DICKINSON — Recent city council meetings in Belfield and Beach focused on improving infrastructure, managing utilities, and supporting community growth. Discussions ranged from approving key projects to addressing public safety and economic development challenges.
In Belfield, leaders prioritized utility rate adjustments, safety funding, and winter preparedness. Meanwhile, Beach officials advanced plans for major street and utility upgrades and explored new development opportunities.
Here’s a closer look at how each city is working to enhance services for residents.
Belfield City Council focuses on infrastructure and utility rates
Dickinson Press file photo
The Belfield City Council tackled a full agenda on Nov. 10, covering updates on infrastructure projects, utility rate changes, and staffing matters. Mayor Jeff Iverson led the meeting, with all members present except City Attorney Stephen Fetch.
Discussions centered on a Transportation Alternatives grant application to extend sidewalks from Main Street and Old Highway 10 to Trappers. Construction is anticipated in 2027. The drainage improvement project progressed as grading by WINN Construction was completed, with final pay applications expected in December.
Concerns arose over additional costs of $4,943.28 from Ti-Zak Construction for remobilizing on a delayed sidewalk project involving BNSF Railway. Negotiations are underway to reduce the city’s share of the federally funded project.
The council approved a garbage rate increase to $23 for the first container and $16 for additional ones, effective next billing cycle. Public Works Director Casey reported steady progress on water meter replacements, with the city covering costs to address a water deficit. Non-potable water rates, currently insufficient to offset costs, remain under discussion.
A new 1% city sales tax ordinance was finalized to fund law enforcement, fire services, and emergency needs. The tax is expected to generate $266,839 annually but will not cover public safety costs totaling $332,999.92. Councilman Kyle Michels presented a five-year financial outlook to inform residents.
The council conditionally approved hiring Brielle Geiger as deputy auditor, pending a background check. A proposal to allow alcohol at private events in the city pavilion was discussed, with law enforcement expressing no objections if renters assume liability and sales are prohibited. Legal review of rental agreements is planned.
Belfield also approved a special event permit for the Parade of Lights, which will temporarily close part of 1st Avenue NE, and allocated $100 for membership in the North Dakota Water Users Association. Renovations to Memorial Hall, including woodwork and electrical upgrades, are under review, with bidding expected after the Sportsman Banquet. Mayor Iverson encouraged exploring historical preservation grants for the project.
The meeting adjourned at 6:32 p.m. The next session is scheduled for Dec. 10.
Beach City Council advances utility projects and economic development
The Dickinson Press
The Beach City Council convened on Nov. 18 to address infrastructure projects, staffing challenges, and economic growth opportunities. With Mayor Walter Losinski absent, Council President Andy Zachmann led the meeting.
Updates on the 2025 Street and Utility Improvement Project highlighted plans to install a new water main from N Central Avenue to 1st Avenue NE, aimed at improving water quality. The project depends on securing a utility easement from the Beach School District. Additionally, the council approved purchasing a nearby property for $15,000, contingent on the easement’s approval.
Public Works Superintendent Randy Dietz announced the resignation of Thomas Littlecreek, effective Nov. 15. In a bid to retain him, the council approved a $3/hour pay increase. Recruitment for a new Solid Waste Manager is ongoing, with wages ranging from $20 to $25 per hour based on experience.
Farmers Union Oil Company outlined plans for the Hathaway Industrial Park Subdivision north of Interstate 94. The council discussed potential utility solutions to support the development, which is expected to drive local growth.
The council approved October’s finances and allocated a $7,500 grant from the North Dakota Community Foundation to the Fire Department Reserve Fund for future air cylinder purchases. A letter from the Southwest Water Authority confirmed no water rate increases for 2025, providing financial relief to residents.
Sheriff Dey Muckle reported 47 city calls, four citations, and nine warnings in October. The council commended the department for maintaining community safety. Additional updates included the arrival of new pool covers for city parks, to be installed before next swimming season, and discussions on regulating storage containers in residential areas.
The next meeting, set for Dec. 2, will address final plans for the 2025 Street and Utility Improvement Project, with bids to open on Jan. 15, 2025. Topics will also include the renewal of retail alcohol licenses and preparations for the North Dakota League of Cities Biennial Legislative Workshop.
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m., with council members optimistic about ongoing infrastructure improvements and economic growth.
James B. Miller, Jr. is the Editor of The Dickinson Press in Dickinson, North Dakota. He strives to bring community-driven, professional and hyper-local focused news coverage of southwest North Dakota.