New elementary school ground breaking

Earlier this month, the next elementary school for Watford City progressed forward with its formal groundbreaking. In January the public voted to approve this elementary and--if necessary--a third elementary school building in the future. The school will be located near the current high school and is slated to be open for the Fall 2020 school year.
Governor Burgum to visit Watford City

Governor Burgum will be visiting Watford City next week as a part of his Main Street Initiative. The initiative focuses on attracting and retaining a 21st century workforce; promoting healthy, vibrant communities; and facilitating smart, efficient infrastructure. On Thursday, May 23, 2019, the public is invited to attend a listening session from 11:00am-12:30pm CT in the Outlaws Gallery 120 Main Street S, Watford City. For questions contact Vawnita Best at vbest@nd.gov.
$125 million pipeline approved

The Public Service Commission recently approved a $125 million pipeline that will be located in McKenzie County and Richland County (MT). For more information, see this Associated Press article.
New restaurant, office space for S&S building

A building that has been a fixture for Watford City's main street is undergoing a renovation and will become home to three businesses this summer. The building housed S&S Motors for decades and has now come under new ownership. The building will house two existing businesses-- Legendary Smiles Dental Clinic and ICON Architectural Group as well as a new concept restaurant Slow Ride.
Updated Economy at a Glance

The May 2019 update of the Watford City | McKenzie County Economy at a Glance is now available. A few data points of note include:
  • Taxable sales and purchases for McKenzie County for 2018Q4 totaled over $84 million, the same period the previous year was over $62 million.
  • Labor force in McKenzie County has increased over 1,000 in the past year.
Best becomes community development director

Earlier this year, Vawnita Best became the Community Development Director for the City of Watford City. In her role, she covers areas such as public relations, intergovernmental affairs, and economic development. Originally from McKenzie County, she returned in 2007 to ranch southeast of Watford City with her family. She also served as McKenzie County Commissioner from 2014-2018.

Firefighters association to host parade, convention

Hundreds of firefighters from throughout the state will be coming to Watford City for the North Dakota Firefighter's Association annual convention May 30-June 1 at the Rough Rider Center. Included in the convention will be a parade for the public on Main Street Watford City on Friday, May 31 at 4pm.
Brenna appointed to City Council

Heidi Brenna is the newest member of the City Council of Watford City. Brenna was appointed by the City Council and is taking the place of former council member Aaron Gravos who moved out of city limits. Brenna is an architect with ICON Architectural Group in Watford City and has been involved with many of the building projects throughout our community and region. She also serves on the McKenzie County Job Development Authority board.
Healthcare Systems to host first-ever "Senior Day Expo"

McKenzie County Healthcare Systems will be hosting a Senior Day Expo on September 7 in Watford City.The expo will highlight services and programs available to seniors- 55 and older, showcasing local organizations, businesses, health education, estate planning, Medicare, Medicaid and Long Term Care insurance information, along with speakers and tours of the McKenzie County Healthcare systems and Senior Citizens/Fox Hills. The Looney Lutherans, a comedic group from the Twin Cities, will be providing entertainment for the event. FREE ADMISSION! To register for the conference or re serve an expo table visit here .
SAVE THE DATE: Welcome to Watford

Started last year, "Welcome to Watford" provides an opportunity for local businesses and organizations to introduce themselves to the community. This year the event will be held on Friday, September 20. With over 500 attendees last year, committee members are looking to make this year's event bigger and better. Table reservations will become available in June.
View past issues of the monthly update here.