“Mr. Mayor, I have an announcement,” alderman Christopher Gagne said, being acknowledged by Mayor Dan Toland. As it turned out, Gagne will not seek office again, effective once the April election selects his replacement. Gagne is supporting Nick Carow, who serves on the Housing Board.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our community on the River Falls City Council,” he said. “This decision has been one of the tougher decisions of my time on Council….After lots of prayer and consultation with my family and friends, I have chosen to take a step back at this time from my Council duties. Effective once the next person takes seat. The next election is on April 6, 2021. I filed non-candidacy on Monday December 7, 2020.” The next season of his life would include focusing on other responsibilities and priorities, Gagne said, including his family and employment. Shifting from resignation statement to endorsement, the outgoing councilmember endorsed Nick Carow, a current member of another board in River Falls.

“Nick Carow and his family have decided to run for District 2 on the City Council. I personally support Nick in his desire to selflessly continue his service to our community,” Gagne said. “He currently serves our community on the Housing Board….I will serve out my term, and then support whoever comes next.”