Burleigh County public meetings in 2021
165 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of City Commissioners
The Burleigh County Board of City Commissioners will meet to decide on multiple zoning changes, annexations, and contracts, including approval of a $1,500 donation to the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission. The meeting will also consider public hearings on ordinances, expenditure approvals, and personnel actions.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6492 amending lot modification process
- Approval of $1,500 donation to Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission
- Introduction of public hearings for Ordinances 6494, 6495, and 6496 on annexations and zoning changes in Clear Sky Addition and Burleigh Avenue Addition
- Approval of bid for 43rd Avenue Water Tank Rehabilitation ($1.2M estimated)
- Approval of emergency purchase of traffic signal controller cabinet after accident at Airport Road and University Drive
The Board of City Commissioners approved the consent agenda, various zonings, subdivisions, and a Department of Justice grant for police overdose prevention. Two property tax abatements for 3903 State St and 1421 Skyline Blvd were tabled for the next meeting. An airport snow removal equipment building study was pulled with no action taken.
- Approved consent agenda items as presented (all aye)
- Tabled property tax abatements for 3903 State St and 1421 Skyline Blvd (3-1, Commissioner Guy nay)
- Approved Ordinance 6492 for lot modification process text amendment (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6493 zoning change and Schilling Second Addition minor subdivision final plat (all aye)
- Approved Municipal Fifth Addition major subdivision final plat (all aye)
- Approved Horizon Condos Addition minor subdivision final plat (all aye)
- Approved Basin Electric Fourth Addition major subdivision final plat (all aye)
- Approved Department of Justice grant award request for police department overdose prevention (all aye)
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will review and potentially approve several transportation projects for 2025-2026, including trail extensions, safety improvements, and urban grants. The board will also consider an ITSRA final report, a UPWP amendment, and a transit grant application. Public comments are accepted via email before the meeting.
- 2025 Transportation Alternatives: South Washington Trail Extension, US 83/State Street Multi-Use Trail, Hay Creek Trail Renovation
- 2026 HSIP: Centennial Road/71st Avenue roundabout ($4.5M), Bismarck RRFB installation, 19th Street/Century Avenue turn lanes
- 2024 Urban Grants: Front Avenue & 5th Street rehab, West CBD pavement, Mandan Downtown Core Phase I
- 2026 Urban Regional: 7th & 9th Streets concrete repair, Expressway signal upgrades, State Street/Boulevard repair, US 83 environmental doc
- 2022 Rail/Highway: Main Avenue crossing removal, Morrison Avenue crossing
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to review fees and specials for political subdivisions and to revisit consensus points and fee models. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.
- Approval of minutes from November 15, 2021
- Overview of fees and specials for political subdivisions
- Review of consensus points and fee models
The task force discussed how a street maintenance utility fee would affect political subdivisions under the ND Century Code. Members discussed potential revenue increases and suggested requesting state permission for political subdivisions to special assess for the fee.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (All aye)
Human Relations Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss 2021 goals, the Municipal Equality Index Rating, and a new logo. Members will also plan participation in upcoming community events for January 2022.
- Review of new HRC logo designs
- Discussion of Municipal Equality Index Rating
- Planning for Martin Luther King Day Celebration on January 17, 2022
- Planning for Families Around the World event on January 24, 2022
- 2022 goal setting discussion
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee approved minutes from its November 15, 2021 meeting and unanimously agreed to have City Administration prepare a special meeting notice for the Martin Luther King Jr. event on January 17, 2022, and for the HRC to join the event. The committee also unanimously approved donating the remaining balance of its 2021 funds to support that event, and separately approved advertising for Humanitarian Award nominations and a student poetry and essay contest. No dollar amount for the donation was recorded in the minutes.
- Approved November 15, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Approved having City Administration prepare a special meeting notice for the MLK Jr. event and HRC participation (unanimous)
- Approved donating remaining 2021 HRC funds to the MLK Jr. event on January 17, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved advertising for Humanitarian Award nominations and student poetry and essay contest (unanimous)
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will review and vote on multiple 2025 transportation projects, including trail extensions and pavement upgrades, as well as grant applications for rail crossing safety and transit funding. The meeting will also include updates on past projects and discussions on meeting formats.
- 2025 Transportation Alternatives Projects: South Washington Trail Extension ($394,411), Hay Creek Trail Renovation ($194,928), US 83/State Street Multi-Use Trail Extension ($310,000)
- 2026 Highway Safety Improvement Program Projects: Centennial Road/71st Avenue Intersection Reconstruction, Bismarck City Wide Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons Installation, 19th Street and Century Avenue Turn Lane Reconstruction
- 2024 Urban Grant Projects: Bismarck Front Avenue & 5th Street Pavement Rehab, Bismarck West CBD Pavement Upgrade, Mandan Downtown Core Reconstruction Phase I
- 2026 Urban Regional Program Projects: 7th & 9th Streets Concrete Pavement Repair, Bismarck Expressway/ND 810 Traffic Signal Upgrades, State Street/Boulevard Avenue Concrete Pavement Repair
- 2022 Urban Rail/Highway Crossing Safety Projects: Main Avenue Railroad Crossing Removal, Morrison Avenue Railroad Crossing
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings and final considerations on several development requests, including annexations, rezones, plats, and special use permits. The most consequential item is the annexation of 11.02 acres in Clear Sky Addition for future single-family residential development. Other items include a partial annexation, zoning change, and plat for South Meadows Third Addition, plus special use permits for a child care center and hazardous material storage.
- Annexation of 11.02 acres in Clear Sky Addition (ANNX2021-008) for future residential development
- Partial annexation, zoning change (RR and R10 to R10), and minor subdivision final plat for South Meadows Third Addition (ANNX2021-009, ZC2021-012, MPLT2021-009)
- Final plat for Basin Electric Fourth Addition (FPLT2021-008)
- Special use permit for a child care center (SUP2021-025)
- Special use permit for flammable/combustible/hazardous material bulk storage (SUP2021-026)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Clear Sky Addition annexation east of Bismarck and approved annexation, a zoning change, and a minor subdivision final plat for South Meadows Third Addition. It also recommended approval of final plats for Basin Electric Fourth Addition, Municipal Fifth Addition, and Horizon Condos Addition, and approved a rural residential lot split at 6007 79th Avenue NE on a 7-2 vote. A child care center special use permit was continued to January, and a diesel fuel transloading special use permit was approved 8-1.
- Recommended approval of Clear Sky Addition annexation (unanimous)
- Approved South Meadows Third Addition annexation, zoning change to R10, and minor subdivision final plat (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Basin Electric Fourth Addition final plat (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Municipal Fifth Addition final plat (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Horizon Condos Addition minor subdivision final plat (unanimous)
- Approved rural residential lot split at 6007 79th Avenue NE (7-2, Levchak and Zent opposed)
- Continued child care center special use permit at 3225 North 14th Street to January meeting (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for bulk storage of flammable/combustible/hazardous materials at 1901 Northern Plains Drive with conditions (8-1, Levchak opposed)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission will review two Section 106 projects: a proposed 110-foot Verizon telecommunications tower at 1700 Commerce Drive and a home improvement project at 1839 North Griffin Street. The commission will also consider adopting changes to its Section 106 review process, which would streamline reviews for minor projects and those involving structures under 45 years old. Public comments can be submitted by email before noon on the meeting day.
- Section 106 review: Verizon 110-foot monopole tower at 1700 Commerce Drive (staff recommends 'No Historic Properties Affected')
- Section 106 review: Community Action Program home improvement (steel door replacement) at 1839 North Griffin Street (staff recommends 'No Adverse Effect')
- Proposed changes to Section 106 review process: staff-only review for structures under 45 years old, cursory review by staff plus one commissioner for minor projects
- Update on Torrance Addition and Highland Acres Project
- Oaths of office and term expiration dates for commissioners
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved changes to its Section 106 consultation review process and appointed Chair Sakariassen as the liaison to assist staff. The Commission also voted to rescind a previous motion regarding the Highland Acres Historic District expansion and instead support a volunteer-led boundary expansion for the Torrance Addition. Additionally, the Commission approved amending its by-laws to change regular monthly meeting times to 3:00 p.m.
- Approved minutes of the November 17, 2021 meeting (7-0)
- Approved Section 106 declaration for Verizon telecommunications tower at 1700 Commerce Drive with a finding of No Historic Properties Affected (7-0)
- Removed Section 106 review request for 1839 North Griffin Street from consideration (7-0)
- Approved Section 106 Consultation review process change and appointed a member to assist staff (7-0)
- Nominated Chair Sakariassen as the Commission member designated to assist staff about Section 106 reviews (7-0)
- Rescinded previous approval of Highland Acres Historic District expansion and approved supporting a volunteer-led National Register of Historic Places boundary expansion for Torrance Addition (7-0)
- Approved amending by-laws to schedule regular monthly meetings at 3:00 p.m. (7-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will discuss the 150th birthday of Bismarck and consider various consent items including zoning changes, equipment leases, and gaming authorizations. The body will also review several tax abatement applications and public works contracts.
- Gaming site applications for On the Run #80150, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Hit the Spot, LLC
- Ordinance 6492 regarding lot modification process and Ordinance 6493 for zoning changes at Schilling Second Addition
- 5-year tax-exempt lease of six motor graders and two front-end loaders from US Bank at 1.31% interest
- Indigent Defense contract award to Thomas J. Glass and Steve Balaban
- Tax abatement applications for properties including 418 Ryan Dr, 1044 E Turnpike Ave, and 514 N 24th St
The Board approved a wide range of consent agenda items including gaming applications, airport leases, and equipment purchases. The Board also authorized planning for Bismarck's 150th birthday celebrations and approved a final plat for Big Pines Addition.
- Approved consent agenda including gaming applications for American Legion Post #1 and Gorilla Wrestling Club, Inc. (Unanimous)
- Approved Indigent Defense contract for Thomas J. Glass and Steve Balaban (Unanimous)
- Approved tax-exempt financing lease for motor graders and front-end loaders from US Bank (Unanimous)
- Approved authorization for Police Department to accept donations from Chick-Fil-A and Ignite Dispensary (Unanimous)
- Approved efforts to organize events for Bismarck's 150th birthday in 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved minor subdivision final plat of Big Pines Addition (Unanimous)
- Approved contract negotiation strategy following executive session (Unanimous)
- Approved lawsuit negotiation strategy (4-1)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Renaissance Zone Authority is meeting to consider design revisions and a timeline extension for a professional building and a new projecting sign for the Civic Square building. The body will also discuss adding technical advisors and recognize member George Kaiser.
- Design revisions and Renaissance Zone extension for Professional Building at 418 East Rosser Ave
- Projecting sign installation at Civic Square Building, 521 E Main Avenue
- Discussion regarding the addition of Technical Advisors
The Authority approved facade revisions and a project deadline extension for 418 East Rosser Avenue. Members also approved a new projecting sign for 521 East Main Avenue, subject to an encroachment agreement. Additionally, the board passed a resolution of appreciation for outgoing member George Keiser.
- Approved facade revisions and deadline extension for 418 East Rosser Avenue
- Approved projecting sign for 521 East Main Avenue (5-1)
- Approved resolution of appreciation for George Keiser
- Approved October 14, 2021 meeting minutes
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will meet to review financial statements and monthly parking rates. The body will also hold a discussion regarding a new parking ramp.
- Discussion of a new parking ramp
- Review of monthly parking rates
- Review of financial statements
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved the November 18, 2021 minutes and the November financials, both by unanimous roll call votes. The board voted 5-0 to increase monthly parking rates by $2.00 effective March 1, 2022, with all other rates unchanged. Members held general discussion on new parking ramps with no decision, agreeing to continue at the next meeting, and heard a report that the Bismarck City Commission is considering moving all board members' term expirations to December of each year. The meeting adjourned at 9:38 A.M.; the next meeting is January 13, 2022.
- Approved November 18, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved November financials (5-0 roll call)
- Increased monthly parking rates by $2.00 effective March 1, 2022; all other rates unchanged (5-0 roll call)
- New parking ramp discussion held; no action, to continue at next meeting
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to review presentations on street utility fee math. The discussion covers commercial rates, residential rates, and cost allocation.
- Presentation on street utility fee math for commercial rates
- Presentation on street utility fee math for residential rates
- Presentation on street utility fee math for cost allocation
- Discussion of other political subdivision fees
The Special Assessment Task Force approved its prior meeting minutes and heard a presentation from developer David Witham on a possible fee structure based on lot size and a mathematical equation rather than set tiers. Several members said the approach was easier to understand and preferable to earlier proposals, though concerns were raised about the formula's complexity and explaining it to voters. The general consensus was that before the next meeting, Kevin Strege's method and Witham's should be discussed for possible combination and presentation to the task force. City Engineer Gabe Schell also gave an overview of political subdivision fees, noting Bismarck Parks and Recreation and Bismarck Public Schools can currently use mil levies for special assessments but would need general fund money if switched to a fee; he said he is still working with the bond advisor on a solution.
- Approved prior meeting minutes as presented (all aye)
- No formal vote on a fee structure; general consensus to discuss combining Kevin Strege's and David Witham's methods before the next meeting
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a single-family home at 6134 Carefree Circle in the Misty Waters PUD. The home's southwest corner extends about 6 feet beyond the required rear yard setback due to an incorrect lot survey. The board may approve, continue, table, or deny the request.
- Variance request VAR2021-008 for Lot 22, Block 1, Misty Waters (6134 Carefree Circle)
- Home's southwest corner projects ~6 feet beyond rear yard setback per PUD
- Building permit BRES2021-0542 issued July 1, 2021; foundation poured before error discovered
- 131 notification letters mailed to nearby property owners on November 19, 2021
- Board to consider approval of August 5, 2021 meeting minutes
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will meet to consider various administrative approvals, including equipment purchases and grant applications. The regular agenda features public hearings on a zoning change for Parkview Mobile Home Park and a new liquor license.
- Zoning change from CG-Commercial to RMH-Residential for Parkview Mobile Home Park
- New Class I-2 Beer & Wine Only restaurant liquor license for Nara Ramen And Izakaya Inc. at 309 North 3rd Street
- Renewal waste collection franchise application for Raevin Inc.
- Ordinance 6491 to amend bingo changes
- Adjustment of 2022 fees for contaminated soil disposal at the landfill
The Board approved a zoning change for the Parkview Mobile Home Park from commercial to residential. Other actions included approving a liquor license for Nara Ramen And Izakaya Inc. and renewing a waste collection franchise for Raevin Inc.
- Approved zoning change from CG-Commercial to RMH-Residential for Parkview Mobile Home Park (All Aye)
- Approved Class I-2 Beer & Wine Only liquor license for Nara Ramen And Izakaya Inc. (All Aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6491 regarding bingo changes (All Aye)
- Approved renewal waste collection franchise application for Raevin Inc. (All Aye)
- Approved consent agenda including vouchers 1101271-1101542 and personnel actions (All Aye)
- Approved gaming application for Dakota Pheasants Forever at AMVETS Club No. 9 (All Aye)
- Approved purchase of Tyler Content Manager from Tyler Technologies (All Aye)
- Approved rejection of loader bids dated June 7, 2021 (All Aye)
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will review financial statements and monthly parking rates. The body will also discuss a new parking ramp and pay requests for completed repairs.
- Discussion regarding a new parking ramp
- Pay requests for Vector Construction for Parkade green-level repairs project
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The commission will review a preliminary plat for the Municipal Fifth Addition to facilitate a new Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health facility. The body is also considering technical amendments to the city's sign ordinance and several subdivision plats.
- Preliminary Plat for Municipal Fifth Addition (PPLT2021-007) for a new public health facility
- Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment (ZOTA2021-005) for sign ordinance technical revisions
- Minor Subdivision Final Plat and Zoning Change for Schilling Second Addition (MPLT2021-007, ZC2021-010)
- Minor Subdivision Final Plat for Big Pines Addition (MPLT2021-008)
- Special Use Permit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit at Lot 2, Block 3, Hay Creek Pines Subdivision (SUP2021-024)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved a consent agenda calling for public hearings on the Municipal Fifth Addition preliminary plat and sign ordinance technical amendments. It then unanimously approved the Schilling Second Addition minor subdivision final plat and a zoning change from PUD/CG to PUD/CG, and recommended approval of the Big Pines Addition minor subdivision final plat. The Commission also recommended approval of a special use permit for an accessory dwelling unit at 9501 Oak Drive and a zoning ordinance text amendment on the lot modification process. All votes were 10-0, with Commissioner Brian Bitner absent.
- Approved October 27, 2021 minutes (10-0)
- Approved consent agenda items 2 and 3, calling public hearings on Municipal Fifth Addition preliminary plat and sign ordinance amendments (10-0)
- Approved Schilling Second Addition minor subdivision final plat and zoning change from PUD/CG to PUD/CG (10-0)
- Recommended approval of Big Pines Addition minor subdivision final plat (10-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for accessory dwelling unit at Lot 2, Block 3, Hay Creek Pines Subdivision, with condition it conform to submitted documents (10-0)
- Recommended approval of zoning ordinance text amendment to Sections 14-09-03 and 14-09-04(6) on lot modifications (10-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission will consider expanding the proposed Highland Acres Historic District to include Torrance Addition, review a Section 106 request for a home improvement project, and identify 2022 Historic Preservation Fund grant projects. The meeting also includes discussion of the city's sesquicentennial and possible approval of Talking Trail signs.
- Section 106 review: Community Action Program interior home improvements at 1660 Pennsylvania Avenue
- Consideration of expanding Highland Acres Historic District to include Torrance Addition (20 lots)
- Identification of 2022 Historic Preservation Fund grant projects (estimated $78,800 available for CLGs)
- Sesquicentennial discussion and possible proclamation
- Review and possible approval of Talking Trail signs
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved expanding the proposed Highland Acres Historic District project to include Torrance Addition as a volunteer-led effort, provided residents meet established deadlines and no added expenditure is incurred. The Commission also approved a prioritized list of 2022 Historic Preservation Fund grant projects, a revised sesquicentennial proclamation, and a Talking Trail sign design. A Section 106 review for an interior home improvement at 1660 Pennsylvania Avenue was approved with a finding of No Historic Properties Affected.
- Approved minutes of the October 20, 2021 meeting (4-0)
- Approved Section 106 declaration for interior home improvement at 1660 Pennsylvania Avenue with finding of No Historic Properties Affected (5-0)
- Approved expansion of Highland Acres Historic District project to include Torrance Addition as a volunteer-led effort, contingent on meeting deadlines and no added expenditure (5-0)
- Approved prioritized 2022 HPF grant project list, with all items except Highland Acres and CLG Conference packaged as a sesquicentennial celebration (6-0)
- Approved revised sesquicentennial proclamation (6-0)
- Approved Talking Trail sign design as presented (6-0)
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will review and take action on multiple transportation funding programs, including 2025 Transportation Alternatives projects, 2026 Highway Safety Improvement Program projects, 2024 Urban Grants, and 2026 Urban Roads projects. They will also consider approving a planning study contract template, selecting a consultant for the East Main Avenue Corridor Study, and hear updates on rail/highway crossing safety, transit, and other items.
- 2025 Transportation Alternatives: South Washington Trail Extension (Meridian Drive to Sibley Park), US 83/State Street Multi-Use Trail Extension (Calgary Avenue to 43rd Avenue), Hay Creek Trail Renovation
- 2026 Highway Safety Improvement Program: Centennial Road/71st Avenue Intersection Reconstruction
- 2024 Urban Grants: Bismarck Front Avenue & 5th Street Pavement Rehab, Bismarck West CBD Pavement Upgrade, Mandan Downtown Core Reconstruction Phase I
- 2026 Urban Roads: South Washington (Wachter Drainage Ditch to Burleigh Avenue), Division Street west of Sunset Drive, Boundary Road west of Sunset Drive
- Action items: Planning Study Contract Template approval, East Main Avenue Corridor Study Consultant Approval
Human Relations Committee
The Human Relations Committee is meeting to review its 2021 goals and the Municipal Equality Index Rating. The body will discuss logo proofs and participation in the Martin Luther King Day Celebration.
- Discussion of logo proofs
- Review of Municipal Equality Index Rating
- Planning for Martin Luther King Day Celebration
- Review of 2021 HRC Goals
The committee approved its October 18, 2021 minutes and set its January 2022 meeting for January 10 and its February 2022 meeting for February 28, since city offices close on the usual third Mondays for federal holidays. It voted to adopt student-created logo number 13 in the number 4 color option, and separately approved putting that logo on a new banner and repeating a prior promotional materials purchase for no more than $1500.00. The committee postponed its Diversity University event discussion to the spring after member Manisha Sawhney resigned, and heard that resignations from Sawhney and Annette Martel will go to the Bismarck City Commission for approval. No public comment was offered.
- Approved October 18, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Set January 2022 meeting for January 10 and February 2022 meeting for February 28 (unanimous)
- Adopted logo number 13 in the number 4 color option, plus black and white (unanimous)
- Approved new banner with logo number 13 and repeat promotional materials purchase, value not over $1500.00 (unanimous)
- Postponed Diversity University discussion to spring 2022
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to discuss commercial parcel assessments from past years and to hear a presentation from Finance Director Dmitriy Chernyak on special assessment bond debt figures and interest rates. The agenda also includes routine items like welcome, introductions, and approval of minutes from the previous meeting.
- Commercial parcel discussion and review of past commercial assessments
- Special assessment bond debt figures and interest rate presentation by Finance Director Dmitriy Chernyak
The task force reviewed commercial property classifications and street maintenance bond projections. Members discussed the inclusion of tax-exempt properties and vacant lots in potential fees, though no final decision was made on charging manufactured home parks.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (All aye)
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will review and take action on multiple project selections, including 2025 Transportation Alternatives (trail) projects, 2026 Highway Safety Improvement Program projects, 2024 Urban Grants, and 2026 Urban Roads projects. They will also consider a planning study contract template, approve a consultant for the East Main Avenue Corridor Study, and discuss meeting format and location. Public comments are accepted via email before the meeting.
- 2025 Transportation Alternatives: South Washington Trail Extension (Meridian Drive to Sibley Park), US 83/State Street Multi-Use Trail Extension (Calgary Avenue to 43rd Avenue), Hay Creek Trail Renovation
- 2026 HSIP: Centennial Road/71st Avenue Intersection Reconstruction
- 2024 Urban Grants: Bismarck Front Avenue & 5th Street Pavement Rehab, Bismarck West CBD Pavement Upgrade, Mandan Downtown Core Reconstruction Phase I
- 2026 Urban Roads: South Washington (Wachter Drainage Ditch to Burleigh Avenue), Division Street west of Sunset Drive, Boundary Road west of Sunset Drive
- East Main Avenue Corridor Study consultant approval
Board of City Commissioners
The Burleigh County Board of City Commissioners meets to decide on liquor licenses, zoning changes, infrastructure contracts, and public education campaigns. Items include approval of expenditures, personnel actions, and public hearings for new liquor licenses at Nara Ramen And Izakaya Inc. and Hit The Spot. The board also considers zoning changes, easement releases, and contracts for flood control studies and water system expansions.
- New Class I-2 Beer & Wine Only restaurant liquor license for Nara Ramen And Izakaya Inc. at 309 North 3rd Street
- Zoning change from CG-Commercial to RMH-Residential for Auditor’s Lots 12 and parts of 11 and 17-20 (Park Hill Auditor’s Lots)
- Utility Revenue Bond, Series 2021, for Public Works Expansion Project
- FEMA grant funding for Advanced Assistance Flood Control Study with Apex Engineering
- Agreement with Western Area Power Association (WAPA) to construct, operate, and maintain 43rd Avenue within their easement
The Board of City Commissioners approved the consent agenda, awarded multiple project bids and contracts, and denied a request for full driveway access at 43rd Avenue HC 131. The board also approved a liquor license for Hit The Spot, authorized special assessment bonds and warrants, and approved a construction manager contract for public buildings. Additionally, the board entered an executive session for contract negotiations.
- Approved remaining consent agenda (all voted aye)
- Approved public health vaccine education campaign project to Epicosity (Commissioner Splonskowski voted nay)
- Approved new I-2 Beer and Wine Only Restaurant liquor license for Hit The Spot at 706 Kirkwood Mall (all voted aye)
- Denied request for full access at 43rd Avenue HC 131 Schilling driveway access (3-2 vote)
- Authorized resolutions for issuance and award of 2021 special assessment bonds and warrants (all voted aye)
- Approved contract with Kraus-Anderson for Construction Manager at Risk services (all voted aye)
- Approved contract negotiation strategy as discussed during executive session (all voted aye)
Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition
The coalition is meeting to receive updates from various subcommittees regarding behavioral health and substance abuse. The session includes reports on grant-funded projects and community recovery efforts.
- Drug Free Communities (DFC) Grant Subcommittee update
- SOR Grant update from SAP Coordinator
- SAPC Grant Fake Id Project update from Bismarck Police Dept
- Student Subcommittee update
- Intoxication/Withdrawal Management and Treatment & Recovery updates
The Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition met on November 9, 2021, and received updates from its subcommittees. No formal decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded. The meeting included reports on grant-funded prevention efforts, a fake ID detection program, crisis unit operations, and treatment services. The meeting adjourned at 10:47 AM.
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a special meeting to provide information to residents about ongoing efforts to nominate the Highland Acres area to the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District. No decisions or actions will be taken at this meeting.
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to review utility fee spreadsheets and data integrity. The session includes presentations on bond debt figures and interest rates.
- Discussion of Utility Fee Spreadsheet
- Data integrity discussion with City Engineer Gabe Schell
- Presentation on Special Assessment Bond Debt Figures and Interest Rates by Finance Director Dmitriy Chernak
The Special Assessment Task Force approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed utility fee spreadsheet data presented by Kevin Strege and Dustin Gawrylow. City Engineer Gabe Schell led a poll on residential and commercial tiered frameworks, finding general consensus. A presentation on special assessment bond debt figures and interest rates was shelved for the next meeting.
- Approved the minutes as presented (all voted aye)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission is holding a special meeting to review a Section 106 review request from the FAA and SHPO for a proposed utilities and roadway project at the Bismarck Airport, including the new Lancair Loop. The FAA has proposed a finding of 'No Historic Properties Affected,' and the commission will evaluate this and provide a recommendation. The meeting is being expedited due to winter weather constraints.
- Section 106 review of Bismarck Airport Utilities and Roadway project (Lancair Loop)
- FAA proposes 'No Historic Properties Affected' determination
- Project includes new water main, sanitary sewer connections, street lighting, and fence relocation
- Construction of Lancair Loop (approx. 5,239 SF asphalt, 2,291 SF concrete) and drainage swale
- Commission to complete declaration agreeing or disagreeing with FAA's finding
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission held a special meeting on October 28, 2021, to review a Section 106 request from the State Historic Preservation Office and the Federal Aviation Administration for utilities and roadway development at the Bismarck Airport. The commission approved the Section 106 declaration as written with a finding of No Historic Properties Affected, with three commissioners in favor and one opposed. Commissioners also discussed whether the site's historical status was adequately studied, and it was noted the next meeting would start at 3 p.m. instead of 3:30 p.m.
- Approved Section 106 declaration for Bismarck Airport Utilities and Roadway project with finding of No Historic Properties Affected (3 in favor, 1 opposed)
- Declined to have Commissioner Nodland recuse herself from the discussion; all commissioners confirmed no objection
- Noted next Historic Preservation Commission meeting will be at 3 p.m. instead of the usual 3:30 p.m.
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings and consider several land-use requests, including a zoning change to allow two-family residential development, a text amendment to the lot modification process, a minor subdivision plat, another zoning change, and two special use permits. The commission will also receive updates on the Together 2045 plan and the Boden Addition. Public comments can be submitted by email before 8am on the meeting day.
- Zoning change (ZC2021-012) for Burleigh Avenue Addition and Lots 6-7, Block 1, South Meadows Second Addition (to be South Meadows Third Addition) from RR/R10 to R10 for two-family residential
- Zoning ordinance text amendment (ZOTA2021-004) to revise lot modification process, allowing metes and bounds descriptions instead of Auditor's Plats for irregular lots
- Minor subdivision final plat (MPLT2021-010) for Trillium Third Addition Second Replat
- Zoning change (ZC2021-011) for Auditor's Lot 12 and parts of Auditor's Lots 11, 17-20, Park Hill Auditor's Lots from CG to RMH
- Special use permits: Electronic Message Center Sign at YMCA Addition (SUP2021-012) and Oversized Accessory Building at Hightop Acres Second Subdivision (SUP2021-023)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission approved the minutes of the previous meeting, the Burleigh Avenue Addition zoning change, and a zoning ordinance text amendment for lot modifications. The commission also held public hearings and approved a minor subdivision final plat for Trillium Third Addition Second Replat, a zoning change from commercial to residential for Park Hill Auditor's Lots, a special use permit for an electronic message center sign at the YMCA Addition, and a special use permit for an oversized accessory building at Hightop Acres Second Subdivision.
- Approved minutes of the September 22, 2021 meeting (6-0)
- Approved Burleigh Avenue Addition zoning change and Lot Modification Process zoning ordinance text amendment (6-0)
- Recommended approval of minor subdivision final plat for Trillium Third Addition Second Replat (6-0)
- Recommended approval of zoning change from CG to RMH for Park Hill Auditor's Lots (7-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for an electronic message center sign on Lot 1, Block 1, YMCA Addition (6-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for a 2,900 square foot accessory building at Lot 1, Block 1, Hightop Acres Second Subdivision (6-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular session on October 26, 2021, with public hearings on a zoning change for the Northern Pacific Addition, several liquor license requests, and ordinance amendments. They will also consider consent agenda items including expenditures, personnel actions, and various contracts and easement releases. The meeting includes public comment opportunities and is open to residents.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6486: zoning change from RT, RM30, PUD to DF for Lots 1-8, Block 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition
- Public hearing on new Class I-3 Beer Only liquor license for Hot Dogkota at 2700 State Street
- Public hearing on new I-2 Beer and Wine Only Restaurant liquor license for Hit The Spot at 706 Kirkwood Mall
- Bid award for Water Treatment Plant High Lift Pump No. 5 replacement and electrical improvements
- Bid award for hauling and disposal of lime products at Water Treatment Plant
The Board of City Commissioners approved all items on its consent and regular agendas, including a city-initiated zoning change to Downtown Fringe for two blocks in the Northern Pacific Addition and four ordinance amendments. It also awarded bids for lime hauling and disposal and for Water Treatment Plant High Lift Pump No. 5 replacement and electrical improvements. All votes were unanimous; no public comment was offered.
- Approved consent agenda as presented (all aye)
- Approved new Class I-3 Beer Only liquor license for Hot Dogkota at 2700 State Street (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6486 zoning change to DF – Downtown Fringe for Lots 1-8, Block 11 and Lots 1-8, Block 12, Northern Pacific Addition (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6487 amending Bismarck Ordinance Section 7-06-12 regarding approval of payment changes (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6488 amending Bismarck Ordinance Section 12-09-42.1 regarding OHV operation rules (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6489 amending Bismarck Ordinance Section 6-03-03 regarding harassment (all aye)
- Approved relinquishing certain permitting and inspections authority for installation of manufactured homes (all aye)
- Awarded lime hauling/disposal bid to Saber Shred Solutions Inc at $27/ton (all aye)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) board will review past meeting minutes and receive updates on the Bismarck/Burleigh Emergency Operations Center (EOC) project, public safety software, and the SIRN 20/20 system. The board will also discuss a lease buy-down and receive director updates before adjourning.
- Review and approve minutes from July 13, 21, July 27, 21, and August 12, 21
- CenCom, Bismarck / Burleigh EOC Project Update
- Public Safety Software Project Update
- SIRN 20/20 Update
- Lease Buy Down Discussion
The CenCom Board of Directors approved prior meeting minutes and passed a motion to use an additional $250,000 from the building fund to buy down the DCN lease, with a roll call vote all in favor. The board received updates on the Bismarck/Burleigh EOC project, the public safety software project, and SIRN 20/20, but took no other recorded votes. The meeting adjourned at 11:54 PM, with the next meeting set for January 11th at 11:00 AM.
- Approved minutes from 7/13/21, 7/27/21, and 8/12/21 (all in favor)
- Approved using $250,000 from the building fund to buy down the DCN lease (roll call, all in favor)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Executive Committee is meeting to review and approve prior minutes, receive updates on the Bismarck/Burleigh Emergency Operations Center (EOC) project, the Public Safety Software project, and the SIRN 20/20 initiative, and discuss new business including a lease buy-down. The meeting is a routine governance session for the joint city-county communications partnership.
- Review/approve minutes from 7/27/2021
- CenCom, Bismarck / Burleigh EOC Project Update
- Public Safety Software Project Update
- SIRN 20/20 Update
- Lease Buy Down Discussion
The committee approved a request for $44,000 from the City of Bismarck and Burleigh County for an RMS conversion. It also authorized using $250,000 from the building fund to reduce the DCN lease.
- Approved 7/26/21 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved request for $44,000 from City of Bismarck and Burleigh County for Central Square RMS conversion (unanimous)
- Approved use of $250,000 from building fund to buy down DCN lease (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission meets to review and approve Section 106 findings for a home improvement project at 1119 University Drive, where a manufactured home entry will be replaced using Community Development Block Grant funds. The Commission also discusses potential 2022 historic preservation grants, sesquicentennial activities, and updates on local historic resources.
- Section 106 review of entry replacement project at 1119 University Drive using Community Action Program Region VII funds
- Approval of minutes from August 18, 2021 meeting (September 15 meeting was cancelled)
- Discussion on preserving historic galvanized steel curb bars in Cathedral Area Historic District during watermain project
- Selection of Metcalf Archeologic Consultants Inc. for Highland Acres National Register of Historic Places nomination
- Planning for Bismarck’s 2022 sesquicentennial activities and potential Historic Preservation Fund grant applications
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved minutes of its August 18, 2021 meeting and approved a Section 106 declaration for a home improvement project at 1119 University Drive with a finding of No Historic Properties Affected. Commissioners discussed potential 2022 Historic Preservation Fund grant applications, sesquicentennial activities, and street banners, reaching consensus that the banners are a good idea, but no formal action was taken. Staff reported that the National Register nomination for St. George's Episcopal Memorial Church was accepted on October 5, 2021, and members agreed to start November and December meetings at 3:00 p.m. instead of 3:30 p.m.
- Approved minutes of the August 18, 2021 meeting (6-0)
- Approved Section 106 declaration for 1119 University Drive with finding of No Historic Properties Affected (6-0)
- Consensus that history-themed street banners are a good idea (no formal vote)
- Agreed to start November and December meetings at 3:00 p.m. instead of 3:30 p.m.
Forestry Advisory Board
The Bismarck Forestry Advisory Board is holding its regular meeting to discuss routine forestry operations. Items include updates on the 2021 pruning contract, European elm scale treatment, Dutch elm disease, and a potential downtown tree project with the Lander Group.
- Approval of minutes from July 12, 2021 meeting
- 2021 Pruning Contract update
- European Elm Scale Treatment Program update
- Dutch Elm Disease Report
- Kate Herzog – Downtown trees, potential project with Lander Group
The Forestry Advisory Board met without a quorum, so approval of the July 20, 2021 minutes was tabled until the next meeting. Forestry staff reported on the 2021 pruning contract, European Elm Scale and Dutch Elm Disease treatment and removals, and the Partners in Planting program. Staff reported Bismarck Forestry was awarded a $20,000 NDFS Species Diversity Grant to be used by November 2022, and heard a presentation on a potential downtown tree project with the Lander Group.
- Tabled approval of July 20, 2021 minutes — no quorum
- Reported NDFS Species Diversity Grant of $20,000 awarded to Bismarck Forestry, to be used by November 2022
- Reported 2021 pruning contract with Beaver Creek Tree Service: 563 trees pruned to date, 84 remaining on Wachter Ave
- Reported 335 trees treated/injected for European Elm Scale; $200,000 budgeted for 2022 tree injections
- Reported 134 boulevard elm trees removed, 23 elm trees abated on private property
- Reported 13 trees positive for Dutch Elm Disease (7 boulevard, 3 Tatley Park, 3 private property)
- Reported 260 planting permits issued and 247 trees planted through Partners in Planting, with $19,987.56 rebated (averaging $80 per tree)
- Reported maple trees will be removed from the approved Street Tree Guide brochure except Amur Maple and Tatarian Maple due to low survival rate
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board will meet on October 19, 2021, to review and possibly approve the 2022-2025 Draft Final Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), adopt Highway Safety Improvement Program targets, and authorize a contract for socio-economic data purchase. The board will also hear updates on intelligent transportation systems, the Bismarck comprehensive plan, and the East Main Avenue corridor study.
- 2022-2025 Draft Final TIP approval for $2022–2025 transportation projects
- Adoption of PM1 Highway Safety Improvement Program targets
- Approval for purchase of socio-economic data (UPWP Task 204)
- Authorization request for MPO Executive Director concerning contracts & micro-purchases
- East Main Avenue Corridor Study RFP update
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is holding a regular meeting to review its mission, approve previous meeting minutes, and introduce a new member. The agenda also includes discussions on 2021 goals such as Diversity University, the Municipal Equality Index Rating, student liaisons, and participation in community events.
- Introduction of new committee member
- Discussion of 2021 HRC goals including Diversity University and Municipal Equality Index Rating
The committee approved a motion to host a booth at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Library's 'Families Around the World' event on January 24, 2022. Members discussed logo drafts from the Career Academy and potential outreach regarding the Municipal Equality Index.
- Approved September 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved participation in 'Families Around the World' event (unanimous)
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to approve minutes and reach consensus on how to split special assessment revenue between residential and commercial properties. They will also discuss how to further divide the residential and commercial tiers. The meeting is a regular session held at Bismarck Public Works.
- Approval of minutes from previous meeting
- Consensus on residential/commercial revenue split
- Discussion of residential tier split
- Discussion of commercial tier split
The Special Assessment Task Force approved the previous meeting's minutes. Members discussed residential and commercial revenue splits and the impact of paying off current special assessments. A fee concept spreadsheet will be reviewed at the November 1, 2021, meeting.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (All Aye)
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will consider several action items, including reaffirming approval of the 2022-2025 Draft Final Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) after a public hearing, adopting PM1 Highway Safety Improvement Program targets, approving the purchase of socio-economic data, and authorizing the MPO Executive Director to handle contracts and micro-purchases. The committee will also receive updates on the Intelligent Transportation System, Bismarck Comprehensive Plan, East Main Avenue Corridor Study, and roadway projects.
- Public hearing and action on 2022-2025 Draft Final TIP
- Adoption of PM1 Highway Safety Improvement Program targets
- Approval for socio-economic data purchase (UPWP Task 204)
- Authorization request for MPO Executive Director concerning contracts and micro-purchases
- Updates on Intelligent Transportation System, Bismarck Comp Plan, East Main Avenue Corridor Study
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Burleigh County Renaissance Zone Authority is meeting to consider a new construction project and Downtown Design Review for the Applewood Group Rowhouses at 215 W Thayer Avenue. The agenda also includes a final report on the Renaissance Zone Boundary Modification Plan and staff reports.
- Applewood Group Rowhouses new construction and Downtown Design Review at 215 W Thayer Avenue (RZ2021-003 and DDR2021-007)
- Final Report on Renaissance Zone Boundary Modification Plan
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority approved a New Construction Renaissance Zone project and Downtown Design Review for six rowhouse-style housing units at 215 West Thayer Avenue, proposed by Applewood Group, LLC. Both motions passed with all six present members voting in favor. The Authority also directed staff to send letters to property owners in blocks proposed for completion and to schedule a public hearing for the May Renaissance Zone meeting on a draft Boundary Modification Plan. The minutes also corrected the September 9, 2021 minutes to reflect that Curt Walth was not present at that meeting.
- Approved New Construction Renaissance Zone project for six rowhouse-style units at 215 West Thayer Avenue (6-0)
- Approved Downtown Design Review for 215 West Thayer Avenue with three conditions, including that meeting renderings be followed and dumpster impact be mitigated (6-0)
- Approved September 9, 2021 minutes as corrected to show Curt Walth was not present (6-0)
- Directed staff to send letters to property owners in blocks proposed for completion and schedule a public hearing for the May Renaissance Zone meeting on the draft Boundary Modification Plan (6-0)
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will meet to review financial statements, discuss the Parkade Green-level repairs project, and consider extending its management agreement with Rocky Gordon & Company, LLC for 2022. They will also hear updates on a possible new downtown ramp and other business items.
- Consider extension of management agreement with Rocky Gordon & Company, LLC for 1/1/2022 – 12/31/2022
- Parkade Green-level repairs project status update
- Pay requests from Vector Construction
- Updates on possible new downtown ramp
- Nilfisk Sweeper machine delay
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved the September 9, 2021 minutes and the September financials. It approved exercising the option to renew Rocky Gordon and Company's management contract for the year, and approved a $101,362 pay request from Vector Construction. Staff reported the Parkade green level repairs were slightly delayed but expected to finish early next week, and that delivery of a Nilfisk sweeper was delayed to January 2022 due to supply chain issues.
- Approved September 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved September financials (5-0 roll call)
- Approved exercising option to renew Rocky Gordon and Company management contract for the year (5-0 roll call)
- Approved $101,362 pay request from Vector Construction (5-0 roll call)
Animal Advisory Board
The October 14, 2021 meeting of the Bismarck Animal Advisory Board has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting is January 13, 2022, at 10:00 AM in the 4th Floor Mayor's Conference Room of the Bismarck City/County Building, 221 N 5th Street, Bismarck, ND.
- October 14, 2021 meeting canceled due to lack of agenda items
- Next meeting scheduled for January 13, 2022 at 10:00 AM
- Meeting location: 4th Floor Mayor's Conference Room, Bismarck City/County Building, 221 N 5th Street, Bismarck, ND
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will consider a 20-year, $26 million loan from the Bank of North Dakota for the Public Works Building expansion project. The meeting also features public hearings on zoning changes, health and safety assessments, and new ordinances covering payment changes, off-highway vehicles, and harassment.
- Request for a 20-year, $26 million loan from the Bank of North Dakota for the Public Works Building expansion project.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6482 for a zoning change in the Potter Pointe Subdivision.
- Public hearing and confirmation of 2021 Health & Safety Assessments and special assessment districts.
- Introduction of Ordinance 6487 (payment changes), Ordinance 6488 (OHV rules), and Ordinance 6489 (harassment).
- Request for a new I-3 Beer Only Restaurant liquor license for Hot Dogkota at 2700 State St.
The Board of City Commissioners approved a $26 million loan at a 2% fixed interest rate. Other actions included approving zoning changes for the Potter Pointe Subdivision and accepting construction bids for the Airport's Lancair Loop.
- Approved $26 million loan from Bank of North Dakota at 2% fixed interest rate (unanimous)
- Approved zoning change for Potter Pointe Subdivision (unanimous)
- Approved 2021 Health & Safety Assessments (unanimous)
- Confirmed 2021 special assessment districts as amended (unanimous)
- Accepted Lancair Loop construction bids from Strata Corporation ($437,083.70) and Edling Electric ($54,435.00) (unanimous)
- Approved Consent Agenda including personnel actions, expenditures, and various department requests (unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Sashay Schettler to the Bismarck Human Relations Committee (unanimous)
- Approved sidewalk snow removal contract with Yard Butler for 2021-2022 (unanimous)
Special Assessment Task Force
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Task Force meets to review meeting minutes, discuss a consensus exercise recap, and consider two different rate structures and a simplified framework.
- Consideration of flat residential fee with commercial fee tiered by parcel area
- Consideration of residential and commercial fees tiered by parcel area
- Consideration of a simplified framework
The task force reviewed consensus exercise results and discussed various proposed rate structures for special assessments. No official consensus was reached on the rate structures. Members were asked to test a simplified framework spreadsheet and provide feedback at the next meeting.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (All aye)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will meet to consider and approve a change order for the landfill cell #1 construction project. The meeting is a special session held at the City/County Building in Bismarck.
- Change order for landfill cell #1 construction project
The Board of City Commissioners held a special meeting to consider a project update for landfill cell #1. Commissioners discussed an issue with water seeping into the cell and the need for a pump. The Board unanimously approved a change order costing $109,088.05.
- Approved change order of $109,088.05 for landfill cell #1 construction project (unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet in regular session to consider consent agenda items and hold several public hearings. Key public hearings include a new liquor license for Noodlezip, amendments to ordinances on tattooing/body piercing of minors and noise, a zoning change for Fairview Cemetery Addition, and multiple special assessment districts. The board will also consider pursuing state funding for road and trail projects and a contract for building design.
- Public hearing on new I-2 Beer & Wine Restaurant liquor license for Noodlezip at 208 E Main Ave
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6484 to amend tattooing/body piercing of minors ordinance
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6485 to amend noise ordinance
- Public hearing on zoning change for Fairview Cemetery Addition from A-Agricultural and MA-Industrial to RT-Residential, MA-Industrial, P-Public
- Consider NDDOT funding for multi-use trail along US 83/State Street from Calgary Ave to 43rd Ave
The Board of City Commissioners approved a full consent agenda and a series of regular agenda items, all by unanimous roll call votes. These included a new I-2 Beer & Wine Restaurant liquor license for Noodlezip at 208 E Main Ave, amendments to tattooing and noise ordinances, a zoning change and final plat for Fairview Cemetery Addition, and special assessment districts. The board also approved pursuing NDDOT grants, a contract for Public Works expansion design, and after an executive session, voted to proceed as discussed.
- Approved consent agenda as presented (all aye)
- Approved new I-2 Beer & Wine Restaurant liquor license for Noodlezip at 208 E Main Ave (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6484 amending tattooing and body piercing of minors (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6485 amending noise ordinance (all aye)
- Approved zoning change and final plat for Fairview Cemetery Addition (all aye)
- Approved 2021 special assessment districts and assessments as amended (all aye)
- Approved ordinances creating special assessment districts for annexed properties (all aye)
- Approved pursuing NDDOT Urban Road, Urban Regional and Urban Grant program projects (all aye)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of Health (the City Commission acting in that role) is holding a special meeting to receive a COVID-19 update from Public Health Director Renae Moch and to review a September 19, 2021 letter from the BPS Parent and Community Coalition for COVID-19 Safety in School. The letter asks the Board to require masks in Bismarck Public Schools. The agenda includes no voting items; it is a discussion-only meeting.
- Receive COVID-19 update from Public Health Director Renae Moch
- Review letter from BPS Parent and Community Coalition requesting mask mandate in schools
- Discussion of health officer authority regarding mask mandates (per city attorney memo)
The Bismarck Board of Health held a special meeting on September 22, 2021, to receive a COVID-19 update and review a letter from the Bismarck Public School Parent and Community Coalition for COVID-19 Safety in School. The board voted unanimously to deny the coalition's request, based on the city attorney's advice that the board lacks authority to impose emergency mandates without a declared emergency or a new ordinance. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Denied the Bismarck Public School Parent and Community Coalition for COVID-19 Safety in School request (5-0)
- Received Public Health Director Renae Moch's COVID-19 update
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will consider three zoning-change requests and one special-use permit at its September 22 meeting. Two items are public hearings that could be forwarded to the City Commission for final action. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and updates on other projects.
- Rezone Lot 3, Block 1, Capital Electric Headquarters Addition and adjacent parcel (12.52 acres) from PUD & CG to PUD & CG (ZC2021-010)
- Rezone Auditor’s Lots 11–12, 17–20 in Park Hill from CG to RMH (ZC2021-011)
- Rezone Blocks 11–12, Northern Pacific Addition from RT, RM & PUD to DF (ZC2021-009)
- Special Use Permit for crematorium on part of Auditor’s Lot A, Fairview Cemetery Addition (SUP2021-020)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a City-initiated zoning change for Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition, from RT, RM30, and PUD districts to DF — Downtown Fringe. The Commission also recommended approval of a special use permit for a crematorium as an accessory use to Fairview Cemetery, with conditions. Both items now go to the City Commission for final action. The Commission approved the August 25, 2021 minutes and advanced two consent agenda items to public hearing.
- Approved minutes of the August 25, 2021 meeting (7-0)
- Approved consent agenda items 2 and 3, calling for public hearing (7-0)
- Recommended approval of zoning change to DF — Downtown Fringe for Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition (7-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for a crematorium as an accessory use to Fairview Cemetery, with conditions (7-0)
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will meet on September 21, 2021, at 1:30 PM in Mandan City Hall to decide on updates to the 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) and approve the 2022-2025 draft TIP. The board will also review a master agreement update and a revised East Main Avenue Corridor Study RFP.
- 2021-2024 TIP Amendments (Exhibit A) — public hearing and action vote
- 2022-2025 Draft Final TIP (Exhibit B) — public hearing and approval vote
- ATAC Master Agreement Update (Exhibit C) — action vote
- Revised East Main Avenue Corridor Study RFP (Exhibit D) — action vote
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee meets to review its mission, approve past meeting minutes, and discuss 2021 goals including Diversity University and a school district partnership. Updates include a municipal equality index rating review and a career academy project. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.
- Discussion with Bismarck Public Schools Indian Education Director Sashay Schettler
- 2021 HRC Goals including Diversity University initiative
- Municipal Equality Index Rating review
- Bismarck Public Schools Career Academy Project update
The committee approved the minutes from their August 16, 2021 meeting. Members also discussed potential collaborations with Bismarck Public Schools, updates on the 2021 cultural dinner, the Municipal Equality Index rating, and the Career Academy project.
- Approved August 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force is meeting to approve minutes, review assumptions in the street utility framework, and participate in a consensus-building exercise to guide next steps. The agenda is substantive, focusing on how street projects are funded.
- Approval of minutes from August 16, 2021
- Review of assumptions in the Street Utility Framework (SUF)
- Consensus building exercise on street utility funding
- Discussion of next steps based on consensus exercise outcome
The Task Force reviewed data regarding a potential Street Utility Framework and conducted a consensus-building exercise to narrow down fee structure options. No formal policy changes or fee structures were adopted during this meeting. The group discussed potential categories for residential properties and the equity of flat fees.
- Approved minutes from previous meeting (all aye)
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will hold public hearings and consider action on the 2021-2024 TIP amendments and the 2022-2025 Draft Final Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The committee will also review and possibly approve an update to the ATAC Master Agreement and a revised Request for Proposal for the East Main Avenue Corridor Study. The meeting is open to public comment via email or Zoom.
- Public hearing and action on 2021-2024 TIP Amendments (Exhibit A)
- Public hearing and action on 2022-2025 Draft Final TIP (Exhibit B)
- Action on ATAC Master Agreement Update (Exhibit C)
- Action on revised East Main Avenue Corridor Study RFP (Exhibit D)
- Review and approval of August 16, 2021 meeting minutes
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet to consider consent agenda items and hold public hearings, including the 2022 budget, a new liquor license for Thomas & Moriarty's, and several zoning and ordinance changes. The consent agenda includes approvals for expenditures, personnel actions, contracts, and various administrative items.
- Public hearing on 2022 budget
- New Class M Catering liquor license for Thomas & Moriarty's
- Zoning change for Fairview Cemetery Addition (Ordinance 6483)
- Ordinance 6484 on tattooing/body piercing of minors
- Ordinance 6485 on noise ordinance changes
The Board of City Commissioners approved the 2022 budget as presented, with Commissioners Zenker and Splonskowski voting no and Mayor Bakken and Commissioners Guy and Marquardt voting yes. The Commission also upheld the Board of Adjustment's ruling in an appeal, approved a Class M Catering liquor license for Thomas & Moriarty's, and approved the consent agenda after striking Item K1. Two Community Development Department requests were approved unanimously, but the minutes do not describe what those requests were.
- Approved 2022 budget as presented (3-2; Zenker and Splonskowski voted nay)
- Upheld the Board of Adjustment ruling in an appeal (all voted aye)
- Approved a new Class M Catering liquor license for Thomas & Moriarty's LLC (all voted aye)
- Approved the consent agenda as presented after Item K1 was struck (all voted aye)
- Approved a Community Development Department request as presented (all voted aye; details not stated in minutes)
- Approved a second Community Development Department request as presented (all voted aye; details not stated in minutes)
Special Assessment Commission
The Special Assessment Commission will hold a public hearing to consider objections to proposed special assessment improvement districts. The agenda includes five districts covering street reconstruction, street lighting, new pavement, sanitary sewer extensions, and watermain extensions, with total assessments exceeding $6 million. The commission will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and confirm assessment lists.
- Street Improvement District No. 531: $4,874,537.36 for reconstruction and resurfacing across multiple streets
- Street Improvement District No. 535: $404,785.83 for city-wide street lighting
- Street Improvement District No. 539: $286,892.15 for new pavement on N 26th Street
- Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 577: $305,854.02 for sewer main extensions on N 26th Street
- Water Improvement District No. 333: $295,525.58 for watermain extensions on N 26th Street
Special Assessment Commission
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Commission will meet on September 14, 2021, at 8:30 a.m. to tour improvement districts listed on the agenda. No formal decisions or votes are scheduled for this meeting.
Special Assessment Commission
The Special Assessment Commission will hold a public hearing to consider objections to proposed special assessment improvement districts for streets, sanitary sewer, and water improvements. The agenda includes five improvement districts with total assessments exceeding $6 million, covering street reconstruction, resurfacing, street lighting, new pavement, and utility extensions. The commission will also approve minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting.
- Street Improvement District No. 531: $4,874,537.36 for reconstruction and resurfacing across multiple streets
- Street Improvement District No. 535: $404,785.83 for city-wide street lighting
- Street Improvement District No. 539: $286,892.15 for new pavement on N 26th Street
- Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 577: $305,854.02 for sewer main extensions
- Water Improvement District No. 333: $295,525.58 for watermain extensions
The Special Assessment Commission held a public hearing on objections to special assessment improvement districts and approved the balance of the assessment lists as presented. The approved districts include Street Improvement Districts No. 531, 535, and 539, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 577, and Water Improvement District No. 333, with total assessed and financed amounts of $4,874,537.36, $404,785.83, $286,892.15, $305,854.02, and $295,525.58 respectively. A protest from Terry Brosseau of Plaza Tower regarding Street Improvement District No. 531 was heard; staff explained that all condos were treated the same and that any reduction would be reallocated to other parcels. The commission also approved the August 18, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 3:38 p.m.
- Approved August 18, 2021 minutes (3-0)
- Approved Street Improvement District No. 531 assessment list, total $4,874,537.36 (3-0)
- Approved Street Improvement District No. 535 assessment list, total $404,785.83 (3-0)
- Approved Street Improvement District No. 539 assessment list, total $286,892.15 (3-0)
- Approved Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 577 assessment list, total $305,854.02 (3-0)
- Approved Water Improvement District No. 333 assessment list, total $295,525.58 (3-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 3:38 p.m. (3-0)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority will consider several Downtown Design Review and Renaissance Zone applications, including a public art installation, a demolition, and facade improvements. They will also discuss the continuation of a rowhouse project and receive updates on the zone expansion subcommittee.
- Public art 'No Vaccine for Death' at 114 N 3rd Street (DDR2021-009)
- Demolition of strip mall at 318 South 5th Street (DDR2021-010)
- Facade improvements at 301 East Broadway Avenue (DDR2021-011)
- Renaissance Lofts and The Grove extension requests at 500 N 3rd St/112 E Ave A (RZ2019-005, RZ2019-006)
- Continuation of projects at 215 West Thayer Avenue (RZ2021-003, DDR2021-007)
The Authority approved a public art installation at 114 North 3rd Street and the demolition of 318 South 5th Street. Members also granted a deadline extension for the Renaissance Lofts and The Grove projects until December 31, 2022. Additionally, the board authorized technical advisors to consult on and approve facade improvements for 301 East Broadway Avenue.
- Approved public art at 114 North 3rd Street (5-1)
- Approved demolition of 318 South 5th Street (4-2)
- Approved facade improvements at 301 East Broadway Avenue (6-0)
- Extended project completion for Renaissance Lofts and The Grove to 12/31/2022 (6-0)
- Approved August 12, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority is meeting to consider minutes, review financial statements, and receive an update on the Parkade Green-level repairs project. A presentation from Bis-Man Transit's executive director is scheduled, along with an update on discussions with Downtowners about potential future parking ramp locations.
- Consider minutes from August 12, 2021 meeting
- Review financial statements
- Parkade Green-level repairs project status
- Bis-Man Transit presentation by Deidre Hughes
- Update on meeting with Downtowners regarding future parking ramp locations
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved the minutes of its August 12, 2021 meeting and approved the August financials by roll call vote. Staff reported the Parkade Green Level repairs project is on track for completion at the end of September. The board reached consensus to assist BIS-MAN Transit with possible signage in the Parkade Building and agreed to meet with the Downtowner's Association to identify potential sites for future parking ramps.
- Approved August 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous, all members present)
- Approved August financials by roll call vote (Brian-aye, Todd-aye, Jake-aye, Jim-aye)
- Consensus to assist BIS-MAN Transit services with possible signage in the Parkade Building
- Agreed to meet with the Downtowner's Association to identify potential sites for future parking ramp locations
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Renaissance Zone Authority Boundary Subcommittee will discuss potential new blocks to add to the Renaissance Zone and blocks within the zone that may be deemed completed. This is a regular agenda item with no decisions scheduled.
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee is meeting online to review submitted historic narratives, rank their importance, and discuss next steps for developing a timeline. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-based, with no formal decisions or public hearings listed.
- Review of submitted historic narratives and ranking of importance
- Discussion on next steps for development of timeline
- Committee member check-in and discussion
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings on several subdivision plats, zoning changes, and special use permits, and will consider a staff-initiated rezoning of Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition to Downtown Fringe to address non-conformities and allow redevelopment. The agenda also includes a consent item to schedule a hearing for that rezoning, and an update on the Together 2045 plan.
- Rezoning of Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition (6.67 acres) from RT, RM30, PUD to DF (Downtown Fringe) - staff recommends scheduling a hearing
- Final plat for Boden Addition (FPLT2021-005) and zoning change to Conditional RT (ZC2020-008)
- Final plat for Frohlich Addition (FPLT2021-007)
- Final plat for Potter Pointe Addition (MPLT2021-001) and zoning change to RR & R5 (ZC2020-017)
- Special use permits for electronic message center signs at multiple locations (SUP2021-019, 008, 012, 013, 014, 015) and drive-throughs (SUP2021-017, 018)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission approved a zoning change and minor subdivision final plat for Potter Pointe Subdivision, 6-2, with a condition that the request not go to the Board of City Commissioners until a revised plat shows the new South Central Regional Water District water line location. The commission also approved a final plat for Frohlich Addition, zoning changes and a final plat for Fairview Cemetery Addition, and recommended approval of several electronic message center signs for Bismarck schools and a PUD amendment for Hughes Addition. The Boden Addition zoning change and final plat were continued to a future meeting at the applicant's request. All other items passed unanimously.
- Approved Potter Pointe zoning change (RR to RR/R5) and minor subdivision final plat (6-2; Bakken and Levchak opposed), conditioned on a revised water line plat
- Approved Frohlich Addition major subdivision final plat (8-0), with accessory building on Lot 3 to be relocated or removed for Huron Drive extension
- Approved Fairview Cemetery Addition zoning change and major subdivision final plat (8-0)
- Continued Boden Addition zoning change and final plat to a future meeting (8-0), with re-notification
- Approved consent item for Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition, calling a public hearing (8-0)
- Recommended approval of Hughes Addition PUD amendment and EMC sign special use permit (8-0), sign off 9:00pm-7:00am
- Recommended approval of EMC sign special use permits for Gracepoint Church, Bismarck High School, Legacy High School, Jeannette Myhre Elementary and Wachter Middle School (8-0 each)
- Recommended approval of drive-through special use permits for a donut/coffee shop at 820 43rd Avenue NE and a fast-food establishment at Kirkwood Mall (8-0 each)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet in regular session to consider consent agenda items and several regular agenda items, including a request to negotiate a contract with Leo A Daly for design services for the Public Health building and Public Works expansion, a public hearing on a new franchise agreement with Vast Broadband, and a public hearing on animal control ordinance changes. The meeting also includes approval of expenditures, personnel actions, and various engineering and police department items.
- Request to negotiate contract with Leo A Daly for design services for Public Health building and Public Works expansion
- Public hearing on new franchise agreement with Clarity Telecom LLC DBA Vast Broadband
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6480 amending Title 3 – Animal Control and Protection
- Approval of NDDOT Cost Participation and Maintenance Agreement for 7th Street and 9th Street Traffic Signal Replacement Project (NHU-1-083(138)900, City Project HC-134)
- Introduction of 2022 budget ordinance and resolution directing special assessments
The Board of City Commissioners approved a motion to negotiate a contract with Leo A Daly for design services for the Public Works expansion and a new Public Health building, and to select a construction manager at risk. The board also approved Ordinance 6480 amending animal control rules, accepted low bids for street projects SI 545 and SI 550, and approved a consent agenda covering minutes, expenditures, personnel actions, and various departmental requests. A public hearing on a franchise agreement with Clarity Telecom was removed at the applicant's request.
- Approved contract negotiations with Leo A Daly for Public Works expansion and new Public Health building design, bidding documents, and construction manager at risk (4-1, Splonskowski nay)
- Approved Ordinance 6480 amending Title 3 – Animal Control and Protection (all aye)
- Accepted low bid from Northern Improvement for SI 545 at $2,987,803.90 (all aye)
- Accepted low bid from Northern Improvement for SI 550 at $1,121,758.40 (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, expenditures, personnel actions, and departmental requests (all aye)
- Removed public hearing on franchise agreement with Clarity Telecom at applicant's request
Special Assessment Commission
The Special Assessment Commission will hold a public hearing to consider objections to eight proposed special assessment improvement districts covering storm sewer, street, and pavement projects. The commission will review assessment lists, hear objections, and potentially confirm the assessments. The agenda includes specific projects with associated costs and assessment rates.
- Storm Sewer Improvement District No. 573: $2,049,305.86 for regional storm water detention pond and pump station
- Street Improvement District No. 532: $471,555.31 for scrub seal project on multiple streets
- Street Improvement District No. 533: $437,408.13 for concrete pavement repair on Washington Street, Memorial Highway, and Front Avenue
- Street Improvement District No. 536: $703,846.85 for new pavement on Titanium Drive, Nickel Street, and Cobalt Drive
- Continuous districts: Park, Rural Roads, and Storm Sewer fees for 184 parcels totaling $315,804.86
The Special Assessment Commission held a public hearing with no public speakers and approved the minutes from September 10th, 2020. The commission then voted to approve the balance of the special assessment districts on the agenda as presented.
- Approved September 10th, 2020 minutes (3-0)
- Approved balance of special assessment districts on the agenda (3-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission meets to review two North Dakota Department of Transportation projects under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The projects include lighting and turn lane additions on Bismarck Expressway and street improvements in downtown Bismarck within the Bismarck Downtown Historic District.
- Bismarck Expressway – Lighting / Turn Lane Addition (NDDOT Project #1-810(030)004)
- Downtown Bismarck – Street Improvements including concrete pavement repair, curb extensions, and water main replacement (NDDOT Projects UGP-1-981(120) & UGP-1-981(122))
- Highland Acres NHRP Nomination Consultant Selection
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from its previous meeting and recommended Metcalf Archeologic Consultants Inc. for contract negotiations regarding the Highland Acres NRHP Nomination. The commission also approved Section 106 declarations for a NDDOT Bismarck Expressway project with a finding of No Historic Properties Affected and a downtown street improvement project with a finding of No Adverse Affect. Additionally, the commission discussed watermain and curb bars preservation and sesquicentennial planning.
- Approved July 21, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Approved Section 106 declaration for Bismarck Expressway turn lane and lighting project with No Historic Properties Affected (6-0)
- Approved Section 106 declaration for downtown street improvements with No Adverse Affect and Cultural Resource Discovery Plan (6-0)
- Approved Metcalf Archeologic Consultants Inc. for Highland Acres NRHP nomination contract negotiations to forward to City Commission (6-0)
Special Assessment Commission
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Commission is holding a special meeting to tour improvement districts on the August 18, 2021 agenda. No action is expected to be taken by the Commission.
- Tour of improvement districts by all three Special Assessment Commissioners
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will meet on August 17, 2021, to review and possibly approve the 2022-2025 Draft Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), a federal funding plan for local transportation projects. The board will also discuss updates to the Title VI Plan and a grant application for Bis-Man Transit.
- 2022-2025 Draft TIP Approval (Exhibit A)
- Title VI Plan Update (Exhibit B)
- Bis-Man Transit 5310 Mid-Year Grant Application (Exhibit C)
Historic Preservation Commission
The August 17, 2021 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee has been rescheduled to August 31 at 12:00 PM. A new meeting notice and agenda will be provided prior to the rescheduled meeting. No other business is listed on this agenda.
- Meeting rescheduled from August 17 to August 31 at 12:00 PM
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will review and potentially approve the 2022-2025 Draft Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), along with a Title VI Plan update and a Bis-Man Transit 5310 grant application. The board will also review urban high crash location data. Public comments are accepted via email before the meeting.
- Approval of 2022-2025 Draft TIP (Exhibit A)
- Title VI Plan update (Exhibit B)
- Bis-Man Transit 5310 Mid-Year Grant Application (Exhibit C)
- 2018-2020 Urban High Crash Locations report (Exhibit D)
- Review of July 20, 2021 meeting minutes
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee will meet to approve past meeting minutes, hear public comment, and discuss 2021 goals including Diversity University, the Municipal Equality Index rating, and student liaison participation. The committee will also consider other business before adjourning.
The committee approved the minutes from the July 19, 2021 meeting. Members discussed goals for 2021, including a cultural dinner, the Municipal Equality Index rating, and student liaison opportunities.
- Approved July 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will meet to consider approval of the 2022-2025 Draft Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) following a public hearing, along with updates to the Title VI Plan and a grant application for Bis-Man Transit. The committee will also review urban high crash locations and hear project updates from local jurisdictions.
- Public hearing and action on 2022-2025 Draft TIP
- Action on Title VI Plan update
- Action on Bis-Man Transit 5310 Mid-Year Grant Application
- Review of 2018-2020 Urban High Crash Locations
- Roadway project updates from all jurisdictions
Special Assessment Task Force
The Special Assessment Task Force will discuss canceling or rescheduling a Labor Day meeting, rank five street utility alternatives from a recent report, and review changes to its mission statement. Consultants from AE2S will continue reviewing the street utility framework report.
- Discussion to cancel or reschedule 9-6-21 Labor Day meeting
- Initial ranking of 5 street utility alternatives from Bismarck Street Utility Final Report
- Review of street utility framework report with AE2S consultants Brent Bogar and Abby Ritz
- Discussion of changes to SATF mission statement
The Special Assessment Task Force approved recommendations to transition from street maintenance special assessments to a street utility fee. The group reached a consensus to move forward with 'Alternative 5' from the Street Utility Framework Report, with plans to refine commercial property tiers. Additionally, the task force voted to cancel their September 9, 2021, meeting and will poll members for a new date.
- Approved August 16, 2021, meeting minutes
- Cancelled September 9, 2021, meeting
- Selected Alternative 5 for street utility framework
- Approved recommendations for new fee structure and ballot question
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will meet to review and potentially approve the 2022-2025 Draft Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), along with a Title VI Plan update and a Bis-Man Transit 5310 grant application. The meeting also includes a presentation on urban high crash locations and updates on roadway projects. Public comments on the TIP are invited via email before the meeting.
- Public hearing and action on 2022-2025 Draft TIP
- Title VI Plan update
- Bis-Man Transit 5310 Mid-Year Grant Application
- 2018-2020 Urban High Crash Locations presentation
- Roadway projects updates from all jurisdictions
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority will consider approval of a Renaissance Zone new construction request and a continued Downtown Design Review for the Applewood Group Rowhouses at 215 W Thayer Avenue. The board will also discuss a possible Renaissance Zone expansion and an update on a rezoning request for Blocks 11 and 12 of the Northern Pacific Addition. Public comments on hearing items must be submitted by 8am the day of the meeting.
- Renaissance Zone New Construction approval for Applewood Group Rowhouses at 215 W Thayer Avenue (RZ2021-003)
- Continued Downtown Design Review for the same rowhouse project (DDR2021-007)
- Discussion on requests for Renaissance Zone expansion
- Update on rezoning request for Blocks 11 and 12, Northern Pacific Addition to DF – Downtown Fringe zoning district
The Authority voted to continue the Renaissance Zone and Downtown Design Review requests for a seven-unit rowhouse project at 215 West Thayer Avenue until the September 9, 2021 meeting. Members also formed a subcommittee to discuss potential Renaissance Zone expansion options. The board approved minutes from their July 8, 2021 meeting.
- Approved July 8, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Continued 215 West Thayer Avenue project review to Sept. 9 (5-1)
- Formed Renaissance Zone expansion subcommittee
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Burleigh County Parking Authority will review financial statements and discuss the timeline for repairs at the Parkade Green-level. The meeting will also address the status of new gate installations. No decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved the minutes of its July 15, 2021 meeting and approved the July financial statements by roll call vote. Staff reported that Vector Construction will begin the Parkade Green Level repairs once steel beams arrive, expected next week or the week after, with the work taking about two weeks. Staff also reported the new gates are installed and operating. No other business was taken up, and the meeting adjourned at 9:10 A.M.; the next regular session is September 9, 2021.
- Approved July 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved July financials by roll call vote (5-0: Brian, Kyle, Todd, Jake, Jim all aye)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Board of Directors will hold a special virtual meeting on August 12, 2021, at 2:00 PM. The only substantive agenda item is discussion of an HVAC addition for the IT room. The meeting is open to the public, with remote participation encouraged due to COVID-19.
- HVAC addition for IT room
- Virtual meeting via Microsoft Teams
- In-person attendance at Mayor's Conference Room, 221 N 5th St, Bismarck
The CenCom Board of Directors approved a motion to tie the IT Room HVAC into the building HVAC system to meet FBI audit compliance, to be paid from the new fifty cent building fund. The motion passed with all members present in favor. The cost before finish work is $12,327, with the engineer covering $2,327 and DCN and the architect covering $4,500, leaving $5,500 for CenCom. The board discussed whether to roll the remaining cost into the lease or pay in full, noting the building fund has funds for such items.
- Approved tying IT Room HVAC to building HVAC system for FBI audit compliance, paid from the new fifty cent building fund (all in favor)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners met in regular session to consider routine approvals including easement releases, grant applications, and contract awards. No new ordinances were enacted, and no contested public hearings were held. The meeting followed standard procedural steps including invocation, public comment, and consent agenda approvals.
- Release of 14-foot utility easement between Lots 9 and 10, Block 3, Silver Ranch First Addition First Replat (JE Homes, LLC)
- Approval of Five Year Consolidated Plan (2020-2024) and 2020 Annual Action Plan
- Award of Wastewater Treatment Plant Administration Building 13 Re-Roof Project to Pierce Lee Roofing, LLC
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6479 regarding Urban Rodent Control (no decision recorded)
- Minor subdivision final plat of Tree Top Addition (Grey Wolf Properties II, LLC)
The Board of City Commissioners approved two engineering contracts: SI 552 to Strata Corporation for $1,207,828.49 and SI 551/SE 579 to Strata Corporation for $933,901.45, both by unanimous roll call votes. The board also approved Ordinance 6479 on urban rodent control, a minor subdivision final plat for Tree Top Addition, and permission to apply for an ARP grant on behalf of Bis-Man Transit. The consent agenda, including minutes, expenditures, personnel actions, and various departmental requests, was approved unanimously.
- Approved Ordinance 6479 on urban rodent control (all aye)
- Awarded SI 552 contract to Strata Corporation for $1,207,828.49 (all aye)
- Awarded SI 551/SE 579 contract to Strata Corporation for $933,901.45 (all aye)
- Approved minor subdivision final plat of Tree Top Addition (all aye)
- Approved application for ARP grant on behalf of Bis-Man Transit (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, expenditures, personnel actions, and departmental requests (all aye)
Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition
The Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition holds its quarterly meeting to receive updates from four subcommittees focused on prevention, education, treatment, and management of substance abuse and behavioral health issues. The coalition, led by Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, discusses progress under grants like the Drug Free Communities (DFC) and SOR grants, as well as local initiatives such as the Mandan Good Neighbor Project.
- Drug Free Communities (DFC) Grant Subcommittee Update
- SOR Grant Update by Sue Kahler, SAP Coordinator, Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health
- Intoxication/Withdrawal Management discussion led by Bismarck Police Department and West Central Human Service Center
- Treatment & Recovery update by Jennifer Pelster, RN, Mandan Good Neighbor Project Coordinator
The Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition met on August 10, 2021, to hear subcommittee updates regarding prevention, education, student outreach, and intoxication management programs. The minutes record no substantive votes, approvals, or formal policy decisions made during the meeting.
- Heard Prevention and Education Subcommittee update on the DFC Grant and Project .03
- Heard update on State Opioid Response (SOR) grant and Narcan distribution metrics
- Heard Intoxication/Withdrawal Management Subcommittee update on law enforcement responses and medical detox facility discussions
- Heard Treatment and Recovery Subcommittee update on the Mandan Good Neighbor Project
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance requests and one appeal. The first is a request to exceed the 30% lot coverage limit at 707 North Washington Street. The second is a floodplain variance for an addition at 3005 Deer Lodge Drive. The board will also hear an appeal of a notice and order at 1800 North 14th Street.
- Variance to increase lot coverage from 30% to 36% at 707 North Washington Street (VAR2021-007)
- Floodplain variance for addition below elevation requirement at 3005 Deer Lodge Drive (VAR2021-006)
- Appeal of Notice and Order at 1800 North 14th Street (APPL2021-001)
- Update on zoning text amendment for accessory structures in flood hazard area
- Update on appeal of November 4, 2020 variance denial to Bryan Skager
The Board approved a lot coverage variance for a home addition at 707 North Washington Street and a floodplain variance for an addition at 3005 Deer Lodge Drive. Additionally, the Board affirmed a Notice and Order requiring the removal of stored items from the property at 1800 North 14th Street after finding the property in violation of city ordinances.
- Approved lot coverage variance at 707 North Washington Street (5-0)
- Approved floodplain variance at 3005 Deer Lodge Drive (5-0)
- Affirmed Notice and Order for property at 1800 North 14th Street (5-0)
- Approved minutes from July 1, 2021 meeting (5-0)
Special Assessment Task Force
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Task Force meets to discuss changes to its mission and review special assessment basis documents. The task force will also examine Engineering Department decisions on street maintenance, street improvement districts, and review a street utility study with a consultant.
- Continue discussion of changes to SATF mission
- Review current special assessment basis documents
- Review Engineering Department decisions on street maintenance and street improvement districts
- Review street utility study with consultant
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Task Force approved the minutes from their previous meeting and received presentations on street maintenance and the Street Utility Framework Report. Discussion regarding the task force's mission was tabled, and the meeting was adjourned at 5:22 p.m.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (all voted aye)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission is holding a special meeting to attend a presentation by the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. No action is expected to be taken by the Commission at this meeting.
- Presentation by Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
- Special meeting notice for July 28, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.
- Location: Chamber EDC, 1640 Burnt Boat Dr, Bismarck, ND
The Bismarck City Commission issued a special meeting notice regarding a presentation by the Big Sky Passengers Rail Authority. The notice stated that three or more City Commissioners might attend, and no action was expected to be taken.
- No decisions were made; the meeting notice stated no action was expected.
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission meets to decide on six land-use petitions, including a major subdivision preliminary plat for Frohlich Addition and five public-hearing items ranging from final plats to special-use permits for drive-throughs and an accessory dwelling unit. The meeting also includes a routine vote to approve the June 23 minutes.
- Frohlich Addition (JW) — Major Subdivision Preliminary Plat PPLT2021-006 (2.5-acre, 3-lot single-family plat south of Ash Coulee Drive)
- Tree Top Addition (JW) — Minor Subdivision Final Plat MPLT2021-006
- Menards Addition First Replat (WH) — Minor Subdivision Final Plat MPLT2021-005 and Drive-Through Special Use Permit SUP2021-007 (Lot 2, Block 1)
- Memory Third Addition (WH) — Drive-Through Special Use Permit SUP2021-010 (Lot 1, Block 1)
- Steins 4th Addition (WH) — Child Care Center Special Use Permit SUP2021-011 (Auditors Lots A & B, Block 29)
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of several land-use requests at its July 28, 2021 meeting, including a minor subdivision and drive-through coffee shop at Menards Addition First Replat, a drive-through fast food restaurant on Memory Third Addition, an expanded child care center at 1910 East Capitol Avenue, and an accessory dwelling unit at 5118 Normandy Street. The commission also recommended approval of the Tree Top Addition First Replat and approved consent agenda items for the Frohlich Addition preliminary plat and Hughes Addition PUD amendment. All motions passed unanimously; the recommendations now go to the Board of City Commissioners. Written comments in opposition were submitted on the child care expansion, and a resident raised traffic and mailbox concerns about the Memory Third Addition drive-through.
- Approved minutes of the June 23, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda items 2 and 3: Frohlich Addition preliminary plat and Hughes Addition PUD amendment (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Tree Top Addition First Replat minor subdivision final plat (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Menards Addition First Replat plat and a drive-through coffee shop special use permit with four conditions (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of a drive-through fast food restaurant special use permit on Lot 1, Block 1, Memory Third Addition with one condition (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of an expanded child care center special use permit at 1910 East Capitol Avenue with one condition (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of an accessory dwelling unit special use permit at 5118 Normandy Street (unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will meet to consider a variety of administrative, infrastructure, and zoning items. The agenda includes public hearings on annexations, floodplain regulations, and special assessment districts, alongside a discussion regarding 2022 water rates and the 2022 preliminary budget.
- Public hearing on annexation of Memory Third Addition and Silver Ranch First Addition
- Approval of 2022 preliminary budget
- Discussion on water rates
- Renewal of 25 liquor licenses for the 2021-2022 term
- Approval of Renaissance Zone project for 212 North 2nd Street
The Board of City Commissioners approved the 2022 preliminary budget, including a $32,853,676 property tax levy, after initially rejecting it and then rescinding that vote. The board also approved several ordinances, including annexations and floodplain regulation changes, and denied a floodplain variance appeal. Public comment was divided on tiered water rates, and the board approved applying for American Rescue Plan funding for public health and water infrastructure.
- Approved 2022 preliminary budget with $32,853,676 property tax levy (3-2)
- Approved Ordinance 6472 amending sections to conform to state law (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 6475 annexing Memory Third Addition and Brookside Place right-of-way (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 6476 annexing parts of Silver Ranch First Addition (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 6477 amending floodplain regulations (3-2)
- Approved Ordinances 6469-6471 creating special assessment districts for annexed properties (5-0)
- Denied appeal for floodplain variance at 6300 Apple Creek Drive (3-2)
- Approved application for Burleigh County ARP funding: $2M public health, $1.4M SCADA, $6,955,000 equalization basin (5-0)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Executive Committee will meet virtually to review and approve the April 27, 2021 minutes, receive updates on the CenCom/Bismarck-Burleigh Emergency Operations Center (EOC) project, the Public Safety Software project, and the SIRN 20/20 update, and discuss new business including a CenCom logo and enhancement fund retainage. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the Mayor's Conference Room in Bismarck.
- Review/approve minutes from April 27, 2021
- CenCom, Bismarck / Burleigh EOC Project Update
- Public Safety Software Project Update
- SIRN 20/20 Update
- New business: CenCom Logo and Enhancement Fund Retainage
The CenCom Executive Committee approved minutes from previous meetings, voted to add the IT room to the current HVAC system for approximately $10,000, and decided not to change the CenCom logo to match the City of Bismarck's new branded logo. The committee also received project updates regarding the EOC, public safety software, SIRN 20/20, and the director's report.
- Approved minutes from March 21, 2021 and April 27, 2021 meetings (all in favor)
- Approved adding the IT room to the current HVAC system at an approximate cost of $10,000 (roll call vote, all in favor)
- Decided not to change the CenCom logo to match the City of Bismarck's new branded logo (all in favor)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Board of Directors will hold a virtual meeting to discuss ongoing projects, including the CenCom, Bismarck/Burleigh EOC Project, Public Safety Software Project, and the SIRN 20/20 Update. New business topics include the CenCom Logo and Enhancement Fund Retainage.
- CenCom, Bismarck / Burleigh EOC Project Update
- Public Safety Software Project Update
- SIRN 20/20 Update
- CenCom Logo
- Enhancement Fund Retainage
The CenCom Board of Directors approved minutes from three prior meetings and voted to leave the CenCom logo unchanged, concurring with the Executive Committee's decision. The board received updates on the Bismarck/Burleigh EOC project, public safety software, SIRN 20/20, the enhancement fund retainage, and staffing. No other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Approved minutes from 5/28/20, 11/17/20, and 7/13/21 (all in favor)
- Motion to leave CenCom logo as is passed (all in favor)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission will consider approving a draft Request for Proposals for a consultant to prepare a National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Highland Acres neighborhood, funded by a $15,000 Historic Preservation Fund grant. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, public comment, and updates on the Talking Trails and Historic Walking Maps projects.
- Review and approve draft RFP for Highland Acres National Register nomination ($15,000 grant-funded)
- Consider approval of June 16, 2021 meeting minutes
- Public comment period for agenda items or general input
- Update on Talking Trails Project
- Update on Historic Walking Maps Project
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting and approved the Request for Proposals for the Highland Acres National Register nomination. The commission also received updates on the Talking Trails and Historic Walking Maps projects, and agreed to move the start time of the next regular meeting to 3:00 p.m.
- Approved minutes of the June 16, 2021 meeting
- Approved staff and commission recommendations for the Highland Acres Nomination Request for Proposals
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will consider three action items: a resolution supporting Bis-Man Transit's safety plan, approval of a request for proposals for the East Main Avenue Corridor Study, and the MPO's annual self-certification. The board will also receive an update on the BSPRA all-commission meeting. Public comments can be submitted via email before the meeting.
- Resolution of support for Bis-Man Transit's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP)
- Approval of East Main Avenue Corridor Study Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Bismarck-Mandan MPO Self-Certification for the metropolitan planning process
- Update on BSPRA all-commission meeting
Forestry Advisory Board
The Bismarck Forestry Advisory Board is meeting to approve prior minutes and receive updates on the 2021 pruning contract, European Elm Scale treatment, Dutch Elm Disease, and the City's Emerald Ash Borer plan. The board will also discuss an Arbor Day recap, a species diversity grant, and a board member's expired term.
- Approval of April 20, 2021 meeting minutes
- 2021 Pruning Contract Update
- European Elm Scale Treatment Program Report
- Dutch Elm Disease Report
- NDFS Species Diversity Grant (awarded)
The Forestry Advisory Board approved the minutes from October 20, 2020, and voted to extend Carolyn Godfread's term on the board. The board also received updates on pruning contracts, elm disease and scale treatments, the Partners in Planting program, and a $30,000 species diversity grant.
- Approved minutes from the October 20, 2020 regular meeting
- Extended Carolyn Godfread's term on the Forestry Advisory Board
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee will hold a regular session to review its mission, approve prior meeting minutes, hear public comment, and discuss 2021 goals including Diversity University, municipal quality ratings, and a partnership update from Bismarck Public Schools. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.
- Review of 2021 HRC Goals including Diversity University and Municipal Quality Index Rating
- Public Comment session
- Update from Jason Tomanek regarding Bismarck Public Schools Partnership (BPS_UPDATE.PDF)
- Approval of June 21, 2021 meeting minutes (HRC_MEETING_06212021.PDF)
The Human Relations Committee unanimously approved a motion asking the Bismarck Administration Department to discuss creating an Executive LGBTQ Liaison position. The committee also approved the June 21, 2021 meeting minutes and received an update on a partnership with Bismarck Public Schools.
- Approved June 21, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved motion asking Bismarck Administration Department to discuss creating an Executive LGBTQ Liaison position (unanimous)
Special Assessment Task Force
The Burleigh County Special Assessment Task Force meets to discuss its mission statement and review prior legislative activities. Members will also address meeting expectations and deadlines for submitting a final product to the Bismarck City Commission.
- Review of original mission and potential changes
- Discussion of limitations imposed by current legislation
- Review of finance mechanisms previously considered and reasons for rejection
- Deadline for final product to Bismarck City Commission
The Special Assessment Task Force met to discuss the group's mission, prior activities, and recent changes to North Dakota state legislation regarding fees. No formal votes or substantive policy decisions were recorded during this meeting.
- Reviewed task force mission
- Discussed AE2S Street Utility Framework Report
- Reviewed state legislative changes regarding fees
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Advisory Committee will meet to review and possibly approve minutes from the June 14 meeting, a resolution supporting the Bis-Man Transit Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, and a request for proposals for the East Main Avenue Corridor Study. The committee will also review the Bismarck-Mandan MPO self-certification process.
- Resolution of Support for Bis-Man Transit’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP)
- Review & Approval of the East Main Avenue Corridor Study Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Bismarck-Mandan MPO Self-Certification review
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission is holding a special meeting to consider accepting a $3.3 million Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The grant is intended for COVID-19 recovery of the Bismarck Event Center operations. The only action item on the agenda is to approve and accept this award.
- Approve and accept $3,353,227.20 SVOG award from SBA for Event Center
- Grant awarded July 14, 2021, project period through July 13, 2022
- Funds for COVID-19 recovery of Event Center operations
- Special meeting at 9:30 a.m. on July 16, 2021, in Mayor's Conference Room
The Board of City Commissioners held a special meeting to approve the acceptance of a $3.3 million Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The grant is designated for COVID-19 recovery of the City’s Event Center operations. The agenda listed the item for approval and acceptance, followed by adjournment.
- Agenda item: Approve and accept $3.3M SVOG award for Event Center
- Meeting adjourned
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will review financial statements, consider bids for Parkade Green Level repairs, and discuss downtown parking ramp needs and access during 2022 street repairs. The meeting will also recap prior discussions with City Engineering and Administration regarding parking fees and ramp access.
- Review RFP bids for Parkade Green Level repairs
- Recap 2022 street repair parking ramp/lot access plans
- Recap 6th St Ramp monthly parking fee discussion
- Status update on new gates installation and Galleria pay station
- Review Downtown Parking Ramps Needs survey assessment
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved minutes from its June 10, 2021 meeting and approved its June financial statements, both by unanimous roll call votes. It awarded the low bid of $283,523 and approved a contract to Vector Construction for Parkade green level repairs, to be completed by November 1, 2021. Members also heard that the city rate paid for city use of the 6th Street Ramp will not change, that Amano is scheduled to install new gates and a Galleria pay station the week of July 19, 2021, and a presentation on downtown parking ramp needs.
- Approved June 10, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved June financial statements (5-0 roll call)
- Awarded low bid of $283,523 and approved contract to Vector Construction for Parkade green level repairs, completion by November 1, 2021 (5-0 roll call)
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center board will hold a special virtual meeting to amend its 2021 budget. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.
- 2021 Budget Amendment
The Board of Directors approved a budget amendment and expenditures from the 900 fund. The board noted its budget authority to spend from the General Fund of the 100-035 account and the 900-component fund.
- Approved budget amendment and expenditures from the 900 fund (unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission will meet to consider a wide range of items, including the 2022 preliminary budget, renewal of numerous liquor licenses, several property annexations, and various contracts and bids. The agenda also includes public hearings on a new liquor license, a zoning change, and an ordinance regarding BB and pellet guns. The meeting will also feature a presentation on the 2020 annual audit.
- Renewal of liquor licenses for 40+ establishments for 2021-2022
- Public hearing on new liquor license for Pitorro Restaurant & Bar at 1235 South 12th Street
- Public hearing on zoning change to PUD for Northridge Estates Commercial Park (Five Star Storage)
- Annexation of Memory Third Addition and Silver Ranch First Addition properties
- Award of contracts for street improvement SI 554 and water utility WU 135
The Board of City Commissioners approved its consent agenda, including renewal of about 35 liquor licenses and a $214,804 reallocation of CDBG-CV funds originally awarded for the COVID-19 Emergency Shelter. A public hearing on a zoning change from CA-Commercial to PUD-Planned Unit Development for self-storage at Northridge Estates Commercial Park ended with a motion to send the request back to the City Planning and Zoning Commission for a public hearing on August 25, 2021. The board also approved Ordinance 6465 on BB and pellet guns, awarded contracts for street improvement SI 554 and water utility WU 135, and accepted a 2020 audit presentation reporting a clean audit.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, expenditures, personnel actions and liquor license renewals (all aye)
- Approved reallocation of $214,804 in CDBG-CV funds from the COVID-19 Emergency Shelter to another eligible project (consent agenda)
- Approved Class F1 Restaurant Full Alcohol liquor license for Pitorro Restaurant & Bar at 1235 South 12th Street (all aye)
- Denied motion to reject Northridge Estates CA-to-PUD rezoning (2-3)
- Denied motion to approve Northridge Estates PUD rezoning (1-4)
- Sent Northridge Estates rezoning request back to Planning and Zoning Commission for August 25, 2021 public hearing (4-1)
- Approved Ordinance 6465 amending rules on BB and pellet guns (all aye)
- Awarded SI 554 contract to Northern Improvement at $212,009.30 and WU 135 contract to DL Barkie Construction at $174,992.00 (all aye)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission will hold a special meeting to consider approving a purchase agreement with RDC National, Inc. for 21.61 acres of land at the Northern Plains Commerce Centre. The proposed sale price is $108,900 per usable acre, totaling about $2.35 million. The buyer intends to develop a package and cargo distribution facility. The agreement includes contingencies for environmental review, survey, title, and zoning approvals.
- Purchase agreement with RDC National, Inc. for 21.61 acres (Lots 3 and 4, Block 1) at Northern Plains Commerce Centre
- Sale price: $108,900 per usable acre, estimated total $2,353,329
- Earnest money deposit: $25,000
- Buyer plans a 217,323 sq ft package and cargo distribution and warehouse facility
- Agreement includes contingencies for environmental assessment, survey, title, and zoning approvals
The Board of City Commissioners held a special meeting on July 9, 2021, to review a purchase agreement with RDC National, Inc. for 21.61 acres of Northern Plains Commerce Centre land. The City Attorney recommended approval with modifications tied to communications with the buyer's attorney. Commissioner Zenker moved to approve as presented, Commissioner Guy seconded, and Commissioners Marquardt, Guy, and Zenker all voted aye. The meeting adjourned at 2:07 p.m.
- Approved purchase agreement with RDC National, Inc. for 21.61 acres of Northern Plains Commerce Centre land (3-0)
Animal Advisory Board
The Bismarck Animal Advisory Board is meeting to discuss a revision of Title 3, which covers animal control and protection. The board will also take public comment, approve minutes from a previous meeting, and handle other business.
- Revision of Title 3: Animal Control and Protection (document: ANIMAL ORDINANCE CHANGES_04012021.PDF)
- Approval of meeting minutes from April 8, 2021 (document: ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD_MEETING 18_04082021.PDF)
- Public comment period
The Bismarck Animal Advisory Board met on July 8, 2021 and unanimously approved the minutes of its April 8, 2021 meeting. The board voted unanimously to recommend that the Bismarck City Board of Commissioners approve revisions to Title 3: Animal Control and Protection, covering revised definitions, maximum number of animals, special pet licenses, animal fostering, and owning/selling wildlife within City limits. In other business, member Tait Sundstrom recommended adding educational links and an FAQ section to the Animal Control page on the City of Bismarck website; Whitnie Olsen will work with Animal Control on those revisions. No public comment was received.
- Approved April 8, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous, members in attendance)
- Recommended Title 3: Animal Control and Protection revisions for approval by the Bismarck City Board of Commissioners (unanimous, members in attendance)
- Directed website changes: Whitnie Olsen to work with Animal Control on adding educational links and an FAQ section (recommendation by Tait Sundstrom)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Burleigh County Renaissance Zone Authority meets to decide on Renaissance Zone tax-exempt purchases and Downtown Design Review approvals for three downtown projects. The body will also discuss a potential Renaissance Zone expansion and receive reports from staff and community representatives.
- JMN Roots LLC purchase with $125k improvements at 212 N 2nd St for Renaissance Zone tax exemption
- Freedom Financial Group lease at 212 N 2nd St for state income tax exemption
- Applewood Group rowhouses at 215 W Thayer Ave for Downtown Design Review
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority approved a five-year property tax exemption and a five-year state income tax exemption for a project at 212 North 2nd Street, though one member opposed the lease tax exemption. The Authority also approved a projecting sign design for 120 North 3rd Street based on historic character, with conditions. Additionally, the Authority continued a design review for rowhomes at 215 West Thayer Avenue to the August 13, 2021 meeting.
- Approved May 13, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Purchase with Improvements Renaissance Zone project at 212 North 2nd Street for a 5-year property tax exemption (passed unanimously)
- Recommended approval of Lease Renaissance Zone project at 212 North 2nd Street for a 5-year state income tax exemption (passed 5-1, Mr. Fink opposed)
- Continued Downtown Design Review for new construction rowhomes at 215 West Thayer Avenue to August 13, 2021 meeting (passed unanimously)
- Approved projecting sign design for 120 North 3rd Street with conditions (passed unanimously)
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will meet to consider two variance requests for residential properties. The board will evaluate a request to reduce a front yard setback at 2981 Vancouver Lane and a request to increase lot coverage at 406 Lennox Drive. The board will also discuss administrative items, including member appointments, bylaws, and zoning ordinance amendments.
- Variance request for 2981 Vancouver Lane to reduce front yard setback from 25 feet to 4 feet
- Variance request for 406 Lennox Drive to increase lot coverage from 30% to 31.2%
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment voted 5-0 to deny a request to increase maximum lot coverage from 30% to 31.2% for a covered patio at 406 Lennox Drive, finding no hardship. The board then voted 5-0 to approve a variance reducing the front yard setback from 25 feet to 4 feet at 2981 Vancouver Lane for a detached accessory building. The board also approved the May 6, 2021 minutes and received updates on appointments and zoning text amendments.
- Approved May 6, 2021 minutes as presented (5-0)
- Denied variance to increase lot coverage from 30% to 31.2% at 406 Lennox Drive (5-0)
- Approved variance to reduce front yard setback from 25 feet to 4 feet at 2981 Vancouver Lane (5-0)
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission meets to consider approval of minutes from the May 26 meeting, reconsider a zoning change for the Potter Pointe subdivision, and take final action on three annexations and four land-use petitions. The Potter Pointe item returns after an April public hearing where the commission voted 9-1 to deny the rezone due to lot-size concerns.
- Potter Pointe Addition (JW) - Reconsideration of zoning change ZC2020-017 for 7.42-acre subdivision south of Bismarck
- Memory Third Addition (WH) - Annexation ANNX2021-006 of 6.6 acres in north Bismarck for commercial development
- Parts of Silver Ranch First Addition - Annexation ANNX2021-007 of subdivided lots for future development
- Boden Addition (DN) - Zoning change ZC2021-008 and final plat FPLT2021-005 for 20-acre tract
- Lot 12, Block 5, Copper Ridge Subdivision - Special use permit SUP2021-005 for oversized accessory building in Apple Creek Township
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission voted 9-0 to continue the Boden Addition zoning change and final plat requests to its August meeting, giving the applicant time to work with nearby property owners and potentially modify the development plan. The commission also unanimously recommended approval of two annexations (Memory Third Addition and parts of Silver Ranch First Addition), a special use permit for a 2,792-square-foot accessory building at 6309 Copper Ridge Lane, a special use permit for a child care center at 910 South 18th Street, and a zoning ordinance text amendment on accessory structures in the special flood hazard area. A public hearing on the Boden Addition drew numerous residents opposed to the proposed office development near Liberty Elementary School.
- Approved minutes of the May 26, 2021 meeting (9-0)
- Approved consent agenda item 2, calling for a public hearing on Potter Pointe Addition (reconsideration) zoning change (9-0)
- Recommended approval of annexation of Memory Third Addition and right-of-way for Brookside Place (7-0)
- Recommended approval of annexation of parts of Silver Ranch First Addition and Silver Ranch First Addition First Replat (9-0)
- Continued Boden Addition zoning change and final plat to the August meeting to allow applicant to work with nearby property owners (9-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for a 2,792-square-foot accessory building at 6309 Copper Ridge Lane (9-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for a child care center at 910 South 18th Street, with conditions (10-0)
- Recommended approval of zoning ordinance text amendment on accessory structures in the special flood hazard area (9-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet in regular session to consider routine administrative items, including annual liquor license renewals, gaming site authorizations, and various department contracts and bids. The agenda features public hearings on the annexation of Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat and a zoning change for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision, alongside an appeal regarding Northridge Estates Commercial Park.
- Annual liquor license renewals from August 1, 2021, to July 31, 2022
- Public Hearing on Ordinance 6466 for the annexation of Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat
- Public Hearing on Ordinance 6468 for a zoning change from A-Agriculture to Conditional MA-Industrial for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision
- Appeal of the Planning and Zoning Commission's denial of a zoning change for Northridge Estates Commercial Park
- Acceptance of Guthmiller and Son Dirtworks bid for the Kodiak Northwest Blower and bids for Airfield Painting
The Board of City Commissioners approved the consent agenda, including various liquor and gaming license renewals, airport purchases, and engineering agreements. They also accepted the Condrey & Associates classification and compensation plan report for budget review, reversed a planning and zoning denial for a zoning change appeal, approved the annexation of parts of Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat, and approved a zoning change and final plat for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision. Additionally, they awarded a $49,957.52 airfield painting contract to West River Striping Company.
- Approved minutes and consent agenda (all aye)
- Accepted Condrey & Associates Classification and Compensation Plan report for budget review (all aye)
- Reversed Planning and Zoning Commission denial and set a public hearing for Northridge Estates Commercial Park zoning appeal (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6466 for the annexation of Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6468 for a zoning change and final plat for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision (all aye)
- Awarded airfield painting contract to West River Striping Company for $49,957.52 (all aye)
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee meets to discuss its 2021 goals, including diversity initiatives, community events, and student liaisons. The committee will also review public comment and approve previous meeting minutes. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Review of 2021 HRC goals including Diversity University and Municipal Quality Index Rating
- Public comment session
- Approval of May 17, 2021 meeting minutes
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee approved its May 17, 2021 minutes unanimously and discussed its 2021 goals. Members agreed students or community partners would be ideal to create a new HRC logo for educational materials and a banner, and said they will present the Student Liaison program pitch to the Bismarck School Board on August 9, 2021. The committee also heard updates on the Municipal Equality Index scorecard request and the Capitol Pride booth, with no formal votes on those items.
- Approved May 17, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Agreed students or community partners would be ideal to create a new HRC logo
- Scheduled Student Liaison program pitch to Bismarck School Board for August 9, 2021
Historic Preservation Commission
The Burleigh County Historic Preservation Commission will review a draft nomination to add St. George’s Episcopal Memorial Church at 601 N 4th Street to the National Register of Historic Places. The church, built in 1949 with distinctive pumice-concrete construction and WWII-era stained glass, is proposed for statewide significance. The commission may submit comments to the North Dakota State Historic Preservation Office before an August 27 state review.
- National Register nomination review for St. George’s Episcopal Memorial Church, 601 N 4th Street
- Draft nomination cites Gothic Revival design, pumice-concrete exterior, and WWII salvaged stained glass
- Proposed significance level: statewide
- State Historic Preservation Review Board final review scheduled for August 27, 2021
- Highland Acres Survey Project update provided for informational purposes
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes of its May 19, 2021 meeting and reviewed a National Register of Historic Places nomination for St. George's Episcopal Memorial Church at 601 North 4th Street. The commission offered only comments and suggested changes to the nomination, including grammar fixes and clarifying that the site's memorials honor those who served in either World War, not only both. It also received an update on the Highland Acres survey project and suggested corrections to the draft report. No approvals, denials, or votes on the church nomination or the survey were recorded.
- Approved minutes of the May 19, 2021 meeting (4-0)
- Reviewed St. George's Episcopal Memorial Church National Register nomination; provided comments and suggested changes only, no vote recorded
- Suggested clarifying that site memorials honor those who served in either World War, not only both
- Provided comments and corrections on the Highland Acres survey draft report; no vote recorded
- Noted no other business; meeting adjourned at 4:23 p.m., next meeting July 21, 2021
Historic Preservation Commission
The Burleigh County Historic Preservation Commission's Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee met online via Microsoft Teams on June 15, 2021. The agenda consisted of a member check-in, a preview of a potential online interactive timeline, and other business. No specific decisions, ordinances, or contracts were listed in the agenda.
- Preview of potential online interactive timeline
- Meeting held entirely online via Microsoft Teams
Metropolitan Planning Organization - Policy Board
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Policy Board will meet on June 15, 2021 at 1:30 PM in the Tom Baker Meeting Room, 221 N. 5th Street, Bismarck, ND. Members will consider four Recreational Trails Program applications for local shared-use paths and a grant solicitation schedule for 2022. Two administrative modifications to the 2021–2024 Transportation Improvement Plan and the 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan are also on the agenda.
- Lincoln Shared Use Path RTP application
- Bismarck Hay Creek Trail Renovation RTP application
- Bismarck South Washington Trail Connection RTP application
- Bismarck Trailhead System Improvements RTP application
- 2021–2024 TIP Administrative Modification
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will meet to consider Recreational Trails Program applications for four local trail projects, administrative modifications to the 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Plan and Metropolitan Transportation Plan, and a 2022 grant solicitation schedule. The meeting will also include updates on roadway projects across jurisdictions and a staff introduction.
- Consideration of Recreational Trails Program applications: Lincoln Shared Use Path, Hay Creek Trail Renovation, South Washington Trail Connection, and Trailhead System Improvements
- 2021-2024 TIP Administrative Modification: removal of Mandan downtown street reconstruction project and acceleration of I-94 80th Street overpass replacement to 2021
- 2021-2024 MTP Administrative Modification
- 2022 Grant Solicitation Schedule
- Roadway project updates for Bismarck, Burleigh County, City of Lincoln, City of Mandan, and Morton County
Technical Advisory Committee
The Bismarck-Mandan MPO Technical Advisory Committee will review and potentially approve four Recreational Trails Program (RTP) applications, including the Lincoln Shared Use Path, Bismarck Hay Creek Trail Renovation, South Washington Trail Connection, and Trailhead System Improvements. They will also consider administrative modifications to the 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the Arrive 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), and discuss the 2022 grant solicitation schedule. The meeting includes a public comment period for the RTP applications.
- Consideration of RTP applications: Lincoln Shared Use Path, Bismarck Hay Creek Trail Renovation, Bismarck South Washington Trail Connection, Bismarck Trailhead System Improvements
- 2021-2024 TIP Administrative Modification
- Arrive 2045 MTP Administrative Modification
- Grant Solicitation Schedule for 2022
- MPO staff introduction
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, review financial statements, and discuss green-level repairs for the Parkade. It will also consider bids for a skid steer and sweeper machine purchases.
- Review bids for skid steer purchase
- Review bids for sweeper machine purchase
- Update on Parkade Green Level repairs RFP timeline
The Board approved the purchase of a skid steer and a sweeper machine. Management was authorized to seek a replacement pay station for the Galleria Ramp. The Board also reached a consensus to allow free parking at the 3rd and Rosser lot after 5:00 PM.
- Approved May financial statements (3-0)
- Approved $19,710.29 purchase of Bobcat skid steer from Bobcat of Mandan (3-0)
- Approved $37,955.35 purchase of sweeper machine from Nilfisk, Inc (3-0)
- Authorized procurement of Galleria Ramp pay station not to exceed $35,000 after checking 2 other bids (3-0)
- Reached consensus to open 3rd and Rosser lot to free parking from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Board of City Commissioners
The Burleigh County Board of City Commissioners meets to decide on several consequential items including a proposed annexation in Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition, zoning changes for chicken-keeping and industrial use, and the purchase of two buses and a service truck for Bis-Man Transit. The board will also consider liquor license renewals, gaming site authorizations, and infrastructure projects like sidewalk improvements and water main easements.
- Renew gaming site authorizations for Bismarck Cancer Foundation, Elks Lodge 1199, Gilbert S. Furness Post 40, and ND Association for the Disabled
- Renew 15 liquor licenses including Amici Pizza Company (3001 Yorktown Drive #6) and Bismarck Residence Inn (3421 North 14th Street)
- Approve annexation of Lots 4-14, Block 2, Lot 1, Block 3, and Lots 1-9, 23-29, Block 4 in Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat
- Approve $2.3M for two 29-foot Gillig buses and a 2022 Ford F350 service truck for Bis-Man Transit
- Introduce public hearings for zoning ordinance text amendment on keeping chickens and zoning change for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision to Conditional MA – Industrial district
The Board of City Commissioners approved a consent agenda (minus Ordinance 6467 on chickens), awarded bids for four street improvement districts and a streetlight project, and approved a Cracker Barrel liquor license and a $105,698.24 Flex PACE interest buydown for CK Properties, LLC. The commission denied a public hearing and zoning text amendment on keeping chickens, with Commissioner Splonskowski dissenting. No action was taken on the proposed I-94 Exit 161 reconstruction or Public Health building financing options. Three executive sessions were held under NDCC Section 44-04-19.1(9).
- Approved consent agenda without Ordinance 6467 (chickens) (5-0)
- Denied public hearing and zoning text amendment on keeping chickens (4-1, Splonskowski nay)
- Approved Class I-2 Restaurant Beer and Wine license for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store #447 (5-0)
- Approved $105,698.24 Flex PACE interest buydown loan for CK Properties, LLC (5-0)
- Awarded SI 546 contract to Strata Corp. at $358,103.99 (5-0)
- Awarded SI 547 contract to Northern Improvement at $1,912,702.95 (5-0)
- Awarded SI 548 contract to Strata Corp. at $414,743.31 (5-0)
- Awarded SI 549 contract to Strata Corp. at $867,385.12 (5-0)
Vision Fund Committee
The Vision Fund Committee is meeting to consider an application submitted by CK Properties, LLC. The committee will also review the minutes from their May 18, 2021 meeting.
- Consideration of application from CK Properties, LLC
- Approval of May 18, 2021 meeting minutes
The Vision Fund Committee approved the final application from CK Properties, LLC for a PACE Loan interest rate buy down of $105,698.24 for a building expansion project and forwarded it to the City Commission. The committee also approved the minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting.
- Approved minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting
- Approved CK Properties final application for a PACE Loan interest rate buy down of $105,698.24 and forwarded to City Commission
Political Subdivisions Committee
The ITG (Political Subdivisions) Committee will meet on May 27, 2021, to consider the minutes from the February 25, 2021 meeting and discuss vehicle circulation for BPS middle schools and elementary school routes in northwest and northeast Bismarck.
- Consider minutes from the February 25, 2021 meeting
- Discussion of vehicle circulation and BPS middle school and elementary school routes in NW & NE Bismarck with Ben Ehreth and Gabe Schell
The ITG Political Subdivision Committee met on May 27, 2021, but could not approve its minutes because no quorum was present; only Steve Marquardt and Andy Jordan attended. The meeting was largely informational: Ben Ehreth, Community Development Director, and Gabe Schell, City Engineer, presented on city growth, land use, and the transportation network around the new NW and NE elementary schools in Bismarck. Under other business, Marquardt asked about the release of 2020 Census numbers and suggested adding an update on the "Together 2045" comprehensive plan to the next agenda. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 5:53 PM, with the next ITG meeting set for August 26, 2021.
- No action taken on approval of minutes — no quorum of the committee
- No decisions recorded on vehicle circulation discussion for NW & NE Bismarck school routes (presentation only)
- No action on suggestion to add "Together 2045" comprehensive plan update to next agenda (discussed only)
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings and consider final actions on several zoning changes, plats, an annexation, a special use permit for a car wash, and a text amendment to allow keeping chickens. They will also consider scheduling a hearing on proposed floodplain regulations for accessory structures. The agenda includes both consent items and regular agenda items, with staff recommendations for approval or scheduling.
- Floodplain regulations text amendment (ZOTA2020-003) to revise construction and elevation requirements for accessory structures in the Special Flood Hazard Area
- Zoning change and preliminary plat for Fairview Cemetery Addition (ZC2021-007, PPLT2021-004)
- Zoning change and preliminary plat for Boden Addition (ZC2021-008, PPLT2021-005)
- Annexation of Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat (ANNX2021-005)
- Zoning change for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision (ZC2021-006) and final plat (FPLT2021-004)
The Commission recommended approval for a zoning amendment allowing backyard chickens and a special use permit for a car wash. A request to rezone land for a self-storage facility was denied, while an annexation request was recommended for approval.
- Recommended approval of zoning amendment to allow keeping chickens (5-3)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for car wash at 1720 Skyline Boulevard (8-0)
- Denied zoning change from Commercial to PUD for self-storage at Northridge Estates Commercial Park (6-3)
- Recommended approval of annexation for Boulder Ridge Seventh Addition First Replat (8-0)
- Recommended approval of zoning change and final plat for RBK Ventures Second Subdivision (7-2)
- Approved April 28, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (8-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission is holding a special meeting on May 25, 2021, at 7:30 a.m. at Bismarck State College's National Energy Center of Excellence. The sole purpose is to attend the Chamber EDC's Post-Session Legislative Forum, and no action is expected to be taken. This is a procedural notice rather than a decision-making agenda.
- Special meeting notice for May 25, 2021
- Attendance at Chamber EDC's Post-Session Legislative Forum
- No action expected by the Commission
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda covering numerous administrative items, including gaming site renewals, liquor license renewals, and airport-related approvals. The regular agenda includes public hearings on zoning changes, liquor licenses, and appeals of previous decisions on a variance and a zoning change. The meeting will also consider an executive session for contract negotiations.
- Appeal of denied variance for accessory building at 5627 Kayley Drive (Copper Ridge Subdivision)
- Appeal of denied zoning change and plat for Potter Pointe Subdivision
- Public hearings on zoning changes for Hamilton's First Addition, J & L Addition, and Sturgis Addition
- Public hearing on new liquor license for Huckleberry House at 1700 River Road
- Airport items: accept ACRGP grants, adjust customer facility charge to $5.70, approve EV charging station fee
The Board of City Commissioners approved several zoning changes (Ordinances 6461, 6462, 6463) and a new Class F1 liquor license for Huckleberry House. It upheld the Board of Adjustment's denial of a side yard variance at 5627 Kayley Drive. A zoning appeal for Potter Pointe Subdivision was withdrawn by the applicant. The board also approved procuring engineering services for Ash Coulee Drive and a $600,000 budget appropriation, and directed staff to proceed as agreed in executive session.
- Approved consent agenda with all items, pulling Item D10 for date clarifications (unanimous)
- Upheld Board of Adjustment denial of side yard variance at 5627 Kayley Drive (unanimous)
- Potter Pointe Subdivision zoning appeal withdrawn by applicant
- Approved Class F1 liquor license for Huckleberry House at 1700 River Road (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 6461 zoning change for Hamilton's First Addition First Replat (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 6462 zoning change for J & L Addition (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 6463 zoning change for Sturgis Addition (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 6464 amending BB and Pellet Guns ordinance (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider approving a contract with Talking Trails for interpretive signage at 10 historic sites, funded partly by an $11,125 federal grant. They will also review two Section 106 projects (Sertoma Park fitness improvements and Lion's Park acquisition) and approve a contractor advertisement for walking map brochures.
- Talking Trails proposal: $6,500 for 10 sites, $1,200/year annual costs
- Federal grant award: $11,125 for interpretative signage
- Section 106 review: Sertoma Park Fitness Area Improvements
- Section 106 review: Lion's Park Acquisition
- Contractor advertisement for walking map brochures
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved an agreement with Talking Trails for interpretive signage at 10 sites at a cost of $6,500, plus $1,200 per year for two years. It also approved 'No Historic Properties Affected' findings for a Sertoma Park fitness area project and a Lion's Park land acquisition, and approved hiring a company to develop and print historic walking map brochures for the 2022 sesquicentennial. All votes were 5-0, with Commissioners Bailey, Dinkins, Jackson, Nodland and Sakariassen present; Commissioners Bakken and Grinnell were absent.
- Approved April 21, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved agreement with Talking Trails: $6,500 for 10 sites, $1,200/year, two years purchased (5-0)
- Approved declaration of finding of 'No Historic Properties Affected' for Sertoma Park fitness area improvements (5-0)
- Approved declaration of finding of 'No Historic Properties Affected' or 'No Adverse Effect' for Lion's Park land acquisition (5-0)
- Approved hiring a company to develop and print walking map brochures (5-0)
- Approved amending brochure advertisement term from 'historian' to 'cultural resource professional' (5-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee is meeting to review proposed sites for interpretative signage and assign tasks related to historic events. The committee will also discuss content for the 'A Maturing City' and 'Bismarck Today' historical eras.
- Review of proposed historic sites for interpretative signage
- Assignment of outstanding historic events
- Identification of editor roles
- Discussion of content for 1965-1999 and 1999-present eras
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee met online on May 18, 2021. Members reviewed ten proposed historic sites for interpretive signage from the 2021 Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class and noted no objections. They assigned previously identified historic events to individual members and recommended waiting until all content is complete before jointly editing it. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.
- Reviewed 10 proposed interpretive signage sites; no objections noted
- Assigned outstanding historic events to members (Nodland, Dinkins, Dura, Christianson, Waldera, Walker, Jackson, Hutchings)
- Recommended waiting until all content is complete before joint editing
- Identified content for 'A Maturing City' (1965-1999) and 'Bismarck Today' (1999-present) eras
- Adjourned at 1:00 PM; next meeting listed as April 20, 2021
Vision Fund Committee
The Vision Fund Committee is meeting to consider an application from CK Properties, LLC, approve minutes from a prior meeting, and discuss member re-appointments. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no other substantive items listed.
- Consider application from CK Properties, LLC
- Consider approval of minutes of June 11, 2020 meeting
- Consider re-appointment of members whose terms are expiring
The Vision Fund Committee approved a preliminary application from CK Properties, LLC for a PACE Loan interest rate buydown tied to a building expansion estimated at $1,322,858.00. The Vision Fund commitment would be $105,698.24, with final terms to be considered at the June 1, 2021 meeting and, if approved, by the City Commission on June 8, 2021. The committee also approved the minutes from its June 11, 2020 meeting and discussed re-appointment of members whose terms are expiring.
- Approved minutes from the June 11, 2020 meeting (all present voted in favor)
- Approved CK Properties, LLC preliminary application for PACE Loan interest rate buydown (all present voted in favor)
- Final terms of the $105,698.24 Vision Fund loan set for consideration on June 1, 2021
- Re-appointment of Kevin Strege, Andrea Petersen, and Stephanie Honeyman discussed; all expressed desire to continue serving
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is scheduled to meet on May 17, 2021, to review meeting minutes, hear public comment, and discuss committee goals including Diversity University, the Municipal Quality Index Rating, and participation in community events. The agenda consists primarily of routine procedural items and goal discussions.
- Discussion of 2021 HRC Goals including Diversity University and Municipal Quality Index Rating
- Participation in Pride at the Capitol Lawn on June 19, 2021
The committee approved the April 19, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. It also unanimously approved a motion to accept the Dakota Screen Arts bid for handout items (stickers, temporary tattoos, paper fans, sunglasses) for the June 19, 2021 Pride at the Capitol Lawn event. Updates were given on the Municipal Quality Index Rating and plans for media marketing; no other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved April 19, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Approved Dakota Screen Arts bid for Pride event handout items (unanimous)
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority is meeting to consider routine items including approving minutes, reviewing financial statements, and discussing several maintenance and equipment projects. They will consider a timeline for purchasing a skid steer and sweeper, and a plan for HVAC controls replacement at the Parkade. The meeting is largely administrative with no major policy decisions expected.
- Consider minutes from April 8, 2021 meeting
- Review financial statements
- Update on Parkade Green Level repair options
- Consider RFP timeline for skid steer and sweeper purchase
- Consider HVAC VAV controls replacement at Parkade 2nd Floor commercial spaces
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved funding for HVAC control replacements and authorized the preparation of an RFP for parkade green level repairs. The board also directed staff to obtain three bids for a new skid steer and sweeper machine.
- Approved April financial statements (5-0)
- Approved preparation of RFP for parkade green level repairs (5-0)
- Approved obtaining 3 bids for purchase of a Skid Steer and Sweeper machine (5-0)
- Approved HVAC VAV Controls replacement with Energy Tech for estimated $39,140.00 (5-0)
- Approved all presented pay requests by consensus
- Approved April 8, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority will consider approval of three Downtown Design Review applications for façade improvements and murals, and will hear staff and Downtowners reports. The meeting is open to the public with remote participation options due to COVID-19.
- Downtown Design Review DDR2021-004: Shelter Belt Façade Improvement at 307 N 3rd Street
- Downtown Design Review DDR2021-005: First Street Lofts Murals at 215 South 1st Street
- Downtown Design Review DDR2021-006: Library Façade Renovation at 515 N 5th Street
- Approval of minutes from April 8, 2021 meeting
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority approved facade improvements at 307 North 3rd Street for a new restaurant called Shelter Belt, two murals at 215 South 1st Street, and a facade renovation at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library at 515 North 5th Street. All three motions passed unanimously by voice vote with members Fink, Gawrylow, Walth, Zenker and Chair Christianson voting in favor. The board also discussed the upcoming July 31, 2022 expiration of the Renaissance Zone program and agreed to add renewal and mural maintenance to a future agenda. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved facade improvements at 307 North 3rd Street for Shelter Belt restaurant (5-0)
- Approved two mural paintings at 215 South 1st Street (5-0)
- Approved library facade renovation at 515 North 5th Street with conditions on material review (5-0)
- Approved April 8, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Agreed to add Renaissance Zone renewal and mural maintenance to next meeting agenda
Bismarck-Mandan Mayors' Committee for People with Disabilities
The Bismarck-Mandan Mayors' Committee for People with Disabilities meets to review minutes and treasurer reports from January 2021, consider scholarship recipients, and address barrier-free and financial requests. No substantive decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will meet to decide on multiple zoning changes, liquor license applications, and funding requests. They will also consider contracts for infrastructure projects, historic preservation funds, and facility upgrades. Several proclamations and public presentations are scheduled.
- Approve $28,170 increase for Historic Preservation Funds
- Introduce public hearings for zoning changes: Hamilton’s First Addition, J & L Addition, and Sturgis Addition
- Introduce public hearing for Class F1 Restaurant Full Alcohol liquor license for Huckleberry House at 1700 River Road
- Approve gaming site authorizations for multiple locations including O’Brians (1039 East Interstate Avenue) and Ramkota (800 South 3rd Street)
- Approve contract awards for Fire Station 3 Addition and Remodel Project and Fire Station #1 Backup Generator Replacement Project
The Board approved using existing construction funds to either purchase and renovate a building or construct a new facility for Bismarck Burleigh Public Health. Other actions included approving a ride-share pilot project and updating COVID-19 emergency shelter operations.
- Approved using existing construction funds to purchase/renovate or construct a new Bismarck Burleigh Public Health facility (4-1)
- Approved application to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities (unanimous)
- Approved Ride Share Signing Pilot Project to identify loading zones (unanimous)
- Approved Temporary License to Premises Agreement for Medieval Rush event on June 12, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 6460 amending rules regarding Public Dances (unanimous)
- Approved ending current COVID-19 emergency shelter contracts and moving to a shelter management service provider (unanimous)
- Nominated Commissioner Splonskowski as co-chair of the Special Assessment Task Force (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda and minutes (unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission is holding a special meeting on May 7, 2021, at Heritage Park. The agenda indicates that three or more commissioners may attend the City's Arbor Day Ceremony, and no action is expected to be taken. This is a procedural notice rather than a decision-making meeting.
- Special meeting notice for May 7, 2021, at 1:00 p.m.
- Location: Heritage Park, 5807 Senora Way, Bismarck, ND
- Arbor Day Ceremony attendance by commissioners
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will hold a continued public hearing on a variance request to reduce the required side yard setback from 15 feet to 11.5 feet for a 2,304 square foot accessory building at 5627 Kayley Drive. The hearing was continued from April 1, 2021, because the applicant was notified of the wrong meeting date. The board will also consider approval of the April 1 meeting minutes and discuss member terms and the Community Development Map.
- Variance request VAR2021-003: reduce side yard setback from 15 to 11.5 feet for accessory building at 5627 Kayley Drive
- Continued public hearing due to applicant being notified of wrong meeting date
- Approval of minutes from April 1, 2021 meeting
- Discussion of member terms and application process
- Discussion of Bismarck Community Development Map
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment voted 6-0 to deny a variance reducing the required side yard setback from 15 feet to 11.5 feet for a 2,304 square foot accessory building on Lot 23, Block 2, Copper Ridge Subdivision (5627 Kayley Drive). Board members said the applicants did not show a hardship, noting the building could be moved or made smaller. The Board also approved two motions on how the City Commission should fill open member terms and select an alternate member. The meeting was held in person and via Zoom.
- Denied variance to reduce side yard setback from 15 feet to 11.5 feet at 5627 Kayley Drive (6-0)
- Approved minutes of the April 1, 2021 meeting (6-0)
- Approved motion for the City Commission to choose members to fill open terms, then choose the alternate member (6-0)
- Approved motion that a determination be made from applicants who apply as to the two members and which of the six members would be the alternate (6-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission held a special meeting on May 3, 2021, at the City/County Building. The sole agenda item was a request for permission to award the Solid Waste Management Facility Expansion Area Cell 1 Project to Northern Improvement. No dollar amount or contract details were listed in the agenda text.
- Request to award Solid Waste Management Facility Expansion Area Cell 1 Project to Northern Improvement
The Board of City Commissioners held a special meeting to review a request from Public Works Utility Service Operations Director Jeff Heintz. The Board voted unanimously to award the Solid Waste Management Facility Expansion Area Cell 1 project bid to Northern Improvement Company for $2,816,187.63 to lock in pricing amidst market volatility. Funds for the project will be drawn from the Solid Waste Utility Disposal fund.
- Awarded Solid Waste Management Facility Expansion Area Cell 1 project bid of $2,816,187.63 to Northern Improvement Company (5-0)
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission meets to review zoning changes, preliminary plats, and public hearings for several subdivisions and land-use proposals. Items include residential and industrial rezonings, subdivision plats, and a proposed zoning ordinance amendment on keeping chickens.
- Basin Electric Fourth Addition preliminary plat (2.90 acres, North 19th St & East Century Ave)
- RBK Ventures Second Subdivision rezoning to Conditional MA Industrial (19.2 acres, Hay Creek Township)
- Zoning change for Lots 2-4, Block 1, Northridge Estates Commercial Park (CA to PUD)
- Potter Pointe Addition zoning change (RR to RR and R5) and minor subdivision final plat
- Proposed zoning ordinance text amendment for keeping chickens (ZOTA2021-002)
The Commission denied a zoning change for the Potter Pointe Subdivision due to concerns over small lot sizes. It recommended approval for the Hamilton’s First Addition replat and approved zoning changes to Planned Unit Developments (PUD) for two other properties.
- Denied zoning change and minor subdivision final plat for Potter Pointe Subdivision (9-1)
- Recommended approval of zoning change to PUD and minor subdivision final plat for Hamilton’s First Addition First Replat (10-0)
- Approved zoning change from Industrial to PUD for Lot 2, Block 1, J & L Addition (10-0)
- Approved zoning change from Residential to PUD for Lots 23-24, Block 23, Sturgis Addition (9-1)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for 3,080 sq ft accessory structure at 3539 Heartland Loop (9-1)
- Approved March 24, 2021 meeting minutes (10-0)
- Approved consent agenda items 2-5 (10-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Burleigh County Board of City Commissioners meets to approve personnel actions, expenditures, and contracts including gaming site renewals, utility projects, and streetlight installations. The board will also consider liquor license applications, branding updates, and easement releases. Public hearings are scheduled for new liquor licenses and ordinances on motorized scooters and annexations.
- Approve gaming site renewals for Fraternal Order of Eagles (313 N 26th St) and Gilbert N Nelson VFW Post 1326 (1235 S 12th St)
- Award streetlight/traffic signal contracts to Fetzer Electric for $84,097.80 and $106,315.50
- New Class U distillery liquor licenses for Big Dog Beverages (307 S 3rd St) and Bismarck Distillery (1100 Canada Ave)
- New Class F1 restaurant liquor license for Shelter Belt (307 N 3rd St)
- Consider Ordinance 6457 for Clear Sky Addition annexation and development agreement
The Board approved a $5.0M to $5.5M downtown concrete repair project funded partly by special assessments. The commission also adopted a new city logo and the tagline "Bismarck's the Spot." Discussions on financing for new Police and Public Health facilities were tabled.
- Approved downtown concrete pavement repair project and special assessment district
- Adopted revised City logo, brand guidelines, and tagline "Bismarck's the Spot"
- Approved Class U Domestic Distillery Liquor License for Big Dog Beverages, LLC
- Approved Class U Domestic Distillery Liquor License for Bismarck Distillery, LLC
- Approved Class F1 Restaurant Full Alcohol Liquor License for Shelter Belt, LLC
- Approved Ordinance 6459 regarding motorized scooters
- Approved Ordinance 6457 (Clear Sky Addition annexation) and Ordinance 6458 (First Responders Second Addition annexation)
- Tabled financing plans for Police and Public Health facilities
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Executive Committee will meet virtually to approve prior minutes and receive updates on the Bismarck/Burleigh EOC project, public safety software, and the SIRN 20/20 radio system. The meeting is open to the public, with remote participation encouraged due to COVID-19.
- Review/approve minutes from March 24, 2021
- CenCom, Bismarck / Burleigh EOC Project Update
- Public Safety Software Project Update
- SIRN 20/20 Update
- Director Update
The committee approved the minutes from the March 2, 2021 meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of project updates regarding IT cooling, public safety software, and staffing.
- Approved 3-2-2021 minutes (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission will discuss proposed downtown street improvements on East Thayer Avenue, East Broadway Avenue, North 4th, 5th, and 6th Streets, and consider participation in National Preservation Month activities. The meeting also includes a review of a draft guide for Section 106 consultation processes.
- Review of downtown street improvements on East Thayer Ave, East Broadway Ave, and North 4th–6th Streets
- Discussion of National Preservation Month activities including a May 16 video presentation on the BNSF bridge
- Review of draft Section 106 consultation guide for public posting
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes of its March 17, 2021 meeting and heard a request from the 2021 Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Class about developing a talking-trail app for historic sites. The Commission reviewed proposed downtown street improvements to East Thayer Avenue, East Broadway Avenue, North 4th Street, North 5th Street and North 6th Street, but the City Attorney stated no approval was needed at this time; the Commission's role was advisory. Commissioner Nodland asked that the street project be delayed one year to avoid overlapping with the City's sesquicentennial events, and the City Engineer said the federal funding could not be redistributed to later years without losing the grant. The meeting adjourned at 4:48 p.m.; the next meeting is May 19, 2021.
- Approved minutes of the March 17, 2021 meeting (5-0)
- No vote taken on downtown street improvements; City Attorney said no approval was needed at this time
- Referred talking-trail app discussion to the Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee for its May 18 meeting
- No action taken on Historic Preservation Month participation; staff and Commission to coordinate with Mayor Bakken on a press release
Forestry Advisory Board
The Bismarck Forestry Advisory Board will meet to approve past meeting minutes, receive updates on Arbor Day planning, review the 2021 pruning contract, discuss European elm scale treatment, and hear about grant applications including a species diversity grant. The board will also review the City of Bismarck emerald ash borer plan update.
- Approval of January 19, 2021 meeting minutes
- 2021 pruning contract update
- European elm scale treatment program discussion
- NDFS Species Diversity Grant application review
- City of Bismarck emerald ash borer plan update
The Forestry Advisory Board approved the minutes of its October 20, 2020 meeting and received updates on Arbor Day, the 2021 pruning contract, European Elm Scale treatment, a state grant, and the city's Emerald Ash Borer plan. The board did not vote on the pruning contract; the minutes state Beaver Creek Tree Service was awarded the contract after the low bidder lacked a required North Dakota contractor license. No other substantive motions or votes are recorded.
- Approved minutes of the October 20, 2020 regular meeting (all in favor)
- 2021 pruning contract awarded to Beaver Creek Tree Service after low bidder Lefke Tree Service was rejected for lacking a required ND contractor license (no board vote recorded)
- Received $20,000 ND Forest Service grant for EAB preparedness and diversification, to be used by end of 2022 (no board vote recorded)
- 2021 European Elm Scale treatment budgeted at $20,000, injections to begin in May (no board vote recorded)
- Directed FAB members to contact other cities on EAB management: Amy–Sioux Falls, Erik–Winnipeg, Brett–Rochester (no vote recorded)
- Directed staff to update the city's EAB plan, adopted in 2010 (no vote recorded)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss the water and sewer utility earmark project list. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business listed.
- Water/Sewer utility earmark project list
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, public comment, and updates on the Humanitarian Award and a student essay/poetry contest. They will also review 2021 goals, including participation in community events such as Pride at the Capitol Lawn on June 19, 2021, and outreach to service clubs.
- Approval of meeting minutes from March 22, 2021
- Humanitarian Award update
- Student Essay/Poetry Contest discussion
- 2021 HRC Goals, including Diversity University
- Participation in Pride at the Capitol Lawn on June 19, 2021
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee approved minutes of its March 22, 2021 special meeting, agreed to be a Level 2 Sponsor of Dakota Outright's Capital Pride 2021 event, and voted to revisit the student essay/poetry contest at its July 19, 2021 meeting. It also heard that plaques for two Humanitarian Award recipients will be presented at the April 27, 2021 Bismarck City Commission meeting. Members Brandi Hardy and Jason Grueneich reported on work to improve the City's Municipal Quality Index Rating and said they will seek City Commission support on June 22, 2021.
- Approved minutes of the March 22, 2021 special meeting (unanimous)
- Approved being a Level 2 Sponsor at Dakota Outright's Capital Pride 2021 event (unanimous)
- Approved bringing the student essay/poetry contest back to the July 19, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- No vote recorded on hosting an in-person multi-cultural dinner; Brandi Hardy volunteered to chair it for 2021
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on April 13, 2021, starting with a Board of Equalization session on the annual assessment. The main agenda includes consent items such as new gaming site authorizations, liquor licenses, and numerous engineering contracts for road, water, and sewer improvements. Regular agenda items include a scooter ordinance introduction, two annexation ordinances, several subdivision plats, and a financing plan for new police and public health facilities. The meeting also includes two executive sessions.
- Introduction of Ordinance 6459 regarding motorized scooters
- Introduction of Ordinance 6457 to annex part of Clear Sky Addition (FRF Investments, LLP)
- Introduction of Ordinance 6458 to annex First Responders Second Addition
- Award bids for Highway Construction Projects HC 139 and HC 140
- Receive financing plan for new Police Department and Public Health facilities
The Board approved the annual assessment report and recommended appeals. The Commission also awarded several construction contracts for road and signal projects and approved two minor subdivision final plats.
- Approved annual assessment report and recommendations (unanimous)
- Approved recommended assessment appeals (unanimous)
- Approved Missouri Meadows Subdivision final plat (unanimous)
- Approved The Ridge at Hawktree Second Replat final plat (unanimous)
- Awarded $270,496.60 bid for Intersection Improvement Safety Project HC 127 to TI-Zack Concrete Inc. (unanimous)
- Awarded $187,800.00 bid for Streetlights and Traffic Signal Project SV 60 to Edling Electric (unanimous)
- Denied property tax penalty refund request for 1052 N. 29th St. (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including gaming site authorizations and personnel actions (unanimous)
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Burleigh County Parking Authority will introduce a new board member, approve prior meeting minutes, review financial statements, and receive updates on Parkade repairs and gate equipment upgrades. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Introduction of new Board Member Jake Axtman
- Review of March 11, 2021 meeting minutes
- Status update on Parkade green-level repairs preliminary bid
- Timeline for new gates equipment upgrades installation
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority unanimously approved the March 2021 financial statements and asphalt repair bids totaling $7,678 for two parking lots. A proposal for Parkade Green Level repairs was tabled pending further information. New gate equipment was reported as ordered for June 2021 installation.
- Approved March 2021 financial statements (5-0)
- Approved Quality Asphalt bids for 5th & Thayer and BNC Lot repairs totaling $7,678 (5-0)
- Tabled Parkade Green Level repairs proposal ($324,288 bid) for further review
- Approved minutes from March 11, 2021 meeting (5-0)
Animal Advisory Board
The Bismarck Animal Advisory Board will meet on April 8, 2021, to discuss proposed changes to local animal ordinances, including allowing backyard chickens. The board will also review goals for 2021 and revisions to Title 3 on animal control and protection. Public participation is encouraged remotely due to COVID-19 safety measures.
- Proposed ordinance changes to allow backyard chickens
- Revision of Title 3: Animal Control and Protection
- Goals for 2021 review
The board unanimously approved proposed ordinance changes to allow the keeping of backyard chickens. Members also discussed revisions to the animal control portion of the City Code of Ordinances.
- Approved minutes of January 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved ordinance changes to allow backyard chickens (unanimous)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Burleigh County Renaissance Zone Authority will decide on two downtown design-review items: façade upgrades for the Prince Hotel at 114 North 3rd Street and a streetscape standards amendment tied to the Thayer-Broadway corridor project. Staff recommends approval for both. The meeting also includes a procedural vote on the February 2021 minutes and routine reports.
- Prince Hotel Rehabilitation façade upgrades at 114 North 3rd Street (DDR2021-002)
- Downtown Street Improvement Project streetscape standards amendment (DDR2021-003)
- Approval of February 11, 2021 meeting minutes
The Authority approved a $5M to $5.5M downtown street improvement project and a design for storefront and facade improvements at 114 North 3rd Street. Members also amended streetscape standards to allow flexible porous pavement for tree plantings and extended a development deadline for the Patterson Building.
- Approved storefront and facade improvements for 114 North 3rd Street (Prince Hotel) (5-0)
- Approved street improvement project for East Thayer, East Broadway, and North 4th, 5th, and 6th Streets (5-0)
- Approved amendment to Downtown Streetscape Standards to allow flexible porous pavement for tree plantings (5-0)
- Approved deadline extension to May 12, 2021, for the Patterson Building (5-0)
- Approved February 11, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Burleigh County Historic Preservation Commission is meeting virtually to attend the North Dakota State Certified Local Government Conference. No decisions or actions are expected at this meeting.
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will review and vote on a variance request to reduce the required side-yard setback from 15 feet to 11.5 feet for a 2,304 sq ft accessory building at 5627 Kayley Drive in the Copper Ridge Subdivision. The public hearing will consider whether the variance meets zoning hardship criteria.
- Variance request VAR2021-003 to reduce side-yard setback from 15 ft to 11.5 ft for 2,304 sq ft accessory building at 5627 Kayley Drive
- Public hearing scheduled under Section 14-4-01(5) of City Code (RR-Residential zoning)
- Board action options: approve, continue, table, or deny the variance
The Board approved the minutes from the February 4, 2021 meeting. A request for a side yard setback variance at 5627 Kayley Drive was continued to the May 6 meeting because the applicant was given the wrong meeting date.
- Approved February 4, 2021 meeting minutes with one correction (5-0)
- Continued variance request for 5627 Kayley Drive to May 6 meeting (6-0)
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will review three zoning change requests, two annexations, and three subdivision plats. Items include rezoning for residential suites, annexations for new developments, and final plats for subdivisions. The meeting will also include updates on the city's comprehensive plan and a demo of an online map.
- Rezone Lot 2, Block 1, J & L Addition from MA to PUD (ZC2021-002)
- Rezone Lots 23-24, Block 23, Sturgis Addition from RM30 to PUD (ZC2021-003)
- Annexation of part of Clear Sky Addition (ANNX2021-004)
- Annexation and final plat for First Responders Second Addition (ANNX2020-009, FPLT2021-002)
- Final plats for Southbay Fourth Addition Third Replat and The Ridge at Hawktree Second Replat
The Commission denied a request to rezone a portion of KMK Estates from residential to commercial. It recommended approval for two annexations and approved two minor subdivision final plats.
- Denied zoning change from Conditional RT-Residential to CA-Commercial for East 250 feet of Lot 2, Block 3, KMK Estates (6-0)
- Recommended approval of annexation for part of Clear Sky Addition (6-0)
- Recommended approval of annexation and final plat for First Responders Second Addition (6-0)
- Approved minor subdivision final plat for Missouri Meadows Subdivision (5-1)
- Approved minor subdivision final plat for The Ridge at Hawktree Second Replat (6-0)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for accessory buildings up to 3,024 sq ft at 3724 High Plains Road (6-0)
- Approved February 24, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will consider two items: a memorandum of understanding with Bird Co. to operate e-scooter rentals in Bismarck and Ordinance 6446, which would allow microdistilleries by right or special permit depending on zoning. Both items are supported by the Downtown Business Association and Downtown Bismarck Community Foundation.
- Bird Co. e-scooter MOU for rental operations
- Ordinance 6446 to permit microdistilleries by right or special permit
- MOU renewal required after December 31, 2021
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet to discuss and decide on a range of items, including a proclamation for Fair Housing Month, an electric scooter sharing memorandum of understanding, and multiple public hearings on annexations and zoning changes. The agenda also covers a substantial consent agenda featuring municipal utility projects, budget amendments, and department contracts.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6446 regarding Domestic Distillery and Off-Sale provisions
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6451 for the annexation of property in Silver Ranch First and Second Additions requested by Bismarck Parks and Recreation District
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6452 for the annexation of property in Silver Ranch Third Addition requested by Chad Wachter, LLC
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6453 for a zoning change from RR-Residential to CG-Commercial for Memory Third Addition
- Memorandum of Understanding with Bird Rides, Inc. for stand-up electric scooter sharing
The Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Bird Rides, Inc. to operate electric scooters. The Commission also approved several annexations, zoning changes, and a $425,918.05 contract for a street improvement project.
- Approved MOU with Bird Rides, Inc. for electric scooter sharing
- Awarded $425,918.05 bid to Fetzer Electric for Street Improvement District No. 544
- Approved annexation of Silver Ranch First and Second Additions
- Approved annexation of Silver Ranch Third Addition
- Approved zoning change to Commercial for Memory Third Addition
- Approved zoning change to Industrial for Hay Creek Industrial Subdivision Replat
- Approved zoning change to R10-Residential for Cottonwood Parkview Addition
- Directed removal of US 83/71st Ave. NE interchange from future planning
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss its 2021 goals, review nominations for a humanitarian award to recommend to the City Commission, and receive updates on diversity initiatives. The committee will also consider a municipal quality index rating and a student essay/poetry contest update.
- Approval of February 22, 2021 meeting minutes
- Review of 2021 HRC Goals including Diversity University and community outreach
- Humanitarian award nomination recommendations for City Commission
- Municipal Quality Index Rating discussion
- Student Essay/Poetry Contest Update
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee voted unanimously to nominate Dakota OutRight for the organization Humanitarian Award and Rachael Howard for the individual award, choosing from 11 nominations received. The committee also voted unanimously to remove the Bismarck Global Neighbors immigrant advisory partnership from its agenda and discontinue work with the project, after discussion that the organization's work did not align with the HRC's education and outreach role. Members approved the February 22, 2021 minutes and agreed to return to in-person meetings unless the CDC directs otherwise.
- Approved February 22, 2021 minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Removed Bismarck Global Neighbors immigrant advisory partnership from agenda and discontinued work with the project (unanimous)
- Nominated Dakota OutRight for the Humanitarian Award organization award (unanimous)
- Nominated Rachael Howard for the Humanitarian Award individual award (unanimous)
- Agreed to hold future meetings in person unless directed otherwise by the CDC (all in favor)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission will review four North Dakota Department of Transportation projects on State Street/US Highway 83, including intersection upgrades and pavement repairs. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Northern Plains National Heritage Area and updates on grant awards and prior recommendations.
- Section 106 review of NDDOT projects on State Street/US Highway 83 from Calgary Ave to south of Divide Ave
- Presentation by Aaron Barth on Northern Plains National Heritage Area
- Notice of 2021 Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) Grant Award
- Update on prior recommendations to City Commission regarding BNSF Bridge
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved a motion to agree with the NDDOT determination of No Historic Properties Affected for proposed projects along portions of State Street, with Commissioner Bailey opposed and Commissioner Nodland abstaining. The Commission also approved the February 17, 2021 minutes. Staff reported a $28,750 2021 HPF Grant Award for interpretive historic markers, walking tour maps, and a National Register nomination for Highland Acres, with a contract not yet executed. Staff also reported that the City Commission approved a BNSF bridge memorandum of agreement with contingencies but denied a Friends of the Rail Bridge request for a public-private partnership.
- Approved February 17, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
- Approved agreement with NDDOT determination of No Historic Properties Affected for State Street projects (5-1, Nodland abstained)
- Bailey's proposed amendment to the Section 106 declaration was rescinded before a vote
- Reported 2021 HPF Grant Award of $28,750; contract not yet executed
- Reported City Commission approved BNSF bridge MOA with contingencies
- Reported City Commission denied Friends of the Rail Bridge request for public-private partnership
Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition
The Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition is holding its quarterly meeting to receive updates from subcommittees on student programs, prevention and education, intoxication/withdrawal management, and treatment and recovery. The meeting will include discussions on the Drug Free Communities grant and the SOR grant, as well as updates from local agencies.
- Introduction of student subcommittee representative Megan Reems
- Drug Free Communities (DFC) Grant subcommittee update
- SOR Grant update by Sue Kahler, SAP Coordinator
- Intoxication/Withdrawal Management update by Bismarck Police and West Central Human Service Center
- Treatment and Recovery update by Jennifer Pelster, Mandan Good Neighbor Project Coordinator
The Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition met on March 16, 2021, and received updates rather than making formal decisions. Subcommittees reported on a $125,000 five-year Drug-Free Communities grant, underage drinking assessment findings, National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week activities, the Hidden in Plain Sight training, and the State Opioid Response grant. Law enforcement and West Central Human Service Center described social detox and crisis services, including 10 licensed social detox beds. No motions, votes, or approvals are recorded in the minutes.
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission's subcommittee is meeting online to continue work on a historic preservation plan. They will finalize the 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding' eras, review timeline layout, and discuss content for other historical eras. This is a working session focused on editing and planning, not a final decision-making meeting.
- Final review of 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding' eras
- Preliminary review of timeline layout and style
- Discussion of material for 'Bismarck's Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras
- Identification of content for 'Tumultuous Years' and 'Post World War II and Mid-Century Growth' eras
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee met online on March 16, 2021, to review draft content for a historical timeline covering eras from the Native Landscape through Post World War II. Members suggested edits, discussed a draft timeline layout, and assigned specific research and writing tasks to individual members and staff. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the meeting was a working session focused on content development.
- Reviewed 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding' eras; suggested adding early history and population estimates
- Discussed timeline layout; members preferred a wavy timeline and suggested including native site names
- Assigned content tasks for 'Bismarck's Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras to members (e.g., Sarah Walker, Jim Christianson, Beth Nodland)
- Assigned content tasks for 'Tumultuous Years' and 'Post World War II' eras, mostly to Tory Jackson
- No formal motions, votes, or approvals were recorded
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, hearing public comment, and reviewing the Municipal Quality Index. The committee will also consider a humanitarian award nomination recommendation for the City Commission and update its 2021 goals, including a student essay/poetry contest and diversity partnership updates.
- Humanitarian award review and nomination recommendation for City Commission
- Student Essay/Poetry Contest Update
- Bismarck Global Neighbors Diversity and Inclusion Partnership Update
- 2021 HRC Goals: Diversity University, speaking to service clubs, HRC brochure, community events
- Municipal Quality Index Rating
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will consider approving repairs to the Parkade Green Level, review financial statements, and review bids for gate equipment upgrades. The board will also discuss a board member term and approve the previous meeting's minutes.
- Discussion and approval of Parkade Green Level repairs
- Review of bids for Gates Equipment upgrades
- Review of financial statements
- Discussion of PA Board Member Term
- Approval of February 11, 2021 minutes
The Board approved a bid for gates and equipment upgrades and authorized payment to Walker Consultants. Repairs for the Parkade Green Level were tabled pending an estimate. February financial statements were approved.
- Approved $117,358.14 bid from Amano McGann for gates and equipment upgrades (5-0)
- Approved $21,600 pay request for Walker Consultants (4-0)
- Approved February financial statements (4-0)
- Approved February 11, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled Parkade Green Level tendon repairs
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular session on March 9, 2021, to consider consent agenda items including several ordinance introductions for annexations and zoning changes, as well as regular agenda items such as public hearings on a liquor license and competitive bidding. The meeting will also include updates on the pandemic response, the comprehensive plan, and potential funding for public health and police facilities.
- Introduce ordinances for annexation of Silver Ranch additions (Ordinances 6451, 6452)
- Introduce zoning changes for Memory Third Addition, Hay Creek Industrial Subdivision, and Cottonwood Parkview Addition (Ordinances 6453-6455)
- Public hearing on new Class M Catering Liquor License for Harvest LLC
- Consider moratorium on floodplain development permits near Misty Waters Bay
- Approve contract change order with Swanberg Construction for Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements
The Board of City Commissioners denied a proposed moratorium on floodplain development permits for bay properties in the Misty Waters Subdivision. The board also approved a new liquor license, passed an ordinance regarding competitive bidding, and authorized the search for property to relocate the Police Department. Several other administrative and engineering items were approved via the consent agenda.
- Denied moratorium on Misty Waters Subdivision development (5-0)
- Approved Class M Catering Liquor License for Harvest LLC (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 6446 regarding competitive bidding (5-0)
- Authorized search for Police Department relocation property (5-0)
- Ratified COVID-19 State of Emergency extension to April 5, 2021 (5-0)
- Approved release of Class E beer-only license for bidding (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda items including various contracts and permits (5-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will attend a Legislative Forum hosted by the Chamber EDC. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this special meeting.
CenCom
The Central Dakota Communications Center (CenCom) Executive Committee is meeting to review project updates regarding the Bismarck/Burleigh EOC, public safety software, and the SIRN 20/20 initiative. The committee will also review minutes from the October 27, 2020, meeting and receive a director update.
- Review of minutes from 10/27/2020
- Bismarck/Burleigh EOC project update
- Public safety software project update
- SIRN 20/20 update
The CenCom Executive Committee approved the minutes from July 28, 2020. The meeting primarily consisted of status updates on the new dispatch center facility, software projects, and staffing. No new policies or contracts were voted on during this session.
- Approved July 28, 2020 minutes (unanimous)
- Reviewed CenCom facility move-in and IT upgrades
- Reviewed RMS software go-live delay to March 29
- Reviewed 2022 budget planning and staffing updates
Political Subdivisions Committee
The Political Subdivisions Committee will hear a pandemic response update from Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, including COVID-19 testing and vaccination operations. The meeting will also discuss options to improve remote public access to government meetings.
- Pandemic Response Update from Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health Director Renae Moch
- Vehicle Circulation at Horizon Middle School
- Discuss options for remote public, staff, and Commissioner meeting access
The committee reviewed a pandemic response update and discussed improving vehicle circulation at Horizon Middle School. Members also discussed standardizing remote access technology for public meetings in the Tom Baker Meeting Room. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will meet on February 24, 2021, to consider various zoning changes, annexations, and plats. The agenda includes public hearings on residential and industrial development projects, as well as a proposed ordinance amendment regarding distilleries and microbrew pubs.
- Zoning change and preliminary plat for Elk Ridge Third Addition
- Annexation requests for Silver Ranch First, Second, and Third Additions
- Zoning change for Memory Third Addition
- Special Use Permit for a drive-through at Capital Electric Headquarters Addition
- Zoning ordinance text amendment for domestic distilleries and microbrew pubs
The Commission recommended approval for multiple annexations in the Silver Ranch area and several zoning changes for commercial and industrial use. A request to rezone a residential lot for a restaurant was tabled for further study and resident notification.
- Recommended approval of annexations for Silver Ranch First, Second, and Third Additions (Unanimous)
- Recommended approval of zoning change to Commercial and final plat for Memory Third Addition (Unanimous)
- Tabled zoning change for KMK Estates to allow for conditional ordinance and re-notification (Unanimous)
- Recommended approval of zoning change to Industrial for Hay Creek Industrial Subdivision Replat (Unanimous)
- Recommended approval of zoning change to R10-Residential for Cottonwood Parkview Addition (9-0, 1 abstention)
- Recommended approval of special use permit for financial institution drive-through at 4245 State Street (Unanimous)
- Recommended approval of zoning text amendments for domestic distilleries and microbrew pubs (Unanimous)
- Approved January 27, 2021 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular session with consent and regular agenda items, including public hearings on two annexations, a floodplain development moratorium, and several infrastructure projects. The meeting also includes routine approvals for expenditures, personnel actions, and various contracts.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6448 to annex Sattler's Sunrise Tenth Addition
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6449 to annex parts of Promontory Point VI and VII
- Consideration of a moratorium on floodplain development permits for Misty Waters Bay
- Approval of Street Improvement Districts No. 542 and 543
- Award bid for HPS & LED Luminaires to Dakota Supply Group
The Board approved several infrastructure projects, including the 43rd Ave. NE reconstruction and concrete work for District CC21. The Commission also approved a contract to update the City's Classification and Compensation Plan and granted a floodplain variance for a home addition.
- Approved 43rd Ave. NE reconstruction options and 2022 construction start (4-1)
- Approved Condrey & Associates' proposal to update Classification and Compensation Plan (4-1)
- Approved variance for home addition below base-flood elevation at 3221 Deer Lodge Drive (unanimous)
- Approved annexations of Sattler's Sunrise Tenth Addition and parts of Promontory Point VI and VII (unanimous)
- Approved $50,000 cost coverage for road load restriction repairs (4-1)
- Approved concrete projects for District CC21 (unanimous)
- Approved MOA for BNSF Bismarck Rail Bridge Replacement with specific contingencies (unanimous)
- Denied request for Historic Preservation Commission to participate in BNSF Rail Bridge partnership (3-2)
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee will review its 2021 goals, including outreach to student liaisons, Diversity University initiatives, and speaking to service clubs. The committee will also hear updates on the Humanitarian Award, a student essay/poetry contest, and a partnership with Bismarck Global Neighbors to discuss language access education and a Portland immigrant/refugee program model.
- Review 2021 HRC Goals including Diversity University and service club outreach
- Discuss Humanitarian Award and Student Essay/Poetry Contest updates
- Evaluate Bismarck Global Neighbors partnership on language access education
- Consider Portland Oregon Immigrant & Refugee Program as a model
- Introduce new committee member
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee approved a flyer for a student essay and poetry contest, dividing submissions into four categories. The committee also voted to table a discussion on the Portland Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Program until May 2021. Additionally, the committee accepted the minutes from the previous meeting and reviewed updates on the Humanitarian Award nominations.
- Approved January 25, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Essay/Poetry contest flyer with four submission categories (unanimous)
- Tabled Portland Oregon Immigrant discussion until May 2021 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider a request from Friends of the Rail Bridge to participate in a public-private partnership aimed at preserving the 1883 BNSF rail bridge across the Missouri River. The commission will review a draft partnership concept and decide whether to commit to roles such as facilitating a National Register nomination or recommending National Historic Landmark status. Staff notes jurisdictional and funding uncertainties for these roles. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.
- Request from Friends of the Rail Bridge for public-private partnership participation
- Discussion of potential roles: National Register nomination and National Historic Landmark recommendation
- Staff review of commission's ordinance authority for bridge outside city limits
- Upcoming Digital North Dakota CLG Online Conference – March 2021
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission approved two motions on February 17, 2021. It voted 4-2 to send its aggregated prioritized mitigation table to the City Commission for consideration, and voted 5-1 to recommend that the Commission participate in a public-private partnership with Friends of the Rail Bridge (FORB) to provide assistance allowed under its power and duties. Commissioner Grinnell did not vote on either motion. The meeting was held via Zoom and included a letter from resident Susan Dingle supporting the bridge's preservation.
- Approved submitting aggregated prioritized mitigation table to City Commission (4-2; Bailey and Bakken opposed; Grinnell did not vote)
- Approved recommending public-private partnership with Friends of the Rail Bridge (FORB) (5-1; Bakken opposed; Grinnell did not vote)
- Approved minutes of January 20, 2021 meeting (5-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee is meeting online to review and discuss content for a historic preservation plan, focusing on the 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding or Before Bismarck' eras, and to begin identifying content for the 'Bismarck's Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras. The meeting is a working session with no votes or decisions listed.
- Review of material for 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding or Before Bismarck' eras
- Preliminary discussion of content for 'Bismarck's Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras
- Meeting held online via Microsoft Teams
- Next meeting scheduled for March 20, 2021
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee reviewed draft material for the 'Native Landscape' and 'Pre-Founding' eras, discussing additions like smallpox epidemics and a focus on people over artifacts. They also identified specific topics for the 'Bismarck’s Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras, ranging from Camp Hancock to the 1918 flu epidemic. Members were assigned to research and draft content for these historical periods. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.
- Reviewed draft elements for Native Landscape and Pre-Founding eras
- Identified topics for Bismarck’s Early Years era (e.g., Camp Hancock, Bloody 4th Street)
- Identified topics for Growing Capital City era (e.g., New Capitol, Prohibition, WWI)
- Assigned subcommittee members to research specific historical topics
- Meeting adjourned at 1:00 PM
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will meet to consider minutes, review financial statements, and review bids from a request for proposals for security patrol services. They will also discuss a board member term. The meeting is scheduled for February 11, 2021.
- Review bids from RFP for Security Patrol Services
- Consider minutes from January 14, 2021 meeting
- Review financial statements
- Discuss PA Board Member Term (Russ Kadlec)
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority approved the January 14, 2021 minutes and the January financials, both by unanimous roll call votes. It also approved the low bidder for a security patrol services contract, a 3-year term with two 1-year renewals, subject to the City Attorney's approval. The minutes do not name the low bidder or the contract amount. The board noted that parking authority board member candidates must apply to the City, and that bids for a gates upgrades and reporting software RFP will be opened February 18, 2021.
- Approved January 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved January financials (5-0 roll call)
- Approved low bidder for security patrol services contract, 3-year term with two 1-year renewals, subject to City Attorney approval (5-0 roll call)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Renaissance Zone Authority will consider approving the demolition of a duplex at 215 West Thayer Avenue, damaged by a basement fire in October 2020. The land would be cleared for sale as commercial or residential property. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and reports from staff and The Downtowners.
- Demolition of duplex at 215 West Thayer Avenue (DDR2021-001)
- Approval of minutes from January 14, 2021 meeting
- Report from Staff
- Report from The Downtowners
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority approved a request from Applewood Homes and Co. for Downtown Design Review of the demolition of the duplex at 215 West Thayer Avenue, with conditions on future revisions, lot finishing, and ownership verification. The motion passed with members Fink, Gawrylow, Zenker, and Vice Chair Van Orman voting in favor. The Authority also approved the minutes of the January 14, 2021 meeting unanimously. Staff reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission is considering a zoning amendment for domestic distilleries, and The Downtowners gave updates on state legislation and two downtown projects.
- Approved minutes of the January 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
- Approved demolition of duplex at 215 West Thayer Avenue with conditions (4-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will meet to consider consent agenda items including annexations, a new liquor license, and ratification of a COVID-19 emergency declaration. They will also hold a public hearing on a floodplain variance appeal and discuss a legislative report.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6447 regarding payment provisions
- Annexation of Promontory Point VI and VII additions (Ordinance 6449)
- Annexation of Sattler's Sunrise Tenth Addition (Ordinance 6448)
- Ratify February 19, 2021 COVID-19 emergency declaration and extend to March 6, 2021
- Award bid to HB Sound & Light for arena hybrid fiber camera system
The Board of City Commissioners approved its consent agenda, including a COVID-19 state of emergency extension to March 6, 2021, and approved Ordinance 6447 on payment provisions. It tabled Bryan Skager's floodplain variance appeal until July 27, 2021 to let staff keep working with FEMA, a stakeholder group and the state water commission. The board also approved a letter opposing a federal OMB statistical-area proposal and a $697,258.80 low bid from Northern Improvement Company for the Century Ave. turn lane project. No motion was made on the Human Resources compensation plan update; the board rejected an executive-session request.
- Approved minutes as presented (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda as presented (all aye)
- Tabled Bryan Skager floodplain variance appeal until July 27, 2021 (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6447 on payment provisions (all aye)
- Approved letter opposing federal OMB Metropolitan/Micropolitan Statistical Area change (all aye)
- Approved Century Ave. turn lane safety improvement, low bid Northern Improvement Company $697,258.80 (all aye)
- Moved forward with support recommendations on SB2091 and HB3028
- Rejected executive-session request (all aye)
Board of Adjustment
The Bismarck Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance requests. One seeks to reduce a side-yard setback for an accessory building at 8600 Northwood Drive, and the other would allow a home addition below floodplain elevation requirements at 3221 Deer Lodge Drive. The board will also consider minutes from its December 3, 2020 meeting and receive a planning update.
- Variance to reduce side-yard setback from 15 to 11.5 feet for a 24'x36' accessory building at 8600 Northwood Drive (VAR2021-001)
- Variance to allow a home addition 1.8 feet below floodplain elevation requirement at 3221 Deer Lodge Drive (VAR2021-002)
- Public comments accepted via email due to COVID-19
- Meeting open to public with remote participation options
The Board approved a request to reduce a side yard setback for a detached building at 8600 Northwood Drive. A request to build a home addition below the required Base Flood Elevation at 3221 Deer Lodge Drive was denied.
- Approved variance to reduce side yard setback from 15 feet to 11.5 feet at 8600 Northwood Drive (5-0)
- Denied variance to construct a home addition below Base Flood Elevation at 3221 Deer Lodge Drive (3-2)
- Approved minutes of the December 3, 2020 meeting (4-0)
Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission
The Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings on several rezoning requests and preliminary plats, including a proposal to rezone 6.6 acres near US Highway 83/State Street for commercial use. They will also take final action on two annexation requests and elect officers for the coming year.
- Zoning change (RR to CG) and preliminary plat for Memory Third Addition, 6.6 acres near US 83 and Brookside Lane
- Zoning change (Conditional RT to CA) for East 250 feet of Lot 2, Block 2, KMK Estates
- Zoning change (PUD to Conditional MA) for Lots 2 & 3, Block 1, Hay Creek Industrial Replat
- Zoning change (R10 to RM30) for Lots 3 & 4, Block 6, Fisher Addition and Lot 1, Block 19, Wachters Third Addition
- Final action on annexations for Part of Sattlers Sunrise Tenth Addition and Part of Promontory Point VI and VII
The Commission recommended approval for the annexation of parts of Sattler’s Sunrise Tenth Addition and Promontory Point VI and VII Additions. Several zoning changes and a text amendment were moved to public hearing, and commission officers were reelected.
- Recommended approval of annexation for part of Sattler’s Sunrise Tenth Addition (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of annexation for parts of Promontory Point VI and VII Additions (unanimous)
- Approved tentative approval and public hearing for Memory Third Addition (8-1)
- Approved public hearings for zoning changes at KMK Estates, Hay Creek Industrial Park, Fisher Addition, Wachters Third Addition, and Mills First Subdivision (unanimous)
- Approved public hearing for zoning change at Cottonwood Parkview Addition (7-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved public hearing for Domestic Distilleries and Microbrew Pubs zoning text amendment (unanimous)
- Reelected Mike Schwartz as Chair (unanimous)
- Reelected Vernon Laning as Vice Chair (unanimous)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck City Commission will receive a final Phase 1 presentation from Leo A. Daly on space needs for the Public Health, Police, and Public Works facilities, then consider next steps and provide staff direction. The presentation covers site analyses, programming summaries, and options for each department, including relocation, expansion, or new construction. No final decisions are being made at this meeting; it is a review and direction-setting session.
- Public Health: proposed new 28,684 SF building or relocation options; current lease costs $9,994/month
- Police: proposed expansion to 122,720 SF from 56,329 SF, with options including new building on greenfield or Public Works North site
- Public Works: proposed expansion to 151,726 SF from 112,116 SF, with option to expand admin and garage to north
- Project timelines: Public Health 15 months, Public Works 19 months, Police 21 months
- Budget number expected by July 2021 for Commission consideration on Aug 3
The Board of City Commissioners received a presentation on nine space needs options for Public Health, Police, and Public Works facilities from Leo A. Daly. The commission approved a motion by Commissioner Guy to narrow the approach to specific department-preferred options involving Public Health moving to the existing Police facility and Police moving to a new greenfield site, while allowing work with the Budget Committee. A separate motion by Commissioner Zenker referred the Public Works options to the Budget Committee.
- Approved narrowing facility space needs options and pursuing funding and greenfield site exploration (roll call: all aye)
- Referred Public Works options to the Budget Committee (roll call: all aye)
Board of City Commissioners
The Board of City Commissioners will meet to approve routine expenditures, personnel actions, and several departmental requests. Public comment is restricted to non-hearing items, and COVID-19 safety protocols will limit in-person attendance. The meeting will also include a public hearing on a Golden Wave Drive right-of-way vacation and a zoning change for Park Hills.
- Approve $5,000 sponsorship to North Dakota Aviation Association
- Approve encroachment agreement for 800 N. 7th St.
- Create Street Improvement District No. 542 and approve preliminary report
- Vacate 350 sq ft of Golden Wave Drive right-of-way for Lot 3A, Block 4, Western Hills
- Change zoning for N1/2 of E1/2 of Auditor's Lot 22 from R10-Residential and CG-Commercial to CG-Commercial
The Board approved a zoning change to commercial for a lot in Park Hills and granted a request to vacate a portion of the Golden Wave Drive right-of-way. The Commission also established official positions of support or opposition on 16 different House Bills. A consent agenda covering various department requests and expenditures was approved.
- Approved zoning change to CG-Commercial for Auditor's Lot 22 (all aye)
- Approved vacating 350-square-foot portion of Golden Wave Drive right-of-way (all aye)
- Approved 2020 CDBG-CV activities and 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan amendment (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including $5,000 NDAA sponsorship and various department requests (4-1)
- Voted to support HB 1056 (all aye)
- Voted to oppose HB 1165 (4-1)
- Voted to oppose HB 1182 (all aye)
- Voted to oppose HB 1259 (all aye)
Human Relations Committee
The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is meeting to approve December minutes, introduce a new member, assign the 2021 annual report, and discuss cultural awareness training and a diversity partnership with Bismarck Global Neighbors. They will also review committee goals, including student liaisons (tabled until May) and community engagement. The meeting is open to the public, with remote participation encouraged due to COVID-19.
- Assignment of 2021 annual report
- Discussion of Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity Training (Advancing Racial Equity in Your City)
- Bismarck Global Neighbors Diversity and Inclusion Partnership, including language access education and Portland Oregon Immigrant & Refugee Program
- Review of HRC goals: student liaisons (tabled until May), Diversity University, speaking to service clubs, community events
- Public comment period
The committee appointed Darcy Andahl as Chair and Trevor Vannett as Vice Chair. Members approved a timeline to seek 2020 Humanitarian Award nominations and decided to postpone racial equity training until fall 2021.
- Approved minutes of December 21, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved advertising for Humanitarian Award nominations through March 15, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved revisiting Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity Training in fall 2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed Darcy Andahl as Chair and Trevor Vannett as Vice Chair (unanimous)
- Tabled discussion on Bismarck Global Neighbors: Immigrant Advisory Committee
Historic Preservation Commission
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission will meet to consider approving the December 16, 2020 minutes, hear public comment, and receive an update on the BNSF Rail Bridge Programmatic Agreement. The commission will also elect officers for the coming year. The agenda is largely procedural, with the bridge update being the only substantive item.
- Update on BNSF Rail Bridge Programmatic Agreement (no action required)
- Election of officers
- Approval of December 16, 2020 meeting minutes
- Public comment period
The commission re-elected its Chair and Vice Chair. Staff provided an update on the final signed BNSF Rail Bridge Programmatic Agreement.
- Approved December 16, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Re-elected Amy Sakariassen as Chair (6-0)
- Re-elected Beth Nodland as Vice Chair (6-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee is meeting to review the proposed timeline, historic eras, and themes for a preservation plan. Members will also discuss the development of materials for the 'Bismarck’s Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras and assign committee roles.
- Review of proposed historic eras and themes
- Review of model preservation plan
- Assignment of subcommittee member roles
- Discussion on 'Bismarck’s Early Years' and 'Growing Capital City' eras
The Historic Preservation Plan Subcommittee met online on January 19, 2021, to organize its work on a timeline of historic eras and themes for the draft Historic Preservation Plan. Members agreed to meet the third Tuesday of every month at noon and assigned themselves roles such as researcher, writer, editor, and layout. The group brainstormed content for the Native Landscape and Pre-Founding/Before Bismarck eras and decided members would research topics they have resources for, with all content sent to staff. No formal motions, votes, or funding decisions were recorded.
- Set regular subcommittee meeting for third Tuesday of each month at noon
- Assigned member roles: Jackson contributor/researcher/writer; Dinkins layout/formatting; Walker contributor/researcher/writer and editor; Christianson editor/writer; Hutchings point of contact
- Decided members will research topics they have resources for rather than assigning specific topics now
- Directed all content be sent to staff for bibliography and timeline layout
- Next meeting scheduled for February 16, 2021 at 12:00 PM
Bismarck Parking Authority
The Bismarck Parking Authority will meet to review financial statements and the 2021 budget. The board will also receive a status update regarding the timeline for gate upgrades and reporting software requests for proposals.
- Introduction of new board member Todd Kovash
- Review of 2021 budget
- Status update on gate upgrades and reporting software RFP
The Bismarck Municipal Parking Authority met on January 14, 2021 and approved the minutes of its December 10, 2020 meeting, the December financials, and its 2021 budget. All votes were unanimous among the four members present. Staff reported the gates upgrade and reporting software RFP is complete, will be advertised for three weeks starting January 26, with bids opening February 18, 2021. No other substantive business was decided.
- Approved December 10, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved December financials (4-0 roll call: Brian, Russ, Todd, Jim aye)
- Approved 2021 budget (4-0 roll call: Brian, Russ, Todd, Jim aye)
Animal Advisory Board
The Bismarck Animal Advisory Board will meet on January 14, 2021, to approve prior minutes, introduce a new member, and set goals for 2021. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy or financial items listed. The meeting will be held in person with remote participation options due to COVID-19.
- Approval of July 9, 2020 minutes
- New member introduction
- Goals for 2021 discussion
- Other business
The Bismarck Animal Advisory Board met January 14, 2021 and approved the minutes of its July 9, 2020 meeting. It also approved three advertisements about pet care in cold weather, pending correction of spelling mistakes. The board listed 2021 goals including rewriting the city's Animal Control and Protection ordinance and working on licensing and an adoption checklist. A city representative briefed the board on a Planning and Zoning Commission discussion about allowing chickens in city limits; no decision was made and the board asked to be kept informed.
- Approved minutes of the July 9, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved three cold-weather pet care advertisements after spelling edits (unanimous)
Renaissance Zone Authority
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority will consider approval of three downtown design review requests: storefront and façade improvements at 204 East Main Avenue, a public art installation at 315 S 5th Street, and an amendment to the Ten on Main project at 402 East Main Avenue. The board will also elect a chair and vice-chair and hear reports from staff and The Downtowners. The meeting will be held remotely due to COVID-19, with public comments accepted via email.
- Storefront and façade improvements at 204 East Main Avenue (DDR2020-011)
- Event Center public art installation at 315 S 5th Street (DDR2020-012)
- Amendment to Ten on Main at 402 East Main Avenue (DDR2020-002)
- Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
- Approval of December 10, 2020 minutes and correction of November 12, 2020 minutes
The Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority approved downtown design review requests for storefront and facade improvements at 204 East Main Avenue, a public art installation at 315 South 5th Street, and an amended design adding an exterior door at 402 East Main Avenue. The 204 East Main and 402 East Main approvals each drew one opposing vote from member Fink; the 315 South 5th Street approval was unanimous with member Van Orman abstaining. The Authority also voted to retain its current Chair and Vice Chair. Staff reported demolition permits for The Grove projects on North 2nd Street have been submitted, and The Downtowners reported on state legislation (S.B. 2139) proposing changes to Renaissance Zone law.
- Approved design for storefront/facade improvements at 204 East Main Avenue (Benchmark Properties, LLC) with condition that substantive revisions return to Downtown Design Review Committee (4-1, Fink opposed)
- Approved public art installation design at 315 South 5th Street (City of Bismarck Event Center) with same revision condition (4-0, Van Orman abstained)
- Approved amended design for 402 East Main Avenue (Ten on Main, LLC) adding exterior door on North 4th Street, with conditions on moveable planters, encroachment agreement, and review of substantive revisions (3-1, Fink opposed)
- Retained current Chair and Vice Chair of the Renaissance Zone Authority (5-0)
- Approved minutes of the December 10, 2020 meeting (5-0)
Board of City Commissioners
The Bismarck Board of City Commissioners will hold a regular session with public hearings on a zoning change, a new liquor license, a firearms discharge ordinance, the special assessment policy, and a waste collection franchise. They will also receive reports on the street utility fee and an intersection analysis, and consider numerous consent agenda items including abatements, equipment purchases, and contracts.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6445, zoning change from R10 and CG to CG for part of Park Hills Auditor's Lots, requested by Michael Schwartz
- Public hearing on new Class E Liquor License for Simonson Station Stores at 1011 E. Main Ave.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 6444 regarding discharging firearms within city limits
- Public hearing on waste collection franchise application for Armstrong Sanitation and Roll-Off, Inc.
- Approval of abatements for properties at 1248 Ward Rd., 1004 N. 10th St., 1211 N. 18th St., and 438 E. Interstate Ave.
The Board of City Commissioners voted 4-1 to leave South Washington St. at four lanes instead of converting a section to three lanes as recommended by the City Engineer for the SI-541 project area. Commissioners also approved a new Class E liquor license for Simonson Station Stores at 1011 E. Main Ave., an ordinance change on discharging firearms within city limits, the Special Assessment Policy, and a waste collection franchise for Armstrong Sanitation and Roll-Off, Inc. The board ratified and extended the January 5, 2021 COVID-19 State of Emergency Declaration to February 4, 2021, and approved a Programmatic Agreement for the BNSF Rail Bridge that the city says carries no financial or liability obligation. Reports on a proposed Street Utility Fee and the Bis-Man Intersection Analysis Study were received, and the full Consent Agenda passed unanimously.
- Approved Consent Agenda as presented (all aye)
- Ratified Jan 5, 2021 COVID-19 State of Emergency Declaration and extended it to Feb 4, 2021 (consent agenda)
- Approved new Class E Liquor License for Simonson Station Stores, Inc. at 1011 E. Main Ave. (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 6444 change on discharging firearms within City limits (all aye)
- Approved Special Assessment Policy amendments described as clerical (all aye)
- Approved waste collection franchise for Armstrong Sanitation and Roll-Off, Inc. (all aye)
- Approved minor subdivision final plat of Kilber North Addition First Replat, requested by DPH Investments, LLC (all aye)
- Denied 3-lane conversion of South Washington St.; kept 4 lanes as is (4 aye, 1 nay — Guy nay)