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 […]
The January 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: Watford City Sales Tax Distributions are up 17.5% for 2025 compared to 2024 distribution, with Alexander up a significant 67% from 2024 to 2025 While visits to Theodore Roosevelt National Park are up slightly over the past year, visits in December 2025 […]
The latest episode of the “Living in McKenzie County” podcast offers a fascinating look into the career pathways available at the Bakken Area Skills Center. Host Vawnita Best delves into the center’s essential role in shaping the future workforce of McKenzie County, showcasing programs that range from heavy equipment operation to healthcare. The episode begins […]
In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast, Dr. Wayne Heckaman, along with colleagues Scott Wisness, Anselmo Jr. Hernandez, and Justin Johnsrud, discussed the transformative power of the Bakken Area Skills Center (BASC). Over the past 24 months, the BASC has become a beacon for students in McKenzie County and surrounding areas, […]
The December 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: Recent unemployment rates and labor force data remains unavailable due to the prior government shutdown. McKenzie County had 25 births in November of 2025, up from 15 in November of 2024. Year to date births are up 9.5% from last year. 2025 […]
