Convention Center Committee Meeting - January 9, 2026
Present: Katlyn Balstad, Shannon Full (via conference call), Charley Johnson, Clare Hughes, Tim Mahoney, Emma McIntyre, Joe Raso, Taylor Snelling, Dave Piepkorn.
Absent: Kent Kolstad, Denise Kolpack, John Strand, Michelle Turnberg.
Others Present: Jim Gilmour, Shirley Hughes, Erik Johnson (via conference call), Susan Thompson.
The primary objective of the meeting was to review and prep answers for developer questions regarding the Convention Center Request for Proposal (RFP).
Funding and Capital Grant Funds
• Visit Fargo Moorhead (VFM) has not currently allocated capital grant funds to the build operations or long-term maintenance.
• VFM plans to invest in marketing and sales personnel to fill the facility.
• The budget for the project is strictly capped between $38 million and $41 million. Any costs exceeding this must be scaled back by the developer.
Layout and Design
• Size/Ratio: The City wants developers to propose what they feel is most appropriate within the financial constraints. The RFP previously expressed a desire for a contiguous size of 50,000 square feet.
• Structural Requirements: Large rooms (such as ballrooms) should be free of columns. Floor load capacity must be sufficient to support trucks and SUVs for drive-in access.
• Expansion: Horizontal or vertical expansion capability is important, provided it stays within the $38–$41 million budget.
Infrastructure and Responsibilities
• Boundary Definition: Developers must propose the split between City-funded infrastructure and privately funded site work. Any City responsibility must be funded by the Convention Center budget.
• Subsurface Conditions: The City is unaware of any specific geotechnical or environmental constraints on preferred sites beyond known utilities such as lift stations.
Operations and Logistics
• Snow Removal: The City will continue to maintain existing streets and sidewalks as usual. Maintenance of new private driveways or onsite snow storage must be handled within the project's operational budget.
• Traffic and Bus Staging: Developers are expected to propose plans for bus staging and traffic management. The Committee noted that traffic impact is expected to be minimal compared to larger venues such as the FARGODOME.
• Parking: The City has no funds for future parking structures. Paid parking is considered appropriate and standard for regional competition.
Technology and Culture
• IT/AV: The facility is expected to have robust, competitive communications capabilities (Wi-Fi, fiber, etc.). Developers should propose the ownership and operational model for technology.
• Cultural Elements: The Committee expressed a desire for the building to reflect Fargo’s local or regional history/culture, provided it fits the budget.
The meeting was adjourned at 3:17 p.m.