Traill County public meetings in 2025

Traill County EDC

The Economic Development Commission considered a request to move $10,000 from the general fund to the reserve fund. A motion was made to transfer the $10,000 from the general fund to the loan fund instead. The motion was carried with all listed members voting in favor. The decision was recorded in the email meeting minutes.

• Approved $10,000 transfer from general fund to loan fund (9 in favor)

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District board will review the minutes from the December 2 meeting and consider bills dated December 3‑16. A public forum will address updates on the Elm River Joint WRD Project and various drain and bridge items. The board will also consider permit applications, a surface‑drain permit (No. 6710) for Neil Breidenbach, and the Koenig lawsuit. Additional business includes bond payments, 2026 meeting dates, and financial matters.

• Elm River Joint WRD Project Update
• Traill County Bridges
• Surface Drain Permit No. 6710 – Neil Breidenbach
• Koenig Lawsuit
• CDs/Bond Payments

The board unanimously authorized Moore Engineering to apply for the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Infrastructure Grant to fund repairs of Bridge No. 55, with a January 1 deadline. It also approved bond payments for three projects, renewed short‑term CDs, set the 2026 meeting schedule, accepted legal services rates, and authorized a $5,000 building credit card and map‑scanning work. Additionally, the board directed Moore to obtain a quote for a trash rack for the Miller Drain outlet structure. All motions passed unanimously.

• Authorized Moore to apply for Agriculture Infrastructure Grant for Bridge 55 repairs (unanimous)
• Approved bond payments for Blanchard‑Norman 23‑40, Camrud 79, and Thompson 72 via wire transfer Dec 18 (unanimous)
• Renewed CDs maturing Dec 22 to 3‑month terms (unanimous)
• Set 2026 meeting dates: first/third Tuesdays, 7 a.m. Apr‑Oct, 8 a.m. Nov‑Mar (unanimous)
• Accepted Ohnstad Twichell legal services rates for 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized a $5,000 building credit card for Secretary‑Treasurer (unanimous)
• Authorized Moore Engineering to begin scanning larger maps and plans (unanimous)
• Directed Moore to obtain a quote for a trash rack for Miller Drain outlet structure (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will consider routine items such as approving the agenda, the December 2 meeting minutes, and the regular bills and auditor’s warrants. They will also hear a public comment from Troy Hefta and vote on a beer and liquor license for Ely’s Ivy LLC at the 1908 house. Two motions will transfer $3,396,408.96 and $418,118.17 to the County Road & Bridge fund.

• Approve the meeting agenda
• Approve the regular minutes of December 2, 2025
• Approve regular bills and Auditor’s warrants as presented
• Approve beer and liquor license for Ely’s Ivy LLC (1908 house)
• Transfer $3,396,408.96 and $418,118.17 to County Road & Bridge

The commissioners approved two large fund transfers, moving $3,396,408.96 from the Farm‑to‑Market account and $418,118.17 from the Highway Distribution account into the County Road & Bridge Fund. They also ratified the 2026 Agassiz Valley Human Service budget, approved a vacation‑hour payout for a sheriff employee, and authorized the auditor to sign a liquor license for Ely’s Ivy LLC. Additional approvals included payment of a DES grant up to $45,333.34 and use of a retired truck as a DES vehicle.

• Approved transfer of $3,396,408.96 from Farm‑to‑Market to Road & Bridge Fund (carried)
• Approved transfer of $418,118.17 from Highway Distribution to Road & Bridge Fund (carried)
• Authorized auditor to sign beer and liquor licenses for Ely’s Ivy LLC (carried)
• Ratified the 2026 Agassiz Valley Human Service budget (carried)
• Approved payout of sheriff’s employee vacation hours (carried)
• Approved use of retired truck as a DES vehicle (carried)
• Authorized payment of DES grant up to $45,333.34 (carried)
• Approved agenda, minutes, and regular bills as presented (carried)

Traill County EDC

The Traill County Economic Development Board will meet to approve the November treasurer's report and checks, elect officers for 2026, and set the 2026 mileage rate. The meeting will also cover updates on Herberg Dairy and housing initiatives.

• Approval of November 18, 2025, business meeting minutes
• Approval of treasurer's report and checks
• Officer Elections for 2026
• Approval of 2025 check signers
• Approval of 2026 mileage rate

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The board will meet to review the Elm River Dams 1, 2, and 3 Improvements Project. The meeting includes the approval of bills and the election of officers.

• Elm River Dams 1, 2, and 3 Improvements Project
• Approval of October 7 meeting minutes
• Approval of bills and Check Detail Report
• Officer elections and reorganization
• Setting 2026 meeting dates

The board unanimously approved the agenda, the October 7 meeting minutes, and the treasurer’s report. They approved publishing a press release about the Elm River Dams 1‑3 improvements project. The board adopted meeting dates for 2026, including a June 2 meeting in Hillsboro and a December 10 meeting in Bismarck. Andy Neset was unanimously re‑nominated as chairman.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 7 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer’s report and bills (unanimous)
• Approved and authorized press release for Elm River Dams 1‑3 project (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 meeting dates: June 2 in Hillsboro and Dec 10 in Bismarck (unanimous)
• Nominated Andy Neset as chairman (unanimous)

Grand Forks - Traill Joint WRD

The Grand Forks‑Traill Joint Water Resource District will review and approve the minutes from the November 4 meeting. It will also discuss the bond redemption for Thompson Drain No. 72. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review and approve November 4 meeting minutes
• Consider bond redemption for Thompson Drain No. 72

The district approved the minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. It also approved calling the 2026‑2040 maturities of the 2020 Series B improvement bonds for Thompson Drain No. 72 and authorized Secretary Jessica Spaeth and Ohnstad Twichell to prepare and execute the bond redemption notice. Both motions passed unanimously. No further business was taken.

• Approved November 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized redemption of Thompson Drain No. 72 improvement bonds, 2026‑2040 maturities (unanimous)
• Authorized Secretary Jessica Spaeth and Ohnstad Twichell to prepare and execute bond redemption notice (unanimous)

Water Resource District

The board will discuss maintenance and updates for several county drains and bridges. The meeting includes a review of permit applications and a discussion regarding the Koenig lawsuit.

• Roseville Drain No. 19 reconstruction study
• Hatton Drain No. 45 silting and Miller Drain No. 29 outlet repair
• N. Mayville Drain No. 8 tree removal by Civil Specialties
• S. Mayville Drain No. 9-18-29 work by Garrett ditching
• Bond redemptions for Blanchard-Norman, Camrud, and Thompson

The Water Resource District Board approved the redemption of the 2026‑2042 Series 2022B bonds for the Blanchard‑Norman Drain and the 2030‑2040 Series B bonds for the Camrud Drain, authorizing the Secretary‑Treasurer and Ohnstad Twichell to prepare and execute the notices. The Board also set the 2026 meeting schedule, approved the agenda, minutes, bills, and bank statements, and directed staff to work on bridge cost‑share calculations and a grant inquiry for Bridge 55.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 18 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved November bank statements and general journal entries (unanimous)
• Approved redemption of 2026‑2042 Series 2022B bonds for Blanchard‑Norman Drain (unanimous)
• Approved redemption of 2030‑2040 Series B bonds for Camrud Drain No. 79 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to determine cost and cost‑share amounts for Murray Drain Bridge Nos. 223, 292, 304 (unanimous)
• Set 2026 meeting dates: first and third Tuesdays, 7:00 a.m. Apr‑Oct, 8:00 a.m. Nov‑Mar (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will consider several routine items, including approving the agenda, minutes, and regular bills. They will also discuss an informational notice about the North Dakota Water Convention and recent changes to SB 2027 affecting floodplain management. A key motion will allow the Chairman and Auditor to sign County deeds for properties sold during or after tax foreclosure sales.

• Motion to approve the agenda
• Motion to approve the regular minutes of November 18, 2025
• Motion to approve regular bills and Auditor’s warrants
• Informational notice about the North Dakota Water Convention (Dec 9‑11, Bismarck)
• Motion to allow the Chairman and Auditor to sign County deeds for tax foreclosure sales

The commission adopted the 2025 Multi‑Hazard Mitigation Plan and approved several operational items. They authorized the signing of county deeds from the November foreclosure sale, renewed four Economic Development Board members and added a new member, and approved the Mayville Armory as the 2026 election polling location. The board also approved migration of Taxwise and the School ERP to the Tyler Technologies cloud, with specified costs. Two items – replacement of a radio repeater and a dispatcher vacation issue – were tabled for future discussion.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion Young, seconded Amb) – carried
• Approved minutes of 11‑18‑2025 (motion Elliott, seconded Amb) – carried
• Approved regular bills and auditor’s warrants (motion Young, seconded Elliott) – carried
• Allowed Chairman and Auditor to sign foreclosure deeds (motion Amb, seconded Young) – carried, with hold for Hatton City and Mayville City until board approval
• Renewed four current Traill County Economic Development Board members (motion Young, seconded Amb) – carried
• Appointed Dawn Flaten to the Economic Development Board (motion Amb, seconded Young) – carried
• Approved Mayville Armory as 2026 election polling location (motion Young, seconded Amb) – carried
• Approved migration of Taxwise and School ERP to Tyler Technologies cloud (motion Elliott, seconded Young) – carried; costs $28,805, $25,633, and $14,490

Water Resource District

The board will discuss updates on several drain projects and review cost share amendments for the Elm River Joint WRD Project. The meeting includes reviews of drainage permits and applications for ditch cleaning.

• Elm River Joint WRD Project cost share amendments
• Contract for Civil Specialties to remove trees at N. Mayville Drain No. 8
• Ditch cleaning application for Clyde Pladson by Naastad Brothers, Inc.
• Surface Drain Permit No. 6710 for Neil Breidenbach
• Reconstruction study for Roseville Drain No. 19

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, minutes, and bill payments. It also approved and authorized signing of the Second Amendment to Cost‑Share Agreements for Elm River Dam Nos. 1, 2 and 3 with the Red River Joint WRD. The board approved the Notice of Partial Redemption for Murray Drain bonds, authorized a survey of the McLaughlin property, and approved the NDDOT drainage request for a ditch cleaning on Highway 18. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 4 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved and authorized signing of Second Amendment to Cost‑Share Agreements for Elm River Dam Nos. 1‑3 (unanimous)
• Approved Notice of Partial Redemption of Series 2023 bonds for Murray Drain No. 17 (unanimous)
• Approved survey with McLaughlin recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved NDDOT Request for Drainage on Highway Right of Way submitted by Naastad Bros., Inc. (unanimous)
• Directed Moore to work with Traill County on cost‑share amounts for Murray Drain bridges (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will consider routine agenda items, including approval of the agenda, prior meeting minutes, regular bills and the auditor’s warrants. It will vote to approve tax foreclosure deed reversals for parcel #17-0000-02611-005 in Lindaas Township and parcel #28-0004-07631-000, where all taxes have been paid. The meeting also provides a public comment period and scheduled appointments.

• Motion to approve the agenda
• Motion to approve the regular minutes of November 4, 2025
• Motion to approve the regular bills and Auditor’s warrants as presented
• Motion to approve tax foreclosure deed back to original for parcel #17-0000-02611-005 in Lindaas Township
• Motion to approve tax foreclosure deed back to original for parcel #28-0004-07631-000

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the November 4 and November 6 emergency meetings. They approved the regular bills listed in the accounts payable section. The board voted to buy back two foreclosed parcels and return them to the original owners. The commission also approved a right‑of‑way drain‑tile permit and a temporary courthouse closure for late December and early January.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved minutes of 11‑04‑2025 (motion Nesvig, second Amb)
• Approved minutes of 11‑06‑2025 emergency meeting (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved regular bills listed in accounts payable (motion Nesvig, second Amb)
• Approved foreclosure property buyback of parcel 17‑0000‑0261‑1‑005 to original owner (motion Nesvig, second Kurt Elliott)
• Approved foreclosure property buyback of parcel 28‑0004‑07631‑000 to original owner (motion Elliott, second Amb)
• Approved drain‑tile right‑of‑way permit for Viking Township (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved courthouse closure Dec 26 2025‑Jan 2 2026 (motion Amb, second Nesvig)

Traill County EDC

The Traill County Economic Development Corporation board will review and approve the Treasurer’s report and related checks. It will consider the need for a slate of officers for a vote next month and discuss scheduling, including a new date and time for future board meetings. The board will also set the date for a Community Showcase on February 5, likely at Siwek Lumber, and receive updates on housing, the Herberg Dairy, and other community matters.

• Approval of Treasurer’s report
• Approval of Treasurer’s checks
• Selection of officer slate for next month’s vote
• Discussion of new date/time for TCEDC board meetings
• Set Community Showcase date February 5 at Siwek Lumber

The board approved the October 21, 2025 meeting minutes and both the September 16 and October 21 treasurer’s reports. A motion to approve routine checks and business‑improvement mini‑grants also carried. The Board Education item was tabled for future consideration.

• Approved Oct. 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Sept. 16 treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved Oct. 21 treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved routine checks and business‑improvement mini‑grants (motion carried)
• Board Education item tabled (no action taken)
• Revisited tabled motion on TCEDC Board and Boundary Water Commission letter; determined letter not needed (no vote)
• Set Community Showcase for Feb 5 at Siwek Lumber (planned)
• Discussed officer slate for next month (no decision made)

County Commission

The Traill County Commission met in a special session on November 6, 2025 to consider an emergency declaration for the Anchor Ingredients elevator fire. A motion by Commissioner Nesvig, seconded by Commissioner Amb, was carried. Commissioners Nesvig, Amb, Young, and Eblen voted yes, approving the emergency declaration. The county was advised that state reimbursement would not be available.

• Approved Emergency Declaration for Anchor Ingredients Elevator Fire (4 yes votes)

Grand Forks - Traill Joint WRD

The Grand Forks‑Traill Joint Water Resource District will discuss items related to two drainage projects—Legal Drain No. 59 and Thompson Drain No. 72—and will review a maintenance assessment. The agenda also includes routine business such as approval of the June 3 meeting minutes and other items.

• Legal Drain No. 59
• Thompson Drain No. 72
• Maintenance Assessment
• Approval of June 3 meeting minutes
• Other

The board unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting. A motion to raise the interest rate on Thompson Drain No. 72 by 1.5% above the current bond rate was also passed unanimously. The district set a $1.50 per acre maintenance assessment for Thompson Drain No. 72 for 2026, and Grand Forks County will be notified of the assessment.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 3, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Increased interest rate for Thompson Drain No. 72 to 1.5% above bond rate (unanimous)
• Set $1.50/acre maintenance assessment for Thompson Drain No. 72 for 2026 (unanimous)

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District will review the October 21 meeting minutes and recent bills. It will hear a public forum and correspondence, then discuss several drain projects, including updates on the Elm River joint project, bridge issues, and repairs to various drains. The board will consider a contract with Civil Specialties to remove trees on North Mayville Drain No. 8.

• Elm River Joint WRD Project Update
• Traill County Bridges
• Hatton Drain No. 45 – silting
• Miller Drain No. 29, Norway section 20 – outlet repair
• N. Mayville Drain No. 8 – contract for Civil Specialties to remove trees in section 3

The board approved the meeting agenda, minutes, bill payments, and October bank statements, all unanimously. It approved a design change for the Miller Drain repair, a purchase agreement for Bridge 55 right‑of‑way, and authorized the secretary‑treasurer to sign and submit the NDDOT drainage request with the cover letter. Additional directives were given to pursue cost‑share for several bridges and to investigate an obstruction complaint.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Oct 21 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved October bank statements and general journal entries (unanimous)
• Approved design change moving Miller Drain No. 29 outlet structure upstream 25 ft (unanimous)
• Approved purchase agreement for Bridge 55 right‑of‑way acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved NDDOT Request for Drainage on Highway Right of Way and authorized submission (unanimous)
• Directed Chad’s Excavating to clear obstruction in Roseville Drain No. 19 (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve regular bills, the October 21st minutes, and a $36.03 indemnity bond for a lost check. The meeting also includes public comments and upcoming events.

• Approval of regular bills and October 21st minutes
• Indemnity bond for lost check #107529 ($36.03)
• Raffle permit for Central Valley Dollars for Scholars
• Public Comments period
• Upcoming Tax Foreclosure Sale on November 18, 2025

The Traill County Commission signed an emergency declaration to address the SNAP program shutdown affecting 445 residents. It also approved adding the old Caledonia bridge to the State Historical list, signed the federal‑aid road maintenance certificate, and authorized advertising motor‑grader bids. Additional actions included approving a raffle permit, an indemnity bond for a lost check, and the auditor’s signature on a preservation covenant. Regular bills and warrants listed in the agenda were approved for payment.

• Approved indemnity bond for lost check #107529 ($36.03) (motion carried)
• Approved raffle permit #2162026 for Central Valley Dollars for Scholars (motion carried)
• Signed maintenance certification for federal‑aid road projects (motion carried)
• Approved addition of old Caledonia bridge to State Historical list (motion passed)
• Authorized advertisement for motor‑grader bids (motion carried)
• Approved auditor to sign State Historical Society preservation covenant (motion carried)
• Signed emergency declaration for SNAP program (motion passed)
• Approved regular bills and warrants listed in the agenda for payment (motion carried)

Water Resource District

The board will discuss updates and repairs for multiple county drains and review permit applications. The meeting includes a review of bills and a session on insurance.

• N. Mayville Drain No. 8: contract for Civil Specialties to remove trees in section 3 Lindaas twp
• S. Mayville Drain No. 9-18-29: Garrett ditching
• Roseville Drain No. 19: reconstruction study
• Surface Drain Permit No. 6710 for Neil Breidenbach
• Complaint: Reimer vs. Koenig

The board approved the agenda, the previous meeting minutes, and the payment of bills, all unanimously. It also approved a second amendment extending the Miller Drain No. 29 repair deadline to November 20, 2025, and authorized the utility permit for East Central Regional Water District with special conditions. The most consequential action was the unanimous approval of Application No. 2025‑16 to install a 437‑acre subsurface water management system for Rick Pladson, with specific erosion‑control and flood‑period conditions.

• Approved agenda (including Rick Pladson Drain Tile Application 2025‑16) – unanimous
• Approved minutes of October 7 meeting – unanimous
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers – unanimous
• Approved second amendment to KRB Gravel contract, extending deadline to Nov 20, 2025 – unanimous
• Approved subsurface water management system Application No. 2025‑16 for Rick Pladson – unanimous
• Approved East Central Regional Water District utility permit with special conditions – unanimous

County Commission

The Traill County Board will consider several routine approvals, including the agenda, minutes from October 7, 2025, regular bills, and auditor's warrants. It will vote on an indemnity bond of $8.00 for a lost Treasurer's check and an auditor's warrant of $1,167.00 to resolve a 2008 NSF check issue. The board will also authorize the signing of a county deed transferring foreclosed property to Dale and Deborah Lemons, whose taxes are paid in full. Additional items include a notice of a $9,488.00 credit from Tyler Technologies, a discussion on the Historical Society, and a notice that the Township Flex Fund distribution is delayed until April 2026.

• Indemnity bond for lost Treasurer's check – $8.00 (James Beach)
• Auditor's warrant – $1,167.00 to clear 2008 NSF check issue
• County deed transfer to Dale & Deborah Lemons (foreclosed property, taxes paid)
• Credit notice of $9,488.00 from Tyler Technologies for faulty biometric timeclocks
• Delay of Township Flex Fund distribution until April 2026

The Traill County Commission approved a five‑year expanding business tax incentive for the Clifford Farmers Co‑Op Elevator Company. It also approved a policy change for highway department hours, a crossing permit for Halstad Telephone, and an agreement with KRB Gravel for a spring gravel bid. Additional approvals included a $5,000 historical society grant, an $8 indemnity bond, and a water‑resource district road crossing request, while the taser purchase was tabled.

• Approved 5‑year Expanding Business Tax Incentive for Clifford Farmers Co‑Op Elevator Company (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Approved policy change for Highway Department hours to Mon‑Fri 7 AM‑3:30 PM (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig)
• Approved County Road/Right‑Of‑Way Encroachment Crossing Permit for Halstad Telephone on CR #2 (motion Amb, seconded Young)
• Approved agreement with KRB Gravel for spring gravel bid (motion Nesvig, seconded Elliott)
• Approved $5,000 grant program for Traill County Historical Society (previously approved Aug 19 2025)
• Approved indemnity bond for Lost Instruments filed by James Beach, $8 (motion Young, seconded Amb)
• Approved TC Water Resource District request to cross County Road #2 for Drain #28 reconstruction at no cost to the County (motion Nesvig, seconded Young)
• Tabled discussion of new taser purchase for the Sheriff’s Office

Traill County EDC

The Traill County EDC Board will consider several actions, including approving the September 16, 2025 business meeting minutes and the Treasurer's report with checks. The board will vote on a fund transfer from the operating fund to the loan fund and on renewing a Business Training Grant. Additional items include forming a nominating committee for next year’s officers and drafting a letter to the U.S. side of the International Boundary Water Commission.

• Approve September 16, 2025 business meeting minutes (Secretary’s Report)
• Approve Treasurer’s report and related checks
• Fund transfer from operating fund to loan fund (board action required)
• Business Training Grant renewal (board action required)
• Form nominating committee for next year’s officers

The commission approved the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the Flex PACE buydown check and transferred $7,000 from the operating fund to the loan fund. The Business Training Grant program was renewed at the same funding level. The Treasurer’s report was postponed until next month.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Flex PACE buydown check (motion carried)
• Tabled Treasurer’s report until next month
• Approved transfer of $7,000 from operating fund to loan fund (motion carried)
• Renewed Business Training Grant at same funding levels (motion carried)

Water Resource District

The district will review September meeting minutes and recent bills, examine bank statements, and hold a public forum. It will discuss updates on the Elm River Joint WRD project and several drain projects, including bridge repairs and silting issues. The board will consider a permit application for the RNR Johnson Farm LLP drain tile and a complaint between Reimer and Koening, and will address automatic bond payments with Dakota Heritage Bank and insurance requirements.

• Elm River Joint WRD Project update
• Bridge repairs on Hanson Drain No. 18 / Bridge 302
• Permit review: RNR Johnson Farm LLP Drain Tile Application 2025-15
• Automatic bond payments – Dakota Heritage Bank
• Insurance requirements discussion

The board approved the agenda, minutes, bills, and bank statements, each by unanimous roll call vote. It approved the Joint Powers Agreement with Herberg Township and Riverview ND, LLP, also unanimously. It approved Application No. 2025-15 to install a 439‑acre subsurface water management system for RNR Johnson Farm LLP, authorizing the secretary‑treasurer to sign the permit and imposing eight specific conditions, with the motion passing unanimously. The board also authorized Dakota Heritage Bank to make principal and interest payments on bonds on their due dates, again unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved September 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved September bank statements and general journal entries (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with Herberg Township and Riverview ND, LLP (unanimous)
• Approved Subsurface Water Management System Application No. 2025-15 for RNR Johnson Farm LLP with eight conditions (unanimous)
• Authorized Dakota Heritage Bank to make principal and interest bond payments (unanimous)
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer to send contractor agreement to Civil Specialties, Inc. for N. Mayville Drain tree removal

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The Elm River Joint Water Resource District will meet on October 7, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. via Microsoft Teams. The agenda includes routine items such as the order of agenda, the September 2 meeting minutes, and approval of bills in the treasurer’s report. The district will also discuss the Elm River Dams 1, 2 and 3 Improvements Project.

• Elm River Dams 1, 2 and 3 Improvements Project
• Approve Bills (Treasurer’s Report)
• September 2 Meeting Minutes

The board unanimously approved the agenda, the September 2 meeting minutes, and the treasurer’s report. It also unanimously authorized Moore and the Secretary‑Treasurer to submit updated cost‑share requests for the Elm River Dams 1‑3 Improvements Project to the Red River Joint WRD and Cass County Flood Sales Tax Committee.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 2 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer’s report and bills (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of updated cost‑share requests for dam improvements (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will consider setting a minimum sales price for 2022 tax foreclosure properties and appoint two residents to the ND State Fair Board. The meeting also includes approval of bills, warrants, and minutes, and a request for the Chairman to sign a water project letter of concurrence.

• Set minimum sales price for 2022 Tax Foreclosure properties
• Appoint two residents to ND State Fair Board
• Chairman to sign letter of concurrence for Portland City water project
• Chairman to sign 2024-2025 ND DOT Safe Kids Grand Forks Grant Application
• Receive Joe & Becca Duffner lawsuit

The board approved a four‑year contract with Schneider Geospatial LLC for GIS software. It set sales prices for six 2021 tax foreclosure parcels and accepted a spring gravel bid from KRB Gravel LTD. Several highway permits were approved, and commissioners were appointed to the ND State Fair Board while the chairman was authorized to sign a Safe Kids grant application.

• Approved 4‑year GIS contract with Schneider Geospatial LLC (motion Young, seconded Nesvig)
• Set sales prices for six 2021 tax foreclosure parcels (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Accepted KRB Gravel LTD spring gravel bid (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig)
• Approved Ditch Cleaning Permit for Tom McInnes, Kelso Township (motion Amb, seconded Young)
• Approved removal of field approach by Naastad Brothers, Inc., Garfield Township (motion Elliott, seconded Amb)
• Approved Encroachment Crossing Permit for Midco on County Road #21, Stavanger Township (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Appointed Commissioners Larry Young and Kurt Elliott to the 2025 ND State Fair Board (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig)
• Authorized Chairman to sign Safe Kids Grand Forks Grant Application (motion Amb, seconded Elliott)

Water Resource District

The Traill County Water Resource District will receive an update on the Elm River Joint WRD Project and discuss a series of drain and bridge items, including repairs, silting issues, and reconstruction studies. The board will review and consider a drain tile permit application (Derek Paulsrud 2025-14) and a surface drain permit (No. 6710 for Neil Breidenbach). A complaint between Reimer and Koening will be addressed, and an application to construct (No. C02782) by Riverview, LLP will be considered.

• Elm River Joint WRD Project Update
• N. Mayville Drain No. 8 – contract for Civil Specialties to remove trees in section 3
• Drain Tile Application – Derek Paulsrud 2025-14
• Surface Drain Permit No. 6710 – Neil Breidenbach
• Application to Construct No. C02782 – Riverview, LLP

The Water Resource District unanimously approved several items, including an agenda addition for Tim Garrett ditch cleanout, payment of bills, and a contract amendment for Hatton Drain. It authorized crop‑damage payments to three landowners and approved a subsurface water‑management system for Derek Paulsrud with specific conditions. The board also directed follow‑up actions on bridge repairs and tree removal contracts.

• Approved agenda addition for Tim Garrett ditch cleanout (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the September 2 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Hatton Drain contract, increasing Not‑to‑Exceed amount to $45,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized crop‑damage payments: $1,400 to Spencer Endrud, $1,200 to Neil Enger, $4,000 to Larry Linneman (unanimous)
• Approved subsurface water‑management system for Derek Paulsrud with four conditions (unanimous)
• Directed Ms. Spaeth to send contractor agreement to Civil Specialties, Inc. for Roseville Drain tree removal (unanimous)
• Directed Ms. Spaeth to collect costs from the county for Bridge No. 209 repair (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Board will vote on several pending items, including a $1,000,000 share for three bridge projects and a haul‑road agreement with Riverview ND, LLP. Commissioners will also consider authorizing the Chairman to sign the Red River Valley Water Supply Project memorandum and will discuss the ND State Elections Agreement and the 2026 budget. Routine approvals of the agenda, minutes, regular bills and public comments are also on the docket.

• Motion to approve Polk County Letter of support with Traill County share of $1,000,000 for three bridges (tabled from last meeting)
• Motion to approve Riverview ND, LLP Haul Road Agreement (tabled from last meeting)
• Motion to allow Chairman to sign Red River Valley Water Supply Project Memorandum of Commitment and Nomination
• Motion to approve ND State Elections Agreement
• Motion to finalize the 2026 Budget (pending approval or deferral)

The commission approved an amended agenda, paid regular county bills, and authorized signatures on the Haul Road Agreement with Riverview ND, LLP and the Red River Valley Water Supply Project memorandum. Commissioners adopted a property‑tax exemption resolution for improvements and voted to join the NDPERS Public Safety Defined Benefit Retirement Plan. The 2026 budget was adopted, including cost‑of‑living raises for full‑time and part‑time employees, and the County Auditor was authorized to sign Flex Fund grant applications.

• Amended agenda approved (motion Young, seconded Amb, carried)
• County payable bills approved (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig, carried)
• Chairman authorized to sign Haul Road Agreement with Riverview ND, LLP (motion Elliott, seconded Young, carried)
• Chairman authorized to sign Red River Valley Water Supply Project Memorandum (motion Nesvig, seconded Amb, carried)
• Property‑tax exemption resolution for improvements adopted (unanimous vote: Eblen, Elliott, Nesvig, Young, Amb in favor)
• County joined NDPERS Public Safety Defined Benefit Retirement Plan effective Jan 1 2026 (motion Young, seconded Nesvig, carried)
• 2026 budget adopted, including $1,600 cost‑of‑living raise for full‑time employees and prorated $1,600 raise for part‑time/seasonal employees (motion Amb, seconded Young, carried)
• County Auditor authorized to sign Flex Fund grant applications for townships (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig, carried)

Traill County EDC

The Traill County EDC board will meet to review financial reports and discuss the use of a Community Development (CD) to fund a loan fund. The board will also address 2026 board terms and appointments.

• Approval of August 19, 2025, business meeting minutes
• Discussion on using a CD to fund a loan fund
• 2026 Board terms and appointments
• Housing update
• Herberg Dairy update

The Traill County Economic Development Commission approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. The commission also approved the treasurer’s report. In addition, the board approved two loan checks, one of which is split with Hillsboro EDC. All motions were carried.

• Approved Aug. 19, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved loan checks, including split check with Hillsboro EDC (motion carried)

County Commission

The Traill County Board of Commissioners will hold a special public budget hearing on September 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Office. The meeting is intended to review the county’s 2026 budget requests with members of the public. No specific budget items or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Review of 2026 budget requests (public hearing)

The Traill County Commissioners met in a special session on September 10, 2025 to inform the public about the proposed 2026 budget and the state‑imposed 3% tax cap. Auditor Haugen presented the budget totals, and members answered questions from the Hillsboro Airport Authority, a dairy project representative, a property owner, and a state senator. No motions or formal decisions were made during the meeting, which was adjourned at 6:23 p.m.

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District Board approved its agenda, minutes, and several financial items, including a $5,000 transfer for pest removal and payments to contractors. It adopted a resolution to solicit comments on the Roseville drain and highway crossing study and directed the secretary to send the documents to the county commission and townships. The county commission subsequently approved the crossing improvements to allow the project to proceed. The Board also set crop damage compensation rates and approved payments for spoil‑placement damages.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 19 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 transfer to Elm River Snagging and Clearing for pest removal (unanimous)
• Approved resolution regarding Roseville drain and highway crossing study and directed letters to be sent (unanimous)
• County Commission approved crossing improvements for Roseville project (no dollar amount disclosed)
• Approved crop damage compensation rates: $2,000/acre beets, $700 edibles, $700 corn, $600 soybeans, $500 wheat/small grains (unanimous)
• Approved payments to Spencer Endrud, Neil Enger, and Larry Linnemann for spoil‑placement damages (unanimous)

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The board will meet to approve bills and review the Elm River Dams 1, 2 and 3 Improvements Project. The agenda includes a review of Change Order No. 10 and a final payment application from the contractor.

• Elm River Dams 1, 2 and 3 Improvements Project Change Order No. 10
• Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 11 (Final)

The district unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the August 5 minutes, and the treasurer’s report. It also approved Change Order No. 10, which lowers the dam project contract by $76,548.70 to a final price of $5,330,232.83. Finally, the board approved the contractor’s final payment request of $412,547.58.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 5 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills and treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order No. 10, decreasing contract price by $76,548.70 (unanimous)
• Approved Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 11 (Final) of $412,547.58 (unanimous)

County Commission

The commission approved the amended agenda and meeting minutes, authorized regular bill payments, and signed a no‑cost memorandum of commitment for the Red River Valley Water Project. They denied a request to abandon certain township section lines, approved cost‑sharing for a potential $86,000 Roseville Drain liability, and approved several road and equipment permits. The board also scrapped a faulty time‑clock installation and funded tree replacement using the emergency fund.

• Approved amended agenda (motion Young, seconded Amb)
• Approved regular bills and warrants for payment (motion Amb, seconded Young)
• Signed Red River Valley Water Project MOC at no cost (4‑1 vote)
• Denied request to abandon Viking/Roseville section lines (motion Young, seconded Amb)
• Approved cost‑share for Roseville Drain liability, adding to $40,000 annual payment (4‑0, 1 abstain)
• Approved highest bids for road equipment (motion Young, seconded Elliott)
• Approved change to Road Right‑of‑Way Encroachment Permit for East Central Rural Water District (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Scrapped time‑clock installation and requested full refund from Tyler Technologies (motion Amb, seconded Young)

County Commission

The Traill County Commissioners met on August 26, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. in a special session to review proposed 2026 budget requests. No motions were made during the review. The meeting adjourned at 10:30 a.m. and the next regular session is scheduled for September 2, 2025 at 8:00 a.m.

Water Resource District

The board unanimously approved Subsurface Water Management Permits No. 2025-10 and No. 2025-11 for Thomas McInnes and Permit No. 2025-12 for Chad Kritzberger, each with specific conditions. It also approved a resolution to consolidate Brokke Drain No. 30 and its Lateral A into a single legal assessment drain. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved consolidation of Brokke Drain No. 30 and Lateral A (unanimous)
• Approved Subsurface Water Management Permit No. 2025-10 for Thomas McInnes (unanimous)
• Approved Subsurface Water Management Permit No. 2025-11 for Thomas McInnes (unanimous)
• Approved Subsurface Water Management Permit No. 2025-12 for Chad Kritzberger (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 5 board meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)

County Commission

Commissioners approved the agenda, the regular minutes, and the listed county payables. They approved a $5,000 grant to the Historical Society, authorized signing the water‑board cost‑share agreement, and voted to continue the county’s health insurance policy with higher premium contributions. They denied the Dufner property’s request to be re‑classified as agricultural, approved the sheriff’s request to move E‑911 dispatchers to a new retirement plan, and set dates for upcoming budget and contract discussions.

• Approved agenda (motion Young, carried)
• Approved regular minutes of 08‑05‑25 (motion Nesvig, carried)
• Approved regular county payable bills (motion Amb, carried)
• Approved $5,000 grant to Historical Society (motion Nesvig, carried)
• Authorized Chairman and Auditor to sign TCWRD joint powers agreement (motion Amb, carried)
• Continued current health insurance policy with county paying $1,131.16/month for single plans and $2,034.46/month for family plans (motion Amb, carried)
• Dufner property remains commercial and taxable (motion Elliott, passed 4‑1)
• Approved sheriff’s request to move E‑911 dispatchers to new NDPERS retirement plan (motion Amb, carried)

Traill County EDC

The Economic Development Commission approved the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes. The board also approved the treasurer’s report covering recent purchases and reimbursements. Finally, the commission approved the listed checks, including a CivicPlus bill. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report on $12,000 office chair purchase (motion carried)
• Approved payment checks, including CivicPlus bill (motion carried)

County Commission

On August 12, 2025 the Traill County Commissioners held a special session to review the proposed 2026 budget requests. Representatives from the Highway, Health District, Custodian, and Hillsboro Airport Authority departments attended. No motions were made, so no actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The meeting adjourned at 9:47 a.m., with the next regular session set for August 19, 2025 at 8:00 a.m.

Water Resource District

The board found Manager Jason Lovas had a conflict of interest and barred him from voting on Pete Lovas’s subsurface water‑management permit. The permit was then approved with four votes in favor and one abstention, and the Secretary‑Treasurer was authorized to sign it with four conditions. The board also approved a $7,950.46 increase to the Miller Drain No. 29 Upper Outlet Structure contract unanimously. Additional actions included de‑obligating the Blanchard‑Norman Drain cost share and directing staff to prepare various orders and letters.

• Approved Pete Lovas Subsurface Water Management System No. 2025‑09 (4‑0‑1 abstention)
• Approved $7,950.46 increase to Miller Drain No. 29 contract (unanimous)
• De‑obligated remaining cost share on Blanchard‑Norman Drain No. 23‑40 (unanimous)
• Directed Ohnstad Twichell to prepare order combining Brokke Drain No. 30 and Lateral A
• Authorized Moore to negotiate right‑of‑way for Bridge No. 55 (unanimous)
• Directed Moore to develop downstream impact model for Morgan Township intercept culverts (unanimous)
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer Spaeth and attorney Fredricks to draft letter to landowners for Rust Drain clean‑out
• Assigned Spaeth to contact JAC Predator to remove two beaver dams in Stavanger Township

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The Elm River Joint Water Resource District approved the meeting agenda as presented, the minutes from the July 1 meeting, and the bills and treasurer’s report. Each motion was moved, seconded, and carried unanimously by roll call. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills and treasurer’s report (unanimous)

County Commission

The commission approved the 2026 preliminary budget totaling $15.5 million, allowing adjustments before the October 10 deadline. They also increased the county lodging rate to $110 per night starting August 1, 2025. Payments and permits were approved, including a $21,600 payment to True Blue Construction for highway repairs and several road encroachment and ditch‑cleaning permits. A resolution designating four county banks for deposits was adopted, and the chairman was authorized to sign the updated ND PHIT health‑insurance agreement.

• Approved 2026 Preliminary Budget ($15.5 M) (carried)
• Increased lodging rate to $110 per night effective Aug 1 2025 (carried)
• Approved payment of $21,600 to True Blue Construction for Clifford Highway Shop repairs (carried)
• Approved County Road Encroachment Permit for Valley United Co‑Op, NE¼ CR 25, Buxton Township (carried)
• Approved Ditch Cleaning Permit for Rust Farms, LLC, CR 13, Mayville Township (carried)
• Approved two County Road Encroachment Permits for Polar Communications, CR 21, Stavanger Township (carried)
• Adopted resolution designating Goose River Bank, Aspire Bank, First State Bank, and Dakota Heritage Bank as depositories and approving additional deposits totaling $8,994,817.78 (aye by Ebelen, Elliott, Young, Amb; Nesvig absent)
• Authorized the chairman to sign the updated ND PHIT health‑insurance agreement (carried)

Traill County EDC

The board approved the June 17, 2025 minutes and the June 25, 2025 email minutes. They also approved the treasurer’s report and the pending checks. All motions were carried without recorded vote tallies.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved June 25, 2025 email minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved checks (motion carried)

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes from prior meetings, and payment of bills. It also approved a $40,000 agreement with Amb and Sons for the Viking‑Lindaas Drain clean‑out and authorized contacting Walker’s Lawncare for spraying services. Finally, the board approved the 2026 maintenance assessment values for each drain.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 1 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 7 drain tour meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved mailing of third letter and invoice copy for drain clean‑out reimbursement (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 Viking‑Lindaas Drain No.44 clean‑out agreement (unanimous)
• Authorized Ms. Spaeth to contact Walker’s Lawncare for spraying services (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 maintenance assessment values (unanimous)

County Commission

The Traill County Commission unanimously adopted a public‑comment policy resolution. It also scheduled the 2026 County Budget Hearing for September 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM. Several financial items were approved, including an indemnity bond of $4,780.00 and a part‑time employee request. Commissioners were appointed to the Home Rule Charter Board and a grant for bridge projects was accepted.

• Adopted public‑comment policy resolution (unanimous 5‑0 vote)
• Set 2026 County Budget Hearing for Sept 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM
• Approved indemnity bond for Lost Instrument, $4,780.00
• Approved part‑time employee request (19 $/hour, 1 week)
• Appointed five commissioners to Home Rule Charter Board and named Ken Nesvig Chairman
• Accepted Flexible Fund Grant funding for Bridge 361 and 374 (90% state, 10% county)
• Authorized advertisement of surplus equipment; bids to open Aug 19, 2025 at 8:05 a.m.
• Tabled Highway Department agreement with Riverview LLP and Hillsboro water‑treatment permit pending review

Water Resource District

The Traill County Water Resource District held a special meeting on July 7, 2025 to inspect several legal drains across the county. Inspectors noted needed work on Murray Drain No. 17, Augustadt Dam, Blanchard‑Norman Drain 23‑40 Lateral, Red Owl Drain No. 55, and the Preston Floodway. The meeting minutes were approved by Chair Jason Siegert. With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 2:00 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (Chair Jason Siegert)

Water Resource District

The board approved the agenda amendments, minutes, and financial reports unanimously. It authorized repairs of the Hanson‑Dalrymple Drain No. 58 hole with Chad’s Excavating. The board also approved Subsurface Water Management Permit No. 2025‑08 for Kevin and Derrick Paulsrud with six conditions, also unanimously.

• Approved agenda amendments (Hanson‑Dalrymple Drain No. 58, spraying, per diem) – unanimous
• Approved minutes of the June 17 Board meeting – unanimous
• Approved minutes of the June 17 Roseville Landowner meeting – unanimous
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers – unanimous
• Approved June bank statements and journal entries – unanimous
• Authorized Manager Neset to coordinate repair of Hanson‑Dalrymple Drain No. 58 hole with Chad’s Excavating – unanimous
• Approved Subsurface Water Management Permit No. 2025‑08 for Kevin and Derrick Paulsrud with six conditions – unanimous
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer and attorney to prepare a letter to landowners for Rust Drain No. 24 clean‑out – unanimous

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The district approved its agenda, the minutes from the June 3 meeting, and the treasurer’s report, each by unanimous roll‑call vote. The board also approved moving forward with ordering and installing signage for Dams 1, 2, and 3, with the motion carried unanimously. Manager Siegert will present the Rud lease to the lessee for review and signature.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved June 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills and treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved ordering signs and coordinating installation for Elm River Dams 1‑3 (unanimous)

Water Resource District

The district met on June 17, 2025, and reviewed the proposed Roseville Drain No. 19 improvement project and related cost‑share issues. After discussion, the board approved the minutes of the meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (by Chair Jason Siegert)

Water Resource District

The board declared Manager Thompson had a conflict of interest and barred him from voting on his son's application. The board then approved Application No. 2025-07 to install a 118‑acre subsurface tile system in Garfield Township, subject to four conditions. The Nodak Electric utility permit was also approved unanimously. All agenda, minutes, and bill payments were approved unanimously.

• Agenda approved as presented (unanimous)
• Minutes of June 3 meeting approved (unanimous)
• Bills and electronic fund transfers approved (unanimous)
• Motion to declare Manager Thompson a conflict of interest carried (4‑0, Thompson abstained)
• Approved Application No. 2025-07 for Mark Thompson (4‑0, Thompson abstained) with four conditions
• Approved Nodak Electric utility permit (unanimous)
• Board directed Secretary‑Treasurer and attorney to prepare landowner letter for Rust Drain clean‑out
• Board directed Moore to review culvert sizes for Bridges 292, 297, 304

County Commission

The commission approved moving a Home Rule measure to the 2026 general election ballot with assistance from the State Attorney. They also approved converting most elected county officials to appointed positions, except the Sheriff and Commissioners. Additional actions included appointing Doug Waters to the Hillsboro Planning & Zoning Board, approving an $8,148.00 purchase for a boiler room exterior door, and allowing the Boy Scouts to use Frog Point park facilities pending liability insurance review.

• Approved Home Rule process for 2026 ballot (carried)
• Approved conversion of elected officials to appointed (except Sheriff and Commissioners) (carried)
• Appointed Doug Waters as exterritorial member of Hillsboro Planning & Zoning Board (carried)
• Approved purchase of boiler room exterior door for $8,148.00 (carried)
• Allowed Boy Scouts to use Frog Point (Belmont Park) facilities pending liability insurance review (carried)
• Approved regular county bills and Auditor's warrants (carried)
• Approved amended agenda (carried)

Traill County EDC

The commission approved the May 20, 2025 meeting minutes and the May 2025 email minutes. It also approved the treasurer’s report and the related checks. Additionally, the board approved a $10,000 transfer from the operating fund to the investment fund. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved May 2025 email minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved checks (motion carried)
• Approved $10,000 transfer from operating fund to investment fund (motion carried)

Grand Forks - Traill Joint WRD

The board approved the minutes from the December 17, 2024 meeting unanimously. It also decided there will be no maintenance assessments for Legal Drains No. 59 and No. 72 in 2026. Additionally, the board approved a resolution establishing public‑comment requirements for regular meetings, also unanimously.

• Approved December 17, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Determined no maintenance assessments for Legal Drains No. 59 and No. 72 in 2026
• Approved resolution of policy on public comment requirements at regular meetings (unanimous)

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District unanimously approved a 10‑year lease for Reuben Rud. The board also adopted a resolution setting public‑comment requirements for regular meetings and directed Moore Engineering to conduct a legal survey for the right‑of‑way needed for Bridge 55 repairs and to inspect drains for trees and cattails. All financial items, including agenda, minutes, bills, and May bank statements, were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 20 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved May bank statements and general journal entries (unanimous)
• Approved 10‑year lease for Reuben Rud (unanimous)
• Approved resolution of policy on public comment requirements (unanimous)
• Directed Moore Engineering to conduct legal survey for Bridge 55 right‑of‑way (unanimous)
• Directed Moore Engineering to inspect drains for trees and cattails (unanimous)

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The board approved the meeting agenda, the April 1 meeting minutes, and the treasurer’s report and bills, each by unanimous roll‑call vote. They also approved a 10‑year lease for Reuben Rud and adopted a resolution on public‑comment requirements, both unanimously. No further business was taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills and treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved 10‑year Reuben Rud lease (unanimous)
• Approved resolution on public‑comment requirements (unanimous)

County Commission

The commission appointed Heather Hovey as interim auditor effective Nov. 1, 2025 and named Megan Kleckner as chief deputy auditor. They approved a five‑year, 100 % tax exemption for a new business project in Hillsboro Township. The board also authorized installation of a courthouse timeclock at Door 5 and approved a driveway permit for Daniel Benson. Additional actions included scheduling the July meeting, approving regular bills, and adopting park visitor rules.

• Appointed Heather Hovey as Interim Auditor (carried)
• Appointed Megan Kleckner as Chief Deputy Auditor (carried)
• Approved 5‑year 100 % business tax exemption in Hillsboro Township (carried)
• Approved installation of courthouse timeclock at Door 5 (3‑1 vote)
• Approved driveway permit for Daniel Benson near Highway 7 & County Road 81 (carried)
• Approved regular bills and Auditor’s warrants for payment (carried)
• Scheduled July 15, 2025 commission meeting (carried)
• Established rules for County Park visitors (carried)

County Commission

The commission approved a general exemption for Russell Hanson and approved 23 farm‑resident exemptions while denying two others. It also approved the 2025 township and city property valuation abstract. No action was taken on the two public comments.

• Approved general exemption for Russell Hanson 26-38-1-0 (motion Young, seconded Amb)
• Approved 23 farm‑resident exemptions for the 2025 tax year (motion Young, seconded Nesvig)
• Denied farm‑resident exemptions for Curtis Haynes 6-0-843-12 and Lee Siegert 08-0-1214-15 (motion Nesvig, seconded Amb)
• Approved 2025 township and city property valuations (motion Amb, seconded Nesvig)
• No action taken on public comments regarding property values

Traill County EDC

The Economic Development Commission approved a reserve fund check #1064 for $412.88 to the Bank of North Dakota for Year 1 of the pre‑approved Due North GF Bakery & Goods Flex PACE buydown. It also approved a general fund check #8464 for $800 payable to Widmer Roel for 80 % of the county audit cost. Van Horn moved the motion, Hershey seconded, and seven members voted in favor; the motion carried.

• Approved reserve fund check #1064 for $412.88 to Bank of North Dakota (7‑0)
• Approved general fund check #8464 for $800 to Widmer Roel (7‑0)

Water Resource District

The board unanimously approved Application No. 2025‑06 to install an 880‑acre subsurface water management tile system for David and Erica Knudsvig in Buxton Township, subject to eight conditions. The board also unanimously approved a utility permit allowing David Knudsvig to cross Buxton Drain to provide electricity for the tile pump, with special conditions prepared by the engineer. Additional actions included renewing maturing CDs at 4.30% for seven months, approving the Nelson Drain agreement, and directing letters and reimbursement requests for various drain clean‑outs.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimously)
• Approved minutes of May 6 meeting (unanimously)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimously)
• Approved Nelson Drain No. 28 agreement (unanimously)
• Approved Application No. 2025‑06 subsurface water management system for Knudsvig (unanimously, with conditions)
• Approved utility permit for Knudsvig to cross Buxton Drain for pump electricity (unanimously)
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer to send letters and reimbursement requests for Buxton Drain and other drain clean‑outs (directed)
• Directed renewal of CDs at 4.30% for 7 months with Dakota Heritage Bank (unanimously)

County Commission

The commission unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the South Dakota Health and Educational Facilities Authority to issue Series 2025 revenue bonds up to $2.1 billion for Sanford, with a local portion not exceeding $20 million. It also approved the amended agenda, the May 6, 2025 minutes, routine bill payments, a $4,500 front‑step change order, a $27,794.08 fund transfer, and hiring seasonal road workers at $24 per hour.

• Approved amended agenda (motion Young, seconded Amb, carried)
• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (motion Nesvig, seconded Young, carried)
• Approved regular bills and auditor’s warrants (motion Elliott, seconded Young, carried)
• Approved $4,500 front‑step change order (motion Young, seconded Elliott, carried)
• Approved $27,794.08 transfer from General Fund to Hatton/Portland Patrol Vehicle account (motion Amb, seconded Young, carried)
• Approved hiring of seasonal road help at $24 per hour (motion Nesvig, seconded Amb, carried)
• Approved Sanford bond issuance resolution (unanimous 5‑0 vote)
• Approved seasonal help hire for road superintendent (motion Nesvig, seconded Amb, carried)

Traill County EDC

The commission approved the April 15, 2025 minutes and the April 30‑May 1, 2025 email minutes after correcting them. The treasurer’s report and several pending checks were approved. A motion was carried to have Executive Director Murphy attend the next county commission meeting to discuss board appointments. The board also approved moving the p‑card rebate and other minor unanticipated income to the Traill County University Group (TUG).

• Approved April 15, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved April 30‑May 1, 2025 email minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved pending checks for printer overage, Kiwanis dues, training grants (motion carried)
• Approved request for Murphy to attend next county commission meeting (motion carried)
• Approved moving p‑card rebate, Halstad Telephone dividends, ND Insurance Reserve refunds to TUG (motion carried)

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District Board approved its agenda, the April 15 meeting minutes, and several financial items unanimously. It also approved moving the Carson Drain No. 10 field approach to the 170th Ave NE intersection. The Board unanimously approved a subsurface water management system permit (No. 2025‑05) for Derek Paulsrud with specific conditions. Additional directives were given to send letters to landowners about drain cleanouts and cost‑share.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved April 15 minutes with amended titles (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved April bank statements and general journal entries (unanimous)
• Approved relocation of Carson Drain No. 10 field approach to 170th Ave NE (unanimous)
• Approved Subsurface Water Management System Permit No. 2025‑05 for Derek Paulsrud with conditions (unanimous)
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer to send cleanout letter to Buxton Drain No. 68 landowners (unanimous)
• Directed Secretary‑Treasurer and attorney to prepare reimbursement letters for Rust Drain No. 24 landowners (unanimous)

County Commission

The Commission adopted a resolution to hold a public hearing on May 20 2025 for host approval of the Sanford Series 2025 revenue bonds, with all four present commissioners voting in favor. It also approved courthouse step change orders, highway contracts, a biometric time‑clock purchase, and a fire‑emergency declaration through November 1 2025. The board began the process to convert elected officials to appointed positions.

• Adopted resolution for public hearing on Sanford Series 2025 bonds (4‑0)
• Approved Change Order #1 for courthouse steps – $4,200 (carried)
• Approved Change Order #2 for courthouse steps – $2,503 (carried)
• Approved pay request to Gast Construction – $84,332.70 (carried)
• Authorized agreement with Central Specialties, Inc. for Highway 16 (carried)
• Authorized agreement with KLJ Engineer for Highway 16 – $270,000 (carried)
• Authorized purchase of 3 biometric time clocks – $15,555 (carried)
• Adopted fire emergency & burn restriction declaration through Nov 1 2025 (carried)

County Commission

The commission adopted a resolution to hold a public hearing on May 20 for host approval of the Sanford Series 2025 revenue bond issuance, passing with four votes in favor and one absent. It also approved two change orders for courthouse front‑step repairs, agreements for Highway 16 work, purchase of biometric timeclocks, and a fire emergency declaration. Additionally, the board authorized the start of a process to convert certain elected positions to appointed ones.

• Adopted resolution for public hearing on Sanford Series 2025 bonds (4-0, Amb absent)
• Approved Change Order #1 for courthouse steps $4,200 (motion Young, seconded Elliott)
• Approved Change Order #2 for courthouse steps $2,503 (motion Young, seconded Nesvig)
• Approved agreement with Central Specialties for Highway 16 (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Approved agreement with KLJ Engineer for Highway 16 project $270,000 (motion Young, seconded Nesvig)
• Approved purchase of three biometric timeclocks $15,555 (motion Elliott, seconded Young)
• Approved fire emergency & burn restriction declaration (motion Young, seconded Nesvig)
• Approved motion to start process to move elected officials to appointed positions (motion Nesvig, seconded Elliott)

Traill County EDC

The Economic Development Commission voted to distribute the listed public‑spaces and business‑improvement grants. Dr. Hershey moved to approve the funds, Mark Duncan seconded, and Vicky Grothmann abstained due to a potential conflict of interest. The motion carried on May 1, 2025.

• Approved distribution of $18,000 public‑spaces grants (motion carried)
• Approved distribution of $6,303.28 business‑improvement grants (motion carried)
• Motion carried with one abstention (Grothmann) and no opposition

Water Resource District

The Water Resource District approved the meeting agenda, the prior meeting minutes, and the payment of bills unanimously. It also approved an independent contractor agreement with JAC Predator for beaver trapping at $50 per hour plus mileage reimbursement. The board directed Chad’s Excavating to repair damages at Murray Drain and to bill the landowner for the work. Additional actions included scheduling a Roseville Drain landowner meeting and adding tile‑permit data to the district Webmap.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 1 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved Independent Contractor Agreement with JAC Predator for beaver trapping at $50/hr and $0.70/mile (unanimous)
• Directed Chad’s Excavating to repair Murray Drain damages and bill the landowner (unanimous)
• Scheduled tentative landowner meeting for Roseville Drain on June 17 (unanimous)
• Assigned Jessica Spaeth to add drain‑tile permit numbers to Moore’s Webmap (unanimous)
• Reported Elm River Dams project final completion set for June 30, 2025 (informational)

County Commission

The Traill County Commissioners approved the amended agenda and placed flags on the courthouse lawn for $280. They authorized a raffle permit for the Sanford Health Foundation and approved the County Auditor's warrants for numerous vendor payments, including $102,069.91 to the ND Public Health Insurance Trust. The board also authorized year‑round ND Highway Patrol assistance, 10‑hour work days for the Highway Department, and granted permission for a road closure for the Reynolds Street Dance on July 26, 2025.

• Approved amended agenda (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved flags placement on courthouse lawn at cost $280 (motion Young, second Nesvig)
• Approved raffle permit for Sanford Health Foundation (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved County Auditor's warrants for vendor payments, including $102,069.91 to ND Public Health Insurance Trust (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Authorized ND Highway Patrol assistance letter (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Approved liquor and beer license applications for 1908 House pending required paperwork (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Allowed Highway Department 10‑hour work days and signing of gravel purchase agreements (motion Amb, second Nesvig)
• Granted road closure for Reynolds Street Dance on July 26, 2025 (motion Nesvig, second Amb)

Traill County EDC

The commission approved the March 25, 2025 minutes and the treasurer’s report. Checks were approved, a new agenda item was added, and a Flex PACE buydown loan of up to $1,300 for Due North GF Bakery and Goods LLC was approved for a five‑year period.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved pending checks (motion carried)
• Added a new item to the agenda under New Business (motion carried)
• Approved Flex PACE buydown loan up to $1,300 for Due North GF Bakery (motion carried)

Water Resource District

The board unanimously approved the agenda, meeting minutes, bills, and bank statements. It awarded KRB Gravel the contract for the Miller Drain upper outlet structure repair and authorized the company to order materials and invoice the district. The board also approved a $10,800 quote to paint the district building. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (including Steele‑Traill Drain No. 17A, Hatton Drain No. 45, Pete Haugen) – unanimous
• Approved March 18 meeting minutes – unanimous
• Approved payment of bills and electronic fund transfers – unanimous
• Approved March bank statements and journal entries – unanimous
• Awarded KRB Gravel contract for Miller Drain Upper Outlet Structure repair – unanimous
• Authorized KRB Gravel to order materials and submit invoices for repair – unanimous
• Authorized coordination of Morgan Drain Bridge 209 repairs with County Highway Department – unanimous
• Approved $10,800 building painting and spray‑foam quote – unanimous

Elm River Joint Water Resource District

The board voted to approve the meeting agenda as presented, the minutes from the January 21 meeting, and the bills and treasurer’s report. Each motion was seconded and carried unanimously. No other actions were taken; the dam improvement project was discussed but no decision was made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills and treasurer’s report (unanimous)

County Commission

The commission accepted the Central Specialties bid for the County Road 16 project. They approved on‑sale‑only liquor and beer licenses for Naastad Acres, LLC and Goose River Golf Club, opened and approved multiple highway gravel bids, and decided to keep the Deputy Recorder position part‑time. The board also set dates for organizing the new ambulance districts.

• Approved amended agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of March 18 2025 (motion carried)
• Appointed Doug Waters to the Hillsboro Planning & Zoning Board (motion carried)
• Approved on‑sale‑only liquor and beer license for Naastad Acres, LLC (motion carried)
• Approved on‑sale‑only liquor and beer license for Goose River Golf Club (motion carried)
• Opened highway gravel bids (motion carried)
• Approved all highway gravel bids for county improvement (motion carried)
• Accepted Central Specialties bid for County Road 16 project (motion carried)

Traill County EDC

The commission approved the minutes from February 18, 2025. It approved the treasurer’s report and the related reimbursement checks. It allocated $5,000 for five $1,000 business improvement grants and $20,000 for four $5,000 public‑spaces grants. It also pre‑approved two upcoming payments for dental/vision insurance and rent.

• Approved February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved the treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved reimbursement checks for the month (motion carried)
• Approved allocation of $5,000 for five $1,000 business improvement grants and $20,000 for four $5,000 public‑spaces grants (motion carried)
• Approved pre‑approval of dental/vision insurance check and rent ACH payment (motion carried)