West Fargo City Commission Meeting - July 6, 2026

The West Fargo City Commission met on July 6, 2026, to address several agenda items including a firearm ordinance update, a construction change order, organizational appointments, and policy directions for economic development and data center outreach. All votes were unanimous. The meeting lasted approximately 25 minutes.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of the agenda and minutes from the June 15, 2026 Commission meeting were approved unanimously.
• Building permits were approved; Mayor recused from voting on this item.
• Consent agenda items A through B were approved without discussion.

Discussion Items

First Reading of Ordinance 1281 – Discharge of Firearms

• Chief of Police Peter Nielsen presented the first reading of ordinance 1281, which proposes to amend the city's firearm discharge ordinance to allow persons lawfully participating in a city commission-approved animal control plan (e.g., deer management) to discharge firearms within city limits. The change is intended to establish a formal MOU with the USDA for animal euthanasia, ensuring clarity and control. Commissioners inquired about monitoring compliance with the MOU; Chief Nielsen clarified that failure to follow procedures would void the MOU and could result in charges. The first reading was approved via roll call (all ayes).

Improvement District 3006 – Westwood Reconstruction Change Order

• City Engineer Jerry Wals presented a change order for $154,911.80 to install the final asphalt lift for the Westwood neighborhood reconstruction. The funds are proposed from the capital improvement sales tax. Discussion included the decision to initially delay the final lift (a practice used in other communities) and observed issues with standing water and tripping hazards. Three options were considered; staff recommended proceeding under the existing contract. The change order was approved via roll call (all ayes).

Organizational Appointments and Assignments

• A commissioner introduced proposed portfolio assignments, streamlining to a primary portfolio only and mapping to city leadership. Former Mayor Dartas was appointed to the Lake Agassiz Water Authority. The motion was approved via roll call (all ayes).

Policy Options for Economic Development Sales Tax Funds

• The mayor proposed directing staff to develop policy options for using economic development sales tax funds to offset property tax revenue lost due to economic development incentives (e.g., PILOTs, TIFs), estimated at $400,000–$500,000 for 2027. The motion specifically applies to commercial properties. Approved via roll call (all ayes).

Community Outreach Options Regarding Data Centers

• The mayor directed staff to explore community outreach options (such as surveys or forums) to gauge public sentiment on data center development, aiming to be proactive and address misinformation. Commissioner Erickson suggested a deadline for staff to report back by the next month. The motion was approved via roll call (all ayes).

City Administrator's Report

• Dustin Scott, City Administrator, announced that the first detailed draft of the preliminary budget will be presented at the July 20, 2026 commission meeting. The 2025 annual audit is progressing, with a draft expected by July 20 or early August. The annual employee appreciation event is scheduled for September 24, 2026 at the city plaza at the lights.

Adjournment

• The meeting adjourned after approximately 25 minutes.