Frank T. Eberle

The board conducted the election of officers for the Executive Committee. Discussions were held regarding the Rural Workforce Housing Program lots, resulting in a plan to re-advertise before transferring ownership to the Housing Authority if no proposals are received. The board supported a proposal to adjust public office hours to 8am-4pm with appointments available afterward. Future plans for the Main Street Garden were discussed, with a proposal to be presented at a later date. Additionally, the board approved signage grant applications for The Biscuit and The Lucky Goose Grill and Bar, each receiving a $500 payment.

The board discussed the approval of a USDA Rural Business Development Grant. Previously denied due to lack of state funding, the application was subsequently approved with an award amount of $307,500 and a 0% match requirement. The board formally moved to accept this grant award.

The board reviewed financial reports and discussed several organizational initiatives. Key topics included the approval of funding for the purchase of a lot for a future community garden and the approval of a commercial signage grant for KPOK. The board also reviewed proposed changes to the gaming policy and bylaws, which were tabled for further consideration, and engaged in a review of the Play It Forward guidelines. Additionally, the board received updates regarding the Building Bowman County advisory group and the future business incubator space, and members signed commitment forms for the year.

The Board reviewed the agenda and approved it. Key discussions included financial reports from November, with subsequent approval. Old business covered adjustments to the 2026 budget and approval to reopen the Request for Proposals (RFP) for a restaurant lease for a two-week advertising period. New business involved the approval of an updated BCDC logo for rebranding, and the approval of multiple 2026 contracts, including the RCRC contract addendum, the All Seasons Contract, the Fairgrounds Contract, and the Gaming Manager Contract, which included an approved monthly rate of $1475. An update was also provided on the Building Bowman County Advisory Group meeting.

The meeting included a review of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, as well as a financial report. The 2024 Gaming Impact Report draft was presented, and a discussion was held regarding youth engagement options, including a potential partnership with Dollars for Scholars. An overview of the annual planning meeting was provided. A temporary staffing arrangement was approved due to personnel policy requirements. An executive session was held to discuss contract-negotiation strategy related to restaurant lease proposals. The board approved a three-year lease agreement with The Biscuit restaurant and authorized the Executive Director to finalize the lease with legal counsel. The September Activity Report was also reviewed.