Joey Houle

The committee discussed ways to improve public outreach regarding the humanitarian award, including notifying nominees and their local administrations. Agenda items included evaluating potential future topics for community conversations, such as homelessness, mental health services, and human trafficking, and determining the format for sharing these findings. Additionally, the committee reviewed the status of the upcoming humanitarian award presentation, noting confirmed attendance and finalization of plaques.

The committee discussed the Humanitarian of the Year nominations, including an update on efforts to increase youth engagement through schools and local organizations. Additionally, the committee reviewed preparations for the upcoming Community Conversations event, covering panelist bios, venue logistics, the use of QR codes for public feedback, and coordination regarding public comments and promotional outreach.

The committee held a meeting to discuss and finalize the selection of humanitarian award recipients for the current year. The discussion focused on evaluating nominations for an organization, an adult individual, and a youth award based on specific scoring criteria and submitted nominations. Additionally, the committee deliberated on the logistics for presenting these awards, including the timeline for plaque preparation and the process for notifying winners and nominees.

The City of Bismarck's 2026 Strategic Plan is a roadmap to guide the community towards a future defined by resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity, while delivering exceptional public service and advancing the quality of life. It outlines seven strategic focus areas: Infrastructure and Development, Economic Vitality, Safe and Healthy Community, Emerging Issues, Engaged and Informed Community, Desirable Lifestyle, and Organizational Excellence. The plan aims for Bismarck to be a dynamic community where people thrive, achieved through thoughtful resource stewardship, innovative solutions, transparency, and accountability, ultimately benefiting every resident.

The City of Bismarck Strategic Plan serves as a roadmap to guide decisions and actions toward a desired future. It is structured around key areas: Economic Vitality, Community Character, Civic Engagement, and Community Services. The plan aims to foster a prosperous community where people enjoy living, learning, working, and playing, by embracing its rich heritage, economic opportunities, and lifelong learning to cultivate a healthy and sustainable environment for all.