Restaurants, bars, breweries, cafes and entertainment venues negatively affected by COVID-19 may be eligible for round 2 of the Hospitality Economic Resiliency Grant. Applications are due by February 25. Grant funds are capped at $25,000 per location including any funds awarded during Round 1.Employers w
ho are looking to hire interns should consider applying for the Operation Intern program administered by the ND Department of Commerce. Operation Intern is a grant program designed to expand the number of internships, work experience and apprenticeship positions with North Dakota employers. The program focuses on creating new internships and apprenticeships within the state’s targeted industries of energy, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, tourism and technology-based businesses, to include cybersecurity.
The global oil producer Hess has announced a $1.9 billion capital and exploratory budget for 2021. $450 million of that has been allocated towards a two rig program for the Bakken where their 2021 plans include drilling 55 wells and bringing online 45 wells. They note that the Bakken wells provide attractive financial returns at today’s oil prices.
A $400 million ethane-fueled power plant has been announced by Bakken Midstream. The plant, which would reportedly be the largest ethane-based power plant in the world, will provide a local use of the natural gas that is co-produced with the area’s oil wells, and is expected to bring over 100 construction jobs to the area. It is planned to be located outside of Williston. For more see this Fargo Forum article, Bismarck Tribune article or this Williston Herald article.
In an effort to build community resiliency by diversifying the skills of the local workforce, a new local trade school has been developed in Watford City. Called Trade Ready, the school is looking for projects that will provide students with hands-on welding experience under the instruction and supervision of certified welders. In additional to structural and pipe welding, the program provides hands-on fundamentals to become a skilled, entry-level oilfield employee. In order to make a difference in the community and make the program successful, TRADE READY is looking for work in building structures that can be used in local facilities. Items that the students can make at the Watford City location include launchers and receiver skids, pipe racks, pipe supports, and pig pens. Students and instructors are also equipped to travel to locations. For more info contact Kara Glenn at karaglenn@silverfoxnd.com or 701-580-8483.
The City of Watford City ended 2020 with 36 single-family housing building permits issued. That is up from 25 in 2019 and the 0 issued in 2017. Many homebuilders in Watford City have been taking advantage of the JDA Housing Development Subsidy which was launched in mid-2019. Currently $1,550,000 of the $2,000,000 in program funds has been allocated.
The January Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note:
Red Barn Liquor is the newest liquor store in town. They have a mission to provide the best spirit buying experience in North Dakota. They are located on the east side of Watford City at 420 Hunters Run Street, and are open 7 days a week.
Hundreds of youth livestock enthusiasts are expected to descend on McKenzie County on the weekend of March 6-7 for the North Dakota State 4-H Livestock Judging competition & Livestock Quiz Bowl. The events will be located at the McKenzie County Fairgrounds and the Rough Rider Center. Many in our community are excited to support this event and welcome folks from throughout the state.
