West Fargo commissioners approve floodplain ordinance, award library carpet, create neighborhood improvement districts and appoint LAWA alternate

The West Fargo City Commission adopted the second reading of an updated floodplain management ordinance, awarded a contract to replace worn carpet at the West Fargo Library, and created three separate improvement districts to fund neighborhood mill-and-overlay street projects. The commission also appointed Deputy Mayor Brad Olsen as the city's designated alternate to the Lake Agassiz Water Authority.

City Engineer Jerry Wallace said the floodplain ordinance update is intended to keep the city current with federal standards. "This is just trying to keep us current with the National Flood Insurance Program and the new flood insurance rate maps," Wallace said, and recommended adoption of the updated floodplain management ordinance. Commissioner Brad Olsen moved to approve the second reading; Commissioner Zundell seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.

During public comment, resident Steve Marquardt urged clarity on how the city will complete street improvement projects and whether work will be put to public bid. Marquardt said city residents suspect the city is not saving money using its own…