Hear directly from city officials about their firsthand experience tackling local blight. They will cover proven strategies for property cleanup and offer actionable advice on how your city can replicate these successes to revitalize your community.
Kim Gaugler, Auditor, Beach
Lana Schmidt, Environmental Health Specialist, Western Plains Public Health
Scott Solem, City Attorney, Solem Law Office

Water main breaks and sewer backups have become challenging situations for many municipalities across the state. The North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund has received approval from the North Dakota Insurance Commissioner to offer a Public Sewer and Water Main Break Coverage Endorsement. Join this session to learn more and ask questions about this new coverage.
Keith Pic, CEO, ND Insurance Reserve Fund

This session offers a clear and practical look at how government funds are organized, what types of revenues and expenses belong in each fund, and fund balances. Pearl will also break down how fund transfers work, why they occur, and what to watch for when reviewing them. Whether you’re new to public service or looking to strengthen your understanding of budgets and financial policies, this training will provide you with insight you need to make informed decisions for your community.
Mike Scherr, Audit Manager, ND Office of State Auditor

Codes of conduct are often promoted as a solution to accountability and governance challenges in local governments — but they are not a cure-all. This session will help local leaders assess whether a code of conduct is needed, what issues it can realistically address, and what concerns may require other tools or approaches. We will distinguish between codes designed for elected officials and those directed toward public administrators, highlighting the different expectations each group faces. The session will also feature firsthand accounts from both administrators and elected officials who will share lessons learned from developing, implementing, and navigating codes of conduct in their communities. Participants will gain insights to support thoughtful consideration of whether — and how — a code of conduct could work in their community.
Mayor Dave Carlsrud, Valley City
Shawn Wenko, Administrator, Williston Commission Code of Conduct
Michelle Beuhlmann, Clinical Assistant Professor, Political Science and Public Administration, Nistler College of Business and Public Administration, University of ND

This interactive session brings city elected officials together to engage in open dialogue around current and emerging issues impacting local government. Through shared experiences and peer-to-peer discussion, participants will explore challenges and highlight innovative approaches applicable to all communities.

Our presenter will help you learn about a city attorney’s role and how they can help your city. Taylor will also cover simple ways to communicate better with your city attorney so you can get clear advice and avoid trouble.
Taylor Olson, Attorney at Law, Furuseth Olson & Evert P.C.

2025 set the record for the most tornadoes in a single year for North Dakota at 80+, including an EF5. These significant weather events require emergency preparedness, response, clean-up and the often-forgotten documentation and tracking. Learn from our speakers about the on-the-ground response effort and lessons learned.
Sheriff Jesse Jahner, Cass County
Chauncy Schultz, Science and Operations Officer, National Weather Service
Jamison Veil, Deputy Auditor, Jamestown

Each year, every city receives a municipal calendar listing various legal requirements the city needs to meet. Our presenters will take a closer look at those requirements and provide examples of how other cities meet those requirements. If you are new to city government, you won’t want to miss this session! And this will be a great refresher for experienced city leaders.
Kristina Dick, Auditor, Lisbon
Brenda Klein, Finance Director, Valley City