In the latest episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” listeners are treated to an engaging discussion on the past, present, and future of healthcare in McKenzie County, as host Vawnita Best is joined by McKenzie Health CEO Pete Edis, Dr. Gary Ramage, MD, and Connie Wold Wellness Center Manager Tricia Sundeen. The episode highlights how … Continued
The debut episode of “Living in Mckenzie County” provided an insightful look into the local education and workforce development initiatives aimed at fostering career-ready students for a 21st-century economy. Hosted by Vawnita Best and Daniel Stenberg, the discussion centered on the progressive steps being taken by the community to gear up its youth for both … Continued
In Season 1, Episode 7 of Living in McKenzie County, titled “Cooperative Work Experience”, host Daniel Stenberg explores the Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) program, which helps high school seniors gain career readiness through hands-on internships. The episode features Watford City high school and CWE students Aidan Pelton, Addison George and Kollin Klang, along with Jill … Continued
Oil and gas taxes have been a vital part of North Dakota’s economy, contributing over 50% of local tax collections over the past decade. According to the latest Oil and Gas Tax Revenue Study, these funds support essential services such as infrastructure, education, public safety and tax relief. Produced by the Western Dakota Energy Association … Continued
The February 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: Online job openings for McKenzie County in December 2024 was 246 openings; in December 2023 it was 192 openings. Watford City’s city sales tax distribution in January 2025 was $513,536; in January 2024 it was $330,483. Alexander’s city sales tax … Continued
McKenzie Health’s 2024 Annual Report highlights significant growth, service expansions and facility improvements aimed at enhancing patient care. The hospital welcomed new specialists in multiple fields, relocated urgent care to its main campus for expanded access and introduced a sports medicine program to support local athletics. Efforts to reduce patient transfers have been successful, reinforced … Continued
On February 18, the McKenzie County Board of County Commissioners approved the launch of the Job Development Authority (JDA) Housing Down Payment Assistance Program. The purpose of this down payment assistance program is to encourage the construction and purchase of single-family homes in McKenzie County by providing down payment financial assistance to homebuyers in McKenzie … Continued
In Season 1, Episode 5 of Living in McKenzie County, titled “Events and Community Vibrancy”, guest host Jessie Veeder Scofield explores the vibrant community life in Watford City alongside Chris Kubal of the McKenzie County Ag Expo and Joshua Nollmeyer of the Rough Rider Center. The episode highlights how local events, arts and recreation have … Continued
The January 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: McKenzie County’s landfill daily averages in 2024 was 994.8 tons; in 2023 it was 945.8 tons. McKenzie County’s LoadPass Permits in 2024 was 31,600 permits; in 2023 it was 29,499 permits. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park had approximately 67,900 visits … Continued
The rural-focused documentary series My Town, created by Emmy-winning documentarian Cory Hepola, will feature Watford City, ND, in its upcoming second season. The series explores the stories behind why people choose to live in small towns, highlighting opportunity, innovation and a strong sense of community. Hepola describes Watford City as a place where “independent spirit … Continued
