Mr. Wilson told commissioners the county has used space in the Fargo Cass Public Health Building for the coroner's office since about 2015 but never had a formal agreement. He said the office operates 24/7, caseloads have risen and the county previously paid to renovate the coroner's portion of the building. The recommended lease would formalize prior arrangements, continue payment of utilities and insurance for the county's occupied portion, and allow the county to lease additional currently unused space for $1,212 per month, renewable annually and cancelable with 60 days' notice.

"It clarifies what's already been in place and then also secures additional space at a very reasonable amount, dollars 1,212 a month renewable annually. It can be canceled on a yearly basis with 60 days notice," Mr. Wilson said.

Jerry D'Oro moved the motion to approve the contract and thanked county and city staff; commissioners approved the lease by roll call.

Why it matters: the lease creates a formal, written arrangement for long-used county functions and secures space the coroner's office and emergency manager need for operations.

What’s next: county staff will finalize the lease with the City of Fargo and implement the occupancy and billing terms outlined at the meeting.