Representatives of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame asked Dunn County commissioners for financial support for a planned reimagining and expansion of the Hall in Medora, telling the board the project is estimated at about $12.5 million and among its goals is improved exhibit space, archives and a year-round learning/event center.

Jean Harris (district chairman, District 2) and Rick (board member) presented the plan and said their district (which covers Dunn and McKenzie counties) accounts for a large share of Hall inductees. Rick described a design-development phase that would add roughly 10,000 square feet of usable space, move the hall-of-honorees display to a more prominent first-floor location, create a children’s interactive area and add a catering kitchen and event/learning center to support year-round use. He said the board intends to proceed only if fundraising confirms sufficient capital; he reported the project is roughly 12–12.5 million dollars and that other counties (Billings, McKenzie and others) have made commitments.

Commissioners expressed general support for the Hall’s mission and noted the institution’s regional tourism value. Multiple commissioners said they wanted to consider the request but needed time to review county finances and potential allocation sources. Commissioner Klayman moved and Commissioner Olson seconded a motion to table the request until the next meeting so staff can present financial options; the motion carried.

Ending: The Hall’s board will return to the commission with more detailed funding asks and county staff will prepare a financial briefing for the next meeting; no county commitment was made at this session.