remaining alert, reducing
speed, changing lanes when safe to do so, and following Wisconsin's Move Over Law; and
WHEREAS, the 2026 Crash Responder Safety Week theme, “Move Over or Slow Down, Lives Are on the Line,”
reminds motorists that simple, responsible driving decisions can save lives; and
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls recognizes the dedication and service of its police officers, firefighters,
emergency medical personnel, public works and transportation employees, towing professionals, and all other
responders who work to protect our community; and
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls encourages all motorists to exercise caution around traffic incidents and to
do their part to ensure every responder has the opportunity to return home safely.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Alison H. Page, Mayor of the City of River Falls, do hereby
proclaim November 16–20, 2026, as CRASH RESPONDER SAFETY WEEK in the City of River Falls and
encourage all residents and motorists to Move Over or Slow Down, Lives Are on the Line.
Given under my hand and seal of the City of River Falls this 10th day of November, 2026.

ATTEST:
Amy White, City Clerk

Alison H. Page, Mayor