Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Reverse Referendum Public Works topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council authorizes special election on $2.755 million public‑works garage bond after petition
Summary
After receiving a sufficient petition, the council authorized a special city election on Aug. 12 to let voters decide on $2,755,000 in bonds for public works garage renovations; the council must notify the county by the next available deadline to use that date.
The International Falls City Council on May 19 acknowledged receipt of a petition requesting a reverse referendum on a proposed $2,755,000 capital improvement for renovations at the Public Works utility garages and authorized staff to schedule a special city election on Aug. 12, 2025.
City Administrator Bergstrom and City Attorney Chelsea Nelson summarized options required by Minnesota law: after a sufficient petition the council may either submit the question to voters at a special election or refrain from proposing bond issuance for the same purpose and amount for 365 days. The memo before council cited Minnesota Statute 475.521 as the governing provision for the reverse‑referendum process. Staff noted the Aug. 12 special election date is available but requires notification to Koochiching County within an 84‑day window; the next general opportunity would be Nov. 4 if the Aug. 12 date is not selected.
Council action and next steps: Councilor Buller moved to proceed with the special election and notify the county; Councilor Kaler seconded. The motion carried (vote recorded as unanimous at the meeting). Staff said arrangements with county election officials and the Secretary of State's office were already underway to ensure the city meets legal deadlines.
