CENSUS 2020 is here: McKenzie County has work to do The my2020Census.gov website is now available for the public to respond. As of March 22, McKenzie County's self-response rate is at 9.0%, well below North Dakota's self-response rate of 20.2%. Local digital and mail campaigns are underway to help get the word out about how to complete the survey (which takes less than 10 minutes online) and its importance. Employers, public officials, apartment managers and committed community members are encouraged to share with employees, colleagues, friends and neighbors about the importance of everyone filling out the survey. Click here for sample text for an email .

New photography installation at hospital The McKenzie County Healthcare facility is now home to multiple installations of photography by local photographer Chad Ziemendorf . The images showcase various scenes from throughout our community including a 24 foot panoramic photo of Watford City. The project was commissioned by Jan and Cameron Dodge in memory of Jan’s father, John Kirkland. The McKenzie County Healthcare facility is located at 709 4 th Ave NE, Watford City.

March Economy at a Glance The March economy at a glance is now available. Some data of note: 2020 year-to-date city sales tax distribution for Watford City is $978,200, which is over $200,000 more than 2019 year-to-date numbers. 2020 year-to-date restaurant/lodging tax distributions for Watford City is $68,841, which is about $4,000 more than 2019 year-to-date numbers.

Career and Tech Ed in McKenzie County In February, parents and interested community members participated in a forum focused on all that is being done as well as ideas for the future regarding Career and Technical Education in McKenzie County. View the livestream here.

Foundation establishes relief fund The Northwest North Dakota Community Foundation has established a relief fund to support communities and nonprofits as they deal with the myriad of issues posed by the downturn of the oil and gas industry and the COVID-19 virus.The relief fund will provide support to verified nonprofits, community organizations, and volunteer groups that are directly addressing the needs of those affected by local oil and gas economy pressures and COVID-19. Visit their website for more information.

Business and employer resources for COVID-19 Th e North Dakota Department of Commerce has put together a web page pertaining to both state and federal resources available to businesses and communities affected economically as a result of the COVID-19 public health threat.