On the Record: Local Legislators Comment on Flood Protection Funding

House Bill 1020 is the State Water Commission appropriations bill. It’s a big deal for Minot because it’s the Water Commission that contributes money to flood protection. In other words, if the Water Commission is appropriated money for flood protection, then Minot has a chance at getting some of those dollars.

The bill was passed by the House last week and is now in the Senate’s hands. In it, there’s an appropriation of $150 million dollars for flood protection — most of which will be split between Fargo and Minot. But the other important piece is an option for the Water Commission to take out a loan for up to $110 million to fund the rest of the state’s 65% cost-share for phases 1-4 in Minot. It means our flood protection project can move forward if we can find our local share of the cost.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 78-13, but it’s notable because three of those ‘no’ votes were from Minot. Following the passage of the bill, I reached out to our local legislators to get their comments. Read them below.