Members present: Jeanne Zirbel, Rick Burgsteiner, Betty Most, Ursula Peterson, and Audrey Alton.

Members absent: Joleen Larson, Lori Kukuska

Staff present: Dena Mleziva, Planner

Guests present: Aloha Hovde, Marge Stokke

PUBLIC/CITIZEN COMMENTS – Marge Stokke passed out a copy of the historic photograph of the original Freeman Drug Store now Cliff’s Fix-It Shop. Stokke has talked with the library about putting her River Falls plates in a display case there during May and is waiting to hear back from them.

1. Review of Local Landmark Nomination – Swinging Bridge

Peterson, Zirbel and the Westside Elementary Third Grade Class have been compiling information for the Local Landmark Nomination of the Swinging Bridge. Mleziva handed out additional information and pictures of the Swinging Bridge and other bridges that were at the same location. The Commission discussed which criteria should be used for the nomination. Mleziva wrote the report using the #3 criteria: a significant form of architecture and construction. It should be noted in the report that it is the only one of its kind in this area. Mleziva recommended this nomination should be tabled until additional information is received before going to City Council. Burgsteiner suggested considering the #1 criteria: social history. The importance of the Swinging Bridge to River Falls and its residents is significant and dates back to 1925. The public hearing will be held May 9th and another one at City Council on May 22nd.

2. Discussion of Historic Preservation Month Activities (May 2007)

Vintage Film Showing at Falls Theatre - Alton talked to the Falls Theater owner. The owner has not found a film yet. It will cost between $500 - $700 to get a vintage film. The Theater would only be available Saturday mornings in May. Because of the cost of getting the film, it is not possible to charge the vintage rate. Mleziva will take care of advertising or getting a story in The River Falls Journal to get as many people as possible to see the film.

Building Abstract Summaries – Peterson is working on the Boxrud abstract and the Schmidt abstract. She will be ready with one by next month. Mleziva stated Kukuska will organize the pictures and the text for the display boards. Mleziva will contact the businesses.

Special Recognition Awards – The awards will be done May 22nd at the City Council meeting.

Adjournment – Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Beth Schlegel, Recording Secretary