Development News for Minot, North Dakota

Budget Amendment Approved for NAS Biota Plant Capital Purchases

The council unanimously approved a budget amendment for the NAS Biota plant capital purchases. The approval also acknowledges that the costs will be replenished from the water resources since the plant is for water treatment. The motion to approve was made by Alderman Olsen and seconded by Alderman Samuelson.

Amended Alcohol Ordinance Approved on Second Reading

The council unanimously approved the second reading of an amended alcohol ordinance. The amendment, proposed by Alderman Bless and seconded, clarified that the 60% threshold for supper clubs pertains to gross sales of food and alcoholic beverages, not solely alcohol sales, addressing a previous ambiguity in the drafted language. The ordinance's effective date is January 27, with a period for education and fee discussions during the budget process.

City Council Approves $140,000 Budget Allocation for Police Department

The council approved a motion to direct staff to allocate $140,000, derived from the sale of a retail liquor license, towards the Police Department's operational budget. This decision was prompted by budget constraints, including a significant overage in pound services, and aims to reinforce public safety efforts and officer visibility. The motion, which passed unanimously, will require a budget amendment for formal approval.

Minot Area Council of the Arts Seeks Continued City Funding

Miles Barkham, co-executive director of the Minot Area Council of the Arts (MAC), presented on the organization's activities and requested continued city support of $40,000. MAC, founded in 1973, supports artists and arts organizations, operates the Carnegie Center, provides programming, and advocates for arts and culture. City funding supports programs like the Minot City Band and Symphony Orchestra, Arts in the City, and the Carnegie Center. MAC also acts as a fiscal sponsor for initiatives like Union Silos, Magic City Jazz Festival, and Aurora Nights, distributing over $272,000 in 2025. The proposed $40,000 includes $12,000 for the City Band and $3,000 for the Symphony Orchestra's outreach.