Fargo committee hears HDR update on grant funding as federal programs remain uncertain

FARGO — The Sustainability and Resiliency Committee on Tuesday heard that many federal grant programs for infrastructure and resilience are currently uncertain, while at least one state program and an existing local contract remain active.

HDR sustainability grants staff and City of Fargo officials briefed the panel on the status of multiple opportunities, including state energy programs and federally administered programs such as PROTECT (formerly RAISE), FEMA’s BRIC and flood-mitigation grants, the Bridge Investment Program, and economic adjustment/public works assistance. Seth Strongman of HDR said recent changes in Washington have left "a lot of uncertainty" and that some grant websites now carry notices that program details are being updated.

The update matters because Fargo departments have been preparing projects that could rely on outside funding. Bruce Grub, of City Administration, and Facility Management staff reported that local work already under contract is proceeding: Becky Majeras told the committee the city has an EECBG allocation of about $176,000 and has identified three projects to use those funds, with a contract approved by the city commission for consultant FM360 to assist in selecting and implementing a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

HDR staff recommended tracking a range of programs but warned that application timelines and criteria may shift. Seth Strongman said some state programs appear to be "still running" and are worth pursuing; others that rely on federal appropriations are in a holding pattern while federal agencies update priorities. He noted the PROTECT/RAISE application cycle closed in February and should be watched for future announcements.

Committee members discussed the Twelfth Avenue bridge project as a local example of how federal grants and state-administered programs might be used. Fargo staff confirmed the project currently has design funding under a RAISE award and that later construction funding could be sought under programs listed in HDR’s materials. Mayor Tim Mahoney summarized the practical effect for local projects: "If you have a contract in place, it's probably more likely secure. If you have something you expect coming but it isn't signed, it's iffy. If you're just beginning to apply, good luck." The mayor encouraged department heads to notify administration about potential local budget impacts so the city’s congressional delegation can be informed.

Committee members and HDR agreed to continue monitoring changes and to bring updates to the committee as new guidance and application windows appear. Members also discussed whether the committee should meet quarterly and recommended making grant-availability updates a regular agenda item so departments can coordinate applications when opportunities reopen.

Votes at a glance: The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes of the December meeting by voice vote during opening procedural business.