Minot - Towards the end of a marathon City Council meeting, the Minot City Council voted to discontinue its membership with the North Dakota League of Cities.
At Monday’s meeting, Alderman Scott Samuelson made a motion not to renew the city’s $25,000 membership, citing the League’s lack of advocacy against proposed property tax caps during the latest legislative session. Samuelson argued that the League functions more like a lobbyist group than a working partner for the City of Minot.
Alderman Mike Blessum said he was reluctant to make a public statement by withdrawing, but noted that the League had supported the cap, stating they wanted “a seat at the table” but ultimately found little success in their advocacy efforts.
Alderman Paul Pitner pushed back, saying the decision reflected “personal politics bleeding over” and warned that it was “not a good look for Minot.”
After discussion, the council voted 4–3 in favor of the motion, with Mayor Mark Jantzer, Alderman Paul Pitner, and Alderwoman Lisa Olson dissenting.
