The Minot Chamber of Commerce showed up in force at Monday’s City Council meeting. On the agenda was a public hearing on the 2026 budget, but much of the discussion was consumed by Chamber/EDC board members advocating for continued city funding for the Minot Chamber/EDC and Economic Development via a portion of a .5% sales tax.
Board members and leadership including Dr. Steve Shirley, Kevin Black, Beth Feldner, Peter Hankla, Ryan Ackerman (Chair), Jarid Lundeen (Chair-Elect), and Ryan Miller (on behalf of John Kutch) took turns at the podium, joined by Brekka Kramer (President and CEO) who watched from the audience. Together, their remarks stretched for more than 45 minutes, prompting some attendees to leave before the hearing concluded.
The Chamber’s testimony largely centered on the importance of funding economic development in Minot. Several speakers framed the Chamber as a vital driver of business growth, workforce development, and long-term community health. Speculation hung over the hearing that some council members wanted to cut or scale back funding for the Chamber/EDC, a concern highlighted by multiple Minot Chamber/EDC board members throughout the evening.
You can view the comments by the Board Members below...
Ryan Ackerman, Chair of the Chamber/EDC Board
Ackerman emphasized the critical role the Minot Chamber/EDC plays in supporting economic development across the city. He pointed to the Chamber’s business advocacy work as key to strengthening Minot’s economic foundation.
Jarid Lundeen, Chair-Elect
Lundeen focused on the need to continue dedicating a portion of the half-cent sales tax to economic development. He stressed that sustained investment is necessary to create opportunities that will encourage younger generations to stay in Minot.
Kevin Black, Board Member
Black spoke in support of maintaining both the funding and the funding mechanism for the Chamber/EDC. His remarks centered on workforce development and its importance to Minot’s growth and competitiveness.
Dr. Steve Shirley, Board Member
Dr. Shirley outlined how Minot State’s workforce development initiatives are closely tied to the Chamber/EDC’s efforts. He noted that the university’s work in this area depends heavily on the Chamber’s support.
Beth Feldner, Board Member
Feldner voiced opposition to reallocating the half-cent sales tax away from economic development. She also raised concerns with how Alderman Mike Blessum chaired the Economic Development Committee.
Peter Hankla, Board Member
Hankla highlighted the significance of Task Force 21 and its role in helping sustain the Minot Air Force Base, linking its importance directly to Minot’s broader economic development goals.
Ryan Miller (on behalf of John Kutch, CEO of Trinity Health)
Speaking on behalf of Trinity CEO John Kutch, Miller focused on the importance of workforce development in sustaining both Trinity Health and the broader Minot economy. He noted the need to track key metrics to ensure long-term success.
