File photo Image: Randy Thoms/Acadia Broadcasting

The city of International Falls is forgiving part of a loan it provided to the Koochiching Economic Development Authority.

This will allow KEDA to use half the $50 thousand owed toward an expansion of its cold weather testing facility.

Director Paul Nevanen says that will help with the testing of electric vehicles.

“It’s a further investment in our future. And as the future goes electric, it’s a good way to help us position for that future. And it’s going to be long term, says Nevanen.

“Our customers are helping to pay the way, too. It’s not just we’re just going to provide this. They understand that there’s (a cost). They get charged for the power, but to actually bring it. (Land Rover) Jaguar already has charging at the facility, but they’re going to need more additional fast charging.”

Nevanan notes Land Rover-Jaguar is donating two fast chargers, and KEDA is working with another unnamed partner to provide at least half of the cost toward another.

KEDA initially went to the city and the Koochiching Board of Commissioners seeking $25,000 from each to assist with the expansion.

The County has not decided on the request.