Council adopts nonbinding joint-resolution to explore middle school reuse with school district

The Little Falls City Council on March 2 adopted Resolution 2026-17, a joint, nonbinding statement of interest to explore potential city use of the middle school facility if the Little Falls Community Schools vacate the building.

Mayor Zilka opened discussion by apologizing for prior absences and said the proposal could provide an opportunity to address long-term city facility needs, noting past estimates that a new city hall and police department could cost about $33 million. "I just think that this is an opportunity that would greatly benefit us to work with the schools," he said.

City staff and councilmembers repeatedly stressed the resolution does not commit the city to purchase, costs, designs, or timelines. "This resolution simply states should the school district vacate the middle school, we are agreeing to talk. That is the only thing that we are agreeing to," said one council member reading the document aloud.

Council reconsidered the item after members who had been absent were able to participate. Several members who had previously opposed the motion said their concern was community perception and the need for transparent public engagement, not the concept itself. One council member said the resolution would merely signal willingness to talk and not predetermine outcomes.

After discussion and a roll-call vote, the council adopted the resolution. Staff said any future steps — including terms, costs, or formal agreements — would require separate consideration and approval by both governing bodies.