City Council approves Kinnickinnick trail partnership with local cyclists at Whitetail Ridge

The River Falls Common Council made significant strides in enhancing community recreational opportunities during their recent meeting on April 8, 2025. A key resolution was passed to approve the first amendment to the memorandum of understanding with Kinnickinnick Off-Road Cyclists (KORC), paving the way for the extension of trails from Whitetail Ridge Park into a new recreational easement.

Council member Downing emphasized the importance of collaboration with KORC, advocating for a trail design that respects the privacy of nearby residents. He proposed a 75-foot setback for the trail, rather than the standard 50 feet, to ensure a more considerate distance from homes. This recommendation aims to balance the needs of cyclists with the concerns of local residents, who have expressed a desire for increased privacy.

KORC representatives, including board members Josh Walter and Caitrin Halverson, expressed their commitment to being good neighbors and working closely with city staff to implement the trail in a way that minimizes disruption. They acknowledged the importance of maintaining safety and quality in trail construction, adhering to established standards.

The council also discussed the financial implications of city support for community events, particularly regarding the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau's request for assistance. While the city utilizes a portion of room tax revenue to offset costs for events, concerns were raised about the transparency of these expenses to residents. The council plans to address these financial discussions in future meetings to ensure clarity and accountability.

Overall, the council's decisions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing recreational spaces while fostering community engagement and addressing resident concerns. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, the collaboration between local organizations and city officials is expected to yield positive outcomes for River Falls residents.