From the Civic West Desk

Learn About City Council vs. City Commission Sept 12 at Chat

Civic West will be hosting a Fire Hall Chat September 12 titled "City Commission vs. City Council: Pros and Cons for West Fargo." Learn about the differences between a city commission and a city council and examine what this could mean for West Fargo, which currently has a commission structure of five commissioners elected at-large to represent the entire city

Political Science Professor Dr. Nicholas Bauroth, NDSU professor of political science and public policy, will discuss recent research he conducted in Fargo and explain the differences (see study results at Studies and Reports | Upper Midwest Center on Public Policy | NDSU.) Moorhead City Councilwoman Deb White will discuss how Moorhead made the switch from a commission to a council.

Join us at the West Fargo Fire Hall (1201 10th Ave E) on September 12 at 7 p.m. to learn more about this topic.

Learn more about the Fire Hall Chats Committee here.

Walking West Fargo Tour September 19

On September 19, an expert on missing middle housing, Megan Reineccius from Opticos Design, will be conducting a walking tour in West Fargo for city officials, developers, and interested residents. West Fargo's Planning Director, Aaron Nelson, has assisted by identifying an area of West Fargo that represents this issue for the site of the tour.

Middle housing describes a range of denser and more affordable house-scale buildings compatible with detached single-family homes. This housing is often in short supply in newer urban developments.

This event is sponsored by AARP North Dakota and the Livable West Fargo Committee of Civic West. Learn more here. More details will be coming. If you are interested in participating, please send us an email.

Civic West Hosted Fire Hall Chat on Student Homelessness

Civic West hosted the sixth Fire Hall Chat, "Student Homelessness in West Fargo: The Hidden Problem", on July 11. West Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Beth Slette and Homeless Education Liaison Bridget Hins shared statistics on students experiencing homelessness and how the district strives to support those students. In May 2024, there was approximately 250 West Fargo students experiencing homelessness. These students are supported through services such as free breakfast and lunch and the BackPack program. Matthew's Voice Project co-founder Jenny Schuester shared how they support students experiencing homelessness. This organization provides a variety of items for students that ranges from clothing and toiletries to gift cards and senior photo sessions. Find out how you can help Matthew's Voice Project by visiting their website matthewsvoiceproject.com.

Volunteer with Civic West

 We are a volunteer organization, and we welcome your participation. We are currently looking for volunteers to help record and take photos during the Fire Hall Chats. If you are interested in helping, send us an email or fill out the form on our website.

For more volunteer opportunities, check out the Civic West website to explore our five committees: Fire Hall Chats, Welcome and Inclusion, Civic Journalism, Livable West Fargo, and the Arts. You can find the full list of committees and descriptions here. If you find a committee you would like to be a part of, send us an email or fill out the form on our website.

AmeriCorps Member. Know someone who wants to serve?

We are seeking an individual from this area to serve on a part-time basis, 16-18 hours per week depending on start date, to help us build the capacity of Civic West. They must be a high school graduate, but some college education is preferred, and undergo a background check. We are looking for someone who is highly organized with strong communication skills and a keen interest in civic engagement. In return they will earn a stipend and education allowance through this federal program, while serving their community. Hours are flexible, and another part-time job or enrollment in school is permitted. If you know someone who might fill the bill, please pass their name on to us or share our contact information. 

Can You Help Us Continue Our Fire Hall Chats Series?

We are seeking out organizations that would be willing to sponsor a Fire Hall Chat. These events provide needed opportunities for community conversations.

If you, your organization, or one you know could help us defray our expenses and provide refreshments, we would welcome the support. Please send us an email at civicwestwf@gmail.com. 

Community Event Calendar. Share Your Events with Us!

The Community Event Calendar is LIVE. We want to share ways West Fargoans can build connections 🤝, learn together💡, and have fun in West Fargo! 🥳

Know of an event happening that you'd like us to showcase? Submit the event via the button below.

Events must take place in West Fargo and be open to the public. Posting events does not imply endorsement by Civic West. All events are subject to Civic West's Community Posting Guidelines.