River Falls Mayor Dan Toland

Well, what should we talk about? We could talk about the weather, but as I am writing this, it is really hot right now as the summer temperatures are trying to hang on just a big longer. I have no idea how the weather is as you read this delightful newsletter, but I hope it is spectacular.

We could talk about the back-to-school season, a time of mixed emotions as students and parents alike navigate the excitement and anxiety of a new academic year. Who am I kidding, there are only two emotions. One is the students’ disdain at having to actually get up in the morning and do something besides staring at their phones all day. The second emotion is one of pure delight for the parents as they send their kids out the door and back to school. All jokes aside, I do hope the kids in your life have a great experience in school this year. As school does start again, we should be a lot more aware of kids on bikes and at crosswalks as they travel to and from school. Please slow down and be attentive drivers.

We could talk about the return of college students and all the vibrant energy they bring to our community as they explore our local businesses and create a buzz that’s both invigorating and heartwarming. And they have something big to celebrate, too, as UWRF has its 150th anniversary this year.

We could talk about something that stirs our passions like football. The Green Bay Packers’ season is underway, and with it, the hope of beginning a new dynasty. It’s a thrilling prospect that brings us back to them every season to cheer them on as they run through the competition on their way to another championship season. Let’s just hope the quarterback’s knee is OK.

I decided I want to talk about sustainability, natural resources and recreation in the city. We have very capable and talented people on staff, and the city recognizes how important our leadership is in these areas. That is why we are taking the time necessary to develop a broad analysis of what the future will look like in the City of River Falls. The result will be a wide scope that aligns with the Comprehensive plan, a document that contains a twenty-year vision for the City. The perspectives that residents have shared with us through numerous engagement opportunities to build that document will be reflected in how we approach the sustainability staffing model.  

The Kinni Corridor Plan, the Outdoor Recreation Plan and the Bike & Pedestrian Plan all gathered information from the community to help determine the priorities for the city in the future. As we look holistically through these plans, they paint a vision of an outdoor recreation mecca for community members and visitors alike — a place where people come to enjoy the outdoor recreation and natural resources. While they’re here, they understand that this community embraces sustainability for future generations.

Specifically on sustainability, since the City Council approved the sustainability proclamation in 2012, efforts in this area have been supported by a sustainability coordinator and dozens of city staff and volunteers that have contributed to the success of many programs, projects, and efforts. If you want to see an example of that, look no further than the report on the 10-year anniversary of the Powerful Choices program.

Everything that was set up in the last 20 years for sustainability programs at the city is still in place and running well. Troy Connolly is filling in as interim city forester and he is making sure that we are keeping up to date with our Emerald Ash Borer program and all other tree programs the city has. Members of the community development, utilities, and facilities teams are keeping our momentum with planned programs and projects and seeking new opportunities through grant funding. Rebates, incentives, and residential and commercial efficiency programs continue to operate. Have faith that we will continue to be a leader in this field — and more — moving forward.

Remember: this is your city. Let everyone know how much you love it, and then get out there and enjoy it.