Resident says city leaders asked county about leasing space in new law enforcement center; commissioners say dialogue is open

Bill Valentine, a resident of International Falls, used the public-comment period at the Jan. 14 Christian County Board meeting to press for clarity and transparency after a city discussion about a proposed new police station.

"I was at the committee of the whole meeting last night," Valentine told commissioners. He said city council discussion indicated city leaders had asked the county whether space could be leased in the county law-enforcement facility and that some city members reported not receiving a response. "Is the city reaching out to you guys and you guys aren't responding? Or is the city not reaching out to you guys and you guys are just sitting here?" he asked.

County Administrator Adam Cole said the city administrator contacted county administration more than a month earlier; they met Dec. 3 to discuss available space. Cole said the county's space committee has reviewed the matter and that the county asked the city to clarify specific needs (for example, required square footage and number of garage stalls) so the county can determine whether available space would meet the police department's requirements. "Let us know what your needs are, and we'll go from there," Cole said, summarizing the county's request.

Several commissioners said the county is open to discussing space and that shared facilities can offer cost savings, but they emphasized the city must specify needs before the county can price or reserve space. Commissioner Roach noted the county had previously offered space and that Lake of the Woods County was at one point considered as a lessee for some space; staff said earlier discussions and options could be assembled for public review if residents or city leaders request them.

Valentine told the board he wanted the records and any communication public: "I want this stuff public," he said, noting concern that informal conversations or inconsistent messages were creating confusion among citizens. Commissioners encouraged the city to provide details in writing to the county so the boards can discuss options formally.

No formal action was taken during the public-comment period. County staff said they will follow up with the city administrator to confirm whether additional information was sent and to facilitate written specifications that would allow the county to provide price and space assessments.