River Falls Utility Advisory Board 8/17/26

The City of River Falls Utility Advisory Board met on August 17, 2026, to discuss several utility-related issues including a critical manhole repair project and water quality testing results. The board reviewed a sole bid from Total, a local contractor, to repair a damaged manhole located near the hydro dam on Winter Street. Due to the challenging location and environmental sensitivities, the board agreed to proceed with the single bid as the most practical and cost-effective option, approving the associated resolution. Additionally, the board received the 2026 DNR annual drinking water testing report, which showed no detectable contaminants, reassuring the safety of the community's water supply. Financial reports were also discussed, highlighting the utility's budget management, cash reserves, and the payment in lieu of taxes to the city's general fund. The board emphasized ongoing efforts to promote energy efficiency programs and green energy blocks to residents. No new contracts or RFPs were announced, but the approval of the manhole repair contract and budget discussions were key procurement-related actions during the meeting.