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McKenzie County JDA approves first applications for Home Builder Construction Loan Program
The McKenzie County Job Development Authority (JDA) approved the first applications for the Home Builder Construction Loan Program which will provide participation funding for four single-family homes in Watford City. The JDA Home Builder Construction Loan Program is a $4.5 million revolving loan program that was approved in June 2023 and incentivizes builders to build 2-6 houses at a reduced construction loan interest rate. To learn more about this program, click here.
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SBDC 2023 Annual Year End Report
Click here to read the 2023 annual year end report for the Small Business Development Centers of North Dakota (SBDC) - Williston Regional Center.
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McKenzie County Community Foundation awards grants to seven charitable organizations
The McKenzie County Community Foundation (MCCF) recently distributed $13,180 in grants to seven local charitable organizations as part of their annual initiative to support the community. The recipients this year include the Long X Arts Foundation for their Missoula Children's Theatre program, the Benefit Fund of McKenzie County Healthcare Systems for an Infant Bereavement Program and Chronic Care Management Program, Watford City Park District for remote control car kits for youth programming, Alexander Youth Wrestling Club, Bakken Oil Rush Ministry for their annual Toy Mall, and Watford City Youth Basketball.
The MCCF aims to contribute well-being of the community by providing financial assistance to diverse local groups. Read more on the McKenzie County Farmer story here and visit there website for more information.
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December Economy at a Glance
The December Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include:
McKenzie County's October 2023 unemployment rate was 0.9%; October 2022 it was 1.3%.
The city sales tax distribution for Alexander in November 2023 was $101,599; in November 2022 it was $47,010.
The landfill daily average for McKenzie County in November 2023 was 109.9 tons; in November 2022 it was 80.7 tons.
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McKenzie County Food Pantry reports all-time high of families in need
The McKenzie County Food Pantry, which aims to support those facing food insecurity, provides supplemental, nutritious food to residents in need across the county, encompassing areas like Mandaree, New Town, Keene, Killdeer, Grassy Butte, Fairview, Cartwright, and Watford City. Over the years, the demand for assistance has substantially increased, with the pantry serving only a few families weekly 15 years ago compared to an all-time high of 131 families, approximately 500 individuals, seeking aid during Thanksgiving week. Volunteer Mitch Haugeberg emphasized the pantry's commitment to addressing the growing need for quality food among the community. Read more on this McKenzie County Farmer story here.
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Theodore Roosevelt Expressway awarded $55 million for expansion
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has allocated $55 million for the expansion of US Highway 85, also known as the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway, in western North Dakota. This funding will facilitate the transformation of over 13 miles of the roadway in McKenzie County from two lanes to four lanes, including widening shoulders and reducing curves from Watford City to I-94. North Dakota's delegation, earlier this year, advocated for the project's advantages in enhancing transportation efficiency and safety to DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg, resulting in the funding under the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) program. The expansion addresses the vital role of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway in connecting the region's energy and agricultural sectors, ultimately reducing traffic delays, enhancing safety, and promoting economic growth. U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer have emphasized the significance of this project for western North Dakota's access to interstate commerce. Read more on this expansion project and award here.
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State Senator Dale Patten and State Representative Jeremy Olson seek re-election in District 26
Incumbent state senator Dale Patten has announced his candidacy for re-election in District 26, encompassing McKenzie County and part of Dunn County. First elected in 2018, Patten currently holds the position of chairman for the Energy and Natural Resources committee and is a member of the Finance and Taxation committee in the North Dakota Senate.
Incumbent state representative Jeremy Olson has also announced his candidacy for re-election in District 26. First elected in 2022, Olson serves on the House Energy and Natural Resources committee and the Finance and Taxation committee.
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North Dakota Climate Modification Project annual report for McKenzie County
The McKenzie County Board of County Commissioners received the final yearly report on the 2023 North Dakota Climate Modification Project (NDCMP). Presented on December 5, the report outlined the outcomes of the cloud seeding and weather modification efforts carried out in the region. The NDCMP, a three-year initiative, costs $0.14 per acre, with 66% funded by participating counties and the remainder covered by the state. Using planes, the project releases seed material into specific cloud formations for hail suppression or rain generation. In McKenzie County (located in District 2), the 2023 season ran from June 1 to August 31. Read more on the McKenzie County Farmer story and check out the report here.
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Roughrider Fund assisting in the enhancement of Watford City
Established in 1998 by Watford City voters, the Roughrider Fund has been dedicated to enhancing the community by supporting various projects. Fueled by a one-and-a-half-cent city sales tax, the fund has contributed to significant endeavors, including the construction of the Wild West Water Park, the McKenzie County medical complex and the Rough Rider Center. In 2023, the fund's committee highlighted its support for local businesses through the Business Startup & Expansion Forgivable Loan Program, incentivizing establishments like Elite Cabinets & Building Supplies, The Shed, HM's Steakhouse, McKenzie Health Center, Aligned Chiropractic, and Homestead Physical Therapy. Additionally, the committee aided childcare facilities through the Licensed Childcare Renewal Grant Program and supported community organizations, including the WCCBA, Watford City Park District, Watford City Chamber of Commerce, and Home Instead, through community BUILD project funding.
The Community Enhancement Grant, a cherished community program, backed 30 local events and community programs in 2023, with the committee gearing up for the 2024 grant round to further enhance Watford City and the surrounding area. Organizations hosting events or community programming in McKenzie County in 2024 are encouraged to apply for the Community Enhancement Grant. Learn more about the Roughrider Fund and the eligible programs here. For the 2024 Community Enhancement Grant application, click here.
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New Pediatrician joins McKenzie Health
McKenzie Health has gained a new Pediatrician, Dr. Stephen McDonough. Dr. McDonough is an amazing Pediatrician that will now be providing services at the McKenzie Health Center. Please call 701-444-2235 to make an appointment, or visit the clinic at 301 12th St. SE, Watford City, ND.
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Laura Nelson receives The DAISY Award®
Laura Nelson of McKenzie Health recently received The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses, a recognition bestowed by the DAISY Foundation to honor exceptional efforts by nurses. Laura was honored for her exceptional care in a nursing home, positive demeanor, extensive knowledge, and prompt execution of tasks. The nomination commended Laura's compassion, attention to detail and heartwarming relationships she fosters. Both patients that Laura has helped and coworkers expressed gratitude for Laura's consistent, excellent and compassionate care, emphasizing the unique trust she has built with her patients. Read more on this Roundup story here.
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Hispanic Culture thrives in Watford City
Yolanda Rojas, founder and director of Hispanic Advocacy of ND (H.A.N.D), shared her family's journey from Tucson, Arizona, to Watford City, North Dakota, in 2014, seeking a change in life and better employment opportunities. The transition to a predominately white community brought challenges and culture shock, but the Rojas family gradually integrated into the community through sports, church and community events. Feeling the need to support other newcomers facing language and cultural barriers, Yolanda established H.A.N.D. The nonprofit organization aims to empower and enrich the Hispanic community in North Dakota by bridging language gaps, providing workshops and creating cultural exchange opportunities. La Posada, a Christmas event hosted by H.A.N.D, celebrates Hispanic traditions, including caroling, nativity plays, piñatas, and traditional food, fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity in Watford City. H.A.N.D emphasizes the importance of intentional efforts to enrich and add value to communities. Read more here.
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New fabric store opens in Watford City
Watford City has gained a new fabric store named Rip'n Stitches. Located at 104 Prospect St. NE Suite 111 in Watford City, Rip'n Stitches supplies quilting, long arming, fabric and sewing needs. Shoppers will have the opportunity to buy the materials and resources they need to make quilts and clothing. There will also be quilt-making and other classes in the near future. Visit the Rip'n Stitches Facebook page to learn more!
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ND Department of Commerce 2023 Automation Tax Credit Program
The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the opening of the application program for primary sector businesses seeking to utilize the Automation Tax Credit for automation purchases made in 2023. The program offers a tax credit of up to 15% for certified primary sector businesses investing in machinery and equipment designed for automation in manufacturing or animal agricultural processes within North Dakota. Applicants must submit their applications by January 31, with ownership of the automation equipment required during the 2023 calendar year. To be eligible, businesses must have primary sector certification at the time of purchase and throughout the application process.
The tax credits aim to address workforce shortages by providing financial incentives for businesses to invest in automation technologies, ultimately improving efficiency and productivity. Assistance for primary sector certification status is available via email. Click here for more information.
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SSBCI Technical Assistance grant program launch
The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the launch of the SSBCI Technical Assistance grant program, aiming to support Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individual (SEDI)-owned businesses and Very Small Businesses (VSBs). With $572,143 in recently approved funding, the department has partnered with ILT Academy to offer comprehensive assistance, including legal, accounting and financial advisory services. The initiative, aligned with the U.S. Department of the Treasury's SSBCI program, aims to empower businesses by providing entrepreneurial training through a cohort-based model. The program's objectives include clarifying business concepts, creating viable financial models and offering financial advisory support to enhance successful funding and sustainable growth. The collaboration is committed to delivering tailored services to meet the specific needs of beneficiary businesses, ultimately stimulating economic growth and facilitating access to capital for small businesses in North Dakota. More information about the SSBCI Technical Assistance grant program and the State Small Business Credit Initiative can be found here.
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Rural Facility Planning grant program application available
The Rural Facility Planning Grant program by the ND Department of Commerce aims to provide funding for the planning and development of empty or soon-to-be empty facilities in rural areas. With a focus on improving the quality of life and opportunities for residents in rural communities, the grant supports the creation of comprehensive plans for multi-use concepts, including housing, community spaces, workforce training facilities, and business incubators. The program encourages collaboration with relevant organizations, the identification of community champions and the empowerment of rural communities through facility repurposing. Eligible entities include cities, counties, economic development organizations, and local tribal entities, with funding of up to $50,000 per community available. The grant requires a minimum 10% match and is open for applications from December 18 to February 9. Awards will be announced on February 19 and projects must be completed within 18 months of the award notification. Read more and find the application here.
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Primary Residence Property Tax Credit available
North Dakota homeowners may receive up to a $500 tax credit! The Primary Residence Credit was established during the 2023 Legislative Session under House Bill 1158. The credit provides all ND homeowners with the option to apply for a state property tax credit through the ND Office of State Tax Commissioner. There are no age or income restrictions and the property must be a resident's primary home. Only one credit available per household. Homeowner's have from January 1, 2024 - March 31, 2024 to apply. Click here to learn more and apply.
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The City of Killdeer community engagement survey
The Killdeer Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is inviting input from area residents, visitors and potential guests through online surveys available until January 12, 2024. Residents can participate in the survey here, while visitors and potential guests can share their views here.
The survey covers priorities, strengths, opportunities, communication platforms, and messaging for Killdeer. The collected input will aid in promoting the City of Killdeer and guiding improvements for residents, businesses and visitor attraction. The findings, expected in the first quarter of 2024, will shape marketing approaches tailored to Killdeer and Dunn County. The Killdeer CVB, funded by local hotel occupancy tax, encourages community engagement to contribute to the region's enhancement.
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Labor Market Information webinar
Job Service North Dakota hosted an educational webinar last week that explored the diverse publications and data resources available to individuals in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. The webinar featured subject matter experts who provided a detailed overview of how to transform information into valuable insights. Community leaders from various regions in the state discussed the significance of Labor Market Information and guided participants on utilizing navigational features, effectively interpreting data and optimizing decision-making to create a personalized playbook for success. Click here to watch The Labor Market Information Playbook webinar.
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USDA and DOE to host series of listening sessions in January 2024
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are conducting a series of winter listening sessions to gather perspectives on the growing presence of clean energy on agricultural lands and in rural communities. Seeking input from a diverse range of stakeholders, the agencies aim to understand the benefits and challenges associated with increased clean energy deployment. They encourage participation from government permitting and policy representatives, agricultural producers, all stakeholders, and members of the public, as well as rural electric coops and clean energy developers in virtual sessions.
The agencies are particularly interested in feedback on how they can facilitate positive clean energy siting outcomes through leadership, program guidance, research, and information sharing. Stakeholders can also submit written comments by January 20, 2024, via email. Read more here.
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Donkey Basketball at WCHS
The Watford City High School FFA is excited to bring Donkey Basketball to Watford City! Come out and support the FFA members on January 17 at 7 p.m. and watch a few great games of Donkey Basketball between school staff, first responders and FFA Members. Click here for more information.
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Job openings
Many great job opportunities are posted on the Job Service North Dakota website each week. View and post job openings for no charge at jobsnd.com.
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Upcoming Events in McKenzie County
Be sure to check out the Community Events Calendar regularly to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and activities in the area!
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