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Articles by K.L. Collom
Ethics Commission Meets in Minot; Questions NDDF Conflict-of-Interest Policy
MINOT, N.D. — The North Dakota Ethics Commission is taking a closer look at the North Dakota Development Fund’s conflict-of-interest policies after a recent performance audit raised concerns about how potential conflicts involving board members were disclosed and handled. Meeting Wednesday in Minot, commissioners unanimously directed staff to gather more information from the Development Fund and report back on its conflict-of-interest policies.
Development Fund Audit Referral Raises Questions for AG Defending Officials
The North Dakota Development Fund is facing two decisions about its future: whether lawmakers will keep the state backed financing program, and whether concerns raised by recent audits and testimony will be investigated. On September 22, the Legislature’s audit committee recommended eliminating the fund and sending its outstanding loans and investments to the Bank of North Dakota.
As Development Fund Faces Scrutiny, Dunseith Grant Questions Resurface
New reporting about the North Dakota Development Fund has brought renewed attention to questions The Dakotan raised last year about state-supported projects involving Packet Digital and Chiptronics at the Dunseith factory site and question’s about their operating capabilities. Since our May 29, 2025 article, the Industrial Commission has provided an answer on the grants: Packet Digital satisfied its contractual deliverables and reporting requirements.
City of Minot Approves AXON License Plate Reader Technology
Minot City Hall (Photo: Kyler Collom, The Dakotan) The City of Minot voted 4-3 to approve usage of AXON automated license plate reader technology. After months of deliberation, the Minot City council has come to a decision on the usage of the AXON Automated License Plate Reader Technology in a 4-3 vote with Alderman Hayes, Pitner, Olson, and Mayor Jantzer vting in favor and Aldermen Fuller, Blessum, and Samuelson against.
North Dakota law accidentally lists fake critical minerals based on coal lawyers’ names
David Straley, attorney for North American Coal, speaks in favor of a bill to develop critical minerals in North Dakota at a March 27, 2025, hearing. The law lists stralium and friezium among critical minerals, an apparent reference to Straley and another coal industry attorney. Straley says they were not responsible for adding the fake names.
Trump approves federal disaster aid for August storms in North Dakota
By: Amy Dalrymple President Donald Trump has approved a disaster declaration for North Dakota communities affected by August storms, but federal disaster aid is not expected to be released until the government reopens. Aug. 7-8 storms with straight-line winds, large hail and multiple tornadoes caused about $6 million in damage, primarily to electrical infrastructure.
Tucker Carlson Partners with Fargo, North Dakota Precious Metals Dealer Chris Olson to Create BATTALION METALS
When a precious metals company approached Tucker Carlson with a multi-million dollar advertising contract, he was stunned. How can any fairly priced commodities dealer afford such a massive budget? Investigating further, he uncovered industry-wide deceptive practices like selling “collectible” bullion coins to retirees at nearly double the market spot prices. Disturbed, Tucker turned to his own bullion dealer, Christopher Olson, looking for a better way. Christopher grew up in the bullion business.
Three Finalists Named for Minot City Manager Position
Minot, ND - The City of Minot has announced three finalists in its search for the next City Manager: Tom Joyce, David Kees, and David Lakefield. The position will be discussed at today’s Minot City Council meeting, where the City Council could formally approve moving forward with the interview process for the three finalists. Two of candidates already serve in key leadership roles within the City of Minot.
Dunseith Debacle Dispute Heads to Federal Court; Hoefer Seeks Over $1Billion in Damages
The long-simmering Dunseith Debacle is now a federal case. This afternoon, Charles D. Hoefer Jr. and Hoefer Group, LLC filed a civil complaint in U.S. District Court seeking roughly $1.4 billion in damages from current and former North Dakota commerce officials in their personal capacities.
The Paths to Victory: How Each Mayoral Candidate Could Win on August 5
This has arguably been the most contentious Mayoral race in Minot's history. 1982 saw long time incumbent Chet Reiten lose an incredibly narrow race to Thomas Lee (who then resigned in 1984) by just 13 votes. Reiten quickly returned to office in 1984 when Lee resigned halfway through his term, and with a mayoral resignation this year it bears an Interesting parallel to today, but with a major caveat: Reiten ran unopposed, and today we see a crowded 4-way race between very different people.
Lawsuit Questions Mineral Rights Transfer Under Lake Sakakawea
A quiet title lawsuit challenging ownership of mineral rights under Lake Sakakawea remains active after multiple county hearings, according to a recent press release. The suit, filed by former gubernatorial candidates Michael Coachman, Marvin Nelson, and Paul Sorum; questions whether a 2017 law, Senate Bill 2134, improperly relinquished state-held minerals historically managed in trust for public education.
From Screens to Scenery: How “The Scenic Gamer” Is Playing His Way Across America
When Noah, better known online as The Scenic Gamer, quit his middle school teaching job and set out from Los Angeles on May 1, he had a plan, a Jeep packed with eight gaming consoles, a TV, two portable power stations, and a dream: play video games in all 50 states.
North Dakota legislative district map to remain in place for now, Supreme Court decides
By: Mary Steurer (ND Monitor) The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday put a temporary freeze on North Dakota’s legislative district map, keeping it in place pending next steps in a tribal voting rights case against the state. The move came just a day before the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals was expected to issue a mandate officially reversing a North Dakota federal judge’s decision and ordering the lawsuit to be dismissed.
The North Dakota Industrial Commission Uncovered: What It Is, What It Does, and Why It Matters-Collom's Column
North Dakota is the only state in America where three elected officials essentially jointly own a bank and a flour mill, regulate oil drilling, approve billion-dollar bond issues, and hand out grants for everything from housing and drone research, to hydrogen development. This board, the North Dakota Industrial Commission (NDIC), was created more than a century ago at the height of the Nonpartisan League’s political revolution.
North Dakota tribes want US Supreme Court to hear voting rights case
By: Mary Steurer (ND Monitor) Two North Dakota Native tribes and a group of tribal citizens plan to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review a court decision that found they don’t have standing to sue the state of North Dakota for alleged voter discrimination. The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals in the ruling concluded that private voters have no way of challenging unfair voting practices under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which outlaws voter discrimination based on race.
Federal government appealing $28M award to North Dakota for pipeline protest costs
By: Mary Steurer (ND Monitor) The U.S. Department of Justice is appealing a federal judge’s decision to award North Dakota $28 million in damages for the executive branch’s response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. The case now heads to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals for review. Thousands traveled to south-central North Dakota to protest the construction of the oil pipeline underneath the Missouri River’s Lake Oahe reservoir alongside the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in 2016 and 2017.
Bank of North Dakota researching ways to aid farmers hit by storm
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • A shelter belt is destroyed and littered with debris east of Enderlin, N.D., after tornadoes and strong winds hit the area on June 20, 2025. (Dan Koeck/For the North Dakota Monitor) A shelter belt is destroyed and littered with debris east of Enderlin, N.D., after tornadoes and strong winds hit the area on June 20, 2025.
Minot Mayoral Debate Set Livestream Tonight
MINOT — The Dakotan is hosting a live mayoral debate tonight, June 17, giving residents a chance to hear directly from the candidates vying to become Minot’s next mayor. With the election fast approaching, this is a critical opportunity for voters to compare the candidates’ visions, leadership styles, and policy priorities — all in one place.
City Council Approves New Chief, Says No to Job Corps Letter and Grant Applications
MINOT — The Minot City Council on Monday approved the appointment of Michael Frye as the city’s next Chief of Police in a 6-0 vote. Frye, a veteran of the Minneapolis Police Department and former Bismarck State College instructor, will begin July 14. City Manager Harold Stewart also announced plans to promote current interim chief Dale Plessas to a new Deputy Chief position.
Minot Hires Michael Frye as New Chief of Police
Written by K.L. Collom | The Dakotan • MINOT — The Minot City Council on Monday evening officially approved the appointment of Michael Frye as the city’s next Chief of Police. Frye, a veteran of the Minneapolis Police Department and Bismarck State College, was selected following a nationwide search and a competitive interview process. He was approved with a vote of 6-0 with resounding support from the Council.
Minot AFB Cancels Saturday Open House
Written by K.L. Collom | The Dakotan • Minot Air Force Base flightline [Photo: A1C Caleb Kimmel] Minot Air Force Base flightline [Photo: A1C Caleb Kimmel] Minot Air Force Base has cancelled its open house event scheduled for today, citing global events and heightened safety protocols. In a statement, base officials stressed that there is no specific threat to the base or the Minot area.
Iowa governor vetoes bill restricting private pipelines’ use of eminent domain
By: Cami Koons Gov. Kim Reynolds Wednesday vetoed a controversial bill pertaining to eminent domain and carbon sequestration pipelines in Iowa. House Republican leaders initiated an effort to reconvene the Legislature to override the veto, but Senate GOP leaders indicated that was unlikely.
Cyberattack on Major Food Distributor Beginning to Spark Shortages Across North Dakota
A cyberattack targeting United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) has disrupted grocery supply chains across the upper midwest, particularly impacting rural and small-town stores in North Dakota. UNFI, a major food distributor supplying around 60 of the state’s 138 grocery stores, disclosed in a regulatory filing that it had shut down parts of its IT network after discovering unauthorized access on June 5.
Low-carbon jet fuel company foresees huge investment in western North Dakota
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • Chris Ryan, right, president and chief operating officer of renewable fuels company Gevo, speaks June 10, 2025, in West Fargo, N.D., at the Midwest Ag Summit. At left is Greg Lardy, vice president for agriculture at North Dakota State University. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor) Chris Ryan, right, president and chief operating officer of renewable fuels company Gevo, speaks June 10, 2025, in West Fargo, N.D., at the Midwest Ag Summit.
‘Prudent remedy’ for veto error is special session, Legislative Council advises
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • Gov. Kelly Armstrong speaks during a meeting of the Senate Appropriations Committee on March 27, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) Gov. Kelly Armstrong speaks during a meeting of the Senate Appropriations Committee on March 27, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) By: Michael Achterling (ND Monitor) Legal staff for North Dakota’s legislative branch concluded the “prudent remedy” to correct an error with Gov.
Minot Early Voting Not Included with Mayor Election
Minot residents heading to the polls this summer for the city’s special mayoral election will face a tighter window to cast their ballots. Unlike any recent local contests, there will be no early voting offered ahead of the August 5 election, raising concerns about the impact on the city’s already low voter turnout.
Early Minot Area Polling Numbers on Mayoral Race and More
Written by K.L. Collom | The Dakotan • Recent Polling Data Acquired 5/30-6/4 Recent Polling Data Acquired 5/30-6/4 Minot- Between the afternoon of Friday, May 30, and Wednesday, June 4, I surveyed 125 likely voters in Minot, most of whom were polled outside the Auditorium during election hours on Tuesday, June 3.
Interim North Dakota investments leader to remain in the role
By: North Dakota Monitor staff (North Dakota Monitor) The person who has been overseeing North Dakota’s investment portfolio on an interim basis since January has been named as the permanent executive director of the state Retirement and Investment Office. The State Investment Board appointed Jodi Smith as executive director in a meeting Tuesday.
Council Split on Fund Reserve Policy as Minot Enters Budget Season
Minot’s City Council met Monday night to tackle a packed agenda that included possible fiscal policy changes, a series of community presentations, and discussions about infrastructure funding and the history of storm sewer fees in Minot. City Manager Harold Stewart confirmed a final recommendation for Minot’s next police chief is expected at the June 16 meeting.
New Links Emerge in Dunseith Debacle: How Much Did State Leaders Know?
The Dakotan has been on the ground floor of a breaking story - the Dunseith Debacle. Other media have called it Dunseith-Gate or Dunseith Declassified. The Dunseith Debacle has been a story which apparently ties into potential national security issues, commercial aviation supply chain compromises, public flight safety risks, possible State and federal agent cover-up, possible murder, and public corruption.
“Why Not Minot?”: Diving into Minot's Perception Problem-Collom's Column
Perception - the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses. Why define this? Because in recent years, Minot has suffered its own version of "death by a thousand paper cuts." A string of small controversies, missteps, and failed projects, none of which are catastrophic on their own, have slowly eroded public confidence.
Minot to Host Public Forum with Police Chief Finalists
MINOT, ND – The City of Minot will host a public town hall on Wednesday, May 28, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at City Hall, offering residents the opportunity to hear directly from the three finalists for the position of Chief of Police. The event is part of the city’s transparent hiring process for its next law enforcement leader and will allow community members to ask questions and evaluate each candidate’s vision for the department.
City Council Meets, Tables PD Flock System Until Full 7 Person Council Seated
MINOT — The Minot City Council met Monday evening to kick off National Public Works Week and hear a legislative update before turning to an extensive agenda that included budget reforms, public safety, and infrastructure planning. Finance Director Dave Lakefield introduced in his monthly finance update, went over the multiple budgeting possibilities the city may pursue.
16th Street SW Construction Begins May 27th
Drivers in southwest Minot should prepare for detours and delays as the 16th Street SW Reconstruction Project begins Tuesday, May 27. Following Memorial Day weekend, portions of 16th Street and the intersection with Burdick Expressway will be closed to traffic. The project includes pavement removal, storm sewer upgrades, and repaving along one of the city’s busiest roadways.
Students full of questions about cellphone ban in North Dakota schools
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • Members of the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Student Cabinet discuss a new law banning student cellphone use in North Dakota public schools on May 14, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) Members of the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Student Cabinet discuss a new law banning student cellphone use in North Dakota public schools on May 14, 2025.
DNC Moves To Void David Hogg’s Election To Party Vice Chair On Technicality
By: Ireland Owens The Democratic National Committee (DNC) voted Monday to void the results of gun control activist David Hogg’s election as one of its vice chairs. Following the credentials committee’s decision that the vice chair election had not followed proper parliamentary procedures, it will bring the vote to the DNC’s full body of members to decide whether or not to call a new election for Hogg’s vice chair seat and the seat of another DNC vice chair, Malcolm Kenyatta.
The 2002 Minot Derailment: What Went Wrong, and What Came Next-Collom's Column
Following up from the last piece on this, we left off immediately following the ammonia disaster in January 2002. In the days and weeks following Minot residents searched for answers, and when the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its findings, those answers proved to be disappointing. Today, we will dive into why the derailment occurred and the cleanup following.
FEMA leader ousted, one day after publicly opposing agency’s elimination
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • Cam Hamilton, at the time senior official performing the duties of the administrator at FEMA, testifies before a House Appropriations subcommittee on May 7, 2025. (Screenshot from House webcast) Cam Hamilton, at the time senior official performing the duties of the administrator at FEMA, testifies before a House Appropriations subcommittee on May 7, 2025.
Effort to improve North Dakota campaign finance reporting fails
Written by K.L. Collom | The Dakotan • Sens. Kristin Roers, from left, Jose Castaneda and Jeff Barta, conference committee members on House Bill 1377, walk at the Capitol on May 1, 2025. Roers expressed frustration early Saturday that the House and Senate could not reach an agreement on adding more transparency to campaign finance reporting. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) Sens.
No Warning: The Anhydrous Ammonia Spill of 2002-Collom's Column
MINOT, ND — Flashback to early 2002: 9/11 was still fresh in Americans’ minds, the New England Patriots had yet to win a Super Bowl, and the L.A. Lakers were in the midst of the Shaq and Kobe dynasty. In North Dakota, Governor John Hoeven was just into his second year, all three seats of our congressional delegation were held by Democrats, and Minot’s mayor was former police chief Carroll Erickson.
House votes to raise North Dakota speed limit, fines in reversal of earlier action
Written by The Dakotan | The Dakotan • Vehicles travel on Interstate 94 in Fargo on Dec. 23, 2023. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor) Vehicles travel on Interstate 94 in Fargo on Dec. 23, 2023. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor) By: Jeff Beach (ND Monitor) After pumping the brakes on increasing the speed limit to 80 mph on North Dakota interstate highways in the morning, the state House changed its mind Thursday evening.
Fast-building states get more babies-Declines in births have been reversed in some Western states
By: Tim Henderson The number of births in some Western states that are adding new housing rose last year, reversing losses the year before in many cases, according to new federal statistics released Wednesday. Increases from 2023 to 2024 were highest in Colorado (4.5%), Idaho (3.8%), Utah (3.6%), Washington state and Nebraska (each 2.6%). Births increased around 2% in West Virginia, South Dakota, North Carolina, Montana, Rhode Island and South Carolina.
Minot Police Department Finds Texas Fugitive in Hotel
Written by K.L. Collom | The Dakotan • Minot-MPD announced Tuesday morning the apprehension of a wanted man from Texas. Delino Deshields Nelson, 32, of Fort Worth, Texas, was arrested Monday afternoon at a hotel in northwest Minot, where officers located him following an unrelated call for service in the area, per the MPD Facebook page.
Collom's Column | The Dakotan
Trending: Newsletter Form (#4) Category: Collom's Column William “Wild Bill” Langer remains one of the most controversial, charismatic, and enduring figures in North Dakota’s political history.
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