The city of International Falls’ economic development committee is hiring a firm to implement a housing plan approved earlier this year.

That plan identified several areas where new homes could be constructed.

Mike Thompson, a senior planner with Bolton and Menk, says their work will build on the study’s recommendations.

“Taking a series of those recommendations and bringing them into reality and ultimately supporting the city goals around housing, rehabilitation and construction,” says Thompson.

Part of the work will include reviewing the city’s zoning and development standards and creating a marketing strategy.

Councillor Walt Buller is pleased to see their housing study won’t be sitting on a shelf.

“My pet peeve was all the studies they do and it sits on the shelf. If we’re not going to follow anything through, then don’t even do this study. This is a good study to follow,” says Buller.

Thompson says it will could take between three and six months to complete their work.