Public meeting scheduled to address housing shortage

The McKenzie County Job Development Authority will be hosting a meeting to discuss a proposed program designed to encourage more housing development. The meeting will be held at 12pm on Monday, January 6, 2020, in the Commissioner's Room of the McKenzie County Courthouse located at 201 5th St NW, Watford City. Program information can be found here.
Continued enrollment growth projected

McKenzie County Public School District #1's enrollment is projected to continue increasing by 6-8% per year for the next ten years, according to the most recent projections commissioned by the school district. By 2028-2029, the district's enrollment could more than double the current enrollment and top 3,800 students.
December Economy at a Glance

The December Economy at a Glance is now available. A few items of note:

  • There were 237 births to McKenzie County residents, while there were 66 deaths for 2018.

  • McKenzie County labor force continues its growth. October 2019 came in at 10,420--another record high.
Joel Brown named Top 40 under 40

Prairie Business Magazine has released its 2019 Top 40 under 40 list, and McKenzie County resident Joel Brown made the list. Brown is a co-founder of Mineral Tracker and serves on numerous boards and committees throughout McKenzie County and the state.
Pioneer Museum updates exhibits

The lower level of the Pioneer Museum of McKenzie County has gotten a face lift and some new exhibits. The renovation expands on the agricultural exhibit and adds information on the mid-stream portion of the petroleum industry. A portion of the funding for the upgrade came from a grant from the North Dakota Department of Commerce. ONEOK was also instrumental in helping provide material for the midstream display. The museum is located at 100 2nd Ave SW, Watford City.
Counseling service offered locally

Molinaro Counseling, focusing on individuals and couples counseling, is now offering services out of the McKenzie County Healthcare Facility in Watford City. For more information visit their website or call 701-380-5100.
Young Professionals event

The Young Professionals of Watford City will be hosting a New Year Social on Tuesday, January 7, 2020, from 5:30-7pm in the downstairs meeting room of Outlaws. Come learn about the great social, networking, professional development and many more opportunities available. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Leadership North Dakota visits McKenzie County

Leaders from throughout North Dakota came to McKenzie County last month as a part of the Leadership North Dakota program. Participants learned about the oil and gas industry, the challenges and opportunities that have been presented by rapid growth, and more. The program meets monthly for six months throughout North Dakota and is run by University of Mary.
Toastmasters change meeting date

The Watford City Toastmasters Club will meet on every other Thursday starting January 9 at 6pm in the classroom of the Rough Rider Center. Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Guests are welcome to come to any meeting. Current Club President is Jake Walters.
Emerald Ridge Phase II brings more apartments

Phase II of Emerald Ridge is nearing completion which brings online many more apartments for those in the Watford City area. They are located at 1521 Emerald Ridge Road on the west side of Watford City. For more information contact them at 701-651-8707.
View past issues of the monthly update here.