Are data centers a viable option in McKenzie County? In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, Meghan Taunton brings together County Commissioners Howdy Lawlar and Craig Hystad, and Nathan Brenna, a rancher and former attorney, to answer that question and discuss their recent trip to Cheyenne, Wyoming. The purpose of their visit was […]
In the latest episode of Living in McKenzie County, host Meghan Taunton welcomed McKenzie County Commissioner Joel Brown and North Dakota State Senator Dale Patten to discuss the future of energy in North Dakota and to provide insights from the recent Williston Basin Petroleum Conference, where industry leaders gather to discuss the latest […]
The May 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note includes: The average price per barrel of West Texas Intermediate Oil in March 2026 was $91.38, over $23 above the average price for March 2025 Hotel occupancy was up to 45.1% in April 2026, up from 37.7% in April 2025 2025 […]
Medora, North Dakota is gearing up for a momentous occasion on July 4th with the grand opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. On the latest episode of Living in McKenzie County, Doug Bolken hosts Theodore Roosevelt Library Foundation board member Gretchen Stenehjem, and Brock White with the […]
In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, McKenzie County Economic Development Director Meghan Taunton engages with local experts to discuss the landscape of small business development in the area. The panel features Cyrena Weeks, Executive Director of the Tri-County Regional Development Council; Keith Olson, Regional Director for the Small Business Development Center; and Susan […]
The City of Alexander and community partners celebrated the successful grand opening and ribbon cutting of Bright Minds Daycare on Saturday, April 25, marking a significant milestone for childcare access and early childhood development in western North Dakota. The event, held at the new facility at 1115 Bruegger Street, brought together local leaders, families, and […]
The April 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note includes: Hotel occupancy and comprehensive apartment occupancy rates are now included on the Economy at a Glance. The hotel and apartment data will be updated monthly and quarterly respectively. McKenzie County births continue to rise with 287 babies being born in […]
In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, host Vawnita Best sits down with a group of students from Watford City High School (WCHS) to take a look at the student activities shaping the community’s future leaders. The episode features junior and senior students as they highlight the collaborative efforts between students, […]
In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, host Vawnita Best invites listeners to explore the vibrant community activities and projects happening as spring arrives and summer approaches. Joining her in the conversation are Tony Carmichael, Jake Walters, and Jesse Wellen, who each bring unique perspectives on the developments and events taking […]
In a special bonus episode of the “Living in McKenzie County” podcast, the Long X Development team shares the work they do to make sure that McKenzie County is not just a place to live but a place to grow, connect, and thrive. The episode, hosted by Vawnita Best, Community Development Director for Watford […]
