County Tax Policy: Grand Forks County is weighing an amended home rule charter that would let the county set a lower maximum mill levy cap, with any changes heading to a November ballot and requiring 60% voter approval for added taxation. Disaster Response: Gov. Kelly Armstrong asked the White House for a presidential disaster declaration covering early June storms that caused about $4.6 million in damage across seven counties, seeking FEMA help for infrastructure repairs. Public Safety & Justice: North Dakota’s AG says crime fell again in 2025, with total offenses down about 7% and violent crime down about 3%, while Wrigley renewed calls for sentencing changes and more time for violent offenders. Food Assistance: A year after major SNAP cuts, North Dakota food banks report more people needing help, while eligibility and work requirements are squeezing households off benefits. Transportation Planning: The NDDOT is soliciting proposals for the 2027 Transportation Conference in Bismarck (March 9-10), focusing on safety, construction, environment, contracting, logistics, and workforce development. Local Economy: Agristo broke ground on a $1.5 billion Grand Forks-area potato processing facility, aiming to bring frozen food production to the U.S. Higher Ed Funding: Minot City Council narrowly approved a $500,000 MAGIC Fund investment for Minot State University’s new engineering program, despite concerns about local dollars funding a state institution. State Government Watch: The ND Supreme Court issued notices of comment on proposed rule amendments, as the state continues regulatory updates.