Public Meetings - Mandan, North Dakota

The Mandan City Commission met on July 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Ed Bosch Frelick meeting room at Mandan City Hall. Mayor Frelick presided, with Commissioners Bolavik, Schoberg, Heinshon, Braun, and Mayor Frelick present. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by new City Commissioner Heidi Bolavik, followed by construction project updates, approval of minutes and consent agenda, and adoption of a revised change order policy. Construction Project Updates - Memorial Highway (East Half): Nearing completion; all lanes open. Punchlist items and landscaping ongoing. - Memorial Highway (West Half): Completed removal on eastbound lane; storm sewer work near Third Avenue ongoing with no traffic impact. - Terra Valley Decommissioning: Old lift station officially offline; gravity line now in service. - First Street Reconstruction: Phase one wrapping up; phase two paving starting soon. Intersection of 5th and First left unpaved temporarily. Segment three removal begun early to maintain schedule. - Water and Sewer 65 (Lewis and Clark Elementary): Nearing substantial completion; manhole rehabilitations expected by end of month. - Project 3A, SID 241 (Red Trail Elementary): Concrete work finishing; subgrade preparation in Pollock Court area done; fog and chip seals planned; expected completion mid-August. - Collins Reservoir: Substantially complete; punchlist items being addressed; seeding, irrigation, and lighting installed. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Heinshon, second by Commissioner Bolavik; roll call: all yes). - Minutes Approval – July 7, 2026 Regular Meeting: Approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Bolavik, second by Commissioner Schoberg; roll call: all yes). - Minutes Approval – July 10, 2026 Special Meeting: Approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinshon; roll call: all yes). - Consent Agenda (Items 1-7): Approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Heinshon, second by Commissioner Schoberg; roll call: all yes). No items were removed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received online or in writing. Discussion Items - Updated Change Order Policy (Engineering Department): City Engineer Riley presented a revised policy to replace the 2009 version. The new policy introduces a percentage-based cumulative cap on change orders that can be approved administratively (by the engineer) without commission approval. The caps: 5% for projects up to $1M, 4% for $1M–$2.5M, 3% for projects over $2.5M, with a statutory maximum of 20% on any change order. Previously, the administrative limit was a flat $25,000 regardless of project size, which was deemed too restrictive for large projects and too permissive for small ones. Riley clarified that cumulative change orders cannot exceed the percentage cap; the dollar amounts in the packet were informational. A commissioner asked about tracking cumulative totals: Riley stated that internal tracking will be used, and the finance department can assist. Discussion included adding a requirement to report change orders to the commissioner portfolio holder. No formal amendment was made, but the commission appeared receptive. Key Outcomes - The revised change order policy was adopted unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Bolavik; roll call: all yes). - Future meeting dates were announced: August 4, 2026; August 18, 2026; September 1, 2026, all at 5:30 PM. - Meeting adjourned.

This was a special meeting of the Mandan City Commission held on July 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Dykshorn Conference Room at Mandan City Hall. The sole agenda item was an emergency roof replacement for city hall due to persistent leaks from recent heavy rain. The commission unanimously approved an emergency declaration to expedite the project. Agenda Approval - The commission approved the agenda by a unanimous roll-call vote (5-0), with a motion by Commissioner Brown and a second by Commissioner Schoberg. Emergency Roof Replacement - Mr. Newbauer presented the need for an emergency roof replacement, citing a heavy downpour on July 7 (Tuesday) that caused leaks in the finance office and upstairs workstations, threatening computers and equipment. Previous patch repairs have failed, and there is no remaining surface to patch. - Two estimates from Twin City Roofing were obtained earlier in the summer: the lower roof estimate is $157,339 and the upper roof estimate is $91,566, totaling approximately $248,905 (roughly $250,000). An independent consultant reviewed the estimates and found them reasonable. - The scope of work includes removing existing roofing down to insulation, replacing insulation, installing a high-density recovery board and a rubber roof system, and ensuring proper drainage. No structural decking replacement is anticipated unless discovered during work, but if needed, it would be addressed as a change order. - Commissioners discussed the urgency due to ongoing leaks in occupied offices and the risk of snow load this winter. The building may be refurbished or replaced in 3–7 years, but immediate roof repair is necessary to protect assets. - Motion by Commissioner Schoberg, seconded by Commissioner Belovick, to approve an emergency declaration for the roof replacement. The commission voted unanimously (5-0) in favor. Key Outcomes - Emergency Declaration Approved: The commission declared an emergency for the city hall roof replacement, allowing the city to proceed without standard bidding delays. - Next Steps: The city will move forward with Twin City Roofing to begin necessary preparations and the roof replacement project. - Future Meeting Dates: The next regular commission meetings are scheduled for July 21, 2026 (5:30 p.m.), August 4, 2026 (5:30 p.m.), and August 18, 2026 (5:30 p.m.). - Meeting adjourned.

The Mandan City Commission met on July 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Ed Bosch Frelec meeting room at Mandan City Hall. The meeting included construction updates, employee anniversary recognitions, a recap of the Fourth of July celebrations, approval of a consent agenda with two items pulled for discussion, a bid award for reservoir coating, a task order for Riverwood Avenue design, a preliminary engineering agreement for the wastewater treatment facility expansion, authorization to advertise bids for a landfill cell excavation, and a second reading of a zone change ordinance. The commission also voted to enter executive session to discuss contract negotiation strategies. Announcements & Reports - Construction Updates (Jared Johnson, Public Works): Johnson reported on multiple projects: the 14th Street/Collins Avenue intersection conversion to two-way, now under evaluation with a possible extension due to a water line replacement project near Eagles Park; the Terra Valley Decommissioning project with a sewer main tie-in on 8th Avenue Northwest this week; Memorial Highway Phase 1 (east half) nearing completion with final pavement markings and punch list items, and Phase 2 (west half) with work shifting to the south side of Main Street and underground utility work on the south side of the roadway through mid-to-late August; the First Street downtown improvement project with phases 1 and 2 underway; Water and Sewer District 65 near Lewis and Clark nearing substantial completion with remaining landscaping and a final walkthrough; and Street Improvement District 241 near Red Trail Elementary where ADA ramps are being poured and reclamation operations completed this week. A QR code was shared for the city's project landing page (cityofmandan.com/projects). - Quarterly Employee Anniversary Recognition (Burger): 14 employees were recognized for service milestones (3, 5, 10, 15, 20 years). Four absent employees were acknowledged by name, and ten present employees received certificates. - Fourth of July Festivities Recap (Matt Shannon): Shannon reported record-breaking attendance. Art in the Park on July 3 drew an estimated 8,000–10,000 people. The Pyro Musical fireworks show on July 3 featured a 700-foot-wide shoot site with 37 fireballs (400 gallons of gas) and an estimated 5,000 on-site viewers plus 4,000–5,000 in the periphery. The July 4 parade had over 100 entries and an estimated 50,000 attendees. The road race had 990 registered runners, breaking the previous record of 711. Two large flags (U.S. and North Dakota) were debuted. Shannon thanked the property owner (Dr. Belage), Mandan Public Schools, Mandan PD, Fire Department, Public Works, Morton County Emergency Management, Metro Ambulance, city employees, and the commission for their support. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Heinschan, second by Commissioner Brown. Unanimously approved. - Approval of Minutes: Three sets of minutes were approved unanimously: - June 16, 2026 Board of City Commission meeting - June 30, 2026 Board of City Commission potential quorum meeting - June 30, 2026 Board of City Commission special meeting - July 6, 2026 Board of City Commission special meeting - Consent Agenda (Items 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11): Motion by Commissioner Heinschan, second by Commissioner Brown. Approved unanimously. Items 2 and 9 were pulled for separate discussion. Discussion Items - Item 2: Change Orders 1 & 2 for First Street Reconstruction Project (Riley): Unexpected clay tile pipe was discovered instead of PVC, requiring difficult removal and manhole modification. The net cost increase was approximately $33,000. The DOT granted a 2-day extension (not the requested 10 days). Motion to approve by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Brown. Unanimously approved. - Item 9: Task Order with HDR for Design of Riverwood Avenue Southeast (Riley): The project would coordinate with the Memorial Highway project to avoid future disruptions. Business owners expressed support. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) was not included due to out-of-state mobilization costs, but the option to add it later was discussed. Motion to approve by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinschan. Unanimously approved. - New Business – Engineering Service Agreement with AE2S for Wastewater Treatment Facility Project (Jared Johnson and Zach Ranisate): Ranisate presented the project background: population growth has exceeded biological capacity (by 2035, projections were exceeded by 35%), lack of redundancy in the clarifier (not shut down since 1997), and odor issues. The project will build a new liquids and solids treatment train, with a total project cost of $120 million. The preliminary engineering agreement is for $1.855 million. The project schedule: preliminary design through end of 2026, final design in 2027, construction Q1 2028 – Q3 2030, and startup by Q2 2031. Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) will provide cost estimates at 30%, 60%, and 90% design, and a guaranteed maximum price. Motion to approve by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Bolovic. Unanimously approved. - New Business – Authorization to Advertise Bids for Landfill Cell Excavation Project (Shane O'Keefe): The proposed new cell is 275 ft long, 150 ft wide, and 30 ft deep, requiring excavation of 65,000 cubic yards. Estimated cost is $325,000. The project is needed to maintain disposal capacity and comply with ND Department of Environmental Quality regulations. The authorization is only to advertise for bids; final award will come after bids are received. Motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Brown. Unanimously approved. - Resolution & Ordinances – Second Consideration of Ordinance 1485 (Zone Change): Jordan presented the zone change for the old school district property, changing portions to R7 (single-family), R3.2 (two-family), CA (commercial), and CC (commercial). Only comment received was that the grass looks nice. She thanked citizens for their patience during the project. Motion to approve by Commissioner Brown, second by Commissioner Schoberg. Unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Votes and Decisions: - Agenda and minutes approved unanimously. - Consent agenda (minus items 2 and 9) approved unanimously. - Bid award for South Side Reservoir Coating Project to Car Coatings LLC for $163,450, with a budget amendment of $37,450, approved unanimously. - Change orders 1 & 2 for First Street Reconstruction Project approved unanimously. - Task order with HDR for Riverwood Avenue design approved unanimously. - Preliminary engineering agreement with AE2S for wastewater treatment facility expansion approved unanimously. - Authorization to advertise bids for landfill cell excavation project approved unanimously. - Ordinance 1485 (zone change) approved on second reading unanimously. - Executive Session: The commission voted to enter executive session at 6:23 p.m. to discuss contract negotiation strategies for a specific parcel (lot J of SW quarter SW quarter, etc.). The session was recorded, and no final action was taken in the open meeting after reconvening (the meeting adjourned without further open action recorded).

The meeting was called to order with commissioners present. The chair reordered the agenda to address other business first, followed by public hearings. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from May 27, 2026 meeting: Motion by Commissioner Renner, second by Commissioner McLean, passed unanimously on roll call vote. Other Business - Zoning Code Updates: Jordan presented an update on the comprehensive zoning code rewrite. The public hearing for the proposed zoning code updates is scheduled for July 27, 2026, during the regular P&Z meeting. The draft documents are available on the City of Mandan website. Staff will provide a summary of frequently asked questions in the coming weeks. Commissioner Renner requested a version with track changes; staff will look into providing one. The commission acknowledged that the process will continue to the City Commission after P&Z recommendation. Public Hearings Item 1: Final Plat – School District Eighth Edition - Dave and Jordan presented the final plat for 27.84 acres into four blocks with eight lots. Access via 9th Street NW and 9th Avenue NW. Right-of-way widths noted. A roundabout is planned at the intersection but not yet constructed. The plat meets technical requirements and is consistent with the comprehensive plan. Abe Allmer (surveyor) confirmed the school district intends to sell the property. No public comments. Motion to approve by Commissioner McLean, second by Commissioner Mutter, passed unanimously on roll call vote. Item 2: Final Plat and Special Use Permit Amendment – Lakewood Commercial Park 7th Edition - Jordan presented the final plat of 2.9 acres into six lots, and an amendment to an existing special use permit to include a newly acquired city lot. The special use permit amendment is for the same use (condo shops). Commissioner Mutter asked about snow removal; Jordan confirmed a plan with engineering. Line Nimler (Swenson Hagen) explained the replat includes deeding parts of the city lot to adjacent homeowners for sheds and landscaping. Motion to approve contingent on final documents for condominium declaration, easements, covenants, restrictions, and bylaws. Motion by Commissioner McLean, second by Commissioner Hammond, passed unanimously on roll call vote. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of May 27, 2026. - Noted July 27, 2026 public hearing for zoning code updates. - Approved final plat for School District Eighth Edition (unanimous). - Approved final plat and amended special use permit for Lakewood Commercial Park 7th Edition, contingent on final documents (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned.

The Mandan City Commission met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Bosch Frelec Meeting Room at Mandan City Hall. Commissioners Rohr, Schoberg, Heinchan, and Mayor Frelick were present. The meeting included updates on infrastructure projects, a public hearing on a proposed subdivision plat, approval of special event permits, a salary study presentation, and recognition of Commissioner Dennis Rohr's 16 years of service. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved after removing items for separate discussion: Item 6A (Silver Dollar 4th of July Street Dance), Item 6D (Last Call Bar Street Dance and Beer Garden), and Item 2 (Memorial Highway Change Orders 39 and 40). Public Comments & Testimony - Keitel South Heart Terrace 5th Edition Plat: Abe Almer (independent land surveying) and Will Gardner (realtor for buyer) spoke against the requirement for an eastern access easement. They argued the access was not needed based on prior approvals, the cost and grade of a potential road, and that the neighbor (Clover Grove) was the one requiring secondary access. They requested approval of the plat as presented. Discussion Items - Infrastructure Updates: City Engineer Jarek presented statuses: Memorial Highway Phase 1 expected substantial completion within three weeks; Phase 2 work active at East Main Street. First Street reconstruction progressing, Collins Avenue Reservoir nearing completion, downtown concrete work completed at 60 locations, Lewis & Clark water main paving nearing completion, and Red Trail Elementary mine and blend operations underway. - Buggies & Blues Recap: Matt (MPO) reported record attendance of 30,000–35,000 for the car show and over 500 vehicles. The event was safe with no incidents. - 4th of July Events: Matt previewed the Pyro Musical fireworks show on July 3rd at 10:30 PM near Mandan Middle School, featuring over 5,000 shots, a 140-foot suspended wheel, and a skydive. The parade on July 4th is full with 76 floats and special entries. Estimated crowds: 40,000–50,000 for July 4th and 12,000–15,000 for the fireworks. - Safety Planning: Captain Pat Haug reported successful use of 32 archer barriers at Buggies & Blues. For July 3rd and 4th, additional security features include buses blocking avenues, foot patrols, electric bicycles, UTVs, and a new vehicle incursion control point at 10th Avenue and Main Street. - Salary Study: Condre Associates presented results showing Mandan at 90% of labor market. Three pay plans were offered: Plan A (102.5% of market, cost $570,754), Plan B (100%, cost $396,903), and Plan C (97.5%, cost $242,443). City Administrator Amy recommended Plan C plus equity adjustments (up to 4% for longer-tenured employees) and a minimum 3.5% increase for all employees to match the Employment Cost Index. A compensation market alignment policy was also proposed. - Emergency Water Main Replacement: Public Works Director Shane O'Keefe requested emergency declaration for a deteriorated water main on 14th Street NE and Collins Avenue, with multiple failures and three commercial customers on temporary service. The project would use jack and bore to replace 500 feet of 8-inch pipe at standard depth. - Special Event Permit Moratorium: Commissioner Heinchan proposed a moratorium on new applications for special event permits that include alcohol on public property, pending formation of a committee to evaluate safety and consistency. A motion passed to create the committee and pause new alcohol-related applications until the committee meets. - Ordinance 1487: Second consideration to amend traffic penalties (doubling fines) was approved with no public comments. Key Outcomes - Keitel South Heart Terrace 5th Edition Plat: Motion to deny the preliminary plat, zone change, and development agreement as presented (due to lack of eastern access easement). Passed 4–0. - Memorial Highway Change Orders 39 and 40: Approved (increase of $40,000, net change order savings $475,000). Passed 4–0. - Silver Dollar 4th of July Street Dance: Special event permit approved with condition requiring a physical barrier (e.g., Jersey barriers) on Main Street. Passed 4–0. - Last Call Bar Street Dance and Beer Garden: Special event permit approved for June 26, 2026, for McQuaid's Softball Weekend, with awareness of updated police hourly rate ($75) and garbage coordination. Passed 4–0. - Salary Study: Three motions approved: 1. Adoption of Salary Plan C (97.5% of market) with open range, effective first pay period of 2027 (December 27, 2026). Passed 4–0. 2. Minimum employee increase of 3.5% for 2027 based on Employment Cost Index. Passed 4–0. 3. Approval of Compensation Market Alignment Policy for future guidance. Passed 4–0. - Emergency Water Main Replacement: Declared emergency and approved proceeding with replacement. Passed 4–0. - Moratorium on Alcohol-Related Event Permits: Motion passed to task Administrator Neubauer with forming a committee and pausing new applications until the committee meets. Passed 4–0. - Ordinance 1487 (Traffic Penalties): Approved on second reading. Passed 4–0. - Recognition: Commissioner Dennis Rohr was honored for 16 years of commission service and 37 total years with the City of Mandan.

The Mandan City Commission met on June 2, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Bosch Frelik meeting room at Mandan City Hall. The meeting covered construction project updates, a presentation on the upcoming Buggies and Blues event, community cleanup month results, and several new business items including special use permits and approvals for infrastructure projects. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda with a motion by Commissioner Brown and a second by Commissioner Schoberg (unanimous roll call). - Approved the minutes of the May 19, 2026, Board of City Commission meeting (unanimous roll call). - Approved the consent agenda as published (unanimous roll call). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were submitted. Announcements & Presentations - Construction Project Updates (Jerick, Engineering): - Memorial Highway: Phase 1 (west half, Northern Improvement) and Phase 2 (east half, Reedy Construction) ongoing. Traffic shift for median and turn lane paving; 43rd Avenue reopened; 40th Avenue Southeast closure planned June 4th for utility conflicts. Project on schedule for early July completion. - First Street Reconstruction: Phase 2 water main work, storm sewer, and sanitary sewer installation. Phased approach aims to have Phase 5 open by July 4th; Phase 4 may also remain open. - Collins Avenue Reservoir: Site grading restoration, painting, and cleanup ongoing. Fence to be reinstalled. - 8th Avenue Northwest/27th Street: Approximately 60% complete on 60 identified locations. A second public input meeting is scheduled for June 25th, 2026, 6-7:30 p.m. at Mandan High School. - Water and Sewer District 65 (near Lewis and Clark Elementary): Milling completed; overlay, sanitary sewer lining, and restoration planned. - SID 241 (near Red Trail Elementary): Concrete crews working eastward; roadway patching ahead of milling and overlay. - Buggies and Blues Event (Tristan, Mandan Progress Organization): - 33rd annual event, June 12-14, 2026. Expected 35,000 attendees. - Friday (June 12) kickoff at 4 p.m. with Randy James Band and Shirts and Skin; Saturday (June 13) block party from 6:30-11 p.m. with bands including Dream Boats and Pork Tornadoes (Iowa-based, 9 million YouTube views). - New collaboration: Hot Rods and Hamburgers at Dakota Customs on Friday (5-8 p.m.). - Sunday (June 14): Classic car show (11 a.m.-4 p.m.), plus Planes and Pancakes at Mandan Regional Airport (8 a.m.-noon, free will donation). - Fireworks show (Prairie Pyro Musical) on July 3rd at 10:30 p.m., located north of Mandan Middle School, seating for at least 17,000, free. - Community Cleanup Month (Kerry): - Over 140 volunteers cleaned 17 routes in Mandan. Door prizes donated by 18 local businesses (listed). - New Employee Introduction (Jerick): - Megan Kloninger, summer intern in Engineering, introduced. She recently graduated in civil engineering and will pursue a master's degree in environmental engineering. - Congratulations: - Mayor recognized the Mandan Girls Soccer team for an undefeated WDA regular season and second-place state finish. Coach Aaron Maclee was Coach of the Year; Sarah Helderop scored over 100 goals, a state record. Discussion Items - Special Use Permit – Propane Storage (2264 Sunny Road South): - Proposed for two 30,000 gallon propane tanks in an existing truck yard on a 21-acre site zoned C-B (commercial). Located in the Extended Territorial Area (ETA). No comments from adjacent property owners; Planning and Zoning Commission recommended unanimous approval on May 27, 2026. - Motion: Commissioner Schoberg moved to approve; second by Commissioner Heinshawn. Approved unanimously. - Special Use Permit – Event Venue (210 Fifth Avenue NW): - Former church to be used for weddings and events. Located in Downtown Fringe district, largely residential area. Parking includes on-street and off-street stalls; applicant provides parking maps. Alcohol will be served (beer/wine license), requiring private security per Chief Ziegler. 99 adjacent property owners notified; several opposed at Planning and Zoning due to parking, noise, and smoking concerns. Planning and Zoning recommended approval (all but one commissioner in favor). - Motion: Commissioner Schoberg moved to approve; second by Commissioner Heinshawn. Approved unanimously. - Master Lift Station Interim Improvement Project (Project 2026-20): - Replaces aging dual 60-inch asbestos cement pipes with a single 20-inch PVC pipe. Includes pump and electrical upgrades. Engineer Apex Engineering completed plans; bids to be advertised, opened later in June. Army Corps of Engineers permit pending; award expected in November 2026 with construction in 2027. Rationale: existing pipes are brittle and prone to failure (e.g., January 2025 failure in -20°F weather). - Motion: Commissioner Braun moved to approve plans/specs and authorize advertisement for bids; second by Commissioner Schoberg. Approved unanimously. - Task Order with AE2S – Raw Water Intake Study: - Addresses sandbar migration issues at the raw water intake. Study includes data gathering, river modeling, and recommendations for modifications. Cost: $225,000, split 50/50 with Marathon; funded through existing SRF loan for the raw water intake project. - Motion: Commissioner Braun moved to approve Task Order No. 17; second by Commissioner Heinshawn. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 1486 – Alarm Systems (Second Consideration): - Cleanup ordinance; only change was adding effective date of January 1, 2026. No public comments. - Motion: Commissioner Heinshawn moved to approve; second by Commissioner Rohr. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 1487 – Traffic Penalties (First Consideration): - Restores doubling of fines for most traffic violations except speeding, after an unintended removal due to a state law change. - Motion: Commissioner Braun moved to approve first consideration; second by Commissioner Schoberg. Approved unanimously. - Street Improvement District 244 – 8th Avenue/27th Street Phase 2 (Project 2026-15): - Reconstruction of 8th Avenue NW from 24th Street to 27th Street, and 27th Street from 8th Avenue NW to 1806, plus patching and chip sealing in adjacent areas. Total project cost estimate $6.7 million: $4 million from federal urban roads program, $200,000 from federal transportation alternatives grant, $435,000 from city utility funds, remainder from a 2% low-interest loan backed by special assessments. Non-adjacent lot assessment approximately $2,500. Project dependent on timely use of grants; if not obligated, funds may be redistributed. Engineering report and feasibility report approved. - Motion: Commissioner Heinshawn moved to approve all four resolutions (creating district, engineer's report, feasibility report, resolution of necessity); second by Commissioner Rohr. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Four unanimous approvals of special use permits, project plans, and task orders. - Two ordinances approved (one final, one first reading). - Street Improvement District 244 officially created, with a public input meeting scheduled June 25th and a protest period to follow. - Commissioner Rohr's last meeting will be June 16, 2026; future meetings set for July 7 and July 21, 2026. - The meeting adjourned with a reminder to vote in the upcoming June 9th city fire department election and June 10th rural fire protection district election.

The Mandan Planning and Zoning Commission met on May 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM to consider three agenda items: a special use permit for propane storage, a special use permit for an event venue, and a preliminary plat and zone change for a subdivision. The meeting included public hearings on all items, and the commission approved two permits and approved the plat with conditions. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the April 27, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (Event Venue): Multiple residents spoke in opposition, citing concerns about parking, noise, odors, and traffic in the residential area. Speakers included Kevin (lives within 300 feet), Heather Hoover, Donna Frelick, and others. The applicant, Cassandra (owner of a similar venue), spoke in support, emphasizing family-friendly events and plans to manage parking. - Item 3 (Subdivision): Several residents and a real estate agent spoke. Renee Lafferty (resident at 222 Cobblestone Loop) questioned the need for connectivity and financial impact. Justin Gloser supported the developer. The developer, Mike Liffrig (board member of Montessori nonprofit), argued against the connectivity requirement, stating it would harm the project's feasibility. Discussion Items - Item 1: Special Use Permit for Propane Storage (Lot 1, Block 1, Vic Flex Subdivision, 2264 Sunny Road South) - Rachel presented the request for two 30,000-gallon propane tanks at an existing truck yard. The site is zoned CB (business commercial) and designated as rural residential in the future land use plan, but staff noted downzoning is unlikely. No public comment was received. Staff recommended approval. - Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Item 2: Special Use Permit for Event Venue (Lot 12, Block 18, Mandan Proper, 210 Fifth Avenue Northwest) - Rachel presented the request to use a former church as a wedding and event venue. The property is zoned Downtown Fringe. Concerns about parking were addressed by city engineering (Dustin Sins and Riley Macurazer) who provided data from a parking utilization study showing low usage on nearby streets. The applicant (Cassandra) stated hours of operation would end by midnight and alcohol might be served. Two opposition letters were received. - Discussion: Commissioners acknowledged the history of event venues in the area (Elks Club, Eagles Club) and the need to avoid having an empty building. Commissioner Huber expressed concern about occupancy of 150 in a residential area but eventually supported the motion. - Motion to approve passed 10-1 (Commissioner Renner voted no). - Item 3: Preliminary Plat and Zone Change for Keitel's South Heart Terrace Fifth Edition (tabled from April 27) - Rachel recapped the issue: city staff requested preservation of a right-of-way for eastward connectivity to a potential future subdivision, citing fire response and long-term planning. The applicant proposed alternative with Fourth Avenue access south. - Debate: City staff (Mitch, Riley) explained that preserving the right-of-way is necessary for future development and fire safety. The applicant (Mike Liffrig) argued that the road would destroy the best view lots and cost $1-1.5 million, which donors would not fund. He proposed extending Fourth Avenue south instead. Residents (Renee Lafferty, Justin Gloser) opposed the easement, citing potential special assessments and lack of need. - After extensive discussion, Commissioner Smith moved to approve the plat contingent on an amendment to provide access to the south off of Fourth Avenue. The motion passed 9-2 (Mayor Frelick and Commissioner Hammond voted no). Key Outcomes - Item 1: Approved unanimously. - Item 2: Approved 10-1. - Item 3: Approved with condition to amend plat to include south access via Fourth Avenue. The amended plat will go to the City Commission.

The Mandan Board of City Commission met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Bosch Frelick meeting room at Mandan City Hall. All commissioners (Heinchan, Braun, Roar, Schilberg) and Mayor Frelick were present. The meeting covered construction updates, public hearings, a bid rejection, the police department's 2025 annual statistical report, and first consideration of an arm ordinance. Consent Calendar - The agenda, minutes of May 5, 2026, and the consent agenda were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the public comment period. - Two public hearings were held (preliminary plat for Lakewood Commercial Park 7th edition and preliminary plat/zone change for Schoool District 8th edition); no testimony was given. Discussion Items Construction Project Updates (Jerek) - Memoral Highway: two phases, paving on east half, intersection work at 43rd began, expected completion July including landscaping. - Colins Avenue Reservoir: retaining wall finishing, painting starting, due mid-summer. - Downtown concrete project: 60 locations, on track for mid-June completion. - 8th Avenue NW & 27th Street: first public input meeting held, second scheduled June 25; district creation planned for June 2. - Water & Sewer District 65: concrete work done, waiting for school out (Thursday) for pavement. - Street Improvement District 241: concrete work started along 47th Avenue, full work after school out. - MDU gas line replacements: multiple subprojects over seven years, currently in year two, active near Monsy Drive and east of post office. Presentations - Scholarship: Aaliya Langang, first recipient of Bismarck-Mandann Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities, attending BSC for psychology. - Fire Department PIM: Chieef Bitts announced third public information meeting on June 1 at Fire Station 1 to discuss sales tax reallocation for fire department. - Touch a Truck Recap (Matt Shannon): 9,400-9,600 attendees, 50+ businesses, 75 pieces of equipment, 8 food trucks, sponsored by over 50 partners; also announced Buggies & Blues (June 12-14) and bandshell renovation. - Community Cleanup (Carrie): 16 of 17+ routes claimed, 200 volunteers; thanks to listed groups. Police 2025 Annual Statistical Report (Chieef Sigler) - Cals for service decreased slightly to 883 in January? (monthly breakdown provided); case reports (investigations) down. - Group A offenses (serious crimes) down 10% over two years; no homicides for three years. - Group B offenses (lesser crimes) up 4%. - Code enforcement: numbers down due to staffing; now full staffed. - Animal control: impounding down 17%. - Traffic enforcement: about 6,500 stops, half written warnings; DUI's up. - Overdose: 5 deaths, 30 total overdoses, 7 narcan applications. - Warrants: 260 warrant arrests. - Use of force: 119 incidents, 0 deadly force; training hours tracked. - Drone team: 43 deployments in 2025. Public Hearings 1. Lakewood Commercial Park 7th Edition Preliminary Plat: 2.9 acres, 6 lots, approved by Planning & Zoning on April 27; adjacent property owners satisfied. Motion to approve passed unanimously. 2. Schooool District 8th Edition Preliminary Plat and Zone Change: Re-zoning former high school site from agricultural to commercial/residential; motion included contigency for future roundabout. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Bids: 2026 Striping Project: One bid from TSS for $306,360 (25% over estimate). Commision voted 4-1 (Schoberg opposed) to rejet and re-advertise with extended timeline. - Ordinance 1486: First consideration of ordinance to remove annual $15 alrm monitoring fee and retain false alrm fees. Approved unanimously. - Next meetings: June 2, June 16, and July 7, 2026, all at 5:30 p.m. - Meeting adourned.

The Mandan Board of City Commissioners met on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Bosch Frelec meeting room at Mandan City Hall. Mayor Frelick presided, with Commissioners Braun, Rohr, Schilberg, and Heinchon present. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Tristan Kosick of the Mandan Progress Organization (MPO). Key topics included updates on major infrastructure projects, upcoming community events, approval of variances and plats, and the selection of a design consultant for the wastewater treatment plant. Consent Calendar - Approved the May 5, 2026 agenda (motion by Rohr, second by Heinchon, unanimous roll call 5-0). - Approved the April 21, 2026 Board of City Commission meeting minutes (motion by Schilberg, second by Heinchon, unanimous 5-0). - Approved the April 29, 2026 Quorum of City Commissioners minutes (motion by Heinchon, second by Rohr, unanimous 5-0). - Approved the consent agenda as presented (motion by Heinchon, second by Rohr, unanimous 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public hearing portions or otherwise. Two public hearings were held (setback variance and final plat), each opened and closed with no testimony from the public. Discussion Items - Fire Department and Response (Fire Chief Mitch Bitts): Announced a public information meeting on May 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Fort Lincoln Elementary regarding the NORSA Fire Department sales tax initiative (June 2026 ballot) to continue the existing sales tax from the Starring Sports Complex to fund Fire Station 3. Also reported on mutual aid provided to Bismarck Fire Department for a large multifamily structure fire on May 4, 2026, including sending a mobile air trailer and crew. Directed residents to donate to the City of Bismarck website, North Dakota Lions Emergency Relief Group, Salvation Army, or American Red Cross. - Construction Updates (Jerek): Detailed ongoing projects: - Memorial Highway: Two-phase project; east half nearing completion in 2026, west half in 2027. Traffic pattern changes at 46th Street beginning May 6. - First Street Reconstruction: Pre-construction meeting held April 24; water main installation starting. - Collins Avenue Reservoir Retaining Wall: Continuing work with site restoration preparation. - Municipal Concrete Contract: Awarded to SARE Construction, starting May 6 at approximately 60 downtown locations; work to be completed by July 4. - 8th Avenue NW and 27th Street: Public input meeting May 14, 6:00-7:30 PM at Mandan High School. - Neighborhood projects: SID 235 (wrapping up), water/sewer district 65 (sanitary sewer lining, paving after school out), SID 241 (pre-construction meeting May 8), SID 242 (final design). - Midtown East concrete replacement (contractor's expense): Approximately 30 properties affected by substandard concrete from 2020 project. - Touch a Truck Event (Tristan Kosick, MPO): Announced the event on Saturday, May 16, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Main Street. Features a record 54 trucks (12 new participants), a coloring book for 1,000 children, food trucks (10 vendors), craft vendors, inflatables, and an airsoft shooting range. Free admission, 100% sponsorship-funded. Main Street closed from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Estimated 7,000 attendees. Also provided updates on parade registration (50 entries) and fireworks (July 3 at Mandan Middle School). - Public Works Open House (Mr. O'Keefe): Scheduled for May 21, 2026, 3:00-6:00 PM, as part of National Public Works Week (May 17-23). Theme: "Rooted in service, powered by community." Will feature hamburgers/hot dogs, vendor displays, and hands-on experiences. - Community Cleanup (Carrie): May is community cleanup month. 17 routes; 3 remain unclaimed. First route cleaned by NIFC. Over 100 volunteers; door prizes donated by local businesses. Routes can be claimed at cityofmandan.com/slashletterclean. - Arbor Day Recognition (Mr. Neubauer): Celebrated Arbor Day on May 1 at Dykshorn Park with Lakewood Elementary fifth graders planting two trees (Hackberry and Ohio Buckeye). Noted Mandan's 50th consecutive year as a Tree City USA, one of only 16 cities to achieve this milestone. Honored the 1976 commission (Mayor Malcolm Brown, Commissioners Edward Bosch Frelick, Carolina Lutkat, Joe Schoff, and B.J.) for the original designation. - Setback Variance (Jordan): Approved a front yard setback variance for Lot 6, Block 1, Nicola Second Edition, from 15 feet to 12 feet, to accommodate existing utility locations. The Planning and Zoning (PNZ) commission recommended unanimous approval on April 27. Motion by Rohr, second by Schilberg; unanimous roll call 5-0. - Final Plat – 1884 Edition (Jordan): Approved the final plat for 15.3 acres (divided into sections) with all access conditions met. PNZ recommended unanimous approval on April 27. Motion by Heinchon, second by Schilberg; unanimous roll call 5-0. - Wastewater Treatment Plant Consultant Selection (Jerek): Presented the qualification-based selection process for an engineering design consultant. A six-member committee (including Commissioner Schilberg and five staff members) evaluated three proposals (AE2S, Apex, HDR) across five criteria (knowledge of existing facility, project approach, relevant experience, team qualifications, financial capabilities). All firms scored highly; AE2S was ranked first by four of six committee members and recommended for selection. Motion to select AE2S and authorize contract negotiations by Schilberg, second by Rohr; unanimous roll call 5-0. The project is expected to take approximately three years. - Other Business: Mayor Frelick noted the passing of Don Eckroth, a 41-year sexton at the Mandan Cemetery; condolences were extended to his family. Thanks were given to first responders for their work at the May 4 Bismarck fire. Future meeting dates: May 19, 2026, and June 2, 2026 (both at 5:30 PM); June 16, 2026 (corrected to 5:30 PM). Key Outcomes - Setback variance approved (5-0). - Final plat for 1884 Edition approved (5-0). - Consent agenda approved (5-0). - AE2S selected as design consultant for wastewater treatment plant; staff authorized to negotiate a contract (5-0). - All votes were unanimous with no dissent. - Next regular meeting: May 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM.