Latest News
Ice dams can cause structural damage and make messes
In North Dakota, winter isn’t thought of as a rainy season, but for some area home and business owners, last week’s above average temperatures had it raining indoors. The problem of the indoor moisture caused by ice dams on the roofs.
Drovdal working to ensure funding for oil impacted areas
After serving in the North Dakota Legislature for the past nine legislative sessions, David Drovdal, District 39 Representative and North Dakota Speaker of the House, knows that things don’t happen fast in the North Dakota Legislature, nor do they always follow what some people would think of as the most logical path.
City’s sales tax helps fuel economic development
It’s hard to believe that a penny could go very far, but for the Watford City Roughrider Fund, the pennies have added up, making Watford City and its surrounding communities a great place to live.
City needs $18 million in infrastructure improvements
The growth of a city doesn’t come without significant financial cost.
School enrollment numbers continue to rise
When school started last August, it came as no surprise to school faculty that there were a lot of new students. The surprise for some teachers and parents is just beginning to surface as the number of new students continues to grow at a steady pace for some county schools.
A growing community has 911 dispatchers stretched to the max
With the county growing at an unusually rapid pace, many offices and departments are continually getting busier without any slowdown in sight. Area law enforcement and emergency personnel are firsthand witnesses to just how busy the county has become.
City’s crime on the rise
Watford City’s population is growing, and with the increase in residents, the Watford City Police Department has also noticed an increase in crime.
Wellness Center fund drive tops halfway point
Thanks to several large donations, a new wellness center in Watford City is an even closer reality than fundraisers expected it to be.
City’s taxable sales up 55 percent in third quarter
After posting a very vigorous 45.96 percent increase in taxable sales and purchases in the second quarter of 2010, the third quarter of this past year was even better.
Drovdal: State sees need to help oil impacted areas
Oil and gas, water, and of course, money, along with many other issues will be discussed when the 62nd session of the North Dakota Legislature convenes in Bismarck on Jan. 4.
Oil activity will only grow in 2011
Throughout 2010, McKenzie County residents have watched the oil industry grow.
72 apartment units planned for Watford
Progressive Commercial Development, an Oregon-based company hopes that its plans for 72 apartment units will not only help with the area’s rental shortage, but the company also hopes to offer the apartments at an affordable market value.
Social Services struggles to deal with a dramatic caseload increase
County office sees big increase in child protection, foster care cases
Watford City to host family friendly New Year’s Eve Party
New Year’s Eve can be a fun time, but it can also be a scary time, especially for parents. However, one Watford City group has decided to make this New Year’s Eve a little safer for everyone.
Watford City on pace for record snow
Area’s snow total already stands at a record 48.9 inches
Study says Watford to grow to 2,655 people
It is apparent that there is a housing shortage in Watford City and several other communities in western North Dakota. However, a recently completed housing study is being viewed as a good tool for Watford City.
Living for today, inspiring for tomorrow
What does it mean to have a heart of gold? If it means going above and beyond the call of duty in everything that you do, while always keeping a smile on your face and thinking of others’ needs before your own, then Kathy Skarda is definitely worthy of the 2010 Heart of Gold Award.
County Treasurer’s office offers vehicle title service
Purchasing a vehicle is an exciting time, but waiting to receive the title to your new purchase can be a daunting task. But that daunting task is going to be much easier if you make your vehicle purchase in McKenzie County.
City police arrest two men on drug charges
Following a tip by an anonymous citizen, two men were arrested on drug charges near a Watford City business on Monday, Dec. 6.
Fire prevention is key for people living in campers this winter
With hundreds of campers in the area and lots of cold weather ahead, the Watford City Fire Department is concerned about the number of fire dangers associated with living in a camper during the winter.
Opinions mixed on city’s snow removal efforts
With more than 15 inches of snow falling in November, it’s obvious that snow removal has been on the minds of Watford City city workers as well as Watford City residents. However, the thoughts of the two groups are very different.
Choir to present Christmas cantata
The First Lutheran Choir is ready to help stir up your Christmas memories with its annual Christmas cantata, ‘Winter’s Grace,’ A Cantata for Christmas by Joseph M. Martin.
Parade of Lights was a great way to get into the holiday spirit
Once again, the Watford City Area Chamber of Commerce put on a spectacular Parade of Lights to kick off the holiday season.
Food Pantry offers help throughout the holiday season
For many people, food is something we don’t think about too much. When you or your kids are hungry, all you need to do is go to a cupboard or the fridge and there is something to eat. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for everyone.
Watford City is ready to Celebrate a Country Christmas
‘Celebrating a Country Christmas’ is the Christmas theme chosen by the Watford City Area Chamber of Commerce for this year’s holiday season and it all kicks off this weekend.
Businesses decorate Christmas trees for Boots & Bling auction
With Christmas just around the corner, many people are digging out their holiday decorations, including the dusty Christmas tree and decorations. Maybe this year is the year you’ve decided it’s time to spice things up or make a change. If so, you’ll want to make plans to attend the 2010 Boots and Bling Gala, sponsored by the Benefit Fund of the McKenzie County Healthcare Systems.
Drovdal elected N.D. Speaker of the House
After nine legislative sessions, District 39 Representative David Drovdal decided he needed a bit of a challenge to regenerate himself and his career, a challenge that could ultimately be very good for McKenzie County. After a close race, Drovdal was elected as Speaker of the North Dakota House of Representatives.
School requests bus funding from county’s Infrastructure Fund
With its existing school bus fleet wearing out faster than normal, the McKenzie County School District No. 1 school board is going to be asking the McKenzie County Board of County Commissioners to use a portion of the county’s Infrastructure Fund to purchase six new buses, as well as to provide funds to help construct a new bus storage facility.
Tying for a good cause
A toothbrush, pajamas, socks and underwear are possessions that most people take for granted. However, for abused children, the simple gift of these and other everyday necessities can make a huge difference in their life.
Keeping elderly housing affordable
In a time when housing is in high demand, most people who are thinking of selling are looking at a nice profit. But not everyone is selling to make big money.