Today in Minot

Fargo is currently at a crossroads, with state lawmakers aiming to ban the city’s approval voting system through House Bill 1297. This voting method, introduced via a grassroots effort in 2018, has allowed locals to select multiple candidates they approve of in elections, a shift seen as more democratic by supporters. As the bill faces strong opposition—80% of testimonies from citizens favor keeping approval voting—city leaders emphasize Fargo’s right to govern its electoral processes. A key decision from the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee is still pending.

Why does this matter in Minot? If the state will take this authority away in Fargo, they’ll take it away in Minot, too. And when the state prohibits local places from solving local problems, we limit the ability to deliver positive outcomes. Everyone in the state should be concerned about the attack on local control that is growing in the legislature.

The Spirit Lake Tribe has expressed strong opposition to a new legislation allowing the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa to open a casino in Grand Forks. Tribal Chairwoman Lonna Street emphasized the need for consultation with affected tribes, highlighting a sense of surprise over the proposal. The Spirit Lake Tribe argues that the new gaming facility could divert crucial revenue from their existing casino, undermining financial stability for essential services. As the bill progresses through the legislature, the Spirit Lake Tribe seeks to ensure all voices are heard in this important decision.

This story of a Grand Forks-based but tribally-owned casino is one we’ve been following in Minot due to the quasi “arms race” it would trigger amongst larger North Dakota communities. Read more about the process in Grand Forks moving the project forward here. The herald also has the full story on the emerging opposition from Devils Lake linked below.

House Bill 1176, which proposes a nearly $500 million plan to increase the property tax credit for homeowners and cap local governments’ tax increases at 3%, has cleared its first committee vote. Initially set to increase the tax credit to $1,550, the amended bill brings it down slightly to $1,450. While it has drawn some opposition, particularly concerning its impact on local revenue, the legislation continues to move forward in the statehouse.

Mary Steurer with the North Dakota Monitor has the full story.

Minot’s transit system is evolving, with the City Council advancing plans to improve accessibility and efficiency. A new agreement with Souris Basin Transportation ensures paratransit services continue for individuals with disabilities, part of a broader effort to align with federal regulations. Over the next two years, the city will refine routes, evaluate equipment, and develop a long-term transit plan.

Jill Schramm with The Minot Daily News has the full story on the transit plan and other Council actions from Monday night.

The Crookston Times, a fixture in its Minnesota community since 1885, is set to close its doors on February 7 due to staffing shortages. Interim Editor Jeff Gulley and CherryRoad Media’s CEO Jeremy Gulban described the closure as a sad moment for the town. Despite efforts to engage the community and keep the paper alive, the lack of local support and resources left them with no choice. Gulley emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining local journalism, urging others to recognize the value of their newspapers before it’s too late.

These stories are too common. We appreciate your readership and are glad to have you along as we prove there is a sustainable lane for local media.

On January 10, 2023, Kathleen Ronning-Schimetz submitted her resignation from the North Dakota National Guard’s Office of the Adjutant General, highlighting seven years of alleged harassment and misconduct. Her resignation letter detailed a pattern of hostility and discrimination, including inappropriate comments from supervisors and a reported sexual assault from a colleague. Following her resignation, an investigation confirmed her claims, aligning with findings from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Schimetz is now pursuing a federal lawsuit, seeking financial compensation and accountability for the alleged abuses she faced.

The full story by Tasha Carvell writing for Inforum describes a deeply troubling environment inside the leadership office of the North Dakota National Guard.

Scandinavian roots — check. Traditional instruments — check. Goofy outfits — check. BBQ accordion player — check. A stuffed cat theremin — check. A bumbling sausage thief — yes, check. Epic stoicism amidst it all — obviously. Put it all together, and what do we have? A musical entertainment act that has Høstfest providence and the material to bridge the gap between generations. Here’s the latest from the band we’re lobbying to land in Minot this September and all those ever after — Steven N Seagulls. They’re Finnish, and they’re internet famous for remaking bangers from Metallica and Guns & Roses. This time they’re killing it covering Queen. Find a quiet place and enjoy!