Weekly message from Valley City Mayor Dave Carlsrud

We had an active, informative week with meetings here and navigating icy roads for meetings with the legislature.

Tuesday, City Administrator Gwen, and I traveled with our City Engineers to Bismarck. Our mission was to testify in support of SB 2020 which is funding for “most everything water”. Our City Engineers compiled an informational pamphlet outlining our 13.2 million dollar request for permanent flood protection (PFP). From there, Gwen did a great job testifying at the House Appropriations Committee hearing. Thanks everyone.

* “A March day when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: it is summer in the light and winter in the shade.” ~ Charles Dickens

Wednesday morning the Upper Sheyenne River Water Resource Board Meeting was hosted at our Eagles Club. Numerous reports concerning the Sheyenne Basin were heard, but most people asked about the flood forecast. Currently there appears to be about 4-7 inches of water in the snow pack so there is “potential”, but the speed of the melt and spring rains will be the determining factors. In 2010 there was more snow than either 2009 or 2011, but due to the melt, 2010 didn’t flood significantly, but 2009 & 2011 did. So, “there you go”.

Another meeting at the Eagles Club was “Community Impressions” hosted by the Kiwanis Club. A Community Impressions Team from Oakes made a day-trip to Valley City and their findings were quite interesting. One thing suggested was “Welcome to Valley City” signage on our east entrance. They really liked the Barnes County Museum experience. When last did you visit the museum? It is a special place and Wes is a very knowledgeable and accommodating curator. The Rosebud Center was noted too as there is much history and general information there. For more information about “Community Impressions”, contact : susan.milender@ndsu.edu

Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.

“Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose Faith.” ~ Steve Jobs

Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Valley City Mayor Dave Carlsrud