The groups cite a growing trend of hostility toward local leaders, including increased confrontational behavior and, in some cases, threats directed at public officials and staff.
“Local government works best when people can engage in productive, respectful conversations,” the coalition said in a joint statement. “Our communities face complex challenges that require collaboration—not conflict.”
The Future of Local Government: A Call for Civility
Across North Dakota, local governments are facing increasingly difficult discussions that affect our communities, families, and future. Local elected officials are being asked to navigate complex and often emotional issues on behalf of the people they serve, from tax rates and infrastructure to schools, roads, electric transmission lines, Co2 pipelines, community amenities, and data centers.
At the same time, there has been a troubling increase in incivility directed toward local government officials and staff. Throughout North Dakota, elected officials are resigning, choosing not to seek reelection, or deciding not to run for office at all. Some communities have experienced threats involving bodily harm and even death threats directed at elected officials, staff, and their families.
Local government works best when citizens and leaders work together, even when disagreements exist. Civil discourse is an important part of governing. Once conversations become uncivil, the exchange of ideas and positions becomes unproductive and unfruitful. We can disagree without fighting. We can debate issues without attacking one another.
North Dakotans have long valued government that is closest to the people. In fact, our state has more elected officials per capita than any other state in the nation. This accessibility is something we should continue to take pride in and protect. More than 5,000 local elected officials serve communities throughout North Dakota. In addition, tens of thousands of local government staff help deliver essential services every day.
Our local elected leaders are our neighbors. They are members of our communities who give countless hours to serve the public and make decisions they believe are in the best interest of their communities.
These positions involve difficult conversations, tough decisions, and a willingness to work collaboratively with people who may not always agree. That collaboration becomes impossible when conversations turn hostile or threatening.
We ask everyone to help lower the temperature in these discussions and bring civility and decorum back to public discourse. Treat local government officials and staff with professional courtesy and respect. Work with your local leaders on these tough issues rather than approaching them combatively. Educate yourselves on the issues using trusted sources and engage thoughtfully in the democratic process. Respectful engagement and civil dialogue are essential to productive conversations and strong communities.
We all have families, livelihoods, and deep roots in our communities. Bringing civility and decorum back to public discussion is not about avoiding disagreement. It is about ensuring we can continue to have productive conversations that move us forward.
Prepared in partnership by the North Dakota League of Cities, the North Dakota Association of Counties, and the North Dakota Recreation and Parks Association.
The organizations emphasize that local elected officials are members of the community who are working to make difficult decisions on issues ranging from infrastructure development to public services.
The coalition encourages North Dakotans to participate in local decision-making while maintaining respect, seeking accurate information, and focusing on constructive solutions.