Public Meetings - Mandan, North Dakota

Mandan City Commission Special Meeting – January 13, 2026: Public Facilities Discussion and Funding Strategies\n\nThe Mandan City Commission held a special meeting on January 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Veterans Conference Room of Mandan City Hall to discuss planning and funding for major public facilities, including the wastewater treatment plant, fire station 3, city hall renovation/replacement, and police department needs. Commissioners present were Hunchaan, Braun, Roar, Schilbert, and Mayor Frelick. Staff and bond counsel provided financial and legal guidance. No consent calendar or public comments were presented.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Wastewater Treatment Plant: Estimated cost of approximately $11 million (with a $10 million placeholder). Financing options include a state revolving fund at 2% interest over 20–30 years. Two scenarios were presented: (1) utility rate increases alone, requiring about $57/month total over five years for a typical resident, or (2) with a voter-approved 1% sales tax buy-down, reducing the total increase to about $22–23/month. Staff recommended an incremental rate increase already started in 2026. The plant is considered a high priority and must proceed regardless of other funding.\n- Fire Station 3: Identified as an immediate need due to response times on the northwest side. Design work is already underway. Funding is to be included in the proposed sales tax package.\n- City Hall: Renovation estimates range from $12–15 million (2015 and 2023 studies). The city has $6 million in a remediation trust from diesel fuel cleanup to apply. Options discussed include renovating the current building (with potential to add floors), building new on the same site, or relocating to the old high school site or other locations. The decision depends on downtown parking, community perception, and partnership opportunities with the school district or park district. No location has been chosen. The school district expressed interest in a joint facility but faces legal limitations on receiving sales tax funds; a lease arrangement might be possible.\n- Police Department: Combined with city hall in a new or remodeled facility, or as an expansion of the existing Law Enforcement Center (LEC) with the county. Parking constraints at the LEC were noted. Security costs would be higher if municipal court is included.\n- Funding Mechanisms: Two primary options were reviewed: (1) a sales tax increase (1.75%, net +1% after the expiring 0.75% sports complex tax) – revenue bonds, easier for voters to approve; (2) general obligation bonds requiring a 60% supermajority and appearing on primary/general elections only, with a mill levy of about 34 mills and property tax increase. Bond counsel noted that sales tax bonds would have a separate rating from the city’s existing GO rating. The 0.75% sales tax for the park district’s sports complex is on track to be paid off by late 2027/early 2028, 13–14 years early.\n- Ballot Timing: Discussion centered on June vs. November 2026 elections. The statutory deadline for ballot language is 64 days before the election. Staff noted the tax department requires 90 days’ notice to implement a new tax. Commissioners generally leaned toward November 2026 to allow more time for public engagement and concept designs, though some noted older, more conservative voters may turn out in higher numbers in November. A special election is also possible if the measure fails.\n- Public Engagement and Design: Commissioners emphasized the need to show taxpayers conceptual designs for city hall (remodel vs. new build) and to include the police department option in the same process. An RFP for architectural services will be developed to provide cost estimates and floor plans without full detailed designs. \n\n Key Outcomes\n- The commission directed staff to proceed with planning for a November 2026 ballot measure that would include a 1.75% sales tax increase (to take effect after the 0.75% tax expires) to fund the wastewater treatment plant, fire station 3, city hall (renovation or new), and police department needs.\n- Staff will develop an RFP for city hall and police facility design concepts (remodel at existing location, new build on current site or elsewhere, and expansion/co-location with county LEC) and conduct public engagement.\n- The wastewater treatment plant and fire station projects are to move forward regardless of the sales tax outcome; the sales tax would buy down utility rates for the plant.\n- No formal vote was taken on the timeline; consensus was to aim for November 2026 and bring back a detailed plan to a future commission meeting. Future regular meetings were announced: January 20, 2026 (5 p.m.) and February 3 and 17, 2026 (5 p.m.).

The Mandan City Commission met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Bosch Frelec Meeting Room at Mandan City Hall. Mayor Frelick presided, with Commissioners Schilberg, Heinshaw, Braun, and Rohr present. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Vietnam veteran Ken Bullinger. Key topics included property tax credit program reminders, a record-breaking New Year's Eve fireworks display, and several public hearings and approvals for infrastructure and development projects. Announcements & Updates - Property Tax Credit Programs: Kimberly from the Assessing Office reminded property owners of three statewide credit programs: Homestead Credit (for residents 65+ or permanently/totally disabled with household income under $70,000), Veterans Credit (for veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability or surviving spouses), and the new Primary Residence Credit (up to $1,600, online application required). She provided an example showing a property valued at $446,000 could see taxes drop from over $5,000 to $143 if qualifying for all three credits. - New Year's Eve Celebration Update: Matt Shannendorf of the Mandan Progress Organization reported on the December 31, 2025 event. Key details: - A world record was set for most Roman candles shot off in under one minute: 2.8 million shots using 5,000 candle sticks (each with 555 shots). - On-site paid parking at Mandan High School had 852 spots sold, raising over $30,000 to benefit Western North Dakota Honor Flight, Wounded Warriors Project, and Mandan High School marching band. - Estimated 4,000–4,500 people attended at the high school lot; total views via livestream estimated at 4–5 million, including coverage from national fireworks wholesalers. - The fireworks were entirely donated and sponsored; crews from multiple states volunteered. - The holiday lights display remains open until Saturday of the same week. A July 3rd pyromusical show (free to the public) is planned for 10:30 PM near the middle school, in partnership with Pegasus Illuminations. - Project Updates: Jerek noted the Mandan Proper public input open house for all four phases will be Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 5–7 PM at First Lutheran Church. He also mentioned the state had been working on pothole repairs on Memorial Highway. Consent Calendar - Approved as a block. Public Hearings 1. Special Use Permit Amendment – Bridgeview Bay Addition: Considered an amendment to the previously approved special use permit for 2600 Marina Road SE (three buildings, 18 shop condos). The amendment clarified which building contains which number of units (7, 6, and 5) without changing the total count. Planning & Zoning required an updated condo declaration adding special use permit language. A letter of concern was received but did not challenge the four rows of trees and 30-foot setback. The public hearing was opened, no comments received, and closed. The commission voted unanimously to approve the amendment. 2. Street Improvement District 241 – Red Trail: A public hearing was held to consider protests regarding the 2026 street rehab project near Red Trail Elementary. Staff reported only 5.5% protest by land area (5.7% of parcels, 9.15% of estimated assessment values). The commission then voted unanimously to approve a resolution determining insufficiency of protest, allowing the project to proceed. Bids - Terra Valley Decommissioning Project: Awarded to Crow River Construction for approximately $1 million, which was 10% under the $1.1 million estimate. The project eliminates a lift station and replaces forcemain with gravity sewer connecting to the new A2 lift station. All underground work. Commission voted unanimously to award. New Business 1. Red Trail Reconstruction Design Amendment: Approved a task order amendment (Amendment 1 of Task Order 9) for $115,000 to proceed with design, funded through special assessments. Two previous public input meetings had been held. Motion carried unanimously. 2. Area 2B (Roosevelt Elementary) Engineering Agreement and State Water Commission Application: Approved Task Order 11 for communication and district creation services for this area (east of Christ the King, south of Roosevelt Elementary). Staff noted 35 water main breaks in the last 20 years, including one that morning. The project seeks $228,000 in pre-construction funding from the State Water Commission. A public input meeting is planned for January 21, 2026. Motion to approve the task order and authorize the grant application passed unanimously. 3. Fire Station No. 3 – Agreement with EAPC Architects: Approved entering into an agreement with EAPC Architects to assist with site selection, evaluation of incorporating an Emergency Operations Center (EOC), finalizing design, and developing cost estimates for Fire Station 3 (northwest Mandan, near Hillside Road). A budget amendment of $70,000 from 2025 general fund savings was also approved. The project will likely require a public vote in summer 2026. Motion carried unanimously. Ordinances - Second Consideration – Ordinance 1482 (Zone Change for Big Sky Estates 8th Addition): This ordinance changes zoning from RM Residential Multifamily and Agricultural to RM Residential Multifamily to accommodate a right-of-way addition. No comments were received. The commission voted unanimously to pass on second reading. Key Outcomes - All votes passed unanimously. - The commission directed staff to move forward with design and district creation for several infrastructure projects, including Red Trail (design) and Area 2B (public input and funding application). - The Terra Valley decommissioning contract was awarded. - A professional services agreement for Fire Station 3 planning was authorized, and a budget amendment adopted. - Public input meetings are scheduled: Mandan Proper (Jan. 15), Area 2B (Jan. 21). - Future commission meeting dates were announced: January 13 (work session on financing for public facility projects, 2 PM), January 20 (5 PM), February 3 (5:30 PM), February 17 (5 PM), and March 3 (5:30 PM).

The Mandan Planning and Zoning Commission held a meeting on December 22, 2025, at 6:00 AM. The meeting was called to order by Chair Robinson with a roll call of commissioners present. The agenda included approval of minutes, two public hearings (a variance request and an amendment to a special use permit), and other business including officer appointments and scheduling of 2026 meeting dates. Consent Calendar - Minutes of November 24, 2025: Approved unanimously via roll call vote (10-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Ramona Furlong (2700 Marina Road SE): Opposed the amendment to the special use permit, stating that the developer had repeatedly sought to amend the buffer zone and unit counts, and that a sixth unit (unit seven) on the eastern structure had been built in violation of the original permit, eroding her privacy. She requested that the original September 2024 permit stand. - Tim Furlong (same address): Called for transparency on how the six buffer points would be met (trees, fence, etc.) and expressed concern that the developer had not honored previous agreements. He asked that the buffer composition be part of the approval. - Ashley Champ (attorney for the developer): Argued that the application complied with city code, that the buffer requirement (six points, 30-foot setback) was met, and that there was no written agreement with the Furlongs. She stated the developer was acting in good faith and urged approval. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 1 – Variance for Accessory Structure (5405 Highland Road North): Applicant sought a variance to Section 105-1-3 of the City Code to allow a 7,200 sq. ft. accessory building on lots 1 and 2, Block 1, North Prairie Second Subdivision. Staff noted the combined lot size is 6.78 acres, and the proposed building would exceed the allowed size based on the main residence. The commission discussed the need to combine the two lots to ensure the accessory structure is not on a separate lot without a residence. No public comments were received. The commission voted to approve the variance, citing hardship caused by the zoning ordinance’s lack of a rural residential category. - Public Hearing 2 – Amendment to Special Use Permit (2600 Marina Road SE): The applicant requested an amendment to clarify the number of units per building in a three-building multi-use shop condo development. The original permit (approved September 2024) specified three structures with 7, 6, and 5 units but did not assign them to specific buildings. The proposed site plan showed 7 units on the north (bay side), 6 on the east (river side), and 5 on the south. The Furlongs, neighbors to the south, objected, citing that the sixth unit on the east side had been added back after previously being removed due to buffer encroachment. Staff confirmed the new plan complies with the 30-foot buffer and six buffer points. The commission discussed the need to include the special use permit’s restrictions (e.g., noise hours, lighting) in the condominium documents to ensure future buyers are aware. The developer’s attorney agreed to add such language. The commission voted to approve the amendment, with the condition that the condo documents incorporate the special use permit restrictions. - Other Business: - Appointments for 2026: Bill Robinson was appointed as Chair, Commissioner McLean as Vice Chair, and Nancy as Secretary, all by voice vote. - 2026 Regular Meeting Dates: The commission approved the proposed schedule of the fourth Monday of each month, with the note that the May meeting falls on May 27 (Wednesday after Memorial Day). The motion passed. - Upcoming Zoning Code Updates: Staff announced that a comprehensive zoning code update is planned for spring 2026, likely to be presented to the commission in February or soon after. Key Outcomes - Approved Variance (unanimous): Motion by Commissioner Huber, second by Commissioner McLean. The variance for an accessory structure on lots 1 and 2, North Prairie Second Subdivision, was approved with a finding of hardship due to the zoning ordinance’s provisions. - Approved Special Use Permit Amendment (unanimous): Motion by Commissioner McLean, second by Commissioner Gardner. The amendment to the site plan for 2600 Marina Road SE was approved, with the condition that the condominium documents include the special use permit’s restrictions (noise, lighting, etc.). - Appointments: Bill Robinson (Chair), Commissioner McLean (Vice Chair), Nancy (Secretary) for 2026. - Meeting Dates: 2026 regular meeting dates approved as presented. - Next Steps: Staff will prepare zoning code updates for review in early 2026.

The Mandan City Commission met on December 16, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Bosch Frelick meeting room of Mandan City Hall. The meeting included employee recognitions, project updates, a public hearing on a zone change and minor plat, a protest determination for the Lower Heart Levee project, bid awards, and approval of funding requests for Bisman Transit. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The Commission approved the meeting agenda, minutes from the December 2, 2025 meeting, and consent agenda items 1 through 13 (including routine approvals and contracts). Public Comments & Testimony - One voicemail comment was submitted by Mr. Vinnette regarding the public transportation grant application, expressing a preference for multiple application periods per year rather than one. The city noted that applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so the concern was already addressed. No other public comments were offered. Employee Recognitions and New Hires - The Commission recognized quarterly employee work anniversaries: Justin Keller (3 years), Jacob Valeroy (5 years), Jarek Wignes (3 years), Sarah Anderson (3 years), and Jamie Rath (25 years). McCain Krueger was introduced as a new operator at the water treatment plant. Denise Sather was introduced as a new circulation desk assistant. Lynel Boucher was introduced as a new records technician for the police department. David Glatt was introduced as a new firefighter, having recently graduated from the joint fire academy. Project Updates - Memorial Highway: The roadway is open with a three-lane configuration; businesses are accessible. Snow removal plans include mainline and business approaches cleared by 8 a.m. A matching program (visitmandan.com/memorialhighway) is ongoing. Commissioner Rohr inquired about a closed access street near Cole's Diner; staff will follow up. - 2026 Street Reconstruction Project: A second public input meeting was held December 4th. Letters with estimated costs and assessments were sent. Additional concerns were identified. The protest period ends December 21st at 4:30 p.m. - Holiday Light Tour Map: Available via the City of Mandan app, social media, or the city website map gallery. Residents can submit locations and vote for favorite displays. - North Dakota Santa Run: Originally scheduled December 13th but postponed due to cold weather, now rescheduled for December 20th. Approximately 400 registered participants. Route starts at Dykshoorn Park and proceeds through neighborhoods. Santa suits are provided. - New Year's Eve Fireworks (December 31st): A world record attempt for 2.5 million Roman candle shots, a 20-minute pyro-musical show benefiting Wounded Warriors Project, Western North Dakota Honor Flight, and Mandan High School Marching Band. Viewing from Mandan High School parking lot; parking spots for sale at visitmandan.com. Road closures will occur from approximately 9:50 p.m. to 10:20 p.m. The event is an official America 250 event. Public Hearing: Zone Change and Minor Plat for Big Sky Estates Eighth Edition - The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of a zone change (from RM residential and agriculture to RM residential) and a minor plat for Big Sky Estates Eighth Edition. A neighbor's access concern was resolved by including a small portion of right-of-way into the plat. The plat creates two lots (lot 1: 1.2 acres, lot 2: 2.29 acres) and includes utility easements. No public comments were made at the hearing. The Commission unanimously approved the zone change and plat. Public Hearing: Resolution Determining Insufficiency of Protest for Lower Heart Levee Project - The project addresses deficiencies along the levee (freeboard, stability, seepage). Cost estimates increased, necessitating revised resolutions. The protest period closed with no protests received. The Commission unanimously approved the resolution determining insufficiency of protest. Bid Award: Rock Prairie Estate Street Improvement District 237 - The engineer's estimate was just over $1 million; the low bid from Northern Improvement Company was $1.2 million (approximately 60% over estimate). The project is a new development west of 47th Avenue. The Commission unanimously awarded the bid. New Business - Task Orders with AE2S for Sanitary Sewer and Water Distribution Support: Two task orders (caps of $25,000 each per year) for technical support, extending through 2028 for a total of $150,000. Unanimously approved. - Change Order for Collins Avenue Reservoir Project: D.N. Tanks change order (net increase of $36,909) covering site condition adjustments, discovery of underground materials, and removal of tank logo and anti-graffiti coating. The project remains within its $6.8 million budget. Unanimously approved. - Public Transportation Grant Application from Bisman Transit: Bisman Transit requested $110,664.21 from the city's half-cent sales tax fund to offset a projected 2025 operating deficit of approximately $760,000. The request covers a portion of the deficit; Bisman Transit also requested and received $649,392.15 from Bismarck. Service changes are being planned with public meetings on January 13, 2026, and a public hearing on January 22, 2026. The Commission unanimously approved the funding request. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously. No resolutions or ordinances were considered. - Future meetings: January 6, 2026 (5:30 p.m.), January 20, 2026 (5:00 p.m.), and February 3, 2026 (5:30 p.m.). - The meeting concluded with a holiday greeting and adjournment.

The Mandan City Commission met on December 2, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Bosch Frelek meeting room at Mandan City Hall. The meeting covered project updates, a public hearing, bid awards, and several new business items, including a raw water intake project, an inmate housing agreement, adoption of a multi-hazard mitigation plan, and a zone change. All votes were unanimous except as noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as presented, which included the final plat of Evergreen Heights 5th edition. Announcements & Updates - Holiday Lights Update: Matt from Mandan Progress Organization reported that the grand lighting on Black Friday drew an estimated 2,500–3,000 people. New displays include a holiday tractor and a military tribute tree. A New Year's Eve fireworks show on December 31 at 10 p.m. will attempt a world record with 2.5 million Roman candles. The event, sponsored by fireworks companies, aims to raise $30,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project, Western North Dakota Honor Flight, and the Mandan High School marching band's London parade trip. Parking spots (900 available) can be purchased at visitmandan.com. - Snowplow Art Partnership: Shane reported that all six snowplows were painted by elementary school students in a community engagement activity. Snow removal from recent storms is complete, with cleanup of parked-car ruts ongoing. - Construction Project Updates: Jerek provided updates: - Memorial Highway: Winterization is complete; snow removal will clear the mainline three-lane roadway and business approaches by 8 a.m. Construction resumes in April. - Collins Avenue Reservoir: The new reservoir is online; tank draining seen on Collins Avenue is from the sanitization process. Demolition will continue through winter. - 2025 Street Reconstruction: A communication piece on winter shutdown and 2026 expectations is being distributed. - 2026 Street Reconstruction: A public input meeting is scheduled for December 4 at Red Trail Elementary from 6–8 p.m. Public Hearing - Vacation of Portion of Living Water Drive: Rachel presented a request to vacate the south 421.49 feet of Living Water Drive, contingent on approval and recordation of the Evergreen Heights 5th edition plat. No public comments were received. The commission approved the vacation unanimously. Bids & Awards - Memorial Highway West Project: Jerek reported that the low bid from Northern Improvement was $69,579,406.64. The city's estimated local responsibility increased by 9.6% from the NDDOT perspective, but after State Water Commission funding, the net increase was 3.3%. The commission concurred in awarding the contract, entering into a cost participation agreement with NDDOT, and submitting a cost share request to the Department of Water Resources. Approved unanimously. New Business - Raw Water Intake Project – Engineering Amendment: Lath from AE2S explained that a migrating sandbar has restricted water flow at the intake. Temporary measures (dredging, screen extension) are in place. Near-term improvements include an airburst system and bank stabilization. The commission approved an amendment to AE2S for engineering services (city cost $197,000) on a 4–1 vote, with Commissioner Heinshan dissenting. - Inmate Housing Agreement – Burley Morton Detention Center: Chief Siegler presented the renewal with a daily rate increase from $75 to $100. Concerns about medical services language led to a conditional approval: the agreement was approved as presented, with the understanding that BMDC will revise section 16 and bring amendments by March 31, 2026. Approved unanimously. - Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan Adoption: Pat Martin requested adoption of the 2025 Morton County plan. The plan received 995 survey responses and enables FEMA grant eligibility. The commission approved the resolution unanimously. - Ordinance 1480 – Zone Change (Second Consideration): Jordan presented the second consideration of a zone change from RMH and RH to RMH (residential mobile home park). No changes or comments. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda, public hearing vacation, Memorial Highway West bid award, raw water intake amendment (4-1), inmate housing agreement (conditional), multi-hazard mitigation plan, and zone change. - Future meeting dates: December 16, 2025; January 6, 2026; January 20, 2026.

The Mandan Planning and Zoning Commission met on November 24, 2025, to consider a zone change and minor plat, a final plat, and appointments to the commission. All members were present. The meeting began with approval of the October 27, 2025 minutes with a correction, then moved to public hearings and other business. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the October 27, 2025 meeting were approved as corrected. Commissioner Smith noted a change on page 12: replacing "Commission action" with language about the understanding between preliminary plat fees and final plat fees. The minutes were approved by unanimous roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 – Big Sky Estates 8th Edition: Devin Helm, a property owner at 2710 Old Red Trail, stated he was not notified about the right-of-way being granted to Shore Stone Solutions. He said he had previously been told by city staff that he could access his property from that right-of-way, and he expressed concern about losing access. Mark Isaacs of Independent Land Survey and Engineering explained that the strip was never an official right-of-way, was shown incorrectly on GIS maps, and was awarded to Shore Stone through a quiet title suit after proper notification. The commission clarified that the platting process only combines the already-owned parcels and does not affect access rights. - Item 2 – Evergreen Heights 5th Edition: Greg Fazer of Phaser Engineering, representing the owner, stated that all issues and concerns have been met and the parties are in agreement. Ben Cappel, representing the buyers, thanked the commission and noted time constraints, saying the deal needed to move forward or it would fall through. Discussion Items - Zone Change & Minor Plat – Big Sky Estates 8th Edition: Rachel presented the request to change zoning from RM Residential and Agricultural to RM Residential and to create a minor plat on Lots 12 and 13, Block 4, Big Sky Estates 3rd Edition, plus a vacated right-of-way (Hillside Road). The intent is to combine into one large lot. Staff recommended approval. After public comment and discussion, the commission moved to approve. - Final Plat – Evergreen Heights 5th Edition: Rachel presented the final plat for Evergreen Heights 5th Edition, which re-plats existing lots and vacates portions of Living Water Drive. The preliminary plat had conditions about vacation of Living Water Drive, which is being handled separately at the City Commission on November 25, 2025. Staff recommended approval contingent on the full vacation. The commission approved the final plat. - Appointments to the Planning and Zoning Commission: Two at-large terms expire December 31, 2025. Four candidates expressed interest: Joe Camisa (former commissioner and city commissioner with land title experience), Jordan Schneider (pipeline experience with the state), Will Gardner (incumbent), and Bill Robinson (incumbent chair). Each spoke briefly. The commission voted separately to recommend Bill Robinson and Will Gardner for additional terms (2026-2030). Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Motion to recommend approval of the minor plat and zone change for Big Sky Estates 8th Edition. Roll call vote: all 11 members present voted yes. - Approved (unanimous): Motion to approve the final plat for Evergreen Heights 5th Edition. Roll call vote: all 11 members present voted yes (Commissioner Horn voted yes online). - Approved (unanimous): Motion to recommend Bill Robinson to the City Commission for reappointment to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Roll call: 11 yes. - Approved (unanimous): Motion to recommend Will Gardner for reappointment. Roll call: 11 yes. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Mandan City Commission met on November 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Bosch Frelec Meeting Room of Mandan City Hall. Mayor Frelick presided, with Commissioners Roar, Hilberg, Hein Sean, and Braun present. The meeting included beautification awards, construction updates, approval of a preliminary plat and zone change for Meadowlands Third Edition, consent agenda items, and creation of a street improvement district. Consent Calendar - The agenda for November 18, 2025, was approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Rohr, second by Commissioner Schoberg, all yes). - The minutes from the November 4, 2025, Board of City Commission meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinshaw, all yes). - The consent agenda was approved except item 2 (which was pulled for discussion); motion by Commissioner Rohr, second by Commissioner Braun, all yes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the open comment period. Discussion Items Beautification Recognition Program Lane Mutter from the Mandan Park Board presented certificates of achievement. Residential winners were Kathy and Laura Baliet, nominated by Ruth McDonald, recognized for their well-maintained 1916 home. Business winners were Chelsea and Toby Seaverson, owners of Buck and Bean, nominated by Michaela Rancet. Mutter encouraged residents to nominate homes and businesses for Christmas lights via a form on the city website. Construction Updates Jerek provided updates on three projects: - Memorial Highway Project: The intersection of Memorial Highway and 40th Avenue has been realigned to a right angle, with 40th opening on Friday, November 14. Street lights at that intersection will be operational this week. The southbound off-ramp at 46th was closed for concrete work. A winter shutdown will feature temporary concrete lanes with a 7-foot asphalt extension, and snow removal will occur before 8 AM. Major work will end by November 26. - Collins Avenue Reservoir: Leak tests and site backfilling are ongoing. The new reservoir should be online later this month, with demolition of the old reservoir beginning in December and exterior finishes in spring. - 2025 Street Reconstruction: All paving and concrete work is paused until 2026. Pressure relief valve installed; landscape restoration and site cleanup are active. Spring work will include mill and overlay, chip seal, and concrete repairs. Commissioner Roar asked about sidewalk elevation issues and high back curbs for handicap accessibility; Jerek confirmed high back curbs would be used. Grand Lighting and Santa's Arrival Matt announced the annual Grand Lighting at Dykeshorn Park on Friday, November 28 at 6 PM. Main Street will be closed in the 300 and 400 blocks, with a stage, music, and Santa and Mrs. Claus arrival. Two new displays: a yellow-and-black tractor from Farmers Union Insurance and a 25-foot RGB military tribute tree (funded by multiple sponsors, a three-year project). Last year's attendance was 3,200 people. Fire pits, patio heaters, and hot chocolate will be available. A second event, Mingle with the Kringles, will be held Saturday, November 29 from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Morton Mandan Public Library. Small Business Saturday Mayor Frelick encouraged shopping local on November 29, both on Memorial Highway and downtown. Public Hearing: Preliminary Plat and Zone Change for Meadowlands Third Edition Rachel Lockway (interim planner) presented the proposal for lots on both sides of 18th Avenue South, creating 43 total manufactured home lots (38 east, 5 west). The zone change is from RH (residential mobile home park) to RMH (residential mobile home subdivision). Private streets with 34-foot easements, no-parking fire lanes, and a planned connection to Memorial Highway were discussed. Staff recommended approval with conditions, including resolution of the Frontier Trail connection to Gateway Mobile Home Park (currently gated, intended as secondary emergency access). The applicant’s engineer, Abe Omer, stated the developer is strongly opposed to making that connection a public through street. Commissioner Roar noted he had visited the area, spoke with residents, and identified 11 points that need resolution before final plat. He expressed confidence they could be resolved amicably. The public hearing was opened and closed with no additional comments. A motion to approve the preliminary plat and zone change as presented, with staff comments to be addressed before final plat, passed unanimously (motion by Commissioner Heinschan, second by Commissioner Rohr, all yes). 1806 Chip Seal Urban Regional Program Application for 2030 (Item pulled from consent agenda) Jerek explained the NDDOT approached the city about a chip seal project on Highway 1806, estimated at $100,000 with a 10% city share ($10,000). The project area is north of Starrian, near the tennis center, through the roundabout, and east on Old Red Trail. Commissioner Roar clarified this is separate from a previously delayed chip seal on 1806 South (now scheduled for mill and overlay in 2027). The motion to authorize submission of the grant application passed unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinschan, all yes). New Business: Street Improvement District 241 (2026 Reconstruction) Jerek presented plans for the 2026 street reconstruction project area (Project Area 3A). A public input meeting on October 28 at Red Trail Elementary had 40 attendees. Total cost estimate is $4.3 million, with property assessments ranging from $1,000 (network benefits) to $15,000 (full reconstruction). If approved tonight, a second meeting will be held December 4 at 5:30 PM at Red Trail Elementary. Commissioner Roar praised the early engagement process, noting short-term resident concerns were addressed within a week by the street department. The resolutions to create the district were approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinschan, all yes). Engineering Service Agreement for Shores at Lakewood Phase Two (SID 240) Jerek requested approval of a $67,500 contract with Mountain Plains for construction oversight of street improvements for Shores at Lakewood phases 2–4. The costs will be assessed back to benefiting properties. Commissioner Roar noted a typo in the contract (referring to City Commission as “owner” instead of “client”); Amy confirmed it could be corrected by crossing out “owner” and initialing. The motion to approve the agreement passed unanimously (motion by Commissioner Heinschan, second by Commissioner Braun, all yes). Resolution Establishing Cemetery Rates for 2026 Shane O’Keefe proposed a $50 increase to grave rates and a $50 increase to opening and closing fees, part of the long-term financial plan. Commissioner Roar asked about half-graves (typically for cremations). The last rate adjustment was in May 2025. The resolution was approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Schoberg, second by Commissioner Heinschan, all yes). Key Outcomes - Approved: Preliminary plat and zone change for Meadowlands Third Edition (unanimous). - Approved: Submission of 1806 Chip Seal UR Program application (unanimous). - Approved: Creation of Street Improvement District 241 (unanimous). - Approved: Engineering service agreement for Shores at Lakewood Phase Two SID 240 (unanimous). - Approved: 2026 cemetery rate increases (unanimous). - Future meetings: December 2 and 16, 2025 at 5:30 PM; January 6, 2026 at 5:30 PM. Mayor Frelick closed the meeting with a reminder to be kind and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

The Mandan City Commission held its regular meeting on November 4, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Bosch Frelec Meeting Room at Mandan City Hall. Mayor Frelec presided, with Commissioners Schoberg, Heinchon, Braun, and Rohr present. The meeting included announcements, new business items, and several resolutions and ordinances. Announcements - Public Works Snow Training: Pre-season snow equipment training and trial runs will be held November 12–14, 2025, to train new operators. Residents may see more equipment on streets. - Recognition: Utility Superintendent Brad Glass was named Operator of the Year by the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. - Construction Updates (presented by City Engineer Jerick): - Memorial Highway: Storm main and inlets on the south side to be complete by Thursday; 16-inch water main installation on the north side starting at 46th; winter shutdown targeted around November 23rd–26th; temporary surface will not be wavy asphalt but concrete panels with a 7-foot temporary asphalt extension. - Collins Avenue Reservoir: Coating and valve adjustments nearing completion; disinfection, pressure tests, and structural inspections to occur by end of month; spring 2026 work includes demolition of existing reservoir and retaining wall work; Beautification Committee pursuing public art on the reservoir exterior. - 2025 Street Reconstruction (Monty Drive): Baselift of asphalt completed; PRV installation scheduled for Friday; sidewalk repairs ongoing; chip seal and unfinished items to be wrapped up spring 2026; communication plan for residents being prepared. - 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project (3A area): Public input meeting held October 28 at Red Trail Elementary; next steps include 30% design, cost estimates, preliminary assessments; district creation resolution expected at next commission meeting; second public input meeting scheduled for December 4, 2025, 6–8 p.m. - Parking Ordinance Reminder (Police Chief): Campers and trailers prohibited on streets from September 15 to May 15; $50 fine; vehicles with expired tabs or no plates can be cited and towed; downtown 90-minute parking citations down; backing into diagonal parking prohibited unless using loading zones. - Trunk-or-Treat Recap: Seventh annual event held October 31 at the Law Enforcement Center; successful with local businesses and Eagles Club donating $1,500 for candy; ran out of candy early but supplemented; plans to expand next year. New Business - Item 1: Lower Heart River Flood Risk Reduction Project – Bill Robinson, Chair of the Lower Heart River Water Resource District, presented an update. The project aims to address levee deficiencies (freeboard, slope stability, seepage) identified in 2012 and 2019 studies. Improvements include 900 feet of floodwall replacement, 1 mile of levee raise and stability berm on the lower unit, 2,000 feet of levee raise plus a tow trench on the Mandan unit (along golf course), realignment at 3rd Street Southeast, a new lift station (consolidated with Memorial Highway), and bank armoring. Total project cost locally is estimated at $7.138 million, with a 65% assessment on properties in the inundation zone (2,584 properties) and 35% on non-inundated properties (6,148 properties). Estimated annual cost for residential properties in the inundated area is $153 for 15 years at 4.5%; for non-inundated residential, $36 per year. Construction bidding is expected in fall 2026, with major work in 2027 and wrap-up in 2028. The commission voted unanimously to approve resolutions reinitiating the improvement district. - Item 2: Development Agreement for Rock Prairie Estates – Jerick presented the agreement for a new development west of Corvette Street and north of Old Red Trail. The agreement includes a provision (Section 11) prohibiting use of 47th Avenue Northwest and Corvette Street for construction access to prevent damage to existing and new roads; the developer has constructed temporary access off Old Red Trail. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 3: Petition for Street Improvement District 237 (Rock Prairie Estates) – Resolutions creating the district, approving sufficiency of petitions, engineer's report, and map were approved. Estimated cost is $1.1 million for approximately 33 properties. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 4: Bid Advertisement for Street Improvement District 237 – Plans and specifications were approved, authorizing advertisement for bids. Motion passed unanimously. Resolutions & Ordinances - Ordinance 1478 (Second and Final Consideration) – Amends Mandan Code Section 117-3-7(2) regarding coverage ratio for water and sewer revenue bonds. No public comments received. Passed unanimously. - Resolution Establishing Utility Rates (Water, Wastewater, Stormwater) – Based on a rate study by AE2S Nexus projecting 2026–2035 financial needs. Monthly increases per meter: residential wastewater base charge +$3.68, usage +$0.41 per 100 cubic feet; stormwater base +$0.18; similar increases for apartments and duplexes. Effective first billing after January 1, 2026. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 1479 (Second and Final Consideration) – Relates to restricted parking of certain vehicles and trailers. No comments received. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (5-0) on the following actions: - Approval of agenda and minutes of October 21, 2025. - Consent agenda as presented. - Resolutions reinitiating the Lower Heart River Flood Risk Reduction Project improvement district. - Development Agreement for Rock Prairie Estates. - Resolutions for Street Improvement District 237 (Rock Prairie Estates). - Resolution approving plans and authorizing bid advertisement for SID 237. - Ordinance 1478 (second reading). - Resolution establishing water/sewer/stormwater utility rates. - Ordinance 1479 (second reading). - Future meetings: November 18, 2025; December 2, 2025; December 16, 2025, all at 5:30 p.m.

The Mandan Planning and Zoning Commission met on October 27, 2025, at 5:00 PM, beginning after a 15-minute delay. Commissioners present: Langing, Huber, Mutter, Horn, Mayor Frelick, Infeld, McLean, Smith, Hammond, Gardner, Renner, and Chair Robinson. The agenda included approval of previous meeting minutes, one public hearing on a building setback variance, a preliminary plat and zone change, and a tabled item. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 22, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll call vote (all present voting yes). Discussion Items 1. Building Setback Variance for Lot 1, Block 2, Meadows Second Edition (4600 34th Avenue NW) - Staff planner Rachel presented the request for a side yard setback variance from the required 5 feet to 1 foot in the RMH (Residential Mobile Home) district to allow a deck/patio. The applicant, Kesha Bauer, stated the deck would provide egress and backyard access, and the deck was already built without approval. The hardship stemmed from the home's placement, not the zoning ordinance. Staff recommended denial, finding the variance would not be in harmony with the zoning ordinance's purpose. - Commissioners discussed safety concerns (second exit) and precedent. Staff noted that movable steps (without frost protection) could be allowed without a variance. The commission voted to deny the variance for the deck, but clarified that steps for safety egress would be permissible. 2. Preliminary Plat 'Meadowlands Third Edition' and Zone Change to RMH (92 18th Street SE) - Staff planner Rachel presented: a 9.6-acre block east of 18th St (38 lots) and a 1.15-acre block west (5 lots) with a zone change from RH to RMH for the west block. Private street easements are 34 feet wide (24-ft travel lanes, 4-ft sidewalks, mountable curb, no parking). After staff-applicant discussions, staff found the 34-foot width workable. Two access points to 18th St are planned, including a connection to Memorial Highway (right-in/right-out) per 2014 plans, and a possible gated emergency access to Frontier Trail. A hammerhead turnaround (Y-shaped) will replace a cul-de-sac, pending fire department approval. - Applicant engineer Abe Almer described costs ($800k-$1M for 18th Ave) and confirmed the development would be funded by lot sales and an HOA. He confirmed the secondary access and fire truck turnaround are acceptable. - The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the city commission, with the understanding that final details (road connections, emergency access, lot buildability) would be resolved between preliminary and final plat stages. 3. Keitel South Heart Terrace Fifth Edition – Preliminary Plat and Zone Change (Tabled) - This item, previously tabled, was readvertised. Applicant Abe Almer reported ongoing neighbor negotiations and asked for more time. The commission voted unanimously to continue the tabling until the applicant brings the item to a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Building Setback Variance: Denied unanimously (7-0). Movable steps for egress allowed without variance. - Meadowlands Third Edition Plat and Zone Change: Recommended for approval to city commission unanimously (7-0), subject to final plat conditions. - Keitel South Heart Terrace: Tabled indefinitely pending applicant's progress.