Fargo City Commission

Board of City Commissioners - July 20, 2026 Minutes

The Regular Meeting of the Board of City Commissioners of the City of Fargo, North Dakota, was held in the City Commission Chambers at City Hall at 4:30 o'clock p.m., Monday, July 20, 2026.
The Commissioners present or absent were as shown following:
Present: Gullickson, Peterson, Strand, Turnberg, Boschee.
Absent: None.
Mayor Boschee presiding.

Mayor Boschee announced that the Board of City Commissioners will retire into Executive Session in the Red River Room for the purpose of receiving its attorney’s advice and guidance on the legal risks, strengths and weaknesses of an action of the City regarding civil litigation with Curtis H. Kesselring and Deborah J. Kesselring, as Trustees of the Kesselring Joint Trust UA dated January 1, 2027, and to discuss negotiating strategy or provide negotiating instructions to its attorney or other negotiator regarding the litigation which to discuss these matters in an open meeting will have a negative fiscal effect on the bargaining position of the City. Thus, an Executive Session for this matter is authorized pursuant to North Dakota Century Code 44-04-19.1 subsections 2, 5 and 9 and North Dakota Century Code 44-04-19.2, subsection 1.

Commissioner Turnberg moved the Commissioners meet in Executive Session in the Red River Room as authorized by North Dakota Century Code 44-04-19.1 subsections 2, 5 and 9 and North Dakota Century Code 44-04-19.2, subsection 1 to discuss said matter.

Second by Peterson. All the Commissioners voted aye and the motion was declared carried.

The Executive Session closed at 4:57 p.m. and the meeting reconvened in public session at 5:00 o’clock p.m.
All Commissioners present.
Mayor Boschee presiding.

A video was shown highlighting the Forestry Division’s Arbor Day event at Anderson Park with students from Carl Ben Eielson Middle School.

Order of Agenda Approved:
Commissioner Turnberg moved the Order of the Agenda be approved.

Second by Peterson. All the Commissioners voted aye and the motion was declared carried.

Minutes Approved:
Commissioner Strand moved that the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board held on July 6, 2026 and the Minutes of the Special Meeting held on July 8, 2026 be approved as read.

Second by Turnberg. All the Commissioners voted aye and the motion was declared carried.

Consent Agenda Approved:
Commissioner Turnberg moved the Consent Agenda be approved as follows:

1. Government Relations and Legislative Advocacy Request for Qualifications.

2. Appointment of Lake Agassiz Water Authority Board Member for the City of Fargo.

3. 1st reading of an Ordinance Amending Section 3-2011 of Article 3-20 of Chapter 3 of the Fargo Municipal Code Relating to a Sales and Use Tax for Infrastructure Capital Improvements.

4. Receive and file an Ordinance Repealing Article 15-02 of Chapter 15 of the Fargo Municipal Code Relating to the Human Rights Commission.

5. Applications for Games of Chance.

6. Change Order No. 1 to authorize use of Automated Machine Guidance for Improvement District No. BR-26-I1.

7. Negative Final Balancing Change Order No. 2 in the amount of -$58,044.85 for Improvement District No. BR-25-H1.

8. Negative Final Balancing Change Order No. 1 in the amount of -$14,475.58 for Improvement District No. BR-25-C1.

9. Final Balancing Change Order No. 5 in the amount of $10,142.27 for Improvement District No. BN-24-B1.

10. Amendment No. 2 in the amount of $79,624.00 for Improvement District No. BR-23-A2.

11. Bid award to Master Holdings, LLC in the amount of $523,763.75 for Improvement District No. BN-26-B1.

12. Bid award to Insituform Technologies USA, LLC in the amount of $1,027,128.96 for Improvement District No. UR-26-G1.

13. Final Balancing Change Order No. 7 in the amount of $8,365.60 for Project No. TN-24-A1.

14. Final Balancing Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $0.00 for Project No. TR-25-E1.

15. Amendment to extend cleaning contract at the Police Department Headquarters for two years (RFP23013).

16. Items from FAHR meeting:
a. Authorize Transit Department to offer vehicle on Govdeals auction services with the proceeds going back into the Transit Capital account.
b. Approve grant award from ND Department of Health and Human Services No. G25.727 CFDA 93.898 Partial in the amount of $102,915.00.
c. Approve grant award from ND Department of Health and Human Services No. G25.674 in the amount of $2,000.00 and related budget adjustment.

17. Notice of Grant Award with ND Department of Health and Human Services for LPHU Tobacco Prevention and Control Program.

18. Direct the City Attorney’s office to review the Tattoos, Body Art and Body Piercing Ordinance, Article 25-33.

19. Direct the City Attorney’s office to review the Lodging Ordinance, Article 13-14.

20. Direct the City Attorney’s office to review the Recreational Aquatic Facilities Ordinance, Article 13-10.

21. Bid award to Pioneer LLC in the amount of $47,200.00 for the demolition of property located at 115 6th Avenue North (RFP26210).

22. Bid award to J-Tech Mechanical in the amount of $157,500.00 for the Metro Transit Garage Boiler Replacement Project (RFP26183).

23. Bid award to Seon Design Inc. d/b/a Safe Fleet for Bus Video Surveillance Systems (RFP26200).

24. Assistance to homeowners with lead service lines during emergency sewer line replacements.

25. Contract and bond for Project WA2508.

26. Bills in the amount of $12,101,480.

Second by Strand. On call of the roll Commissioners Turnberg, Strand, Gullickson, Peterson and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Application Filed by Divine Taste of Africa Cuisine Catering Services LLC d/b/a Divine Taste of Africa for an Alcoholic Beverage License Approved:
A Hearing had been set for June 22, 2026 on the application filed by Divine Taste of Africa Cuisine Catering Services LLC d/b/a Divine Taste of Africa for a Class "GH" Alcoholic Beverage License at 855 45th Street South, Suite A1, notice of which had been duly published in the official newspaper for the City of Fargo.
At the June 22, 2026 Regular Meeting the Hearing was continued to this day and hour.
Assistant City Attorney Will Wischer said a “GH” license permits the sale of beer and wine only, prohibiting spirits, dedicated bars and off-sale liquor, and carries no issuance caps. It requires at least 50% of revenue to come from food, he said, with costs set at an initial $1,800.00 fee and a $700.00 annual renewal fee.
Commissioner Turnberg moved the application be approved.

Second by Gullickson. On call of the roll Commissioners Turnberg, Gullickson, Peterson, Strand and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Application Filed by La Terraza LLC d/b/a La Terraza Mexican Bar & Grill for an Alcoholic Beverage License Approved:
A Hearing had been set for June 22, 2026 on the application filed by La Terraza LLC d/b/a La Terraza Mexican Bar & Grill for a Class "FA" Alcoholic Beverage License at 5570 32nd Avenue South, notice of which had been duly published in the official newspaper for the City of Fargo.
At the June 22, 2026 Regular Meeting, the Hearing was continued to this day and hour.
Assistant City Attorney Will Wischer said an “FA” license allows the sale of beer, wine and spirits, as well as an on-site bar, but prohibits off-sale alcohol. It has no issuance caps, he said, requires that food accounts for at least 50% of sales and carries an initial fee of $100,000.00 alongside a $1,700.00 annual fee.
Commissioner Gullickson moved the application be approved.

Second by Turnberg. On call of the roll Commissioners Gullickson, Turnberg, Peterson, Strand and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Application to Transfer the Alcoholic Beverage License from Litton Enterprises LLC d/b/a Duffy’s Tavern to Duffy’s Tavern LLC d/b/a Duffy’s Tavern Approved:
A Hearing had been set for this day and hour on the application to transfer the Class "AB" Alcoholic Beverage License from Litton Enterprises LLC d/b/a Duffy’s Tavern to Duffy’s Tavern LLC d/b/a Duffy’s Tavern located at 16 12th Street South, prior notice of which had been duly published in the official newspaper for the City of Fargo.
No written protest or objection to the granting of the application has been received or filed in the office of the City Auditor, and said application has been approved by the Police Department as to the character of the applicant.
The Board determined that no person is present at this Hearing to protest or offer objection to the granting of the application.
Assistant City Attorney Will Wischer said an “AB” license functions as a standard bar license that permits the sale of beer, wine and spirits with a physical bar and carries no minimum food requirement. Unlike uncapped licenses, he said, these are capped, limited to 22 in the City, and because this action involves a transfer rather than a new issuance, the usual $150,000.00 initial fee is waived in favor of a $250.00 application fee plus the standard $2,400.00 annual fee.
Commissioner Turnberg moved the application be approved.

Second by Peterson. On call of the roll Commissioners Turnberg, Peterson, Gullickson, Strand and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Parcels of Land in Selkirk Place Sixth Addition Rezoned (6655 Selkirk Drive South):
At a Hearing held on June 2, 2026 the Fargo Planning Commission recommended approval of a change in zoning from SR-5 Single-Dwelling Residential to SR-2, Single-Dwelling Residential.
The City Auditor's Office published a Notice of Hearing stating this is the time and date set for said Hearing at which time all interested persons could appear and would be heard.
Current Planning Coordinator Donald Kress said this is an undeveloped lot in the Selkirk Place 2nd Edition subdivision, located near 64th Avenue South, I-29, 25th Street South and Davies High School. The property was originally zoned SR-5 for a townhome project proposed by Eagle Ridge Development that never materialized, he stated; therefore, the developer requested to rezone the site to SR-2 to subdivide it into six single-family lots, matching the SR-2 zoning across the street where another lot was recently replatted into five lots.
Commissioner Turnberg offered the following Resolution and moved its adoption:
WHEREAS, All legal requirements in connection with the above-described request for rezoning have been complied with; and
WHEREAS, There have been no written or verbal protests to the request for rezoning and no one is present to protest thereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the findings of staff be accepted and the rezoning be approved on the basis that the proposal satisfactorily complies with the Comprehensive Plan, Standards of Section 20-0906.F (1-4) and all other applicable requirements of the LDC.

Second by Strand. On the vote being taken on the question of the adoption of the Resolution Commissioners Turnberg, Strand, Gullickson, Peterson and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the Resolution was adopted.

First Reading of an Ordinance Rezoning Certain Parcels of Land Lying in Selkirk Place Sixth Addition to the City of Fargo, Cass County, North Dakota:
Commissioner Turnberg moved the requirement relating to receipt of the Ordinance by the Commission one week prior to first reading be waived and that the Ordinance Rezoning Certain Parcels of Land Lying in Selkirk Place Sixth Addition to the City of Fargo, Cass County, North Dakota be placed on first reading.

Second by Strand. On call of the roll Commissioners Turnberg, Strand, Gullickson, Peterson and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Resolution Adopted Approving Selkirk Place Sixth Addition:
Commissioner Turnberg offered the following Resolution and moved its adoption:
WHEREAS, A Plat has been filed in the office of the City Auditor entitled “Selkirk Place Sixth Addition” containing 6 Lots, 1 Block and 1.90 acres of land more or less, located at 6655 Selkirk Drive South; and
WHEREAS, A Hearing was held June 2, 2026 by the Fargo Planning Commission, and notice of such Hearing had been published, as required by law, and said Plat had been approved by the Fargo Planning Commission and by the City Engineer; and
WHEREAS, The City Auditor's Office published a Notice of Hearing on said Plat in the official newspaper for the City of Fargo on July 16, 2026 that a Hearing would be held in the Commission Chambers, City Hall, Fargo, North Dakota at 5:05 p.m., July 20, 2026 at which time said Plat would be considered and all interested persons would be heard.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the findings and recommendations of staff and the Planning Commission be accepted and the Plat entitled “Selkirk Place Sixth Addition” be and the same is hereby in all things affirmed and approved on the basis that it complies with the Standards of Article 20-06, and all other applicable requirements of the Land Development Code, and that the Mayor of the City of Fargo and the appropriate City Officials are hereby directed to endorse their approval on the Plat and then direct Petitioner to file same for record in the Office of the Recorder of Cass County, North Dakota.

2025 HUD Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs Received and Filed:
Planning Director Nicole Crutchfield provided an overview of Fargo's Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships programs, explaining that Fargo operates as an entitlement community and participating jurisdiction, receiving approximately $1.4 million annually in Federal HUD funding. She said HUD's program year runs off-cycle, beginning around May, creating a mid-year overlap, and that the City is currently reporting on year one of its five-year consolidated plan. Moving forward, she said, primary focus areas include an alley paving program, tenant-based rental assistance and street outreach through Fargo Cass Public Health, alongside ongoing fair housing support. She also highlighted recently completed projects from prior grant years, including Habitat for Humanity construction, rental developments such as Elliott Place, HVAC improvements at the YWCA and a mobile outreach unit for Family HealthCare.
In response to a question from Commissioner Strand asking how the upcoming tenant-based rental assistance program might address the estimated 30 evictions occurring monthly in the community, and he emphasized the critical need to assist youth aging out of foster care, who face high rates of homelessness, Ms. Crutchfield said eviction prevention and stabilization are explicitly on her radar, explaining that staff are currently mapping the local housing system in partnership with the local action agency and the Coalition to End Homelessness to ensure these populations are properly served.
Ms. Crutchfield said in accordance with the Citizen Participation Plan, the report is being presented as a Public Hearing, opening a public comment period that runs through July 23, 2026. While no public comments have been received yet, she said, the final CAPER will be submitted to HUD for official review and approval once the comment period closes.
Commissioner Strand moved to receive and file the 2025 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report.

Second by Gullickson. On call of the roll Commissioners Strand, Gullickson, Peterson, Turnberg and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent an none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Renaissance Zone Project for EWR Fargo Dakota Center, LLC (Edgewood Properties LLLP) Approved:
A Hearing had been set for this day and hour to receive comments on a Renaissance Zone Project for EWR Fargo Dakota Center, LLC (Edgewood Properties LLLP (377-F) at 51 Broadway North.
No written protest or objection to the Project has been received or filed in the City Auditor's Office.
The Board determined that no person is present to protest or offer objection to the Project.
The Board received a communication from the Planning and Development Department staff stating that the City received a Renaissance Zone application from EWR Fargo Dakota Center, LLC, owned by Edgewood Properties LLLP, to rehabilitate a commercial building at 51 Broadway North. They said the project will rehabilitate the existing building by updating the HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety systems, related mechanical improvements and modernizing to Class A office standards. Exterior improvements include lighting, storefront modernization, painting and window sealing and repair, they stated and there is work occurring within the building, including general maintenance and work on the third floor. This work is not eligible towards the minimum requirements of the application, they said and the applicant has confirmed the scope or work and value is not included in the application. The project meets all State and local requirements for approval and is consistent with goals and objectives as established in the Fargo Renaissance Zone Development Plan, they said. The application indicates an investment of approximately $5,374,696.00, they said, which is approximately $50.60 per square foot and exceeds the minimum investment threshold as set forth in the plan.
Planning Director Nicole Crutchfield said Fargo’s Renaissance Zone program operates under a State-authorized plan, updated every 5 to 7 years and adopted in 2024, supported by the City Commission, Cass County and Fargo Public Schools. Designed to encourage Downtown reinvestment and strengthen the urban core, she said, the program evaluates projects against specific investment thresholds and the application for the Dakota Center is one of the largest rehab projects in recent memory. The proposed $5 million investment on a $10 million property will potentially increase the post-abatement annual property taxes from $160,000.00 to $240,000.00, she said, and the Renaissance Zone Authority unanimously recommended approval.
Fargo resident Paul Gleye said the project does not fulfill key goals of the 2024 Renaissance Zone Development Plan, such as creating a unique, vibrant destination or applying strong urban design principles, and that window repairs and interior updates fail to fix the building's historical lack of a walkable, pedestrian-scale footprint.
In response to a question from Commissioner Turnberg asking would the project go ahead without the Renaissance Zone money, Jacob Strand, Associate General Counsel for Edgewood Real Estate Investment Trust, said the landmark building has been more than 50% vacant for nearly 15 years and has fallen into disrepair. He said that while minor tenant improvements began under prior ownership, comprehensive renovations of this scale would likely not proceed without the Renaissance Zone incentive.
Commissioner Peterson said he supports the Renaissance Zone program generally; however, he felt the Commission needed greater clarity regarding the owner's long-term vision before approving public subsidies. He pointed out that because the building recently purchased for $5 million while currently assessed over $10 million, the baseline numbers and return-on-investment timeline presented to the public may be skewed.
Commissioner Gullickson said she would also like to see the project succeed while asking if the developer would be willing to return with more creative designs, sketches and refined ideas.
Responding to questions about tax mechanics, Ms. Crutchfield and Urban Development Coordinator Maegin Elshaug clarified a common public misconception: property taxes do not drop to zero during the 5-year abatement. The base property value continues to be taxed, they said, while only the value added by new improvements is temporarily exempt, leading to the estimated $80,000.00 net increase in post-abatement annual tax revenues. Ms. Crutchfield said that non-financial benefits, such as preventing key Downtown properties from sitting vacant and decaying, are central to the Renaissance Zone purpose.
Commissioner Peterson said he opposes the project, not because he is against the Renaissance Zone program or this specific project but rather due to the lack of sufficient information. He said his preference is to continue the item to gather more details.
Commissioner Strand expressed support for approving the project, emphasizing that it meets all State and local requirements and aligns with the Fargo Renaissance Zone Development Plan. He said that because the City established these rules, vetted the application and invited developers to invest, it would be unfair to change expectations at the last minute. While acknowledging the need for a broader conversation about incentives in the future, he said the established policy should be followed and the application approved.
Commissioner Gullickson agreed with Commissioner Strand's assessment regarding established policy.
The Mayor addressed comments regarding potential pauses and broader discussions on economic incentives, assuring the Commission and the public that a robust review is planned for the fall. He said members of the Economic Development Incentives Committee (EDIC) and the public have expressed strong interest in evaluating incentive outcomes more thoroughly, as well as considering whether to bring the Renaissance Zone program under EDIC oversight to streamline these evaluations.
Commissioner Strand moved the Renaissance Zone application filed by EWR Fargo Dakota Center, LLC (Edgewood Properties LLLP (377-F) for a project located at 51 Broadway North be approved and the income tax exemptions be granted as recommended by the Renaissance Zone Authority.

Second by Boschee. On call of the roll Commissioners Strand, Boschee and Gullickson voted aye.
Commissioners Peterson and Turnberg voted nay.
The motion was declared carried.

Renaissance Zone Project for JS2L Partners, LLP Approved:
A Hearing had been set for this day and hour to receive comments on a Renaissance Zone Project for JS2L Partners, LLP (378-F) located at 120 8th Street South.
No written protest or objection to the Project has been received or filed in the City Auditor's Office.
The Board determined that no person is present to protest or offer objection to the Project.
The Board received a communication from the Planning and Development Department stating the Renaissance Zone Project application presented by JS2L Partners, LLP meets all of the minimum criteria set forth in the Renaissance Zone Plan and is consistent with the established goals and objectives.
Planning Director Nicole Crutchfield said the application is for an interior and exterior building rehabilitation project. She said the current building value of $627,000.00 would see a proposed investment of $1.3 million, equating to roughly $135.00 per square foot, which exceeds the minimum investment threshold. She stated that estimated annual property taxes for the building could increase from $9,300.00 to $33,000.00 post-rehabilitation.
Commissioner Gullickson moved the Renaissance Zone application filed by JS2L Partners, LLP (378-F) for a project located at 120 8th Street South be approved and the income tax exemptions be granted as recommended by the Renaissance Zone Authority.

Second by Strand. On call of the roll Commissioners Gullickson, Strand, Peterson and Boschee voted aye.
Commissioner Turnberg voted nay.
The motion was declared carried.

Request for a New Liquor License Classification Approved:
Assistant City Attorney Will Wischer provided background on the proposed Ordinance change regarding Hector International Airport's alcohol license, explaining that current Ordinances restrict service to the restaurant area via a Class “A” license operated by concessionaire Sky Dine. With the airport expanding, he said, officials seek flexibility to allow passengers to consume alcohol beyond the restaurant and near gate areas. Following discussions regarding safety protocols, he stated, including designated cups, alcohol limits, restricted drinking areas, operating hours, food requirements and security, the Liquor Control Board recommended directing the City Attorney to work with the Auditor's Office and the Airport Authority to draft a tailored Ordinance. He said next steps could include a City Commission informational session to refine specific terms before a formal draft is submitted.
Commissioner Turnberg voiced strong support for the proposal, noting that more than 40 airports, including Bismarck, Minot and Minneapolis-St. Paul, already permit similar alcohol consumption outside dining areas. She said servers are fully trained, passengers are already prohibited from boarding flights while intoxicated and the option acts as a practical amenity that relieves seating congestion during airport renovations without creating new safety issues. She asked who watches golfers after the beer cart comes by to make sure an underage person is not drinking or at a sporting event where adults are able to purchase a beer and a hot dog and watch a baseball game and sit with their kids.
Commissioner Strand expressed support for moving forward, comparing the proposal to previous Downtown pilot programs such as the Street Fair, where open consumption was allowed on a trial basis. He suggested giving the airport a green light, provided the City remains ready to adjust or revoke the policy if unintended public intoxication or safety issues arise.
Mayor Boschee clarified that the current vote merely grants attorneys the authority to draft an Ordinance with specified parameters, which will be returned to the City Commission for approval, potentially including a sunset clause or trial period if desired, rather than enacting a final policy immediately.
Commissioner Turnberg moved the request for a new liquor license classification be approved.

Second by Strand. On call of the roll Commissioners Turnberg, Strand, Gullickson, Peterson and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Waiver of Requirement to Install a Public Sidewalk in the Thunder Road South Right-of-Way Along Lot 1, Block 1, Sanders Addition; Lot 1, Block 1, Adams Ninth Addition; all of Lots 1, 2, 5 and portions of Lots 3 and 4, Block 1, Adams Fifth Addition Considered:
Current Planning Coordinator Donald Kress said petitions requesting sidewalk waivers are rare, occurring roughly every two to three years, and are reviewed by the Planning Commission before coming to the City Commission for a final decision. Outlining the general commercial and limited industrial zoning near I-29, 42nd Street, 32nd Avenue South and Thunder Road Family Fun Center, he detailed that the Engineering Department proposed installing sidewalks in the area during an annual review. In response, adjacent property owners submitted a petition requesting a waiver for a specific section, stating the petitioners' view the area as a low-pedestrian industrial cul-de-sac, while the Planning Commission views sidewalks as essential public infrastructure under the Land Development Code and recommended denying the waiver request.
In response to a question from Mayor Boschee asking why the 20-year-old area had functioned without sidewalks until now, Mr. Kress explained that sidewalks are typically installed during initial property development rather than street construction, but these specific installations were omitted at the time.
City Engineer Tom Knakmuhs clarified that missing sidewalks are usually identified during site plan reviews. In this case, he said, Engineering discovered that a previously approved site plan included a sidewalk that was never constructed. During pre-design for that section, he stated, staff decided to address adjacent missing segments simultaneously for efficiency under the City's annual infill program.
In response to a question from Mayor Boschee asking if the original developers had agreed to install sidewalks during site plan approval and whether City inspection processes failed to catch the omission, Mr. Knakmuhs confirmed the sidewalk was a permit condition, adding that the Engineering Department did not historically conduct site plan sidewalk inspections.
Commissioner Turnberg spoke against requiring the installation, noting that local business owners strongly oppose it. She said the area is strictly industrial with heavy truck traffic, making pedestrian walkways potentially hazardous. She said forcing a seasonal business such as Thunder Road to pay for installation and winter maintenance creates an unnecessary financial burden where pedestrian demand is absent.
Jim McCoy, owner of J&M Truck Sales, spoke against the sidewalk requirement and warned that introducing pedestrian and bicycle traffic, especially distracted individuals on phones, creates safety hazards near heavy vehicle traffic. He added that the area experiences virtually no foot traffic aside from occasional unhoused individuals.
James Tandeski, co-owner of Thunder Road, requested that the City reconsider the project. He noted that as a seasonal business open April through October, maintaining winter snow and ice removal would impose an unfair financial strain. He questioned whether any traffic or safety studies justified the installation, warned that sidewalks might inadvertently draw pedestrians toward dangerous commercial entrances and he asked the City Commission to prioritize public funds where actual pedestrian demand exists.
In response to a question from Commissioner Turnberg regarding funding, Mr. Knakmuhs said sidewalk costs are assessed to adjacent property owners, who may either hire a private contractor or be assessed through the City's project contract. He added that the City covers specific elements using sales tax dollars, such as side yards for residential lots and ADA curb ramps.
Commissioner Peterson suggested a compromise would be to approve the requested waiver while installing ADA-accessible curb cuts on the southeast and northeast corners to safely connect pedestrians across to the parking lot without forcing full sidewalk construction throughout the industrial pocket.
Commissioner Gullickson agreed that requiring sidewalks in this industrial area creates undue burdens without clear necessity, expressing support for a compromise using curb cuts instead of full sidewalk installation.
Commissioner Strand emphasized the importance of maintaining accessible pedestrian infrastructure Citywide, stressing that sidewalks are critical for vulnerable populations, including children and individuals using wheelchairs or dealing with mobility impairments.
Commissioner Turnberg said forcing businesses to spend $12,000.00 to $20,000.00 for unused sidewalks in an industrial zone lacks common sense and she voiced her support for granting the waiver.
The Mayor clarified that a "yes" vote on the motion would deny the waiver and force property owners to install the sidewalks.
Commissioner Strand moved to accept the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny the waiver, thereby requiring sidewalk installation per City policy.

Second by Boschee. On call of the roll Commissioners Strand and Boschee voted aye.
Commissioners Peterson, Strand and Turnberg voted nay.
The motion to deny the waiver failed. Due to the motion to deny the waiver failing, City staff indicated they would not proceed with construction of the sidewalk within the area covered by the waiver petition.

Appeal Regarding Administrative Notice and Order to Correct at 379 7th Avenue South Denied: Owner Given 90 Days to Repair Vehicle to Satisfy Code Requirements:
Inspections Director Shawn Ouradnik said that on June 19, 2026 inspectors responding to a complaint at a neighboring multi-unit property noticed a damaged, visibly inoperable RV sitting outdoors. On June 23, 2026, the City posted a tow notice, he stated, which owner Doug Hanson formally appealed on June 29, 2026. City Ordinance 1309-01 defines inoperable vehicles stored for over 15 days as junk automobiles, he stated and Ordinance 1309-02, prohibiting their outdoor storage on private property as a public nuisance that leads to neighborhood blight, safety hazards and health risks. He said Ordinance 1309-04 prohibits outdoor, prolonged vehicle repairs unless conducted within a building or commercial facility, and Ordinance 1309-07 gives owners 15 days to prove operability or remove the vehicle. He said the vehicle has active licensing; however, essential front components are missing, rendering it undrivable and subject to towing.
Commissioner Strand asked if the initial enforcement action was initiated by a specific complaint and Mr. Ouradnik clarified that while an adjacent property owner's complaint about general conditions prompted the inspection, inspectors evaluated the entire property upon arrival and identified the stored vehicle as a violation.
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Hanson, Deb Shafer requested an appeal of the junk vehicle designation and explained that Mr. Hanson has actively worked to restore the RV and has replaced key components. She said progress has been delayed by his disability, limited financial resources and difficulties sourcing parts for an older model, rather than neglect. She said Mr. Hanson is a renter, relies on his designated parking space and has invested all available funds into restoring the vehicle.
In response to a question from Commissioner Strand asking about a timeline to finish repairs, Ms. Shafer acknowledged that Mr. Hanson could not give an exact timeline due to financial constraints and he lacked the funds to move or store the RV elsewhere.
In response to a question from Commissioner Strand asking about the cost to the owner if the City moved forward with removal, Mr. Ouradnik said the City contracts with FM Towing and the owner would be responsible for standard towing and storage fees.
Commissioner Strand said he wants to deny the appeal but grant the owner a 90-day grace period in order to complete repairs and satisfy code requirements. He said after the 90 days, City staff would be authorized to remove the RV without further delay.
In response to a question from Mr. Ouradnik asking for clarification on whether staff would need to reissue a new tow notice after 90 days, City Attorney Ian McLean said a formal motion should include accept staff findings, deny the appeal, but afford the owner 90 days to repair and remove the vehicle. He said if it remains inoperable after 90 days, staff is authorized to tow it immediately without additional notices.
Commissioner Strand moved to accept the findings of staff, to deny the requested appeal and direct staff to remove the Ford RV located at 379 7th Avenue South after 90 days from July 20, 2026 if the owner fails to bring the vehicle into compliance with the Fargo Municipal Code within the 90-day period.

Second by Gullickson. On call of the roll Commissioners Strand, Gullickson, Peterson, Turnberg and Boschee voted aye.
No Commissioner being absent and none voting nay, the motion was declared carried.

Bid Award and Contract for Fence Installation Around East Lot of the Fargo Police Department Headquarters Approved:
Director of Facilities Management Bekki Majerus said the Fargo Police Department has requested physical barriers and secured access gates for its headquarters campus due to employee feedback, documented incidents and a recommendation from the 2024 Master Facilities Plan. She said Facilities Management, the Police Department and Engineering are working to vacate the portion of 24th Street North between the facility and the parking lot to eventually install a security fence around the entire perimeter with gated access. While discussions to vacate the street with neighboring property owners remain ongoing, she stated, available funding from a 2024 bond issue is approaching its deadline. To avoid losing these funds, she said, Facilities Management proposes securing just the parking lot first. Once the street is vacated, she said, approximately 60% to 70% of the materials, including gates and fence panels along the east side, can be repurposed to complete the full campus layout, with only the concrete-set posts needing replacement. The immediate plan calls for an 8-foot galvanized chain-link fence with barbed wire and privacy slats on the north side, an 8-foot steel fence with curved pickets on the east side, a pedestrian gate and two vehicle gates.
Police Chief Travis Stefonowicz said when the City acquired the building, safety improvements were phased in over time due to funding constraints and shifting priorities. Security deficiencies in the parking lot were emphasized both by local and national public safety facility experts during the Master Facilities Plan and by staff in a 2025 employee engagement survey, he said. Between July 2025 and July 2026, he stated, the Department logged 38 security incidents in the lot, including an individual in a ski mask, sunglasses and gloves wandering among vehicles the day after the last City Commission meeting. Compared to other City departments, Police facilities experience a higher volume of incidents and are more likely to be targeted, he said. Additionally, since 2024, the Department has conducted more than 400 booking releases directly from the headquarters, releasing individuals straight into the staff area and aligning with broader national security concerns that justify upgrading facility protection.
Commissioner Michelle Turnberg expressed strong support for the fence, noting that officers have been reaching out to her about it for two years. She shared that she personally disliked walking to her car alone at night when City Hall's parking garage was under construction and that her former employer, a local TV station, provided secure parking. She also pointed out that the City placed the Resource and Recovery Center next to Police headquarters, bringing individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises directly to the immediate area.
City Engineer Tom Knakmuhs said 24th Street North is a public roadway requiring a formal public process to vacate. Once vacated, he said, the right-of-way on the east side defaults to the adjacent property owner, meaning the City would need to acquire that portion of land and likely grant an easement. Initial discussions stalled because the property owner wanted the City to buy their entire parcel, he stated, which the City does not need, so talks were paused and plans shifted toward fencing the parking lot.
In response to a question from Commissioner Gullickson asking about safety escorts, Chief Stefonowicz said sworn officers are frequently out responding to emergency calls across the City's 50-square-mile coverage area, making station-return escorts difficult, especially late at night.
In response to a question from Commissioner Strand asking about long-term facility plans, Chief Stefonowicz clarified that while moving the headquarters is not strictly necessary and the current location works well alongside Public Works, the Department will eventually need a substation in southern Fargo to handle growth.
Finance Director Susan Thompson clarified the details of the 2024 bond issue, explaining that several projects came in under budget, leaving unallocated funds available. Because general capital budgets are tight, she said, utilizing these remaining bond dollars for high-priority facility needs frees up capital funds for other municipal projects. She said that while the money can be reallocated, bond rules strictly dictate that it must be used for facility-related purposes.
Commissioner Peterson voiced opposition based on asset allocation, arguing that safety concerns exist across all City facilities and that determined individuals could still cause harm once officers leave the secured perimeter. He emphasized that the $250,000.00 cost could instead fund a fully equipped Police officer for a year, questioning why a fortified building of trained, armed officers requires a quarter-million-dollar fence when hundreds of other City workers and private citizens face similar safety risks.
Commissioner Strand moved the bid award and contract for fence installation around the east lot of the Fargo Police Department Headquarters be approved.

Second by Gullickson. On call of the roll Commissioners Strand, Gullickson, Turnberg and Boschee voted aye.
Commissioner Peterson voted nay.
The motion was declared carried.

City Staff Roles Related to Future Incentive Processes/Procedures:
City Administrator Michael Redlinger said City staff is conducting a comprehensive review of Fargo’s economic incentive policies and approval procedures in connection with the ongoing Land Development Code (LDC) and Growth Plan updates. This evaluation was prompted by the retirement and elimination of the Strategic Planning and Research Director position, he stated, leading to a reallocation of incentive duties across the Assessors, Planning, Finance and Administration departments. Re-evaluating these policies provides an opportunity envisioned two years ago to determine which incentive tools the City should utilize moving forward, he said and how to measure their long-term success. While City staff will continue managing local tax incentives, such as TIFs and PILOTs through the Economic Development Incentive Committee (EDIC) and City Commission, he said, they also look forward to collaborating with external partners such as the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC) to support future metro-wide growth.
Planning Director Nicole Crutchfield provided a preview of upcoming incentive discussions ahead of a mid-August informational meeting, explaining how incentives, the LDC and the Growth Plan intersect. She said her office will manage future TIF and PILOT applications stemming from the EDIC process, working closely with Finance and Assessors. Outlining the Growth Plan's multi-step framework, from overarching visioning to implementation, she said the City is shifting strategy to use incentives to drive infill and redevelopment in older areas. She detailed how the City uses transects, place types and growth centers to identify where incentives can encourage optimal, higher-density development. She also presented a timeline showing dual pathways: updating the baseline LDC (by-right development) and defining economic incentives (optimal development). The City plans to publish an 80% draft of the LDC in mid-August, she said, host a joint Planning and City Commission meeting with consultants in late August, conduct stakeholder roundtables in September, begin public hearings on the LDC in November and finalize the incentive framework once the LDC baseline is established.

Construction Update:
City Engineer Tom Knakmuhs presented an update on the progress of construction projects overseen by the Engineering Department.

Liaison Commissioner Assignment Updates:
The Commissioners gave reports on the Boards and Committees on which they serve.

Public Comments:
Bradley Foster spoke.

The meeting adjourned at 7:26 o’clock p.m.