Today in Minot

A bill requiring public comment at all regular meetings of local government bodies is one step closer to becoming law in North Dakota. The House passed Senate Bill 2180 in an 85-4 vote, sending it back to the Senate for final approval. The bill mandates that cities, counties, school boards, and other political subdivisions provide time for public input—something not all currently allow. School boards pushed back, arguing public meetings aren’t public forums. Supporters say citizen input should be guaranteed, not optional. Grant Coursey with Bismarck Tribune has the full story. Bill details are below.

A city meeting in Dickinson erupted Tuesday night when a known out-of-town agitator refused to give up the podium during a public comment opportunity, prompting his removal by police. Ryan Messano, who’s gained a reputation for inflammatory remarks targeting women and minority groups, escalated tensions by invoking the Second Amendment during a heated exchange with Mayor Scott Decker. The disruption came as the commission considered a new public comment policy. Messano’s repeated appearances have sparked growing frustration in Dickinson—and raised broader questions about the limits of public discourse.

James B. Miller, Jr. with the Dickinson Press has the full story.

Editor’s Note: Meanwhile at the legislature, lawmakers passed a bill making it mandatory that local governing boards provide a public comment period at meetings. And another leg of local control — Chairperson discretion in leading meetings — is kicked away by government on high in Bismarck.

Twelve lives lost in 25 years. That’s the grim backdrop behind ongoing conversations about how to fix the intersection of Highways 23 and 83 north of Max. At a public meeting Monday, residents were clear: they want an interchange, even if it takes a decade. State engineers offered four alternatives, including a roundabout and reduced-conflict designs, each with trade-offs in safety, cost, and timing. As the North Dakota DOT weighs options, the clock ticks—and the community’s push for long-term safety grows louder. Jill Schramm with Minot Daily News has the full story.

There’s a new gate going up around North Dakota’s recall process, and it just got a lot taller. A bill advancing through the legislature would raise the bar for citizens who want to remove local elected officials before their terms end. More signatures, bigger committees, and a new requirement to get state approval for the reason behind a recall. Supporters say it’s about protecting public service from misuse—but the changes could make holding officials accountable a heavier lift in small towns across the state. Edward Segal with KX News has the full story. Bill details can be found below.

North Dakota’s term limits debate isn’t settled yet—and depending on a few absent lawmakers, it might not be over. A resolution to give state legislators more time in office—up to 16 years in one chamber—narrowly failed in the House, but a second vote could be coming. Supporters say it’s about flexibility and continuity. Critics argue it’s an end-run around what voters approved in 2022. At the heart of it: how closely lawmakers should follow the people’s voice—or reinterpret it.

Michael Achterling with North Dakota Monitor has the full story.

North Dakota lawmakers are once again weighing whether to ditch daylight saving time—and this time, the proposal has momentum. House Bill 1259 would keep the state on standard time year-round, joining Arizona and Hawaii in abandoning the twice-yearly clock change. But there’s a catch: the change would only take effect if neighboring states do the same. Supporters say the switch would benefit residents in the western part of the Central Time Zone. Opponents argue it could hurt tourism, evening events, and business near state borders.

Ann Estvold, North Dakota Newspaper Association with North Dakota Monitor has the full story.

Val Kilmer’s career was as bold and unpredictable as the roles he chose—from Iceman to Jim Morrison, Batman to Twain. He passed away Tuesday night at 65, surrounded by family in Los Angeles. Known for his intensity, talent, and uncompromising pursuit of artistic truth, Kilmer lived a life shaped by both acclaim and controversy. His legacy stretches across genres and generations, marked by unforgettable performances, personal reinvention, and a fierce devotion to craft that made him one of Hollywood’s most compelling figures. Mark Kennedy with Associated Press has the larger look at the life and work of Mr. Kilmer.

Minot State University will offer two new degrees beginning in Fall 2025: biomedical science and environmental science. The biomedical science program blends biology, chemistry, exercise science, and psychology to prepare students for graduate study in healthcare fields. The environmental science degree combines biology, chemistry, and geoscience, with tracks in conservation, earth systems science, and environmental health. Both programs offer specialized pathways designed to help students succeed in graduate school or step directly into careers in science and public service.

Veronica Corey with Minot State University has the full story linked below.