Willi Kostiuk will seek the councilor-at-large position on the International Falls City Council in this November’s election, the candidate announced this week.
Kostiuk said he has always had a desire to serve the citizens of International Falls. He recently retired from the International Falls Police Department after 28 years of service.
“Now, I hope I can serve as a city representative,” he said.
Kostiuk said many citizens of International Falls have expressed that the city needs a change in direction. He said implementing that change will be assisted by the experience he’s gained in his four years of service on the International Falls School Board and serving as vice chairman of the board, combined with his years of service on the police department.
“Over the years I have seen city departments, such as the police and others, take increased workloads with fewer personnel,” said Kostiuk. “My goal would be to focus on, not just getting by, but giving the citizens the service they deserve. The basics of just keeping up and maintaining our streets, sidewalks and buildings need improvement. Creating a strong infrastructure in our city will help attract new people and business to our area.”
Another focus for Kostiuk will be supporting the businesses already established in the community. “An economically healthy business can increase personnel and money spent in our area,” he said.
In addition, Kostiuk said establishing close ties with other governments is valuable.
“Creating a good working relationship with county and state agencies can create a healthier economic environment for our community and I feel I have the ability to work to help this happen,” he said.
Kostiuk has been active in the community, serving on the school board and also on several committees, such as the Falls Recreation Commission Board and several negotiating committees. He has also coached basketball, football, wrestling and baseball in local youth organizations over the past 23 years.
