West Fargo approves opioid‑settlement participation and reappoints city representative to regional EDC

The West Fargo City Commission authorized the city to participate in the national opioid settlement and approved a city representative to serve on the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation board.

City Attorney Katie Schmidt told the commission the proposed settlement includes the remaining defendants and that the city’s initial proposed allocation would be 0.003% of the overall payout, though the final allocation could change depending on participation by other political subdivisions and whether defendants remain in the settlement. She noted participation requires the city to release claims against the settling defendants.

“Participation is authorized by this draft resolution and staff is available for any questions,” Schmidt said. The resolution authorizing participation carried unanimously.

On a separate agenda item, City Administrator Dustin Scott said the regional economic development corporation requested a West Fargo representative for an 18‑month term beginning April 1. Scott recommended the incumbent continue through the term; the commission approved the nomination with one commissioner recusing themselves from that vote.

Scott also gave the city administrator’s report, noting a favorable spring flood outlook for the Cheyenne River, upcoming departmental annual reports and near‑term timing for the capital improvement plan and growth‑area master plan reviews. He introduced Beth Wiegman as the city’s new director of human resources; Wiegman thanked the commission and said her near‑term focus will be strengthening the city workforce.