Kenny MacDonald

The City of Powers Lake adopted a new comprehensive plan in 2014, which serves as a roadmap for the future planning and development of the city.

The council addressed public concerns regarding the police department's community relations, committing to revisit the situation and encouraging the use of official complaint forms. The engineering report was given, and the final pay application for the chip seal project was approved. The October fund balance statement was approved, and a decision was made to cash the equipment reserve CD upon maturity. The council discussed landfill conditions, street maintenance, and the use of legion hall bathrooms during sewer issues at the 4-plex. The police report for October was reviewed, and the council voted to hold the Back the Black grant check. Light Up Night was announced for November 22, and Bakken Cookfest 2026 was scheduled for Powers Lake. Bids were reviewed and approved for automatic door openers at the city hall building and a basket for the tele-loader. Various bills were approved for payment.

The council opened and closed the preliminary 2026 budget hearing. Ackerman-Estvold provided an engineering report. There were discussions regarding issues with people dumping in the landfill after hours, snow removal, and painting curbs. The council discussed a request from the Police Chief for a Trucks 20 mph sign for Railroad Ave, the purchase of a new police pickup, and a 2018 Chevy Tahoe that was purchased for the police department without prior approval. The council discussed the Loc-Ales special event, motorized scooters, junk vehicle ordinance, protective covenants on Hegstad Subdivision, and damaged curb and gutter in front of a resident's home. The council reviewed and approved payment of various bills.

The council discussed and approved the purchase of a 2025 Ford F150 police pickup from Cole Ford in MI. They also reviewed and approved the vehicle equipment quote from L&W Emergency Equipment in KY for equipment and decals for the new police pickup.

The council discussed a new ND Game & Fish proclamation affecting non-resident waterfowl hunters and considered signing a letter of support for local businesses. A presentation was made by PLHS FBLA and the PL Community Club for business promotions, with the council requesting the matter go through the sales tax committee. The engineering report was given, and the September fund balance statement was approved. The final 2026 budget was approved with a levied amount of $42,802.77. The landfill closing date was set, and a building permit for a second storage facility was approved. The council discussed snow removal, approved a contract to repair the recirculating pipe at the water tower, and noted hydrant flushing completion. The police report for September was reviewed, including calls for service, citations, and warnings. The annual Trunk and Treat event was approved, as well as VisionWest dues. The council discussed the USDA Community Facilities Grant/Loan Program and approved an LP prepay to Cenex. They also reviewed Hegstad Subdivision and discussed sales tax committee recommendations, approving grants and loans to the Food Barn and Prairie Pride Foods.