BCI proposes $5.6M funding for new shared facility in Minot with Highway Patrol

The North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee convened on March 21, 2025, to discuss a critical funding request aimed at constructing a new facility for the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the Highway Patrol. The proposed appropriation of $4.9 million is intended to address the agencies' urgent need for a dedicated space, as their current location within the Job Service Building in Minot is set to be sold.

Pat Leonard, a special agent with BCI, presented the plan, highlighting the necessity for a new facility due to the impending sale of their current building. The proposed site is a 1.25-acre grassy field owned by the Department of Transportation, which has agreed to allow the construction if funding is secured. The facility is projected to encompass approximately 14,000 square feet, providing office space, shared areas, and climate-controlled garage space for vehicles.

However, the committee faced a significant challenge regarding the estimated construction costs. Initially calculated at $350 per square foot, recent evaluations suggested a more realistic figure of $400 per square foot, raising the total appropriation request to $5.6 million. This $700,000 increase poses a dilemma for the committee, as they have already exceeded their budget for the session.

Committee members expressed concerns about the implications of insufficient funding. If the project exceeds the initial $4.9 million appropriation, the agencies may face delays or compromises in the facility's quality and size. The discussion underscored the urgency of securing adequate funding to ensure the successful completion of the project, which is vital for the operational efficiency of both BCI and the Highway Patrol.

As the session progresses, the committee must navigate budget constraints while addressing the pressing needs of law enforcement agencies in North Dakota. The outcome of this funding request will significantly impact the agencies' capabilities and their ability to serve the community effectively.