by April Scheinoha
Editor

The Thief River Falls City Council approved various law enforcement-related items at its meeting Tuesday, March 17.

City Council approved the promotion of Jamison Steer to sergeant in the Thief River Falls Police Department. Steer succeeds Chuck Lindgren, who retired earlier this year.

The council approved advertising to fill the position of patrol officer.

Police Chief Marissa Adam anticipated that the position would have a September start date. However, the department wanted to ensure it was in the running for candidates who are graduating with criminal justice degrees from Northland Community and Technical College.
City Council approved purchasing and outfitting a 2021 Chevy Traverse to be used by the police investigator. The $30,000 cost of the unmarked vehicle and outfitting will be covered with $20,000 in Public Safety Aid money and $10,000 from the DWI Fund.

Currently, the police investigator uses a Jeep Cherokee, which is co-owned by the city and Pennington County. It is a Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force vehicle and will be reassigned to the new task force officer at the end of this year. As a result, the police investigator will no longer be able to use the vehicle.

The council approved establishing an Adopt-a-Garden Program. As part of the program, individuals, families, community organizations and businesses can adopt a public garden site during the growing season (typically May through October). Public Works Director Travis Giffen said the city would pay for and transport the flowers to the specific garden area. It will also provide a flowering plan for each garden. The volunteers would then plant the flowers and provide weeding and debris removal as needed. They would also report any plant health issues. The city would water the garden. Volunteers may be recognized with a sign at the garden if they so choose.

Giffen added that other communities have offered such an opportunity and have found success with such a program.

Council member Michele McCraw said the program follows the city’s Strategic Plan, which seeks to increase community engagement.

To volunteer for the program, contact the Public Works Department at 218-681-8506.

Council member Steve Narverud complimented the work of Public Works Department’s work during the snowstorm Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13.

The next council meeting is scheduled Tuesday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.