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 […]
The March 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: There were ten building permits with a total value of $1,122,000 in February 2026. This is a significant increase in value with February 2025 having seven permits worth $328,055. March occupancy for Brookledge Apartments in Watford City was down to 89% from […]
In McKenzie County, the importance of infrastructure development to support economic sustainability and community growth cannot be overstated. As discussed in a recent episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast with host Vawnita Best; City Engineer, Justin Smith, and McKenzie County Engineering Director, Grace Demars. explain the collaborative efforts between the county and […]
In this episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, Host Vawnita Best sat down with the McKenzie County Soil Conservation District and the NRCS to explore the conservation efforts within McKenzie County. Vawnita was joined by Nikki Darrington, NRCS District Conservationist, Daniel Stenberg, Soil Conservation Urban Conservationist, and Karissa Frick, Soil Conservation Business Manager. […]
The City of Watford City and McKenzie County have commissioned the services of Retail Strategies, the leading national community development firm, to develop and execute a tailored retail expansion and recruitment plan. This partnership will support the desire for expansion of retail goods and services available in western North Dakota and eastern Montana. “Retail Strategies brings […]
The February 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: The permit values for McKenzie County were up over $5 million from $7,152,274 in 2024 to $12,770,940 in 2025. The Farmers Price Paid Index 2011 Base increased over 10% from 141.5 to 153.5 from December 2024 to December 2025. The daily average […]
The Long X Development Loft is proud to share the 2025 Year in Review, highlighting another year of growth, collaboration, and forward momentum across Watford City and McKenzie County. The report consists of a recap from the four organizations at the collaborative Development Loft at the Visitors Center in Watford City: Watford City Community and Business […]
In this episode of the “Living in McKenzie County Podcast,” host Vawnita Best chats with guests Marco Pelton, Beau Wisness, and Brad Foss in a discussion about the Watford City High School Hall of Fame in the second part of a two episode series. They recognize the athletes, coaches, and community members who have shaped […]
In the latest episode of the “Living in McKenzie County Podcast,” host Vawnita Best chats with guests Phil Moen, Titus Stenberg, and Brad Foss in a discussion about the Watford City High School Hall of Fame, and a look back at the remarkable athletes WCHS has had over the decades. They recognize the athletes, coaches, […]
In January, McKenzie County Economic Development welcomed Meghan Taunton into her new position as director. Taunton grew up in California and moved to Williston in 2012 during the height of the oil boom. She spent time working in the oil industry before attending Williston State College and the University of North Dakota to obtain a […]
