In yesterday's Bismarck Tribune, there was vindication for Bismarck taxpayers who have supported the North Dakota Watchdog Network's efforts to hold the city commission accountable for its actions and policies.
Bismarck is in the midst of a debate that could determine the city’s future direction. It’s not a traditional debate with two sides squaring off at separate podiums. Instead, it’s a discussion of several issues that are all linked to the development of downtown Bismarck.
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The city needs this debate. It was no doubt a factor in the defeat of Parrell Grossman in his bid for a third term on the city commission. That should be a signal to other city commissioners that there’s concern over the direction the city is going. A united Burleigh County Commission opposing the Renaissance Zone extension and the school board splitting over the extension also indicate community dissatisfaction.
The Bismarck City Commission needs to schedule a series of town hall meetings and conduct a survey to gauge the feelings of the residents. The commission should get a third party, with no perceived ties to either side, to conduct the meetings and survey. Ultimately the city commission will decide the direction the city takes, but it’s important the commissioners heed the advice they get.
Some residents feel they have been ignored in the past when they voted against Civic Center expansion and quiet rail only to see the city adopt smaller versions of the projects.
Now’s the time to work together.
Go ahead and read the editorial for yourself.
