On ND Talk Thursday, former Minot Mayor Shaun Sipma confirmed he will not run in the city’s upcoming special election, despite encouragement from residents. Sipma said he accomplished what he set out to do during his time in office and believes Minot needs a more calming presence at the helm. “I’m just not that person right now,” he said.
Minot’s 2024 Water Quality Report confirms the city’s drinking water met all safety standards last year, but elevated lead levels in two homes highlight the risk of old private service lines. While the city’s system is in compliance, officials urge residents to help identify potential lead pipes and take precautions like flushing taps and using filters.
With a potential special election on the horizon, attention will soon turn to candidates working to gather signatures and secure a spot on the ballot. The Dakotan will be closely tracking those efforts, from signature collection to official ballot approval, as well as noting any candidates who ultimately decide not to run.
North Dakota is taking its first steps toward exploring nuclear energy. The House passed a bill Wednesday allowing the EERC in Grand Forks to study nuclear technologies, while emphasizing the state won’t become a radioactive waste site. Lawmakers also approved a study on the future of nuclear power plants in the state.
The North Dakota Senate passed two controversial bills Thursday. House Bill 1144 bans all-gender bathrooms in K-12 public schools and introduces enforcement measures. House Bill 1181 defines gender in state law as a person’s sex at birth. Supporters say the bills reinforce clarity and safety, while critics warn they harm transgender and intersex residents. Both bills now return to the House for final approval.
A sightseeing helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Manhattan on Thursday, killing all six people onboard, including a Spanish family. The crash, which happened just minutes after takeoff, has reignited concerns over helicopter safety in crowded airspace. Federal investigators are now probing the incident.
