International Falls mayor discusses efficiencies in State of the City address

The mayor of International Falls believes city council could consider how the city might operate differently.

Drake Dill made his first State of the City address since his election as mayor last fall.

He outlined several areas that would be worth further discussion, including parks and recreation, city administration, police and the fire department.

He says his intent is not to cause fear and division within the community.

“The intent of addressing these items is that perhaps it’s an opportune time to address the future needs of our community and how we can thrive sustainably while we face a continued decline in local population,” says Dill.

He emphasizes that any change has to be done with research, vision, and thoughtfulness.

Dill is concerned with the city’s spending.

The 2024 audit showed the city outspent its budgeted expenditures by $1.3 million.

The city did benefit from revenues exceeding $656,000.

Dill also spoke about its ambulance service.

He says its deficit could reach $3 million next year.

“The city-owned ambulance service has never gone over its budget, but has suffered greatly in collecting its receivables as Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement rates for this type of service have not changed in 35 or 40 years,” says Dill.

There are efforts to have a countywide tax applied to help the service.

Discussions are continuing with Koochiching County and the city of Rainer.

Dill did urge area residents to help lobby for the taxing district.

“Without a taxing district, it is very possible that the City may have to cease service as a result of the situation that we’re in.”

Dill says the city has completed or started several projects to enhance the community.

This includes the reconstruction of 9th Street, a one-way street that is being converted to a two-way one, the inventory of lead piping and the rehabilitation of the water treatment plant.