Ryan Shear

The board reviewed financial reports and the draft 2025 financial report for the upcoming annual meeting. Discussions were held regarding 2025 charitable gaming funds and the annual meeting agenda. In executive session, the board reviewed an interest buy-down application for the Lucky Goose Grill & Bar LLC and a restaurant RFP. Following the session, the board approved the interest buy-down application, selected The Biscuit as the restaurant operator for the 706 Highway 12 West location, and authorized the payment of remaining restaurant repair expenses from the Crossroads account.

This Annual Review details the strategic work and achievements of the Bowman County Development Corporation and its partners throughout 2025. Key initiatives included launching a community advisory group to guide future priorities in housing, amenities, and quality of life, alongside comprehensive business support through advising, entrepreneurial programs, and ribbon cuttings. The organization prioritized workforce development, attracting and retaining talent via incentive programs and educational opportunities. Significant progress was made in housing with new constructions and community infrastructure improvements in parks and business districts. Regional collaborations strengthened tourism, livestock development, and critical infrastructure, supported by state-level advocacy. The review emphasizes integrated efforts to foster long-term growth and strengthen local businesses and communities.

The agenda for the meeting includes a Financial Review and discussions on Old Business such as the 2026 Budget and the Restaurant Project. New Business items cover the BCDC Logo, and contracts for 2026 related to RCRC, All Seasons, Fairgrounds, and the Gaming Manager. The agenda also schedules an update on Building Bowman County, an Activity Report, and time for City/County News and Open Forum.

The board meeting addressed several key items. The agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting were approved, as were the financial reports from October. New business included the approval of a facade grant application for Next Door Pizza, a commitment of $75,000 in Charitable Gaming Funds as a matching contribution for the Bowman Fire Department's proposed new building project, and a motion to contribute three lots from the Crossroads Business Park to the Fire Department. The board also discussed the date and attendees for the upcoming Annual Meeting, approved proposed changes to the staff vacation policy, and approved the Draft 2026 Work Plan, the 2026 Chamber Contract, and the 2026 Draft Budget. During an executive session, applications for NW Tire and Two Tired Garage Interest Buy-Downs were reviewed, which were subsequently approved following the session with buy-down amounts specified.

The agenda was approved with the addition of the Northwest Tire Façade Grant application. Financial reports from September were reviewed and approved. Old business involved presenting the updated 2024 Gaming Impact Report draft for member feedback. New business covered the immediate need to vacate the Main Street Garden property, leading to a decision to investigate the potential purchase price of the lot; an overview of the Building Bowman County Advisory Group; review of the Rural Catalyst Grant; and approval of a $10,000 façade grant for Northwest Tire, consisting of a $5,000 Bowman County match and $5,000 from BCDC. An activity report from October was also presented.