News

‘Living in McKenzie County’ podcast releases new episodes (S1, Ep. 7, 8 & 9)

Posted on March 3, 2025

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...

2024 Oil & Tax Revenue Study highlights economic impact in ND

Posted on March 3, 2025

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...

February 2025 Economy at a Glance

Posted on March 3, 2025

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...

McKenzie Health 2024 Annual Report

Posted on March 3, 2025

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...

JDA Housing Down Payment Assistance Program

Posted on March 3, 2025

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...

Living in McKenzie County podcast releases new episodes (S1, Ep. 5&6)

Posted on January 27, 2025

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...

January 2025 Economy at a Glance

Posted on January 27, 2025

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...

Rural-focused documentary series My Town to feature Watford City

Posted on January 27, 2025

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...

Region 1 projected to have highest employee growth in North Dakota

Posted on January 27, 2025

The North Dakota Labor Market Information Center has published statewide and regional employment projections through 2033, analyzing over 100 industries and 700 occupations. The report provides detailed insights into job growth, industry trends, workforce exits, occupation transfers, average wages and required entry-level education. Offering a ten-year outlook, these projections help stakeholders understand labor demand across...

Growth of North Dakota and McKenzie County

Posted on December 20, 2024

North Dakota’s population reached a record 796,568 as of July 1, 2024, marking the largest increase since 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This represents a growth of 17,474 residents since the 2020 census and 12,642 more than the 2023 estimate. Governor Kelly Armstrong attributed the growth to the state’s job opportunities, low taxes,...

First International Bank & Trust announces CEO transition

Posted on December 20, 2024

First International Bank & Trust (FIBT), an independent community bank with a 115-year history, announced a significant leadership transition. Beginning January 1, 2025, S. Peter Stenehjem will succeed his father, Stephen L. Stenehjem, as CEO, marking the fourth generation of family leadership. Stephen, who has led FIBT as CEO for 34 years, will continue as...

“Living in McKenzie County” Season 1, Episode 4: Giving in McKenzie County – A Deep Dive into Local Giving

Posted on December 20, 2024

In season 1, episode four of "Living in McKenzie County," host Daniel Stenberg engages with John Heinen from the North Dakota Community Foundation and Angie Hartel, a local nonprofit advocate, to explore the landscape of giving in this vibrant community. The conversation highlights the importance and impact of community engagement and support, showcasing how individuals...

December 2024 Economy at a Glance

Posted on December 20, 2024

The December 2024 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: McKenzie County's landfill daily averages from January-November 2024 was 929.8 tons; in January-November 2023 it was 875.4 tons. Watford City's permits for November 2024 was 15 permits; in November 2023 it was 13 permits. McKenzie County's total taxable sales and...

McKenzie Health hires the first-ever Oncologist in McKenzie County

Posted on December 20, 2024

McKenzie Health welcomes Dr. Chad Pedersen, a skilled medical oncologist and Sidney, MT native, to enhance cancer care in Western North Dakota and Eastern Montana. With over a decade of expertise in oncology, hematology and internal medicine, and as President of the Montana State Oncology Society, Dr. Pedersen is committed to providing high-quality, accessible care...

McKenzie County Economic Development 2024 Year in Review

Posted on December 20, 2024

Take a look back at an incredible year of progress, growth and community connection with the 2024 McKenzie County Economic Development Year in Review! From supporting local businesses and launching innovative programs to hosting major events and enhancing digital resources, this publication showcases the achievements that shaped our community in 2024. Learn about the launch...

November 2024 Economy at a Glance

Posted on November 26, 2024

The November 2024 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: Watford City's city sales tax distribution in October 2024 was $416,513; in October 2023 it was $387,672. Watford City's permits for October 2024 was 29 permits; in October 2023 it was 14 permits. McKenzie County's landfill daily averages in October...

Living in McKenzie County podcast

Posted on November 26, 2024

“Living in McKenzie County” is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes...

McKenzie County and Watford City launch new websites

Posted on November 26, 2024

We're excited to announce the launch of new websites for McKenzie County and Watford City, both now hosted on ProudCity! These platforms are designed to provide an accessible, mobile-friendly and secure way to connect with local information and government services. Key features include improved navigation, predictive search, ADA compliance and updated service details. Explore Watford...