STRONG. DYNAMIC. CITIES - APRIL/MAY 2020
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A P U B L I CAT I O N O F T H E N O R T H DA KOTA L E AG U E O F C I T I E S STRONG. DYNAMIC. CITIES. A P R I L / M AY 2 0 2 0
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2 CITYScan | April/May 2020
FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE
From the NDLC Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Procurement Strategy: Invitation for Bids versus RFP . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Coronavirus (COVID-19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ND Communities Receive Grants to Further Activity & Wellness . . 22
From the NDLC President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 HR Today and Beyond Postponed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
City of the Year and Leadership Excellence Awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Social Media 2020: Five Tips to Up Your Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2020 Products and Services Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 RFP & RFQ Sharing Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
NDLC Listserv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Employer Side Effects of Medical Marijuana. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Leadership Training Program Award Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
ND Department of Veterans Affairs Announces the
Spring Workshop has Gone Virtual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
“Commissioners Challenge” on Suicide Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . 29
An Election Primer for 2020 – After the Election (Part Four) . . . . . . 14
Human Resources Corner: Job Descriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
NDLC 2020 Elected Official Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Census Craziness Tournament. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Random Drug and Alcohol Testing Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
AARP Applications: 2020 Community Challenge Grant Program. . 17 GrantFinder Program Offers Cities Robust Grant Database. . . . . . . 36
NDLC 2020 Annual Conference Room Blocks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Municipal Law Books Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
ND Cares Community Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 NDLC 2020 Elected Official Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Kids + Trees = Arbor Day! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tips and Tricks for More Productive Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
IN EACH ISSUE
Attorney General Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Community Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Ask NDLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Webinars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Hometown, Homegrown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 2020 Municipal Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
CITYBeat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Bulletin Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover
STREET DESIGN | STORM WATER MODELING
WATER & SEWER DESIGN | FLOOD PLAIN ASSISTANCE
SURVEY & GIS | CONSTRUCTON ADMINISTRATION
PROJECT FUNDING ASSISTANCE
BOWMAN
STANLEY
WATFORD CITY
NORTH DAKOTA
broszeng.com
ADVERTISERS INDEX
Ackerman-Estvold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Lewis & Clark Development Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
AE2S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Moore Engineering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Find Cover
AE2S Nexus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 NDIRF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Apex Engineering Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 ND State Procurement/Surplus Property. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Bolton & Menk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Ohnstad Twichell, P.C.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Brosz Engineering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Rath & Mehrer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Dougherty & Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Back Cover
SEH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Enbridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Stantec Consulting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
GovCard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
H&H Coating’s, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Starion Bond Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Holophane and American Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 T&R Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Houston Engineering, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Widseth Smith Nolting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Interstate Engineering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Wold Engineering PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
CITYScan | April/May 2020 1
About NDLC
The North Dakota League of Cities has served as a key resource for
CITYScan is published 10 times yearly by the cities and park districts since the early 1900s when the League of
North Dakota League of Cities at 410 E Front Ave, North Dakota Municipalities was organized in Grand Forks. City
Bismarck, ND 58504. Subscriptions are $20 per
year. Advertising rates on application. Deadline for
officials had a vision – they recognized the importance of joining
advertising and copy is the first of the preceding together to speak as one voice for the benefit of all.
month. Permission to use any original article if
credit given. Opinions expressed in articles do not
necessarily express the position taken by NDLC.
Those early city leaders also understood the benefits of sharing experiences. From the
Editor: Chelsey Benson, NDLC account of the first meeting on September 25, 1912: "Another object of the League is
Advertising/Circulation: Carissa Richter, NDLC to disseminate the information which the different cities may have on these and other
Design Director: Chelly Ontis, Elegant Designs
city problems, so that when one has met and solved any problem, the other members
of the League may have the benefit of its experience, without having to pass through
ND League of Cities Staff
the perplexities and uncertainties of the experimental stage."
(701) 223-3518 • www.ndlc.org
Blake Crosby • blake@ndlc.org The League works with the Legislative Assembly to address the needs for our cities and
Executive Director
municipal parks, and the staff informs city leaders about legislative changes that may
Stephanie Dassinger • stephanie@ndlc.org affect cities. The League offers seminar and training opportunities for city elected and
Deputy Director and Staff Attorney appointed officials through the year. Many of these opportunities are offered by the
Carissa Richter • carissa@ndlc.org League’s Leadership Training Program (LTP). LTP offers a four-tiered certificate program
Member Services and Office Manager that provides tools for effective leadership.
Chelsey Benson • chelsey@ndlc.org
Training Services and Communications Manager Today, the League continues to encourage dynamic local leadership by providing
educational opportunities and myriad services to city officials, by connecting resources
POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
with needs, and by representing the interests of municipalities in state and federal
NORTH DAKOTA LEAGUE OF CITIES, public policy discussions.
410 E FRONT AVE, BISMARCK, ND 58504
About the Cover
Issue 4
Cover: The Enchanted Highway has 7 larger than life scrap metal sculptures that lead you to the
Enchanted Castle in Regent. Credit North Dakota Tourism
■
Volume 88
(Left): North Dakota State Peace Gardens. Credit North Dakota Tourism
Do you want to see your city on the cover?
Send your North Dakota city photo ideas to chelsey@ndlc.org.
NDLC Executive Board 2019-2020
Highlights
SOCIAL MEDIA
President: Tate Cymbaluk, Commissioner, Williston
Vice President: Diane Affeldt, City Auditor, Garrison
Past President: Dan Stenvold, Mayor, Park River
Regional Executive Board Members
Tom Barry, City Manager, Minot
Bethany Devlin, Council Member, Watford City
Todd Feland, City Administrator, Grand Forks
Tina Fisk, City Administrator, West Fargo Has your city
gone social?
Dwaine Heinrich, Mayor, Jamestown Next time you
Corey Long, Mayor, Granville post on your
Candace Middlestead, City Auditor, Ellendale social media
accounts Tag
Jim Neubauer, City Administrator, Mandan #NDLCsocial
Matt Oase, City Administrator, Killdeer on your city
Jeffrey Russo, Mayor, Lakota postings to be
featured here
Jennifer Titus, City Auditor, Powers Lake in upcoming
Wanda Zimmerman, City Auditor, Lehr issues.
2 CITYScan | April/May 2020
Blake Crosby, Executive Director
(701) 223-3518 blake@ndlc.org
From the NDLC Executive Director
The 2020 Annual Conference planning is well underway. You Social media, with all its warts, is here to stay and can be a
might think it’s too early to be working on a conference that will great communication tool between citizens and local government.
be held in September, but as this issue of CITYScan is an April/ We need to learn better ways of using it to build local trust,
May issue, the Annual
2020 • Bismarck Event Center Conference will be here before you know respondEvent
September 24-26, 2020 • Bismarck to citizen concerns and solve problems.
Center
it. Now is a good time to mark your calendars for September We also need to develop a “comfort level” with new technology
24-26 just to make sure you have those dates blocked. The that is being developed, and that comes via listening and asking
conference is at the Bismarck Event Center. questions…what we do at the conference.
Here are a couple of technology examples: NDDOT is using
unmanned aerial systems (drones) to provide live images of flood
conditions in our major watersheds so cities and counties know
where to send personnel, equipment and supplies to reduce flood
impact. Think of the cost savings, and emotional savings, if this
September 24-26, 2020 • Bismarck Event Center technology can help prevent homes and farmland from flooding.
On the national level, the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration just authorized a company to put up to 5,000
As usual, we have many more ideas about breakouts and autonomous vehicles for package delivery on the roads in
general sessions than we have time for. I suggested we start on California over the next two years. Autonomous means no
a Tuesday and go through Sunday, but the staff convinced me driver’s seat, steering wheel or brake pedal and no presence of a
otherwise. My arm still hurts. human. If this were in North Dakota we would be asking, who
We will have a session on legislative issues that we know will, or will dig it out if it gets stuck in the snow?
may, come during the 67th Legislative Assembly. We also expect
to discuss local government issues such as special assessments,
extra territorial zoning, 2020 November ballot issues, the state Elected and Appointed Officials
For
budget going into 2021 and much more. Stay tuned. virtual spring workshop
Several sessions will again be on Smart Cities. A smart city Tuesday, April 14, 2020
uses technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) to manage
their resources and services. As technology expands, the cost The Virtual Spring Workshop is just days away. If you have
drops, and it becomes a standard tool for your city residents; it yet to register, do it now! Details and an agenda can be found
is important that we explore and understand the possibilities. on pages 12-13. This is a great chance to learn new ideas from
Think about how much you rely on the internet in your everyday presenters and from your colleagues. There is no shortage of great
activities and how that technology can be utilized to make ideas.
your city a progressive place and a safer place to live and work. The days are getting longer so I hope you are soaking up some
Smart Cities also fit into Governor Burgum’s vision of smart of the sun’s warmth and gearing up for spring. Enjoy!
infrastructure which he will continue to advocate for. And remember – WE. LIVE. LOCAL.
e
Find th
As you’re reading through this month’s CITYScan be on the lookout for this image. Once you find the
image email Chelsey at chelsey@ndlc.org with the page number where the image is located and you will
Image! be entered in a drawing for a prize from the League. Remember, this image can be anywhere within the
publication. Good luck! Last month's image was on page 8.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 3
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
As this issue of CITYScan goes to the printer, the number of • If you are not feeling well…STAY HOME!! If you think you
cases of COVID-19 in North Dakota has risen and the outlook should see a doctor, call the hospital or clinic first. Based on a
is for additional cases. There has been no shortage of information diagnosis over the phone, you may not need to go in.
coming from many sources and that has a tendency to make If you have elderly neighbors, call (remember social distancing)
people tune the news out and/or react inappropriately. to check on them every now and then. Make sure they are healthy
The League is in daily contact with state officials and will and safe…just like you would for your parents. The elderly group
use the League’s website to provide information to you and appears to be most susceptible and many of them don’t have
elected/appointed colleagues for your city residents. COVID-19 family around.
information is at www.ndlc.org/COVID19. This situation is a Many of you have changed access to City Hall and city
reminder of how important it is that we have an email address for buildings. Please make sure you keep telling your residents that
you and/or your city auditor. If you have opted to not provide us you have done so. If you post messages on the door, be polite
with an email address, this is the time to call the League and give but firm and if you suggest contact via email...make sure you
us that information. You have a safety and health responsibility post the appropriate email address. Try to make reasonable
to your residents and this COVID-19 will be a situation where accommodation for paying of city related bills. Many of your
relaying of health and safety information is time-critical. colleagues have done so, as indicated on the listserv, so copy what
One thing North Dakotans have is common sense. This is the they have done. No need to reinvent the wheel.
time to use that common sense. Do not panic over the COVID- It may take a while but we will get through this. Common sense
19 news. Make decisions based on facts and data…not emotion. and relevant communication are two of the keys. Get in the habit of
Here is some very basic information to remember that you have checking the League webpage every day…COVID-19 is a situation
likely heard before: that changes daily. If you get a message from us on the League
• Wash your hands … a lot. Sing “Happy Birthday” to yourself listserv…open it up! If you are not on the listserv, do it now!
at least two times while you are washing. Scrub those hands Dealing with COVID-19 is going to be inconvenient…not
clean! dealing with it is dangerous.
• Practice “social distancing.” Try to avoid large crowds and stay Stay healthy. We will come out of this and be better for it.
six feet away from others. We can all speak louder. Blake Crosby, NDLC Executive Director
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4 CITYScan | April/May 2020
Work delay due to hitting a pipeline while digging
Time it takes to call 811 before you dig
—
The safety of people who live and work near our pipelines is a top
priority for Enbridge. Always call 811 before any soil-disturbing
activities. 811 is a free nationwide service for locating underground
utilities. Underground utilities will be marked within 2 – 3 business
days of calling 811. Never rely on word-of-mouth, memory or pipeline
markers when planning a digging project. Protect yourself and your
property by calling 811.
Call 811 before any digging project.
Visit enbridge.com/call811 for more information.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 5
Tate Cymbaluk 2019-20 NDLC President
From the NDLC President
On March 8-11, I had the privilege to attend the National 3) There was much discussion led by our folks from Grand
League of Cities Congressional City Conference in Washington, Forks on the importance of the Grand Forks Air Force Base
DC on behalf of the North Dakota League of Cities. I have had and the economic impact to Grand Forks and North Dakota.
several members ask me what we do while we attend and what The Air Force is reviewing its military assets and Grand Forks
are they about. My reply was short but diplomatic as I wasn’t may be a key component in some of the military’s strategic
sure what the members were getting at. Was it for the call to planning. I will not get into the details of such discussions as
be sarcastic or was it to be sincere? After further discussion, I the scope of such is beyond my full understanding. Feel free
read it to be sincere. They wanted to know and they are entitled to give Dana Sande, Grand Forks City Council President,
to know as we are representing the North Dakota League of a call as he has a full understanding and the knowledge to
Cities at such conferences on their behalf. Our job is to relay explain in great detail. What I can say is that our MOCs are
information and relay our message to and from our North fully engaged with this opportunity and see the importance
Dakota members of Congress (MOC). With that being said, I of not only the economic impact to Grand Forks and all of
will explain to you what we discussed. North Dakota but to the military security to our nation.
1) Sustainable infrastructure was discussed. Every community
in our state has infrastructure needs whether it be roads, 4) We discussed the importance of dealing with mental health
bridges, bike paths, etc. Congress is due to reauthorize all issues and the lack of services thereof. Understandably this
their federal transportation programs and it is the opportune is an issue that every community in every state within our
time to discuss with our MOCs the importance of federal nation is dealing with. The young, the old, the rich and the
dollars coming back to North Dakota and directly back less fortunate. It doesn’t matter. It affects everyone and effects
into our communities. Each community is different and our environment at every level. The importance of federal
has different needs which we shared with our MOCs and dollars coming back to our state is crucial in dealing with
requested their continued support for sending federal dollars mental health issues. We urged our MOCs to assist in getting
back to North Dakota. our state more federal aid to allow us to implement programs
to help mental health issues.
2) Flood insurance was discussed as the potential impact of
flooding in certain areas of the state is very likely and the 5) Currently, there is a Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance
impact could be catastrophic for some which would have Network (FRSAN) available to those in the agriculture
an economic impact on all of North Dakota. The current industry. This is a program designed to help farmers,
flood insurance bill is set to expire in September of 2020. ranchers and producers when they need it most and that time
Not exactly what we wanted to hear but we are confident an is now. The funding was implemented in the 2018 Farm Bill
extension will occur. How long the extension will be remains and this is something that needs to be given more attention
unknown; however, our MOCs will aggressively fight to keep in my opinion. Not to take away from the importance of
the flood insurance in place. A long-term bill is not likely the energy sector and other business/employment sectors,
at this time due to political, financial and demographical but the agriculture community is the backbone of our state
reasons, however, a short-term extension is likely. and will continue to be for generations to come. More
Specializing in
Governmental
Auditing
Rath & Mehrer Jayson Rath, CPA
Ken Mehrer, CPA
Bryce Fischer, CPA
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
425 North Fifth Street, Bismarck, ND 58501 • (701) 258-4560
6 CITYScan | April/May 2020
information can be found on the National Institute of Food communities affected by the opioid crisis. This is not only
and Agriculture website. a federal issue, this is a local issue, however we need the
support of the federal government. This also ties into mental
6) We discussed crime and drugs facing our communities and health as previously mentioned.
the importance of federal dollars being poured back into all
branches of law enforcement. North Dakota is prospering I will close out by saying that we have a lot of work before
and flourishing and when that happens it means the us and I am confident that our current MOCs are behind the
potential for crime and drugs is likely to increase. This is a scenes working diligently for the best interest of the citizens of
national issue; however, our job is not to push nationally but North Dakota. They get it, they understand it, they believe in it
to push for what’s important for North Dakota. Northwest and we as citizens in North Dakota should too. I have no doubt
North Dakota is currently down to one FBI agent. Several in my mind that our MOC’s are fighting for more dollars, more
months ago, there were three. That caught the attention of funding and better programs to allow us the opportunity to
our MOCs and I believe that was of serious concern due to have a better quality of life for us as we all want it and deserve
the impact it is having on our local law enforcement, our it. A place we can live safely, go to work, raise a family and most
local EMTs and our citizens. We are trying to make a better importantly, make our state, one state working together and
quality of life for our citizens, but we cannot do this alone working for the people. We have an opportunity to lead and
and it is imperative that we have the assistance of federal law build the necessary coalitions by developing partnerships and
enforcement agencies in all regions of North Dakota. relationships with our federal, state and local officials. No one
area of the state, no one political party or group and no one
7) The Community Services Block Grant Reauthorization Act person can achieve these goals if we don’t work together as a
of 2019 (H.R. 1695) authorizes a new federally administered team and that’s what we need to do. Be a team to innovate, be a
Community Action Opioid Response Grant that will enable team for infrastructure and be a team to include all. This needs
Community Action agencies to fill service gaps and respond to be the North Dakota way not only for today but for future
to unmet needs of low-income individuals, families, and generations to come.
One State. One League. One Goal.
SITE DEVELOPMENT TRANSPORTATION MUNICIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE URBAN PLANNING ENVIRONMENTAL
ENHANCING COMMUNITIES
one project at a time
We’re proud to support cities across North Dakota by designing
solutions that protect and connect our communities to enhance the ND Offices: Bismarck | Dickinson
lives of residents.
Fargo | Grand Forks | Minot
From flood protection to site development and everything in
between, we’re driven by our mission to enhance communities houstoneng.com
through responsible infrastructure solutions.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 7
water | transportation | municipal | facilities
If you set the bar at competence,
how do you reach excellence?
ApexEngGroup.com
8 CITYScan | April/May 2020Carissa Richter, Member Services and Office Manager
(701) 223-3518 carissa@ndlc.org
City of the Year and
Leadership Excellence Awards
Each year, the League honors the special achievements of cities and city leaders from all across the state through its City of the Year
and Leadership Excellence Awards. We are now accepting nominations for these awards and I hope you will take some time to submit a
nomination for one or both of the awards. The criteria are below.
More information and the nomination forms can be found at www.ndlc.org/awards. Forms must be completed online and submitted
to the League by July 17, 2020.
The awards will be presented at the NDLC Annual Conference on Saturday, September 26, during lunch. I hope you will join us for
this special event!
Please contact me at 701-223-3518 or carissa@ndlc.org with questions.
The City of the Year competition The Leadership Excellence
is open to any North Dakota city. competition is open to any
When judging applications, the elected or appointed city
selection committee will consider official from a North Dakota city. When judging applications,
the following: the selection committee will consider the following:
• How well did the program/ • Service above and beyond what is required by the
project achieve its goals? Be nominee’s position. Contributions to improved municipal
sure to clearly state your objectives and accomplishments. government throughout the state of North Dakota
• How well did the city use its resources? Talk about your through involvement in national, state, county, municipal,
budget, any grants you received, and highlight any person- professional, or other public organizations or agencies.
power behind your project. • Significant improvements in North Dakota cities
• What is the program/project’s current and long-term throughout the state, attributable to the nominee’s service.
community value? Did your program/project have • Admiration and respect of the general public for the
community support? nominee, and the nominee’s success in raising the prestige
• Can other cities learn from this program/project and adapt of city government service.
your ideas to their city?
gue of Cities
The League’s Business Associate membership
North Dakota Lea
is designed to promote best practices through
2020 Products 2020 Products information sharing between businesses,
and Services
and Services Guide
organizations and individuals interested in building
stronger cities.
Guide We encourage all cities to make it a priority to
work with Business Associate members whenever
ORDER TODAY! possible. Their support and involvement allows us
to provide many of the services that cities rely on
every day and we appreciate their dedication to our
This yearly publication includes League and municipal government.
information about our current
Business Associate members. For additional complimentary copies of the Guide,
1
contact Carissa at 701-223-3518 or carissa@ndlc.org.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 9Chelsey Benson, Training Services & Communications Manager
(701) 223-3518 chelsey@ndlc.org
NDLC Listserv
The NDLC’s listserv is open to all municipal
staff and elected officials. It is the easiest
Listserv
tool around to network about day-to-day city
operations and receive feedback from your
colleagues from across North Dakota.
Should you join the listserv?
NDLC hosts the listserv to make it easy for you to access our • Does your city have a form for contractors to sign when
most valuable resource – the experience and expertise of other working on a small project?
member city officials. The listserv is free to all member cities;
• Can anyone share a copy of a leave policy that allows
all you need to do is contact Chelsey at the League and let her
donating sick or annual leave to another employee?
know you’d like to join.
• Has any city granted a temporary liquor license for a day?
The listserv allows you to post questions and respond to
If so, how does it work?
requests from other city officials. By participating in the listserv,
you are solving problems and building a catalog of resources • Would anyone be willing to share their own local charity
for you and others to access. The League staff uses the listserv permit?
to share important information about League events and • What paid holidays do cities offer?
Legislative information as well.
Signed up but not receiving emails?
Recent questions on the listserv If you are signed up for the listserv but not receiving emails,
• Would anyone be willing share examples of their last please check to make sure the emails are not going to your
meeting minutes? spam/junk folder. If you are still not receiving emails, please call
• Does anyone have a recommendation for a phone speaker the League for further assistance.
system or Bluetooth speaker to use during council
meetings? Sign up today!
• Would anyone be willing to share the form your employees To subscribe email chelsey@ndlc.org with your name and email.
fill out for reimbursements for traveling? Please remember that listservs are for city elected and appointed
• Does anyone have a spreadsheet they use for tracking officials only.
special assessments?
John Wethern, Sales Representative
5982 Autumn Drive S.
Fargo, ND 58104
Holophane is a North American Office: 701.426.2987
manufacturer of HID and LED Fax: 866.820.1235
lighting systems providing
lighting solutions for E-Mail: JWethern@Holophane.com
Architectural Outdoor and Website: www.holophane.com
Historic Roadway applications. www.americanelectriclighting.com
10 CITYScan | April/May 2020Leadership Training Program Award Winners
Congratulations to this year’s Leadership Training Program Award Winners!
Those listed below will receive their LTP award by mail.
110% have completed 200 hours of LTP training. Abby Salinas, Tioga
Monte Erhardt, Hazen Jennifer Soli, Velva
RoxAnne Hoffarth, Langdon Becky Tebby, Benedict
Avis Richter, Valley City
Jennifer Titus, Powers Lake The following have reached the 100% level and continue to
earn credit by participating in League and LTP training:
Leaders have completed 100 hours of LTP training. Diane Affeldt, Garrison (Above and Beyond Award Winner)
Gwen Crawford, Lisbon Deborah Banish, Rutland
Becky Dunker, Casselton Ann Berg, Park River
Desiree Hanson, Tioga Dwight Flygare, Kenmare
Jonathan Harter, Steele Cherie Heisler, Harvey
Judy Pfeifer, Strasburg Dianne Hensen, Glenburn
Mary Hinschberger, Mapleton
Visionaries have completed 60 hours of LTP training. Keith Hunke, Bismarck
Brenda Dohn, Wishek Darcie Huwe, Wahpeton
Casey Eggermont, Harwood Lyn James, Bowman
Travis Frey, Beulah Sheila Klevgard, Casselton
Jennifer Gast, Carrington Del Kolke, Riverdale
McKinzie Jensen, Kenmare Nancy Lunde, Cooperstown
Darla Knutson, Beulah Candace Middlestead, Ellendale
Christine Olson, Cooperstown Karen Nordby, Harvey
Peni Peterson, Watford City Penny Nostdahl, Bottineau
Sharon Toy, Drake George Ritzke, New Rockford
Diane Schell, Underwood
Innovators have completed 30 hours of LTP training. Kerry Schlenvogt, Rolla
Evan Anderson, Casselton Clyde Schulz, Beulah
Tabitha Arnaud, Kindred Amie Vasichek, Lakota
Kim Azure, Rolette Donna Zeltinger, Glenburn
Tom Barry, Minot Wanda Zimmerman, Lehr
Julie Cole, Lisbon
Bren D’Angelo, Williston
Mary Liz Davis, Velva
Travis Frey, Beulah
Julie Hein, Wing
Grant Johnson, Kenmare
Marci Johnson, Finley
Sherie Lundmark, Grand Forks
Terry Macdonald, Hazelton
Ronica Pederson, Tioga Leadership
Lucas Reski, Steele Training
Program
An Educational Program of the League
CITYScan | April/May 2020 11www.ndlc.org/springworkshop
For Elected and Appointed Officials
virtual spring workshop
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Spring Workshop has Gone Virtual
Based on the advice from the CDC to implement social distancing to minimize community
spread of the COVID-19 virus, the League staff has decided to cancel the on-site program for the
2020 Spring Workshop. But, we hope you will join us and participate in our virtual platform!
We have shortened the agenda to five sessions that will all take place on Tuesday, April 14 as
webinars. The fee for the virtual workshop is $100.
Participating in our virtual workshop is easy! All you need is a computer with an internet
connection and turn up the audio. You will be able to ask questions throughout the session
within a chat box. All attendees will receive a link to the recording of each session to view later if
needed. All attendees will receive participation information by email.
There is no need to register if you previously registered for our on-site Spring Workshop. Price
adjustments will be made to your registration. If you’d like to cancel your existing registration,
please do so by emailing Chelsey at chelsey@ndlc.org by April 6. No phone calls for cancellations
will be accepted.
Please contact Chelsey at chelsey@ndlc.org with any questions.
2020 Spring Workshop Sponsors!
Register Today! www.ndlc.org/springworkshop
12
12 CITYScan
CITYScan| |April/May
April/May2020
2020www.ndlc.org/springworkshop
The complexity of municipal government today can drive a person wild. Before you
feel the need to plead insanity, we can help. Join us for the 2020 Spring Workshop!
• Improve your leadership skills
• Gather informative ideas from other North Dakota cities
• Develop connections as you socialize with other city officials
• Attend software training Wednesday afternoon
• Celebrate the success of the Leadership Training graduates
Join us for our 2020 Virtual Spring Workshop (formerly March Madness)
Webinar Agenda – April 14th
9:30 a.m. and the beginning of Non-Response Follow Up (NRFU)
Sewer Backup Claims Operations. Kevin will also cover when to expect area
(Brennan Quintus, Chief Executive Officer, North Dakota population counts and supporting data to be released.
Insurance Reserve Fund and Scott Faehnrich, Outside Claims
Adjuster, North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund) 2:15 p.m.
Sewer backup claims are frequently reported to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving
NDIRF by cities. While there are several causes for these Funds
types of claims, such as a malfunctioning lift station (Shannon Fisher, P.E., Division of Municipal Facilities,
or blocked lines, the end result causes damage that is Manager, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program and
inconvenient, expensive and time consuming to repair. Elizabeth Tokach Duran, Division of Municipal Facilities,
Manager, Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program)
10:30 a.m. This presentation will include the nuts and bolts of
Vision West ND Planning & Zoning the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)
(Deb Nelson, ND Administrator, Vision West and Steve and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)
Josephson, Stark County Planner) programs.
This session will cover public notices required for
changing your planning and zoning ordinances, 3:15 p.m.
contents of a comprehensive plan, and a brief discussion Part-Time Employment
of conditional use/special use permits and variances. (Troy T. Seibel, Chief Deputy Attorney General, Office of
Attorney General)
1:00 p.m. This session will cover how cities should pay part-time
An Update on the 2020 Census Operations and What employees along with benefits, unemployment and
to Expect Next workforce safety. Troy will also give a review of the legal
(Kevin Iverson, Manager, Census Office) age of employees that may do things such as mowing,
Information will be provided on the current status of fertilizing and other tasks that may be considered
the 2020 Census, completion of the self-response effort hazardous or dangerous.
Leadership
Register Now! Leadership Training
Credits
Training
The virtual workshop registration fee is $100. Program
An Educational Program of the League
All cancellations must be sent to Chelsey at chelsey@ndlc.org. No Leadership Training Program
phone calls for cancellations will be accepted. The cancellation participants will receive 5 credits with their registration.
deadline is Monday, April 6. No refund will be given, and
Registration and additional information at:
outstanding invoices must be paid for cancellations after April 6.
www.ndlc.org/springworkshop
CITYScan | April/May 2020 13An Election Primer for 2020 – After the Election
(Part Four)
2020
With most cities holding city elections in conjunction with the state
primary election on June 9, 2020, the League will be running a
series of election-related articles. The goal of the series is to encourage
public service by providing information on the election process.
In the last article in this series on city elections we will look at
ELECTIONS
the question of publication of city governing board minutes that
must be on the ballot and we will examine what happens after
election day.
Election Question – Publication of Governing Board Notification of persons elected:
Minutes The city auditor, within five days after the result of an
Every four years, cities must put the question on the election is declared, shall notify each person elected. Within
ballot of whether the minutes of the governing body will be the same period of time, the city auditor shall also notify the
published in the city’s official newspaper. The next time this state supreme court of the election or appointment of any
question will be on the ballot is 2020. (NDCC 40-01-09.1) municipal judge or alternate judge. The best practice is to
This ballot question needs to be included with the notify elected candidates in writing and include a copy of the
candidate name information that is transmitted to the county oath of office with the notification. (NDCC 40-21-14)
auditor immediately after the filing deadline on April 6.
Tie vote:
Canvassing board meeting: In case of a tie vote for any municipal office, a recount must
June 15, 2020 – Canvassing board meets to canvass the be conducted pursuant to NDCC section 16.1-16-01. If the
primary election returns on the sixth day following the recount results in a tie vote, the choice must be determined
election. (NDCC 16.1-15-17) (The governing body of a city by a drawing of names in the presence of the governing body
shall enter into an agreement with the governing body of of the city in such manner as it directs. A candidate involved
the county concerning the use of a single canvassing board.) in a tie vote may withdraw in writing before the drawing.
(NDCC 40-21-02(3)) To withdraw his or her name, the candidate must sign a
statement to that effect in the presence of and witnessed by
Write-in candidates: the filing officer of the election. (NDCC 40-21-17)
All write-in votes are required to be counted in city
elections. (NDCC 16.1-12-02.2)
14 CITYScan | April/May 2020Oath of office:
Every person elected shall take the oath of office prescribed for civil officers and Envision an Idea...
shall file the oath with the city auditor within ten days after notice of election has
been given. (NDCC 40-13-03) The oath of office is available on the North Dakota
Secretary of State’s webpage at https://vip.sos.nd.gov/PortalListDetails.aspx?ptlhPKID=
29&ptlPKID=3#content-start.
Statement of interest – write-in candidate:
A write-in candidate shall file a statement of interest along with the oath. (NDCC Implement Solutions....
16.1-09-02)
Elected officials take office:
June 23, 2020 – Newly elected city commission and council members take office.
(NDCC 40-14-03, 40-15-03)
Organizational Meeting:
June 23, 2020 – Organizational meeting takes place in cities under the city council Deliver Results...
form of government. The mayor, with the approval of the city council, shall appoint
Understanding the
the following officers: city auditor, city attorney, city engineer, and such other officers
as the city council deems necessary. The city council, by a majority vote, may dispense needs of our local
with any appointive office and provide that the duties of that office be performed communities
by others. (NDCC 40-14-04) At the organization meeting, the members of the city
council shall elect a president and a vice president who shall hold their respective old ngineering, P.C.
offices until their successors are elected at the organization meeting following the next Consulting Engineers & Land Surveyors
biennial election. (NDCC 40-08-10 and 40-08-11)
First Meeting after City Election – Organization meeting in cities under the city
commission form of government. The board of city commissioners shall appoint
the following officers: a treasurer, an auditor, an attorney, one or more assessors, a
city health officer who shall be a physician, a street commissioner, a chief of the fire
department, a chief of police, one or more policemen, a city engineer, a board of
public works, and such other officers or boards as the board of city commissioner may
deem necessary. The board of city commissioners, by a majority vote, may dispense
with any appointive office and provide that the duties of that office be performed by
other officers, boards, or committees. (NDCC 40-15-05) At the organization meeting,
the commission shall elect a vice president who shall perform the duties of the
president in the absence or disability of the president. (NDCC 40-09-09)
NDLC 2020 Monday, June 29
Elected Official Williston
Workshops Wednesday, July 8
Bismarck
BOTTINEAU (701) 228-2292
MINOT (701) 852-0338
Watch CITYScan and our Wednesday, July 15
BISMARCK (701) 258-9227
Facebook page for more details. Fargo
EMAIL: wold@woldengr.com
CITYScan | April/May 2020 15Census 2020
Census Craziness Tournament
North Dakota League of Cities 3/12/2020 to Small but Mighty Bracket 3/12/2020 to
Census Craziness
3/26/2020 3/26/2020
Hazen 3/26/2020 to 3/26/2020 to Hazelton
Tournament 4/9/2020 4/9/2020
Velva Garrison
The North Dakota League 4/9/2020 to 4/9/2020 to
4/23/2020 4/23/2020
of Cities is hosting a friendly
competition between cities based
Carrington Ray
on 2020 Census self-response
rates. The response rates are 4/23/2020 to
5/7/2020
based on a percentage and will
Kenmare Spiritwood Lake
be updated on the US Census
Bureau’s webpage daily. The
contest will take place from March Bowman Turtle Lake
12 to May 9, 2020.
Getting an accurate Census
count is vital to North Dakota’s
Rolla Beach
future. It is estimated that every
person who is missed in the
counting results in a loss of Casselton
Thompson
$19,100 to cities. The tournament
is intended to increase city official
awareness about the Census and to Cooperstown Wing
encourage city officials to do what
they can to encourage citizens to Census Craziness Tournament
3/12/2020 to
respond to the Census. 3/12/2020 to
3/26/2020
Big City Bracket 3/26/2020
The competition will be bracket Watford City 3/26/2020 to West Fargo
3/26/2020 to
4/9/2020
style with each competition 4/9/2020
period covering two weeks. The
response rate on the last day of Mandan
4/9/2020 to 4/9/2020 to
Grand Forks
the two-week period will be used 4/23/2020 4/23/2020
to determine the winning city
that will move forward in the Bismarck
Lincoln
competition. The two winning
4/23/2020 to
cities will receive a pizza party at 5/7/2020
their city council/city commission Devils Lake Beulah
meeting and will be honored at
the League’s Annual Conference
in September. Make sure to visit
Wahpeton Fargo
www.ndlc.org to see the results
from each round.
All city residents should have
Williston Valley City
received their invitation to
participate in the 2020 Census by
April 1, 2020. Jamestown Grafton
Make sure to visit
www.ndlc.org/censuscraziness
to track tournament progress. Dickinson Minot
16 CITYScan | April/May 2020AARP Invites Applications for
2020 Community
Challenge Grant
Program to Help
Make Communities
Better for All Ages
Community Livability • Older adults play critical volunteer roles in your community.
One-quarter of all Americans age 65 or older live in small Find opportunities to engage older residents in your
towns and rural communities and the rural population is aging community planning.
at a faster rate than the nation’s population as a whole. As the • Health care in rural communities requires partnerships.
importance of ensuring that communities work for people of all Be willing to experiment with innovative solutions such as
ages becomes more evident across the United States, it’s critical telemedicine and collaborative care models.
for elected officials, local leaders, businesses and nonprofits to • A range of transportation choices are available in most rural
fully understand the issues, challenges and opportunities facing communities, but they could be enhanced through better
rural communities. coordination, communication and expansion.
While not unique to rural places, the challenges around • Many residents would welcome the opportunity to walk or
housing are particular pressing – whether they pertain to bike if there were safe routes and pathways. Explore ways to
affordability, availability of housing options, and/or the degree improve infrastructure and safety.
to which housing needs modifications to support aging in • Offer incentives to interest housing developers in building
place. “The overwhelming majority of rural seniors desire to age in small communities while also helping older residents “age
in place,” states the Housing Assistance Council in its report in place.”
“Housing an Aging Rural America: Rural Seniors and Their • Approach community members with questions and be
Homes. Unfortunately, aging in place can prove difficult in prepared to listen.
rural regions where spread-out geographies and a lack of public
As you engage in planning we encourage you to access the
transportation make accessing needed supportive services and
many resources available for free – in print or via download
amenities difficult. Home retrofits are often necessary for many
– at the aarp.org/livable homepage. In particular, the AARP
seniors as their homes may become less accessible as they age,
Roadmap to Livability Collection can will help identify
although these can be cost-prohibitive. Furthermore, seniors’
challenges and opportunities to improve livability and guide
incomes do not always match their housing costs, decreasing
you to take action. The collection includes six workbooks
their ability to remain in their homes.” Housing is but one of
with strategies and solutions to shape a plan on topics such as
several challenges facing rural residents – others include access to
housing, transportation, health services/community supports
transportation and health care and the importance of remaining
and economic development to help make your community more
socially connected.
livable for all.
Yet we know that rural places have many assets that can be
For more information visit AARP.org/LivabilityRoadmap
leveraged. People take pride in the community where they
live and can be engaged in locally-driven efforts to help make Content adapted from an article “Focusing on Rural Livability-
them great places to live, work, play and do business. Rural Residents and representatives of rural areas and small towns discuss
what livability looks like — and what it means — for older adults
communities are often characterized by a strong sense of and people of all ages in America’s nonurban communities” By Jay
independence and resourcefulness that can be mobilized to tackle Walljasper, AARP Livable Communities
new challenges.
As you think about ways to make your community a great
place for people of all ages to live now and into the future, here
are a few things to keep in mind.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 17NDLC 2020 Annual Conference ND Cares Community Program
Room Blocks
The NDLC 2020 Annual Conference has been scheduled for The ND Cares Community Program was created
September 24-26, 2020, at the Bismarck Event Center. Room as an important extension of the mission of North
Dakota Cares to strengthen an accessible, seamless
blocks are now available for reservations. network of support for service members, Veterans,
Room blocks are available at the hotels listed below from families and survivors.
Wednesday, Sept. 23 through Saturday, Sept. 26. When booking Establishing your community events, and
rooms, please refer to the League of Cities block to access the displaying your community sign, will demonstrate
rates quoted. The room block release date is listed for each hotel. your dedication to the heroes living in and
supporting your community.
Room rates will not be guaranteed at these rates after that date.
Ramkota Hotel • 701-258-7700 To purchase a sign for your community,
800 S 3rd St
$109 plus tax contact the ND Cares Community Program
Room block will be released September 1 at (701) 333-2015 or ndcares@nd.gov.
Radisson Hotel • 701-255-6000
605 E Broadway Ave
One Person - $86.40 plus tax
Two people - $95.10 plus tax
Room block will be released August 27
EverSpring Inn & Suites • 701-222-2900
200 E Bismarck EXPY
$84.60 plus tax
Room block will be released September 16
Expressway Suites • 701-222-3311
180 E Bismarck EXPY
Double Queen or King Suite - $86.40 plus tax
Providing Answers
to Your Complex
Municipal Issues
• Land use matters • Nuisance properties
& proceedings • Special assessments
• Creating zoning ordinances • Eminent domain, easement,
• Flood protection & right of way actions
• Financing improvements for
water, sewer, & street projects
(701) 282-3249 | 444 Sheyenne St, Ste 102 | West Fargo
18 CITYScan | April/May 2020Kids + Trees = Arbor Day!
Communities across North Dakota celebrate Arbor Day as grade students. Years later, the same students pose as high
a sure sign of Spring! school graduating seniors with the tree.
The state’s official designated Arbor Day is the first Watford City – In Watford City, students had a double treat!
Friday in May – but communities can celebrate Arbor Day First, they watched as a large pine tree was transplanted with a
whenever it is best for them. Cities with Tree City USA tree spade at the RV Campground. The celebration had a sweet
designation (more than fifty across the state!) must declare an ending with special Arbor Day cookies.
annual Arbor Day event. Williston – An annual poster contest with Williston 4th
Communities celebrate Arbor Day on different days and Graders gets students involved. On Arbor Day, the tree board
in different ways. From Wahpeton to Williston, many events announces poster winners and prizes are distributed. During
include students and young children - a great way to inspire the annual Band Day parade, the poster winners walk alongside
tree planting and stewardship in our youngest generation. the city’s Tree Float and toss candy to parade-watchers.
Wahpeton – Students get a hands-on lesson in Wahpeton, The North Dakota Forest Service administers the Tree City
where Parks Director Wayne Beyer demonstrates the USA program in North Dakota.
proper way to plant a tree. A favorite Arbor Day location is Contact: Gerri Makay, Community Forestry Program Manager
Chahinkapa Zoo, where kids and critters alike enjoy trees! at Gerri.Makay@ndsu.edu or 701-652-2951 For information
Langdon – Cavalier County SCD organizes this annual on the Tree City USA program, see the Arbor Day Foundation
event in Langdon featuring music, tree poetry and tree website, www.arborday.org
seedlings distributed to students. Each year, there is a special
award to recognize a community resident or civic group for
volunteer and leadership efforts.
Northwood – In August 2007, an F4 Tornado destroyed
trees and buildings in Northwood - including the school.
The resilient community has rebuilt the town and is home
to a new, state-of-the-art school. Every spring, Mr. Bilden’s
4th grade class plants an Arbor Day tree on the new school
grounds.
Carrington – Foster County SCD has established a long-
standing tradition of planting a tree in the park with 1st
How is your
y c e l e b r a t i ng
communit
r D a y 2 0 2 0?
Arb o
CITYScan | April/May 2020 19IS YOUR BUDGE T BEING
STRETCHED TO THE LIMIT?
THE STATE CAN HELP YOU
AFFORD WHAT YOU NEED.
S AV E T I M E & M O N E Y W I T H STAT E S U R P L U S P R O P E R T Y
& STAT E C O O P E R AT I V E P U R C H AS I N G C O N T R AC TS !
•Computers •Computers/Technology
•Copiers/Multifunctional Devices •Office Equipment & Furniture
•Software •Cold Weather Gear
•Vehicles •Rescue Vehicles
•Paper & Paper Products •Law Enforcement Equipment
•Janitorial Products & Trash Bags •Mechanical Equipment
•Batteries •Utility Vehicles
•Food •Road Maintenance Machinery
•IT Consulting •Tools
•Government Credit Card •First Aid Gear
7 01 . 3 2 8 . 274 0 • I N F O S P O @ N D . G O V 1278 H E M LO C K ST. # 12 • B ISM A R C K , N D
ND.GOV/OMB/CONTRACTS 7 01 . 3 2 8 . 9 6 6 5 • S U R P L U S @ N D . G O V
ND.GOV/SURPLUS
20 CITYScan | April/May 2020Purchasing Pulse
Procurement Strategy: Invitation for Bids versus Request for Proposals
By: Sherry Neas, Central Services Director, Office of Management and Budget
Government Request for Proposal
entities purchase Process
a mix of goods A competitive Request
and services to for Proposal (RFP) process
accomplish their awards a contract to a
public service bidder whose response is
missions. Some determined to be the “best
purchases are simple; value” based upon the
others are more stated evaluation criteria.
complex. Developing RFPs are appropriate
a procurement when there are differences
strategy for each between offered goods
situation is necessary and services. They include
to ensure the right an evaluation process to
information is determine which proposal
obtained to make good purchasing decisions. best meets the needs of the government entity.
Here is an example of the RFP process: Your entity needs a
Competitive Bidding Process consultant to conduct a study. The RFP describes the work that
A competitive bidding process awards a contract to a bidder needs to be done and invites companies to submit proposals
whose response meets all the specifications and requirements describing how their company would accomplish the work, who
stated in the bid document and has the lowest price. would perform the work, and the proposed cost. The proposals
You should use a bidding process when purchasing are evaluated against these criteria, and the proposal receiving the
commercially available goods, equipment and non-professional highest number of points is awarded the contract.
services. Specifications should describe what is needed and RFP evaluation criteria usually measures all the following:
any minimum qualifications of the vendor. Bids received are • How: The quality of the proposed strategy for doing the
evaluated against those specifications. If an offered product work.
or service does not meet specifications, then the bid must be • Who: Experience and qualifications of the company and
rejected. The contract is awarded to the ‘low bidder meeting individuals proposed to do the work (WHO).
specifications.’ No consideration is given to products offered that • Cost.
exceed requirements.
Here is an example of the competitive bidding process: Open Records
Your entity needs to purchase a payloader. Market research Bids and proposals are treated differently regarding open
is conducted to write specifications that could be met by records and confidentiality under N.D.C.C. § 44-04-18.4 (6).
companies that manufacture similar payloaders. Bids are received Generally, bids become open records upon opening by the public
from companies describing their payloader and the price. The entity. Proposals are exempt from open records until a notice of
buyer checks to ensure the offered payloaders meet the required intent to award is issued. Consult your legal counsel regarding
specifications. Award is made to the company that is offering a your entity’s authority to conduct competitive bids versus
payloader meets all requirements and has the lowest price. competitive proposal process, open records and confidentiality.
Cooperative purchasing from state contracts is a great way to save
time and money. Check it out online at www.nd.gov/omb/public/
cooperative-purchasing.
CITYScan | April/May 2020 21This column is dedicated to the achievements of
city officials across our state. Send your stories to
Chelsey Benson at chelsey@ndlc.org.
Applause, Applause
Several North Dakota Communities Receive
Grants to Further Activity and Wellness
A number of North Dakota communities received 2020-2021 health needs while raising awareness for the need for all ages to
grants from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring engage in more daily physical activity and overall wellness.
Foundation Rural Health Grant Program. The purpose of the The grants primary focus areas are activities, supplies, programs,
program is to serve and show benefit to North Dakotans and their and events that support activity and wellness for all ages.
Grant Awardees
• Southwest Healthcare Services in Bowman is classes per month throughout the year will be taught in their
implementing “Step It Up,” an employee wellness event respective certification areas at the Hettinger Armory.
using fitness trackers to encourage friendly competition • Emmons County Public Health in Linton will institute
among departments on steps walked throughout the month. “Stepping On,” a workshop designed for people 65 years of
• CHI St. Alexius Health in Carrington is offering a weekly age and older who may have had a fall in the past year, have
book club based on the book Intuitive Eating to teach staff a fear of falling, live in their own residence, and do not have
tools for mindful eating. To promote physical activity, a step dementia. The seven-week program will have guest speakers
mill will also be purchased for the facility. from various healthcare and public safety professions provide
• Luke’s Medical Center in Crosby will host a 5k fun run/ information and instruction relating to their profession on
walk fundraising event. Proceeds will go toward skating and how to prevent falls.
hockey equipment for the Blue Line Club and Start a Fire • Nelson County Health System in McVille will start an
Youth Organization. Two events on skiing and building employee nutritional education initiative to provide staff
physical strength also will be held. with nutritional information and healthy meal examples,
• Unity Medical Center in Grafton is starting a wellness including why choosing healthier foods makes a difference
program. The program will include Lunch & Learns at the in their health.
hospital, culinary medicine classes for staff and the public • Presentation Medical Center in Rolla will fund a series
along with a demonstration booth at the local supermarket, of six 5k runs for the community to help combat climbing
and a physical therapy gym open to staff during hours that obesity rates.
are not utilized by patients. • Sargent County District Health Unit in Forman will buy
• West River Health Services in Hettinger will use funds to a rowing machine for the Sargent Central Public School’s
train and certify six community members to become fitness Community Wellness Center.
instructors – three for YogaFIT and three through the online • Mountrail County Medical Center in Stanley will buy
American Council on Exercise Group Fitness program. Two playground equipment for Stanley Elementary School.
22 CITYScan | April/May 2020You can also read
