A bill before the North Dakota Legislature, Senate Bill No. 2398, proposes the creation of a Military Compatibility Commission to oversee land use around military installations. The bill defines “military impact zones” to prevent encroachment and regulate development within designated areas surrounding bases.
The proposed military impact zones are:
- Grand Forks Air Force Base – 25-mile radius
- Minot Air Force Base – 25-mile radius
- Cavalier Space Force Station – 15-mile radius
- Camp Grafton (South) – 5-mile radius
The bill establishes the Military Compatibility Commission, which would include the governor (or a designee), a member of the Public Service Commission, representatives from counties, townships, and cities within the designated zones, and military base commanders who choose to participate. The commission would be responsible for reviewing land use proposals, advising local governments, and coordinating with the U.S. Department of Defense regarding developments that could impact military operations.
The 25-mile military impact zone surrounding Minot Air Force Base would cover approximately 1,963 square miles, nearly the size of Ward County, which spans 2,056 square miles. The bill does not designate which state agency would provide administration for the Military Compatibility Commission.
Senate Bill No. 2398 is sponsored by Senators Barta, Castaneda, and Sickler, along with Representatives Bolinske and Christianson. Senator Castaneda and Representative Bolinske are from Minot.The Committee hearing is scheduled for Thursday at 9:00 am.
SB 2398
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new chapter to title 37 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the establishment of the military compatibility commission.
House Sponsors: Bolinske (R, District 40), Christianson (R, District 18),
Senate Sponsors: Barta (R, District 43), Castaneda (R, District 40), Sickler (R, District 17),
