RRRC 2017 Annual Report

A N N UA L
REPORT

2017

LEADERSHIP

2

“Every city has to have dreamers and people around
you that think outside the box. Our world has changed
and we have to be able to change with it. Our cities
aren’t run the same way they were 30 years ago and we
adapt and change or fade away. Governor Burgum is
e n c o u r a g i n g t h e s a m e t o c r e a t e a v i b r a n t N o r t h D a k o t a .”
Mayor Dan Stenvold
RRRC Past President
City of Park River
2 0 1 7 S m a l l C i t y o f t h e Ye a r - N D L e a g u e o f C i t i e s

RRRC board and staff: front row left to right: Dawn Keeley, Ray Fegter, Chris Lipsh,
and Dan Stenvold; middle row left to right: Cheryl Osowski, Stacie Sevigny, Korrey
Tweed, Maggie Suda, and Danielle Gorder; back row left to right: Gary Paulson,
Mike Dunn, Lori Estad, Keith Lund, Mary Houdek, and Lauren Wild. Not pictured:
Cy nthia Pic, Nick Ruther ford, Todd Whitman, May nard Loibl, Greg Amund son, and Jay
Skorheim.

CONTENTS

3

H e a l t h y, 21st Century Smart,
Vibrant Work force Efficient
Communities Infrastructure

LEADERSHIP LETTERS RIPARIAN: 20 YEARS

04 14

FINANCIAL REPORTS FEMA PROJECTS

05 15

WHY & HOW TOURISM

06/07 16/17

YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP HOUSING REHAB

08/09 18/19

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FROST FIRE

10/11 20

RIPARIAN PRO GRAM HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

12/13 21/22

IDEAS TO ACTIONS SUMMIT

22/23

4 LETTERS FROM LEADERSHIP
Hello and thank you for taking the time to review our annual report. I am very honored
Board to have been selected to the Board of Directors, BUT even more honored to be elected
President President of the Board. Being part of this organization has been rewarding both
Chris Lipsh professionally and personally and I am truly blessed.
I have lived my entire life in the region of which RRRC serves. I have a sincere
Executive appreciation for the leaders who “walked a mile” before me. I try to keep history and
Director those efforts in the forefront of my mind as I serve in the community leader role. The
Dawn Keeley quote, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it," by George
Santayana, is one I am mindful of every day. Even though I keep a close eye on the
past, I also focus on “What is my why?” My WHY keeps me pushing for more for my
communities and region.
During my tenure as President and my time serving on the Board, I have gained a deeper
understanding of community and the need to organize. These are very trying times in
our region as the agriculture community has suffered low commodity prices, our small
towns slowly lose population, and our communities have aging infrastructure. Although
these struggles are tough to take on, we rally our regional community, put on the work
gloves and have gone to work moving forward.
I am full of pride to utilize this history, education, community spirit and my WHY, to
work with the staff of the RRRC to achieve our mission. This staff has made the duties as
the President fun and worthy work. Executive Director Dawn Keeley epitomizes the true
meaning of leadership and I am so grateful for her. I am truly blessed to be part of the
RRRC and honored to serve our region.

Possibilities motivate our staff and Board of Directors each day. Our work generally
revolves around keeping and restoring what we already have and helping chart a course
into the future – all relating to helping our communities move forward.
We are delighted with Governor Burgum’s Main Street Initiative and continue to identify
the expanded ways that we could possibly assist our communities that have meaningful
impacts in the future. We appreciate the focus being on building high quality,
differentiated communities across the state, large AND small.
We believe that we have been building upon the pillars of the Main Street Initiative for
the past 45 years. We continue to explore ways to build higher impact projects which
have a fundamental, positive impact on this region.
The Main Street Initiative has three pillars:
1. 21st Century Workforce
2. Smart, efficient infrastructure
3. Healthy, vibrant communities
The “how” to implement the Main Street Initiative is driven locally, by local people and
built around local strengths. While the region has a number of sobering trends around
growing poverty rates, declining populations, tightening budgets, and a suffering farm
economy, we continue to believe in possibilities.

Red River Regional Council FINANCIAL REPORTS 5
2017 Year End
$234,402 The RRRC provides direct funding as well as funding development
BALANCE SHEET $500 services to implement community and economic development as
General Fund well as water quality projects throughout the region.
Petty Cash $10,775
Project Funds $243,365 In 2017, the RRRC staff assisted or led in securing
Restricted Fund $489,042 $3.62 million in project and program funding for
Current Assets $813,242 48 projects, with many featured in this report.
Loans Receivable $1,302,284
TOTAL ASSETS RRRC – Loan Programs
LIABILITIES $28,846
Current Liabilities $86,351 The RRRC offers financing through three loan programs,
Long Term Liabilities $115,197 Community Development Loan Fund (CDLF), Red River
TOTAL LIABILITIES Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), and the Progress Fund.
EQUITY $1,170,335
Net Assets $(379) In 2017, the RRRC provided funding to:
Retained Earnings $17,131 • Pembina Gorge Foundation, rural Walhalla, $180,000 CDLF
Net Income
TOTAL EQUITY $1,187,087 for Frost Fire acquisition and working capital
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $1,302,284 • Half Brothers Brewery, Grand Forks, $130,000 Red River RLF

STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND $118,217 & Progress Fund for startup expenses and working capital
DISBURSEMENTS $8,200
RECEIPTS Both the Red River RLF and Progress Fund are owned by the
County Dues $326,859 RRRC and were funded by the US Department of Commerce
Event Income $112 Economic Development Administration, local funds and the
General Revenue CDLF program in partnership with the ND Dept. of Commerce
Interest and Misc $124,500 and US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
JDA Contracts $32,315
Loan Program Income $564,254 Since these programs were created, a total of 61 loans have been
Project Revenue $1,174,457 made in the amount of $4.5 million. These projects leveraged $61
TOTAL RECEIPTS million of other private and public financing and resulted in 619
DISBURSEMENTS $3,810 jobs created and retained.
Dues/Memberships $25,780
Local Match $11,556 Nelson and Pembina County
Meeting/Events $72,323 Job Development Authorities –
Overhead $416,060 Project Funding
Personnel and Benefits $3,483
Professional Development $30,243 The RRRC also manages project funding for the Nelson and
Professional Fees $578,911 Pembina County Job Development Authorities. The JDAs provide
Project Expenditures $15,157 loans, grants, sponsorships, and periodically hire consultants.
Travel $1,157,323
TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS In 2017, the PCJDA provided funding to:
• LeRoy Hall Renovations, $5,000 grant
• Svold Hall Renovations, $5,000 grant
• Pembina County Historic Preservation Commission, $1,235

for brochure of historic places
• Rendezvous Region Tourism Council, $200 for High Plains

Reader feature
• Rendezvous Region Tourism Council, $10,000 membership
• Ideas to Actions Summit, $750 sponsorship
• Marketplace for Kids, $2,000 sponsorship
• You’re Hired, $1,500 sponsorship
• MGF Day, $135 sponsorship

In 2017, the NCJDA provided funding to:
• Ideas to Actions Summit, $750 sponsorship
• Lakota Child Care Center, $7,500 loan converted to grant

WHY & HOW

66 from “survive” to “thrive”. We believe we can help
create communities that attract and retain young
The Red River Regional Council believes that this people to create deeper, long-lasting roots. We
report summarizes a variety of specific projects believe technology advances open the doors to new
being implemented throughout our region that opportunities. We believe we live in the middle of
embody the three pillars of Governor Burgum's everywhere. We believe we have the natural amenities
Main Street Initiative. We hope that this report to make this a very desirable place to live and play.
can assist in identifying potential projects, as well We believe in hardy, stubborn, boot-strapping,
as build confidence that we can achieve success innovative North Dakotans who have a long history of
together. making the seemingly impossible possible.

We believe it is possible to stop population decline.
We believe it is possible to move communities

Our Preserve •Community Infrastructure
Strategy and
•Housing
Enhance •Riparian Areas
•Business Development
Vision •Recreation
•Historic Preservation
•Disaster Mitigation and Recovery
•Healthcare and Emergency Services

•Destination/Tourism Development

•Youth Entrepreneurship Initiative
•NE Manufacturers Group
•ND Life Skills and Transition Center

Engage •Constant leadership, community

and education engagement
•Ideas to Actions Summit

WHY & HOW

H e a l t h y, 77
Vibrant
Communities

Smart,
Efficient
Infrastructure

21st Century
Work force

"The Main Street Initiative John Morgan of Morgan Printing of Grafton
will assist engaged with Gary Grinde and Neal Maggard.
communities to become
even stronger, increasing
the quality of life for all
North Dakotans."

- Governor Doug Burgum

Cavalier Motorcycle Ride-In

Chad Gunderson, owner of Half Brothers
brewery of Grand Forks.

Marketplace for Kids

21st CENTURY WORKFORCE

8 Yout h c a re e r aw a re n e ss a n d e ntre pre n e u r i a l s k i l l s s e e n a s
critical to future success

Working with regional education leaders, the Red River Regional Council has embarked on a multi-faceted
strategy to help build a 21st century workforce in our region, which over the past five years engages nearly 1,500
students annually.
The Northern Red River Valley Youth Entrepreneurship Initiative is building upon four successful, existing
programs (Marketplace for Kids, MFG DAY, Explore NVCTC, and the Youth Entrepreneur Camp) with events
and training targeted at students in grades 3 through 12. The program provides direct application opportunities of
STEAM education and linking to entrepreneurship.
The RRRC assists in training and provides technical assistance to prospective young rural entrepreneurs from more
than 22 school districts in Walsh, Pembina, Traill, Steele, Grand Forks, and eastern Ramsey County.
In addition to the four existing programs, an enhanced cooperative work experience/internship program for
NVCTC students in grades 11-12 is underway. Last fall, more than 200 NVCTC students took a Career-Ready
Rubric assessment, followed by the Gallup Builder Profile 10 (BP10) assessment that identifies the top 10 strengths
of entrepreneurs. As follow up, students received BP10 coaching/strengths exploration in February 2018, followed
by resume building and potential internship placement.
The goal is to match young entrepreneurs to regional businesses, allowing students to build upon the business and
technical skills learned at NVCTC as well as the entrepreneurship initiative components through real application
of skills. The program also is designed to deepen the connections between students and regional businesses as they
near making significant life decisions.
Most recent funding to implement this initiative came from a $19,000 grant from USDA Rural Development and
$30,000 from the Pembina County JDA. This is a partnership between the Red River Regional Council, Pembina
County JDA, North Valley Career and Technology Center (NVCTC), and the Walsh County JDA, Job Service ND,
regional school districts, and manufacturers.

vision

21ST CENTURY WORKFORCE

9

22 school districts located in Grand Forks, Nelson,
Pembina, Traill, Steele, Eastern Ramsey, and
Walsh counties par ticipate in youth programs.

220 students, 12 schools, COOPERATIVE WORK
7 manufacturers EXPERIENCE

MFG DAY This program will place 11th and 12th grade students in
part-time, paying jobs that will allow them to gain relevant
8th grade explore CTE experience in a career/industry that is of interest. NVCTC
careers 12th grade students can receive school credit. Eligible
students must be in 11th or 12th grade, successfully
EXPLORE NVCTC completed a CTE course in the program area, commit to
working 2-3 class periods a day (can extend before or after
500 students, 8 schools school hours) and be placed 5 days a week for one semester or
up to a full year.
Marketplace for
Kids "This has to be a regional effort - 75%
of our workforce comes from outside of
3-6 grade 4-day camp Grafton." - Brian Hanson, President
of Hansons Auto and Implement of
Entrepreneur Grafton and Cavalier
Camp
vision

SMART EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

10 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS
BENEFIT REGION

The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides financial assistance to eligible units of local
governments in the form of grants and loans for public facilities, housing rehabilitation and economic development
projects. The primary beneficiaries of these projects must be very low and low income individuals. The program is funded
by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development. It is administered by the ND Dept. of Commerce, Division of
Community Services.
Eligible projects must also be consistent with at least one of the program's national objectives:
• Benefit low and moderate income persons.
• Aid in the prevention or elimination of slum or blight.
• Activities designed to meet community development needs having a particular urgency.
Two million dollars was allocated for distribution to the eight regions of ND for 2017. The Red River Region's portion was
$195,899.00 - 50 percent of the allocation is based on the percent of eligible persons per region, while the other portion is
an equal share in all regions.

$63,980 $25,525 “The availability
of CDBG for our
CDBG Funds Governor's Fund emergency sewer
system problems in
$92,378 $28,428 2017 was a life-
saver for our small
Tot a l Proj e c t Tot a l Proj e c t community. We did
not have the funds
Pembina County Lankin available and needed
Meals & Sanitary Sewer i m m e d i a t e h e l p .”
Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n — Mayor Francis
The City of Lankin was Praska, City of
The City of Cavalier was the awarded $25,525 in 2017 Lankin
applicant for a 2017 CDBG from the Governor’s Fund for
grant to assist Pembina County Community Development and
Meals and Transportation Emergency Projects. The funds
facility with addressing were used to replace air release
handicap accessibility. The valves and the valve vault in
project was awarded $63,980 in the city’s sanitary sewer system.
CDBG funds for renovation of
the facility’s restrooms, as well
as automatic entrance doors
to the building. The project
also received a grant from the
North Dakota Department of
Transportation. The local share
is approximately $30,000.

preserve and enhance

SMART EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

11

Expensive electrical and operational components
of the elevator at the Nelson County Health
Systems hospital in McVille exceeded design life
and needed to be replaced.

$49,000 $102,882 $39,238
CDBG Funds
CDBG Funds CDBG Funds
$208,985
$54,895 Tot a l Proj e c t $43,161

Tot a l Proj e c t Grafton Tot a l Proj e c t
Lift Station
Nelson County Pisek
Elevator Updates The City of Grafton was Lift Station Pumps
awarded $102,882 in
Nelson County was the 2016 CDBG funds for the The City of Pisek was awarded
applicant for a 2017 CDBG replacement of the city’s $39,238 in 2017 CDBG for
grant to assist the hospital 5th Street Lift Station. replacement of two pumps at
in McVille with addressing Construction was completed the city’s lone lift station, which
handicap accessibility as it in 2017. have exceeded design life. The
relates to the facility’s elevator. project will be implemented in
CDBG will be used to 2018.
replace specific electrical and
operational components of the
elevator which have exceeded
design life. The hospital will be
responsible for corresponding
safety and code upgrades. The
project was awarded $49,000.

preserve and enhance

SMART EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

1 2 RED RIVER RIPARIAN PROGRAM SUCCESS

Protecting vital infrastructure and water quality

As riverbanks and farmland erode, streams pick up excess
sediment and nutrients which contribute to poor water

quality and harmful algae blooms. Healthy riparian areas
or buffers protect a stream from harmful outside influences.
Buffers minimize sediment pollution by reducing erosion and
stabilizing r iverbanks. Vegetation acts as a f ilter to capture
nutrients within runoff before reaching streams. Additionally,

buffers protect infrastructure and farmland.

VISION ENGAGE

The riparian program aims The Red River Riparian Program, in
to improve water quality and collaboration with the Walsh County
land management through Three Rivers Soil Conservation District,
implementation of best NDSU Extension, and local NRCS,
management practices. Projects reaches out to all ages to educate and
include: livestock management engage communities in restoration efforts
projects adjacent to streams that achieve conservation and individual
including partial manure goals. EcoEd Day provides 6th grade
management plans or cell students with knowledge on riparian
grazing; cover crop on farmland ecosystems and the importance of water
adjacent to streams; riparian quality.
vegetation restoration; and
riverbank stabilization.

Stakeholder workshops, meetings, and
surveys are used to engage farmers,
ranchers, and community members in
conservation efforts that positively affect
their bottom line. In 2017, a survey was
distributed to 125 households in the Park
River Watershed. According to the 37
returned surveys, 60% of stakeholders are
concerned with streambank erosion and
85% prioritized riparian restoration as
moderate to high.

EcoEd Day provides hands-on learning
oppor tunities for students in Walsh and Pembina
counties.

preserve and enhance

SMART EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

IMPLEMENT 13

RIPARIAN RESTORATION LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT
Erosion repair within a stream impacts Livestock management near waterways shield
water quality, flood protection, stability of streams from livestock waste and benefits the
adjacent property, and habitat of stream- producer's bottom line. Fordville area landowner
dependent species. Thus, streambank Ray Zajac completed a cell grazing project on
stabilization projects must be designed his land adjacent to the Forest River. The cattle
to address stability and long-term producer renting the land follows a prescribed
water resource protection. Traditional grazing plan, rotating beef cattle throughout cells to
“hard” methods of controlling erosion prevent overgrazing and optimize grass growth. The
which primarily use rock riprap are project provides erosion control and runoff control
often expensive and ineffective in the on uplands within his pasture. Manure on healthy,
long run. The riparian program uses well-managed grassland is able to decompose into
a bioengineering approach. Riparian the soil rather than running off into the river, which
vegetation combined with stabilized reduces nutrient pollution in the Forest River and
slopes create a sustainable environment improves soil fertility for new grass growth.
with minimal erosion, sediment control,
and habitat. These before
and after photos
document successful
bioengineering
practices which
created a
sustainable solution
to protect a power
line pole near the
bank of the Park
R i v e r.

COVER CROP
Cover crop improves soil structure and enhances fertility.
It reduces wind and water erosion by providing cover on
farmland that would otherwise be bare.

This field was planted with rye in late In our rural, agricultural community, riparian buffers
August, which provided forage for gra- and cover crops are important complementary practices.
zing cattle and soil cover during the Cover crops minimize soil erosion and runoff from fields,
winter months. whereas, buffers adjacent to streams provide a second
defense against pollutants that leave the field. Minimal
erosion on farmland adjacent to riparian areas is critical to
water quality within streams.

preserve and enhance

Partnerships SMART EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

1 4 RED RIVER RIPARIAN PROGRAM
CELEBRATES 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

ND Department of
Health is long term
partner of riparian
program
Beginning in 1997, the Red
River Riparian Program (RRRP)
partnered with the North
Dakota Department of Health
Nonpoint Source Pollution
Program. Throughout the 20-
year partnership, the riparian
program has developed more
than 150 riparian management
plans, resulting in more
than 13,000 acres of riparian
enhancement and more than
50 river miles with improved
management.
Preparation of Phase 6 of the
RRRP began in 2017. With
continued support from the
North Dakota Department of
Health and the North Dakota
Outdoor Heritage Fund, Phase
6 of the RRRP will continue
to provide local entities,
landowners, and livestock
producers with assistance to
improve farming and ranching
practices as well as improve
riparian health and water
quality.

The riparian program has developed more than 150 riparian
management plans resulting in more than 13,000 acres of riparian
enhancement and more than 50 river miles with improved management.

preserve and enhance

FEMA programs support communities 15
in Region IV

RRRC assists with a diverse set of community
development projects

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via the Department of Homeland Security has a variety of
programs aimed at assisting communities and local fire and emergency groups.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) programs are open to cities or counties across the United States. FEMA
defines hazard mitigation as any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to human life and property
from a hazard event. Cost-effectiveness is critical to eligibility for HMA programs.

HMA programs include the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program (PDM) and Flood
Mitigation Assistance Program. In 2017, the City of Grafton implemented a project which was awarded funds from the
2016 PDM program to install emergency back-up generators at two of the city’s lift stations, known as Monson and Hill
Avenue. The total grant award was $59,250, including the local share.

The program covers 75% of the project cost as outlined in the application. The "The grant came
RRRC assisted in grant writing and management upon award. just in time for
FEMA also has programs aimed at assisting local fire and emergency groups, the Lakota Fire
including the nationally competitive Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) D epar tment. We
program. The AFG program is administered by FEMA and allows fire departments
to apply for funds for operations and safety. now can send
firefighters

The Lakota Volunteer Fire Department was awarded funds in 2017 from this to hands-on
program. The department was awarded $68,340, including the local share for the training with
purchase of 12 self-contained breathing apparatuses, which are a vital part of safety air packs and we
gear for firefighters. can now provide
The program funds 95% of the project cost. The RRRC assisted the fire department our firefighters
in compiling data and writing an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) which was with the proper
awarded in 2017 for the 2016 program year. equipment to

ensure their

safety."

$44,438 $65,086 - Rich Riely
Lakota Volunteer
FEMA Funds FEMA Funds
Firefighter

Grafton Lakota Fire Dept.
Lift Station Safety Gear
Generators
preserve and enhance

HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

16 Tourism partnerships critical to growth: Rendezvous
Region Tourism Council

"Langdon is proud to be the western gateway to the
Rendezvous Region. Marketing this treasure of northeast
North Dakota is important for our communities to
continue to grow and prosper through increasing tourism."

- Barb Mehlhoff, Langdon Chamber of Commerce.

The council recently adopted
a new logo that emulates
an attractive destination
and was designed to reflect
the varied landscape of
prairie, rolling hills, and
the Pembina Gorge. The
logo tagline references a
variety of outdoor recreation
amenities, rich cultural and
prehistoric history, and the
serene nature.

www.facebook.com/rendezvousregion

For the past year, a group of approximately 15 regional leaders have been meeting monthly to resurrect the
Rendezvous Region Tourism Council (RRTC) which was started 25 years ago. Initially a partnership between
the cities of Langdon, Walhalla, Cavalier and Pembina, the geography has expanded to include Cavalier,
Pembina, and Walsh counties with a goal to build a cohesive tourism brand through education, marketing and
amenity enhancement.
Tourism is already a strong part of the Rendezvous Region with business, leisure, international, friends and
family visitors coming to the region regularly. In 2015, these visitors accounted for $25.8 million in regional
expenditures and supported more than 500 jobs in entertainment, accommodations, food, transportation and
shopping.
The Regional Council has initiated the tourism council through its partnership with the Pembina County JDA
with a goal of strengthening regional partnerships to build and market differentiated communities with high
quality of place and attractive and interesting places to live and play.

vision

HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

THE KEY TO 17
TOURISM AND
ANALYSIS DESTINATION
There are more than 1.2 million SUCCESS
people within a two-hour drive of
the Rendezvous Region. Northeast TOURISM FAST FACTS
North Dakota is the only part of the
state with that significant population Tour ists are ac t ive 14 hours p er d ay.
density to draw visitors from, which Primary activities are 4 to 6 hours
can equate to more business revenue and complementary activities 8 to 10
for area hotels, campgrounds, hours. 80% of visitor spending is on
restaurants and main street businesses. shopping, dining and entertainment.
Business, friends and family and
international visitors are already Tour ism is t he f ront do or to non-
coming to the Rendezvous Region. In tourism economic development.
2015, these visitors spent $25.8 million
in food, lodging, entertainment, The fastest growing industry across
transportation and shopping in these the U.S.
three counties. Tourism supports
more than 500 jobs in the region. The Tour ism is t he purest for m of
greater the amenities, the greater the economic development. Quickest
expenditures. way to offset leakage of money
spent elsewhere which is the
S T R AT E G Y largest economic challenge to rural
The RRTC will be identifying its communities.
unique niche around which the
region can continue to build and Creates family-wage jobs and second
strengthen. The council will develop a income opportunities.
marketing strategy, provide education
to communities and businesses, The #1 industry for new businesses.
and support continued amenity
development throughout the region. Reduces tax burden placed on local
residents and businesses.
Creates community pride and makes
desirable places to live, work and play.
Jobs are going where the talent is –
or wants to be – for the first time in
American histor y.
Community development is leading
economic and tourism development.
Welcome to t he age of placema k ing.

Source: Roger Brooks
International

vision

HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

18 Closing in on $2 million invested in housing rehab

Using federal, private, and local dollars, Local funding sources
the housing rehab program managed including Pembina and
by the RRRC assists qualifying low and Wa lsh C ount y Job
moderate-income residents with health Development Authorities,
and safety issues in their homes at no and local city
cost to the homeowner. Homes must be governments.
owner-occupied and mobile homes are U.S. Department of Housing
not eligible. Common repairs include and Urban D e velopment’s
roofing, windows, doors, plumbing, Community Development
heating, electrical, and other safety or Block Grant program
accessibility items. U.S. Department of
The goals include assisting Agriculture Rural
homeowners in the rehabilitation Development's Housing
of their homes they would unlikely Preservation Grant
have been able to afford otherwise. Federa l Home L oan B an k’s
Rehabilitation will meet the U.S. Affordable Housing
Department of Housing and Urban Program
Development’s Section 8 Housing HOME Investment
Quality Standards, as well as local and Partnership Program via
state building codes. a partnership with Red
By focusing on the preservation, R iver Va l le y C ommunit y
maintenance, and improvement of the Action Agency
existing housing stock, projects assist
in addressing an important piece of
economic and community vitality. The
projects also increase the market value
of these homes and contribute to the
overall betterment of the individual
neighborhoods, community, and
county.

A home before the homeowner applied for and was accepted to a recent
housing rehabilitation program and the same home after rehab which included
new windows, doors, siding, and shingles.

preserve and enhance

129 homes rehabilitated in 13 years

19

15 homes completed, 7 more PARK RIVER
projected in 2018, total estimated
investment $407,989. 2017-18

16 homes completed, total CAVALIER
investment $305,536.
2015-16

28 homes completed, GRAFTON
total investment
$499,720. 2011-14

THOMPSON 15 homes completed,
total investment
2010 $201,223.

DRAYTON 19 homes completed, total
investment $248,483.
2008

WALSH 30 homes completed, total investment
$379,000.
COUNTY
preserve and enhance
2005

HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

Pembina Gorge Foundation forges private-public
partnerships to advance tourism potential of Frost
Fire Park and Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area

The Frost Fire Resort is positioned to be a visitor hospitality and recreational hub of northeaster
Frost Fire Park is positioned to be a visitor hospitality and recreational hub of northeastern North
Dakota. The resort is located within the scenic Pembina Gorge near Walhalla. In early 2017, the Red
River Regional Council (RRRC), through its partnership with the Pembina County JDA, co-founded
the Pembina Gorge Foundation, established a Board of Directors, raised private and public capital and
acquired the resort in June. Within days of the purchase, the Foundation began a seven-week run of
the summer theatre production, Smoke on the Mountain, with 4,200 theatregoers.
Building on a 42-year history started by Richard and Judith Johnson, the Board of Directors sees
a vital role the park plays in drawing in up to 20,000 people annually and believes the future can
be brighter. During the summer, the ND Parks and Recreation Department began construction
of a new mountain bike terrain park on the ski slopes which will be opened in summer 2018. This
private public partnership will help build year-round recreational amenities and has potential to draw
customers from an eight-hour radius.
In fall 2017, it was determined that the primary chair lift was irreparable and needed to be replaced
at a cost of $1.3 million. Funds are currently being raised to support a quad chair lift installation in
early fall 2018. Future plans include the development of a folk school, summer camps, and lodging
amenities.
The Foundation plans to raise a total of $5.5 million with $2.4 million raised to date. Projects of
this scale require the funding, expertise, and commitment of many.

Pictured below: Founding Board of Directors: Mike Duerre (ex officio, NDPRD), Sandy
Crary, Pat Hardy, Pat Chaput, Frank White, Dawn Keeley (RRRC/PCJDA, ex officio),
S en. Tom Campbell, Mike Jacobs, Kr i sti Wilfahr t (inter im direc tor), Rachel
Gornowicz, and Jeff Mostad. Not pictured: Sen. Janne Myrdal and
Commissioner Elsie Magnus.

Follow current news at: www.frostfireskiarea.com and on Facebook

preserve and enhance

HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES 21
Renewal of township halls brings life
back to small rural villages

SVOLD GARDAR Study of Grafton's Life
The Pembina County The Gardar Township Skills and Transition
JDA awarded Svold Hall project continues to Center Underwayal villages
Community Hall be a shining example of The 2017 ND legislative body authorized
Association a $5,000 grant the “can do spirit”. What an interim study of the behavioral and
in November 2017 to started as a discussion health services system, including a
assist with a new addition of tearing down an older review of services provided at the Life
that will include handicap structure has blossomed Skills and Transition Center in Grafton.
accessible restrooms, a into an effort to preserve With funding from the Walsh County
new kitchen, storage area a piece of history and JDA and the City of Grafton, the RRRC,
and an outdoor deck. restore the structure for in conjunction with the Praxis Strategy
The group is working to future generations. A Group, worked to develop legislative
raise a total of $38,292 group of knowledgeable testimony and written and video materials
and the goal is to start and energetic individuals to present to legislators during both the
construction in spring have made a goal of legislative session and the meetings of the
2018. raising $105,000 to interim committee.
complete the restoration
LEROY and construction project. A hearing was held on October 24, 2017
The Pembina County A total of $67,350 of the in Grafton regarding the future role of
JDA awarded LeRoy $105,000 goal has been the center.
Hall a $5,800 grant in raised, and more than
July 2017 to assist with 1,000 hours of volunteer
renovating the bathrooms labor have been donated.
and replacing the entry 2017 contributions
doors. LeRoy Hall also included a $5,000 grant
received a $5,000 grant from the North Dakota
from the North Dakota Community Foundation.
Community Foundation
Greatest Needs program. Historic Preservation Commissions expand
Both grants covered geocaching trail and register historic Pembina
the total project cost of County site
$10,800. A Pembina County property has been added to the National Register of
Historic Places. The Dease Martineau Property and former trading post near
The Dease Martineau Leroy, ND was successfully nominated for the listing in 2017. The property
property near Leroy, ND is seen as an important meeting place and trading post significant during
was added to the National the mid to late 1800s. Segments of the Red River oxcart trails are evident
Register of Historic places. on the property. Additionally, the Pembina and Walsh historic preservation
commissions have continued their historic geocaching trail project and have
continued to promote Pembina and Walsh historic sites through the ND
Department of Tourism's rack program, which distributes tourism related
brochures at all of North Dakota's rest stops.

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HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

22

3rd Annual Ideas to Actions Summit

“Small Towns. Big Ideas.”

Educate, celebrate, inspire, promote regionalism

Summit speakers from left: Christopher
Ingraham, The Washing ton Post and Lt.
Gov. Brent Sanford.

The 3rd Annual Ideas to Actions Summit was held Throughout the energizing evening, three
in November in the Minto Community Center with community development themes emerged:
approximately 130 attendees. Preceding the Summit, 1. Fifty-one percent of people desire small town
a Mayors Caucus for regional leaders was held.
The caucus included a series of speakers regarding and rural living.
demographic and economic trends, the Main Street 2. Big ideas are being implemented all over our
Initiative, and engaging millennials. Approximately
50 people attended the caucus. region and on a regional basis.
Caucus and summit speakers included Lt. Governor 3. Economic development today must be people-
Brent Sanford; Mark Schill, Praxis Strategy Group;
Blake Crosby, ND League of Cities; Ben Winchester, centric.
University of Minnesota Extension; and Chris In order to be successful, communities need
Ingraham, The Washington Post. strong leaders and emotionally engaged citizens.
Communities also need to seek input from students
and newcomers and to work with “yes” people, those
who are the changemakers in a community. They
must also think regionally, seeking out partnerships
with neighboring communities.

“I was impressed in the use of data comparing yourselves to northwest
Minnesota and analyzing the population and job trends for the region.
I w a s a l s o e x t r e m e l y i m p r e s s e d w i t h t h e f o c u s o n t h e n e x t g e n e r a t i o n .”
- L t . G o v e r n o r B r e n t S a n f o r d

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HEALTHY VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

23

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Ideas to Actions Awards

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Catalyst Award. A kick starter. and nine homes have been constructed which are valued at
Dr. Doug and Dr. Laura Munski. The Munskis have given more than $2 million.
a more than 30-year commitment to provide great STEM
learning opportunities for students and STEM teacher Intrepid Award: The most audacious, bold organizations or
resources in northeast North Dakota and across the state. thinkers.
Northern Valley Career Expo. The Expo is a collaboration
Determination Award: A significant impact. of education, economic development, and workforce
Northwood Robotics Team 876, Northwood/Hatton Schools. This organizations in northeast North Dakota and northwest
team includes students from five North Dakota counties and Minnesota to introduce approximately 7,500 high school
has made it to the FIRST Robotics World Championship each sophomores to careers in the region with 90% responding that
of the last three years. they are more likely to pursue a career in the region as result of
attending.
North Star Award: A guiding light for community progress. Award Nominees: Nanci Wilson, Chad Thorvilson, Tricia Berg,
North Star Housing Development, Park River Development Justin Zahradka, Pembina County Memorial Hospital,
Corporation. The addition was a private public partnership Cavalier Chamber of Commerce, Hansons Auto & Implement,
with North Star Cooperative that resulted in 22 residential lots and Food First.
for single-family housing. In five years, 11 lots have been sold

engage

Red River Regional Council PRSRT STD
Chase Building US Postage
516 Cooper Ave, Suite 101
Grafton ND 58237 PAID
Office: 701.352.3550
Facebook: Red River Regional Council Grafton, ND
Website: www.re driverrc.com Permit No. 12

STAFF 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dawn Keeley, Executive Director Chris Lipsh, President Keith Lund
[email protected] Local Development Corporations City of Grand Forks
Lori Estad, Office & Fiscal Manager Jay Skorheim, Vice President Ken Briese
[email protected] Three Rivers (Walsh County) SCD Pembina County Mayors
Danielle Gorder, Environmental Program Mgr. Lauren Wild, Treasurer Cynthia Pic
[email protected] Walsh County Commission
Stacie Sevigny, Developer Dan Stenvold Grand Forks County Commission
[email protected] Greg Amundson
Maggie Suda, Developer Walsh County Mayors Grand Forks County SCD
[email protected] Ray Fegter
Cheryl Osowski, Special Projects Coordinator Grand Forks County Mayors Korrey Tweed
[email protected] Nelson County SCD
Kristina Halverson Nick Rutherford
Pembina County SCD
Mary Houdek Pembina County Commission
Todd Whitman
Workforce Development Nelson County Mayors
Maynard Loibl
Nelson County Commission