Public Policy

We launched the Center for Civic Engagement because our region cannot thrive when key public offices go unfilled—or when too few people are willing to step forward and lead. In recent election cycles, our communities have seen a troubling pattern: fewer individuals are running for office, fewer citizens are voting in key elections, and in some instances, important seats risk going uncontested or left vacant altogether. When this happens, the decisions shaping our schools, infrastructure, workforce, and economic future fall to a shrinking pool of people—not always representative of the broader community. 

In North Dakota, term limits will soon increase the demand for capable leaders even further. Our states need individuals who understand budgeting, workforce pressures, regulatory environments and the operational realities facing businesses today. Business-minded leaders bring practical experience, strategic thinking, and balanced judgment — skills our public institutions urgently need. When offices are filled with prepared, informed, and engagedleaders, our region gains a stronger voice and a clearer path forward. 

We invite businesses and residents to stand with us in strengthening our region’s leadership bench. Whether you want to better understand elections, encourage an employee to consider public service or explore leadership opportunities yourself, the Center for Civic Engagement offers clear paths to participate. Leare more here. 

Together, we can ensure our region’s most critical roles are filled with capable, community-minded leaders—and that our region’s voice remains strong and representative.

Consistent, structured dialogue with policymakers is essential to strengthening our region’s ability to address challenges, seize opportunities and influence decisions that impact our workforce, businesses and quality of life. When local leaders, employers, and policymakers gather around the same table , we create a shared understanding of the issues shaping our community. This alignment allows us to identify practical solutions sooner, advocate more effectively and ensure public policy reflects the realities and aspirations of the people who live and work here. 

Engagement strengthens our region’s influence at the local, state and federal levels. When policymakers understand our priorities — and see our community united around them — we amplify our voice in broader legislative conversations, shaping policy that supports growth not only in our region but across North Dakota and beyond. 

Many of the policies that shape our daily lives — from transportation and taxation to childcare, housing, and industry regulations — are determined at the state level by leaders from every region. By building relationships outside of our local delegations, we ensure our region’s priorities are understood and championed, expand our influence on issues that matter, and strengthen collaboration across both states. Engaging beyond our borders helps secure a prosperous future not only for our community, but for the interconnected, statewide economy. 

Even though statewide officials may not represent the local district, their legislative or regulatory decisions influence our businesses, workforce, infrastructure and economic climate. Engaging with them helps: 

• Develop meaningful, bi-partisan relationships 

• Ensure they understand our region’s priorities and challenges 

• Build support for policies that strengthen the FM area and states 

• Expand the region’s visibility and influence at all levels of government 

• Foster collaboration across communities, especially between ND and MN 

• Advocate for solutions that require statewide or cross-state coordination