Grand Forks council approves annexation of 70th Avenue right-of-way to use $3 million EDA grant despite resident opposition

The Grand Forks City Council voted 6–1 on June 1 to approve the second reading of an ordinance annexing the right-of-way along 70th Avenue North, a move city staff said is necessary to accept a $3,000,000 Economic Development Administration grant and to prepare the corridor for future industrial development and roadway improvements.

City project lead Christian Brooks told the council that the city "was fortunate enough to receive $3,000,000 through that grant funding program," and described how the corridor ties to nearby industrial sites and prior outreach to property owners. Staff said the annexation covers the roadway right-of-way only and is intended to transfer maintenance responsibility from Rye and Faulkner townships to the city so the improvements can proceed.

The council’s action followed a public hearing in which a resident who lives near the corridor opposed the annexation and the prospect of industrial expansion. "What you're annexing is way too close to my home," the resident told the council, raising concerns about property taxes, wildlife habitat and safety from increased traffic; the speaker also complained about ongoing problems at the municipal landfill.

Council members debated the timing and rationale for annexing before private developers commit to projects such as Epitome Energy or Northern Plains Nitrogen. City Administrator Todd Phelan and staff said annexing the roadway now preserves a one-time EDA opportunity, reduces township maintenance burdens and positions the city to improve stormwater, drainage and safety in a corridor they described as strategically located for future growth.

Council President Sandy moved approval; after discussion the motion passed. The city recorded the outcome as "Motion carries 6 to 1 with Ossowski dissenting." Mayor Brandon Bochinsky said the project will not necessarily immediately change property boundaries for the farmstead near the corridor and that staff plan to limit construction impacts, such as using silt fences near private property.

Next steps include completing required permits (including a pending BNSF railroad permit) and final design work; staff said construction is likely to begin later in the fall once permitting is resolved.