North Dakota

8 Towns Perfect For Retirement In North Dakota

Published

8 months ago

May 16, 2024

8 Towns Perfect For Retirement In North Dakota

As one of thirteen states sharing a border with Canada, North Dakota gets its name from the American Souix name for “ally ” or “friend.” The “Peace Garden State” might be best known for its colder climate and wide-open landscapes, but in recent times, it has emerged as a surprising haven for retirees seeking a place to spend their golden years. For senior adults looking for close-knit communities, affordable living costs, and a rich historical heritage with numerous outdoor activities to explore, North Dakota delivers. The following eight communities are hidden gems perfect for retirees looking to find a tranquil and peaceful lifestyle far from the rigors and congestion of daily urban life.

Jamestown

The World’s Largest Buffalo in Jamestown, North Dakota. Editorial credit: Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock.com.

Jamestown sits in Stutsman County in the south-central part of the state, with a population of over 15,000 residents. The town was formed in the 1870s and has a rich heritage as a railroad stop, supplying local ranchers with a place for commerce and community to help support their homesteads. The town boasts the North American Bison Discovery Center (formerly the National Buffalo Museum). This fantastic museum is dedicated to restoring the Buffalo through educational and preservation initiatives. The grandkids will love exploring the Frontier Village, with its original pioneer buildings filled with antiques and artifacts. In addition, the world’s largest buffalo sculpture makes for a memorable photo opp. History lovers will enjoy exploring the Stutsman County Memorial Museum, a free historical venue with several floors of interesting displays and stories about local culture.

The median home price is $229,000, and with very reasonable fuel and food costs, seniors will not have to worry about making ends meet. Residents enjoy a cost of living that is about 11% less than the national average and is about average compared to other areas of the state. Healthcare is supplied by Jamestown Regional Medical Center, a 25-bed critical care facility serving a nine-county area. When you visit, be sure to eat at the Buffalo Grill, an excellent dining establishment committed to offering affordable meals to locals and visitors alike. If you can stay during the summer, don’t miss the Buffalo Jam, North Dakota’s premier music festival.

Devil’s Lake

Devils Lake is aptly named for the large mineral-rich lake it borders in the northeastern part of the state. The region has plenty of stunning natural beauty and boasts an extensive list of outdoor activities to enjoy. Retirees can enjoy fishing, boating, and birdwatching around the lake, and Graham’s Island State Park has extra-large camping spots that are perfect for RVs. This community of just over 7,100 residents is close-knit, with very little traffic and a priceless small-town charm.

History enthusiasts will love exploring the Lake Region Heritage Center, housed in the 1910 old Post Office/Federal building. The downtown area features many local businesses, shops, and boutiques. If you visit, the best place for a meal is Old Main Street Cafe, with its eclectic array of old photos, weird collectibles, and delicious meals.

The average home price in Devil’s Lake is a reasonable $240,000, and the living cost is 17% less than the national average. Alexius Health, a 25-bed facility that can handle most medical situations, offers medical care. With nearly 22% of the town’s residents aged 65 and over, it is easy to see why this tranquil place might be the perfect retirement destination.

Minot

Minot is a city in Ward County in the north-central part of the state. With 47,000 residents, it is one of the largest cities in North Dakota and is known primarily for the Air Force Base, which sits fifteen miles north of town. The town began as a railroad hub supplying settlers who ventured across the northern Plains in search of their fortunes. Today, the community is home to Minot State University, serving about 2,500 students every academic year.

Retirees can explore the Scandinavian Heritage Park with its many artifacts and buildings or enjoy strolls along the Souris Valley Trail. The downtown area has many historic buildings and shops that lend to its small-town charm. The Roosevelt Park Zoo, with over 65 species of animals, is a nice way to spend a day with the grandkids when they visit. After visiting the menagerie, try the Starving Rooster downtown for great pizza or homemade sandwiches.

Owning a home in Minot will cost about $289,900, and living costs are just under the national average. One of the best things going for Minot is Trinity Health Regional Healthcare, which just opened a 167-bed medical campus in 2023.

Valley City

Valley City is known as the City of Bridges due to the eight historical bridges surrounding it. This historic town charms retirees with its picturesque landscapes and historic downtown. Residents will enjoy the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway, which offers scenic drives, while Medicine Wheel Park provides a serene setting for relaxation overlooking the town. If you like hiking, the North Country National Scenic Hiking Trail is a must-see. The 4,800-mile trail stretches across eight states, offering several memorable once-in-a-lifetime excursions.

The median value for a home in Valley City is $292,000, with a living cost 14% less than the national average. Healthcare is provided by CHI Mercy Health, which operates a 25-bed hospital, with more specialized care offered in Fargo, which is about an hour away. When you visit, be sure to eat at the Bridges Bar and Grill, which has an excellent beer selection and tasty burgers.

Williston

Known for its robust economy fueled by the oil industry, Williston thrives in the northwest corner of the state, offering retirees a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. This community has numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, from fishing on Lake Sakakawea to exploring the Maah Daah Hey Trail. History buffs will love exploring the Fort Union Trading Post, which operated as an important site for the fur trade between 1828 and 1867.

The downtown area has many boutiques, antique stores, and delicious dining establishments to choose from. Every Mother’s Day weekend, the town celebrates band day, where marching bands show their skills in a large parade and competition. The Williston Basin Air Show is one of the town’s premier events, happening every August.

The average price for a home is a stout $429,000, with home prices being driven up by the oil revenues brought into the community. (The town’s population nearly doubled during 2010 – 2020). Still, the living costs are about 6% less than the national average. Medical care is supplied by the Williston Medical Center and CHI-St. Alexius Healthcare.

Wahpeton

Wahpeton is a hidden gem for retirees seeking a serene and fulfilling lifestyle. Nestled along the Red River’s scenic banks in the state’s southeast corner, this charming town offers good schools, safe streets, and a caring community. Retirees can immerse themselves in the town’s rich history at the Chahinkapa Zoo and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Red Door Art Gallery. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Chahinkapa Park provides picturesque walking trails and tranquil picnic spots. The town also boasts the Wahpeton Wahper, the world’s largest catfish. This unique work of art is a great photo op.

The median price for a home in Wahpeton is $296,000, with a living cost factor 22% less than the national average. In addition, healthcare options include the St Francis Medical Center, a critical care facility that can handle almost any medical situation. With its blend of local attractions, affordable housing, and access to quality medical care, Wahpeton, North Dakota, stands out as a prime destination for retirees seeking a fulfilling and comfortable retirement lifestyle.

Watford City

Watford City is located in McKenzie County on the western edge of North Dakota. It owes much of its recent development to the state’s oil boom, which has brought significant growth to the town over the last couple of decades. Watford City has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years, but with a solid infrastructure, a warm community spirit, and abundant recreational activities, this small town of 6,000 residents strives to be a great place to live.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. The park is home to bison and wild horses, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park’s many hiking trails. It’s not uncommon to spot these majestic animals during your visit. The best place for a steak is Outlaws Bar and Grill, located on South Main.

The median home price is $375,000, and the living cost is slightly higher than the national average. With excellent access to medical care through McKenzie Healthcare System. Nearly 7.4% of the resident population is over 65, but more retirees are flocking to the area every year.

Mandan

Mandan is a small town sitting on the western side of the Upper Missouri River across from Bismarck. The community has a population of just under 25,000 residents and has a rich Native American heritage. History buffs will enjoy the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, where visitors can explore reconstructed military buildings and the iconic On-A-Slant Indian Village. Additionally, Mandan boasts an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating on the river to hiking and camping in the nearby hills. With its picturesque landscapes and vibrant community spirit, Mandan provides residents with a tranquil retreat amidst the rugged beauty of the North Dakota plains.

With its close access to Bismark, there are ample healthcare options, including the Vibra Hospital of the Central Dakotas, a 41-bed critical care facility. The median home price is $370,000, with a living cost of 11% less than the national average. The downtown area has plenty of quaint shops and boutiques to venture through. If you need a place to eat, try Friends Family Restaurant, a local eatery serving home-cooked food and drinks.

In conclusion, North Dakota’s small towns offer retirees a tranquil haven to embrace a slower pace of life, connect with nature, and foster meaningful community ties. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply seeking a close-knit community, these eight towns provide the perfect backdrop for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

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North Dakota

Lawmakers advance bill to replace North Dakota drones made by foreign adversaries

Published

9 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

Lawmakers advance bill to replace North Dakota drones made by foreign adversaries

BISMARCK — Lawmakers unanimously advanced a bill aimed at replacing over 300 Chinese-made drones used by North Dakota agencies due to security concerns, though development of drone infrastructure in the bill drew scrutiny from lawmakers.

House Bill 1038

would create a $15 million program to replace all drones used by North Dakota agencies that do not comply with the

National Defense Authorization Act

and the

American Security Drone Act of 2023.

In short, any drones that are manufactured in adversarial countries would be replaced.

For North Dakota, that would be 307 of the 353 drones — or 86.97% — used by state agencies, according to a survey administered by the North Dakota University System.

All 307 drones that would be replaced are from China, according to the survey, specifically from a company called DJI, according to bill sponsor Rep. Mike Nathe, R-Bismarck.

During his testimony to the appropriations committee, Nathe said that DJI has roughly 90% of the hobby market, 70% of the industrial market and 80% of the first responder market in the U.S., something he said was “very disturbing” to him.

“Even if out of the 307 we have one of these that are bad, it’s worth doing,” Nathe said. “So, these drones are flying all over our state. They’re flying over our communities, our air bases, our missile sites, our oil fields and God knows if they’re collecting data and transmitting that. And that is not only a security risk for North Dakota but also for the country.”

Nathe said North Dakota agencies are using Chinese drones because they are cheap.

“Why do we have so many of these in our inventory? And we’re not the only state, every other state is – has as many of these as we do,” Nathe said. “And the answer is they’re cheap. Cheaper than U.S. stuff, and they’re easy to fly and they’re very consumer-friendly. And they are not just years ahead, they’re like generations ahead of the (U.S.) manufacturers.”

Despite this, he said he has not had any pushback from state agencies on the proposed bill.

The program would be run by the Grand Forks-based

Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Test Site

. Under the proposed bill, the test site would find and pay for drones that could serve the same function of the Chinese drones currently used by agencies, then organize training on the new drones for agencies’ personnel and inspect and dispose of the Chinese-made drones.

Agencies would be able to continue using the drones they have until a replacement drone from a U.S. manufacturer or a manufacturer in a country friendly to the U.S. has been found by the test site, Nathe said.

Some members of the committee questioned how much it would cost to replace the current drones. Frank Mattis, director of UAS integration at Thales and newly minted chair of the

North Dakota UAS Council

, said that it would likely cost more than $10,000 per drone to replace the current DJI drones used by state agencies.

Thales is a company partnered with the state and the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to develop the

Vantis

system. The system, simply put, is a radar system that tracks and identifies drones, which allows them to operate beyond the line of sight of pilots.

The second part of HB 1038 would allocate $11 million to develop an FAA radar data enclave and engage in a first-of-its-kind one-year pathfinder program where the FAA would share radar data with Vantis that would extend the system’s reach over most of the state.

Northern Plains UAS Test Site Deputy Executive Director Erin Roesler said the system covers 3,000 square miles and with the FAA data would cover 56,000 square miles — an expansion that would cost the state $255 million to develop without the FAA’s assistance.

The hope, according to those in support of the bill, is that Vantis with the FAA’s data would become the guideline for a national drone infrastructure system.

According to Mattis, this would be the first time the FAA shared unfiltered radar data with an organization outside of the federal government.

The data is not classified as “top secret” or “secret,” Mattis said, but it does rise to a level of importance where it needs to be protected. The $11 million would pay for the training, screening of personnel, and physical and cybersecurity upgrades to the test site that would allow them to house and utilize the data.

Several lawmakers on the committee questioned how and when the state would see a return on the $11 million investment in Vantis.

Roesler said that Vantis should be viewed as an infrastructure project and that its value comes from the opportunities it will create.

She said that state agencies and other drone operators must create their own often costly and redundant systems to operate drones the way Vantis allows for. Creating this shared-use infrastructure lowers the barrier for agencies and companies to use drones in new ways.

Rep. David Richter, R-Williston, told a story about a hospital in his part of the state using a drone to deliver medicine across Lake Sakakawea to a remote area as an example of the use of drone infrastructure.

“We build highways and then people use them,” Richter said. “We are building a highway and people will use it.”

The bill was given a unanimous “do pass” recommendation by the committee and will be carried to the floor for a vote by Nathe.

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North Dakota

European potato company plans first U.S. production plant in North Dakota

Published

20 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

European potato company plans first U.S. production plant in North Dakota

Screen Capture: https://agristo.com/timeline

Agristo, a leading European producer of frozen potato products, is making big moves in North America. The company, founded in 1986, has chosen Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the site for its first U.S. production facility.

Agristo has been testing potato farming across the U.S. for years and found North Dakota to be the perfect fit. The state offers high-quality potato crops and a strong agricultural community.

In a statement, Agristo said it believes those factors make it an ideal location for producing the company’s high-quality frozen potato products, including fries, hash browns, and more.

“Seeing strong potential in both potato supply and market growth in North America, Agristo is now ready to invest in its first production facility in the United States, focusing on high-quality products, innovation, and state-of-the-art technology.”

Agristo plans to invest up to $450 million to build a cutting-edge facility in Grand Forks. This project will create 300 to 350 direct jobs, giving a boost to the local economy.

Agristo is working closely with North Dakota officials to finalize the details of the project.

Negotiations for the plant are expected to wrap up by mid-2025.

For more information about Agristo and its products, visit www.agristo.com.

Agristo’s headquarters are located in Belgium.

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North Dakota

Audit of North Dakota state auditor finds no issues; review could cost up to $285K • North Dakota Monitor

Published

1 day ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

Audit of North Dakota state auditor finds no issues; review could cost up to 5K • North Dakota Monitor

A long-anticipated performance audit of the North Dakota State Auditor’s Office found no significant issues, consultants told a panel of lawmakers Thursday afternoon.

“Based on the work that we performed, there weren’t any red flags,” Chris Ricchiuto, representing consulting firm Forvis Mazars, said.

The review was commissioned by the 2023 Legislature following complaints from local governments about the cost of the agency’s services.

The firm found that the State Auditor’s Office is following industry standards and laws, and is completing audits in a reasonable amount of time, said Charles Johnson, a director with the firm’s risk advisory services.

“The answer about the audit up front is that we identified four areas where things are working exactly as you expect the state auditor to do,” Johnson told the committee.

Charles Johnson of consulting firm Forvis Mazars shares the result of a performance audit of the North Dakota State Auditor’s Office during a Legislative Audit and Fiscal Review Committee meeting on Jan. 9, 2025. (Mary Steurer/North Dakota Monitor)

The report also found that the agency has implemented some policies to address concerns raised during the 2023 session.

For example, the Auditor’s Office now provides cost estimates to clients before they hire the office for services, Johnson said. The proposals include not-to-exceed clauses, so clients have to agree to any proposed changes.

The State Auditor’s Office also now includes more details on its invoices, so clients have more comprehensive information about what they’re being charged for.

The audit originally was intended to focus on fiscal years 2020 through 2023. However, the firm extended the scope of its analysis to reflect policy changes that the Auditor’s Office implemented after the 2023 fiscal year ended.

State Auditor Josh Gallion told lawmakers the period the audit covers was an unusual time for his agency. The coronavirus pandemic made timely work more difficult for his staff. Moreover, because of the influx of pandemic-related assistance to local governments from the federal government, the State Auditor’s Office’s workload increased significantly.

Gallion said that, other than confirming that the changes the agency has made were worthwhile, he didn’t glean anything significant from the audit.

“The changes had already been implemented,” he said.

Gallion has previously called the audit redundant and unnecessary. When asked Thursday if he thought the audit was a worthwhile use of taxpayer money, Gallion said, “Every audit has value, at the end of the day.”

The report has not been finalized, though the Legislative Audit and Fiscal Review Committee voted to accept it.

Audit of state auditor delayed; Gallion calls it ‘redundant, unnecessary’

“There was no shenanigans, there were no red flags,” Sen. Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden, said at the close of the hearing.

Forvis representatives told lawmakers they plan to finish the report sometime this month.

The contract for the audit is for $285,000.

Johnson said as far as he is aware Forvis has sent bills for a little over $150,000 so far. That doesn’t include the last two months of the company’s work, he said.

The consulting firm sent out surveys to local governments that use the agency’s services.

The top five suggestions for improvements were: