City Council Meeting for September 23, 2024

The City Council of International Falls, Minnesota, convened to address an urgent property issue and to discuss the preliminary budget and tax levy for 2025. The council reviewed an emergency situation involving a property at 1029 9th Street, where severe foundation damage necessitated opening bids for demolition. Two bids were received, with the council approving the low bid of $8,899 for demolition, and authorized filing for demolition on October 4th. Additionally, the council received a detailed overview of the 2025 preliminary budget, which initially projected a 14.99% tax levy increase but was reduced to 8% after budget adjustments, including cuts to airport funding. The council adopted the preliminary tax levy resolution and set a final budget and levy input meeting for December 2, 2024. The meeting highlighted the council's focus on responsible fiscal management and timely response to public safety concerns related to property maintenance.