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2027 budget Approved Oct. 5, 2026 Approved: September 22, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS City Administrator’s Introduction

Fund Summaries

Expeditures

5-6

Departmental Overviews Administration

7-8

Administrative Services Assessing Finance Geographic Information Systems Human Resources Information Technology Municipal Court

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Community & Development Services Communication Economic Development Engineering Planning & Zoning

16 17 18 19 20

West Fargo Fire Department

21-22

West Fargo Police Department

23-24

Public Works Public Works Administration Fleet & Facility Right-of-Way Streets Street Lights

25 26 26 26 27 27

Enterprise Funds Forestry Sanitation Sewer Water Vector Control

28-29 28 28 28 29 29

Other Governmental Funds West Fargo Public Library West Fargo Municipal Airport

30 31 31

Revenue Funds Fund Summaries General Fund Utility Funds Other Government Funds Property Tax Calculations

32 33 34 35 36 37

Special Funds Public Safety Sales Tax Capital Improvement Sales Tax Economic Development Sales Tax Other Special Fund Revenues Deferred Equipment Fund Agency Funds Debt Service Funds

38 39 40 41 42 42 42 43

Net Position of Major Funds

Appendix A - General Fund Transfers 45 Appendix B - Departmental Expenditures 46-66

FROM THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR On behalf of the Board of City Commissioners and City Staff, it’s my pleasure to present the 2027 Budget. In 2027, for the first time, the budget process began with City Commissioners determining Guiding Principles to give staff a sense of direction while making budget decisions. We thank our outgoing Commissioners for their guidance as we began the budget process and established these principles and to our newly elected Commissioners for their engagement in the process while offering new perspectives and innovative ideas while maintaining the continuity of the process. The Guiding Principles are: 1. Long-Term Financial Stability 2. Sustainable Services through Responsible Stewardship 3. Transparent, Collaborative, and Data-Informed Decisions 4. Maintain Workforce Stability and Cultural Values 5. Reliable Infrastructure and Strategic Growth Along with these Guiding Principles, staff ensure that the City’s Core Values of Compassion, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, and Service are reflected in our level of service for residents and our dedication to staff. A significant change in the 2027 budget is the creation of new Deferred Equipment Fund which comes out of Guiding Principles 1, 2, and 5. This fund allows us to prepare for the future and the continuity of a safe and efficient fleet across our Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments. To meet Guiding Principle 3, staff continue to search for efficiencies, new technology, and process improvements. Department Leaders work as a team to study data from pervious years and make smart decisions for the future. Additionally, the City has established a Long-Term Stability Working Group to prioritize Guiding Principles 1 and 4 and study staffing costs over time to ensure West Fargo can continue to attract and retain the highest quality employees. This budget reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility while maintaining a high level of service for the residents of West Fargo. I am proud of our team and humbled to serve alongside them. We’re proud of the culture we’re building driven by shared values and a sense of purpose to ensure West Fargo is a safe, clean, and prosperous City. Thank you to City staff for your dedication, and to our residents for entrusting us to serve the City of West Fargo.

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Dustin T. Scott City Administrator

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Budget Timeline: g m in er ss g t ls. e s n sa as lo po ui n nd ro ga s a t p sG t e b d e se n ts ee udg n is o e ln b is tm na rm m r a tio fo om ep era to C D p ls ity o oa C g

March 2026

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March April 2026

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May June 2026

July Aug. 2026

Sept. Oct. 2026

SUMMARY OF ALL BUDGETED FUNDS The City’s Summary of Budgeted Funds includes the use of cash on hand and other fund balances that will not be reflected in 2027 Revenues. This contributes to the appearance of a combined net deficit for the year 2027. Please view the notes below, and refer to each fund Revenue page for more detailed information.

* **

***

*Economic Development Sales Tax begins the year with a fund balance. **Capital Improvement Sales Tax begins the year with a fund balance. ***Debt Service Funds begin the year with a cash balance.

EXPENDITURES 5

2027 BUDGET EXPENDITURES BY DEPARTMENT

*Notes 2027 Budget Numbers may differ from 2027 Approved Final Budget documents if budget amendments were approved by the City Commission throughout 2027. All budget amendments can be found at westfargond.gov/budget. Rounding of totals may appear different throughout budget book. Appendix B includes itemized expenditures budgets for each department.

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Administration Department is the Executive Branch of our local government. The City Administrator oversees all departments of the City of West Fargo. They are the liaison to the Mayor and City Commission on all topics and issues involving the operation of the City. This includes oversight of staff, budgets, ordinances, policies, and resident concerns among other areas. The City Administrator provides recommendations to the City Commission to assist their decision making on matters of policy, as well as on regional, state, and federal issues that impact West Fargo. In turn, the City Administrator and Senior Directors ensure decisions made by the City Commission are carried out by City Staff.

DUSTIN T. SCOTT CITY ADMINISTRATOR

5.5 FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Continue building a stable and high-functioning administrative core that provides reliable support to departments while ensuring alignment with City Commission directives. Provide leadership and guidance with a sustainable mindset to help departments achieve their goals and deliver fiscally responsible services. Guide the implementation of key projects and initiatives with an inclusive, transparent, and collaborative approach. Maintain strong relationships with local and state agencies through active participation and effective coordination strategies.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. Increase in Technology line item for computer replacements as part of regular replacement schedule. Increase in Employee Development line item for City Administrator to attend national conference.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $1,145,062

2.6% of General Fund

ASSESSING

FINANCE

SEWER

COURT

RIGHT-OF-WAY

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

STREET

PW OPERATIONS

GIS

WATER

POLICE DEPARTMENT

CITY ATTORNEY

PUBLIC WORKS*

CITY ADMINISTRATOR

BOARD OF CITY COMMISSIONERS

WEST FARGO RESIDENTS

This chart outlines the structure of department/divisions with designated expenditure budgets. It does not necessarily reflect the structure of staffing in each portfolio area.

FLEET & FACILITY

FORESTRY

COMMUNICATION

SANITATION

PW SERVICES

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT

LIBRARY BOARD*

STREET LIGHTS

VECTOR

PLANNING & INSPECTIONS

COMMUNITY & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

*Per NDCC, the Airport Authority and Library Board set and approve their own expenditures, while the City Commission sets their mill levy.

ENGINEERING

AIRPORT AUTHORITY*

Departments are categorized into Five Service Sectors, all overseen by the Administration Department: Administrative Services Community & Development Services Fire Department Police Department Public Works

CITY OF WEST FARGO ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ASSESSING • FINANCE • GIS • HUMAN RESOURCES INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY • MUNICIPAL COURT

NICK R. LEE SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATVIE SERVICES

DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSING Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Assessing Department is tasked with the fair and equitable assessment of all property within city limits for property tax purposes, per the North Dakota State Tax Department. It is also this department’s responsibility to compile records regarding real estate transactions, new construction, remodels or alterations, as well as administer a variety of property tax exemption and credit programs instituted by the North Dakota State Legislature. Appraisers on staff will visit properties throughout West Fargo on a regular, rotational basis to assess for changes to homes, buildings, and property that may impact the property's assessed value. Assessed value is meant to be consistent with a home's market value.

PAUL FRACASSI CITY ASSESSOR

2027 Department Priorities:

FTEs

Deliver accurate, equitable, and timely valuations while efficiently managing resources by maintaining high‑quality statutory services, leveraging existing technology, and controlling modest cost increases such as expanded‑notification postage. Apply transparent, data‑driven mass appraisal practices, continue to adapt to HB 1176’s expanded valuation‑notice requirements, and maintain clear taxpayer communication, collaboration with partners, and defensible, understandable valuation processes. Maintain a fully staffed, state‑certified team and prioritize ongoing professional development through IAAO, NCRAAO, and the State Tax Commissioner to support a knowledgeable, compliant workforce serving a growing community. Rely on stable, long‑term technology investments to support West Fargo’s growth through accurate valuations, scalable systems, and adaptability to legislative and market changes.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. Adjustments have been made to health insurance costs to more accurately reflect employees’ selected plans. Printing and mailing has been moved to a new line item “Public Notices.” This cost continues to increase with rising postage costs, but mailings to every property owner are mandated in North Dakota Century Code. CAMA system pricing agreement that ensures predictable costs and prevents unexpected increases.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $922,845

2.1% of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Finance Department provides financial support services to the entire City government, including managing and processing all accounting transactions for all city funds, such as processing accounts payable, accounts receivable, utility billing, and overall risk management, managing the collection of revenues and investment of funds, assisting in the issuance of bonds and other indebtedness of the city, preparing periodic and annual financial and budget reports, coordinating the City’s budget compilation and development, managing the administration of special assessments, delivering reliable management information to the departments, and assisting the public by responding to inquiries and requests.

WILLY GALINDO DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Begin implementation and configuration of the City’s new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform, Oracle NetSuite for Government, to become the City’s primary financial software solution, used for accounting, planning, procurement, and reporting. Target go-live date is slated for January 2028. Implement Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) No. 105 – Subsequent Events as well as plan for 2027 legislative changes to municipal finance and accounting.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit line items are increased due to the addition of one FTE. This FTE will be an accountant focused on Utility Billing, and a Cost Allocation from Utility Funds will off-set this cost in the overall departmental budget. Technology line item increase includes equipment for the new FTE, and other increases due to overall rising subscription costs.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $643,405

1.5% of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department is responsible for managing the city’s spatial data, developing web applications, and creating maps for a more informed public. The GIS department assists all other municipal departments with their spatial data and mapping needs and serves as the point of contact for any outside agency looking to acquire city data. GIS duties include the collection, organization, analysis, and displaying of spatial and tabular data.

TRAVIS GENTY MANAGER OF GIS

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Maintaining all current spatial datasets and mapping resources. Meeting the City’s GIS needs and handling requests from all City departments, outside organizations, and the public. Developing and improving new and existing datasets and web applications. Processing and incorporating new LiDAR and aerial imagery for all relevant GIS applications. Advancing control point data for the Parcel Fabric for increased cadastral accuracy and incorporating updated labeling annotation. Launching new internal and public web applications for City data access, which will be replacing the deprecated current versions.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. 2026 Furniture and Equipment and Office Supplies line items included the purchase of a new Plotter Printer. These were one-time expenses which are reflected as a reduction in expenses for 2027. Collaboration with other entities on aerial imagery acquisition reduces Professional Services line item.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $472,971

1.1% of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES Department Overview: The Department of Human Resources serves as a strategic and operational partner to City departments, supporting the people who deliver essential programs and services to the community. Human Resources supports the City’s workforce throughout the entire employment lifecycle – from the applicant and onboarding stage through retirement. The department provides guidance, resources and services to support consistent employment practices, organizational effectiveness, regulatory compliance and exceptional employee experience.

BETH WIEGMAN DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

2027 Department Priorities:

FTEs

Implementing the HR strategic plan through six strategic pillars: Operational Excellence, Fiscal Stewardship, Compliance and Risk, Recruitment and Retention, Employee Experience and a HighPerforming HR Team. Together these pillars will guide departmental priorities, resource allocation and service improvements while aligning HR initiatives with the City’s broader organizational goals. Establishing and enhancing internal procedures to ensure HR services are delivered consistently, accurately, equitably and in compliance with laws, regulations, policies and best practices. Following the implementation of Neogov Perform in 2026, HR will continue developing the City’s performance management program. This work will focus on strengthening goal setting, ongoing feedback, employee development, performance documentation, and accountability while helping supervisors and employees use the system effectively.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. Adjustments have been made to health insurance costs to more accurately reflect employees’ selected plans. Neogov’s fixed pricing ended in 2027 leading to an increase in technology costs. This includes an expanded pricing schedule for applicant tracking system, onboarding, HRIS, time and attendance, benefit enrollment and performance management systems. Technology line item increase for re-printing of badges and fobs to support an updated door security system being installed. Recruitment budgets were moved from individual departments to a City-wide recruitment budget, showing an increase in budgeted recruitment costs in 2026 and 2027.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $918,981

2.1% of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Information Technology (IT) Department is dedicated to empowering city operations through reliable, secure, and innovative technology solutions. We strive to enhance public services, support staff efficiency, and safeguard city data and infrastructure. Our mission extends to long-term strategic planning, ensuring that technology continually evolves to meet the city's growing needs, improve resilience, and drive sustainable innovation for years to come.

HAIDER HOWITZER DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Strengthen the City’s technology foundation, improve resiliency, and address emerging needs. Prioritize network resiliency, including exploring additional fiber loops and redundant connectivity to reduce single points of failure and maintain critical services during outages. Enhance cybersecurity efforts through security controls, monitoring, user awareness, and protection of City systems and data. Invest in staff development through professional training and participation in industry boards, organizations, conferences, and peer groups to stay current with emerging technology and best practices. Support departmental projects, infrastructure improvements, and evolving technology needs.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. Adjustments have been made to health insurance costs to more accurately reflect employees’ selected plans. Increases in Technology line item for the additions of new technology programs including, Microsoft365 Teams Phone Licensing, BitWarden Web Vault, and Nuwave Phone Extensions. Increases in Technology line item to reflect technology on a three-year renewal schedule that would not have been included in 2025 or 2026 budgets.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $1,399,326

3.2% of General Fund

WEST FARGO MUNICIPAL COURT Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Municipal Court is the Judicial Branch of our local government. The Municipal Judge is elected for a four-year term. Except as otherwise provided by law, Municipal Courts have jurisdiction over criminal and non-criminal violations of city ordinances. These can include Class B misdemeanors, infractions and traffic violations. [N.D.C.C. 40-05] The Clerk of Court manages the administrative duties of the Court and oversees the department’s employees.

AMY KRAEMER CLERK OF COURT

JAMES MARTEN MUNICIPAL JUDGE

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Beginning July 1, 2026 all Municipal Courts in North Dakota became “Courts of Record.” West Fargo will continue to update technology to ensure all court cases are effectively documented and recorded. Implement a new defendant access system to allow court participants to look up case history and make payment online.

2027 Budget Notes: The Municipal Judge is an elected official, and is not counted as an FTE. The Judge receives an annual salary established by the recommendation of the North Dakota Supreme Court. Court of Record Requirements reflect increases in the following line items: Salary increase for staff grade reclassification due to additional responsibilities Attorney Fee Increase for additional hours Technology increase for hardware and software New line item for Telephone to provide Municipal Judge with City-issued cell phone.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $931,302

2.1% of General Fund

COMMUNITY & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMUNICATION • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ENGINEERING • PLANNING & ZONING

DAN HANSON SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Communication Department’s mission is to promote West Fargo and provide accurate, engaging information that builds and maintains trust with the community. Along with communication to West Fargo residents, the Department handles communication with other governmental, legislative, and community partners. Communication staff serve City Hall and Public Works and handle Freedom of Information Act Requests, Media Requests, and work to maintain the reputation of the City. Together, the team is responsible for the strategic execution of social media channels, websites, media relations, graphic design, video and photography, events, crisis communication and more.

RACHEL RICHTER LORDEMANN DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Ensure timely and accurate information is communicated to West Fargo residents. Utilize free and low-cost platforms to reach residents and share information. Continue to implement features of current software to make communication efforts more efficient and effective. Participate in low-cost, local opportunities for employee professional development and networking. Grow our audience using educational, engaging, and entertaining content.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefits line items include reclassification of Communications Coordinator in 2026. Technology costs include software used across City Departments for website, meetings, city ordinances, etc. Increases to Technology line item include rising subscription costs and additional tools to meet ADA compliance standards. Marketing line item increase includes addition of ZenCity software for Public Engagement and Project Communication.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $418,351

1.0% of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Department Overview: The City of West Fargo’s Economic Development Department connects new and existing business owners and operators with city officials, helping to pave the way for the growth and expansion that is making West Fargo part of North Dakota's new economic frontier. From securing proper sites, assisting with the planning and zoning process and identifying potential funding sources, our City works hard to build a relationship with all business owners. We provide customized business services by working case by case with individual firms to solve both major and minor challenges that occur. Furthermore, our multi-faceted approach also means that once a business locates in West Fargo, we commit to supporting a business' staying power, regardless of the business' size. The City of West Fargo recognizes the myriad of benefits businesses bring to our community and intends to give all the aid and resources needed to maintain a sustainable business venture in West Fargo.

CASEY SANDERS-BERGLUND DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Support business growth that will increase the commercial tax base. Continue to build relationships with businesses, owners, partners, and key stakeholders throughout the community. Promote the business climate of West Fargo, while actively working to remove barriers to business development, job creation, and workforce development. Ensure programs, grants, incentives, and initiatives are vetted, presented, and used to drive the City’s ultimate goals. Manage the Economic Development Advisory Board agendas and requests as well as the sales tax and fund programs. Tell the story of West Fargo through opportunities that support placemaking and community engagement.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $349,984

0.8%

of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Engineering Department provides technical guidance and advisement to the City Administrator, City Commission, and other city departments in the planning, coordination, and management of public infrastructure and private development projects. The department also recommends and enforces engineering policies, regulates right-of-way activities, manages utility locating services, oversees traffic operations, and implements the City's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), including design and construction administration as well as contract management for authorized projects.

JERRY WALLACE CITY ENGINEER

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Move toward formalizing a pavement management program that utilizes citywide PCI data, establishes treatment triggers based on this data, pavement age, and local engineering judgment, and determines where treatments make the most economic sense within allowable budget constraints. Establish long-term rules for managing an increasingly congested right of way to complement current policy. Items include examining existing utility corridor capacities, placing restrictions at congested corridors, the practicalities of joint or shared facilities, and the potential for new utilities to demonstrate whether an existing corridor can accommodate additional private infrastructure. Build on the existing Capital Improvements Plan by taking a more proactive, long-term look at infrastructure capacity and future needs—identifying where water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, transportation, and other systems may become constrained over the next 10–20 years and ensuring future development, capital projects, and funding decisions are aligned with those anticipated needs. The early focus is anticipated to be on existing stormwater lift station needs. Prepare for the funding environment for anticipated Capital Improvement Projects for the next five to seven years by actively engaging and applying for federal discretionary grants, state loan programs, Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, North Dakota Department of Transportation programs, or others as they become available. Continue to improve and streamline the development review process by updating standards, checklists, specifications, and review procedures to provide greater consistency and predictability for developers while ensuring projects meet the City’s long-term infrastructure and community needs. Transition from existing engineering permitting software that is no longer supported to the shared platform with the Planning Department.

$1,635,922

3.8%

of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & INSPECTIONS Department Overview:

The City of West Fargo’s Planning Department provides a variety of services to preserve and enhance the high quality of life offered to those who live or work in our community. We help to create and enhance a vibrant, well-planned community by supporting efforts that define and realize our community's aspirations. The Department connects people, places, and services through innovative planning, partnerships, and forums for effective community engagement. Planning prepares and manages the City of West Fargo Comprehensive Plan and administrates zoning and subdivision regulations to guide growth and development. The team collects and analyzes a variety of data (land use, demographic, housing, etc.) for use in monitoring plan progress and policy making and serves as a support staff to the City Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission and other community and metropolitan communities, task forces, and associations. Planning & Zoning also includes the City of West Fargo’s Building Department and staff who oversee building permits and inspections for the City.

AARON NELSON DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & ZONING

2027 Department Priorities:

FTEs

Implement new permitting & licensing software. Update to growth policy and regulations in accordance with the City’s Growth Area Plan. Begin modernization of development regulations. Continue to ensure timely and professional building and development review and approval services.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit line items include the hiring of an Inspections Administrator three months prior to the retirement of the current Inspections Administrator to ensure a smooth transition. All other Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. Adjustments have been made to health insurance costs to more accurately reflect employees’ selected plans.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $1,807,463

4.2% of General Fund

WEST FARGO FIRE DEPARTMENT

WEST FARGO FIRE DEPARTMENT Department Overview:

The West Fargo Fire Department is an Internationally Accredited Agency, providing all hazards response with 51 full-time employees. In 2025, the department responded to 3,039 calls for service, a record high number of responses in the history of the department. Our primary mission is to protect the lives and property of the citizens of West Fargo. In 2025, our dedicated team directly contributed to saving two lives and safeguarding approximately $55.1 million in property from the devastating effects of fires and other emergencies. This collective effort represents a total protection of $85 million for our community. Furthermore, we continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, achieving a commendable $11.37 return on investment for every dollar spent. During the budget process, the department utilized the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan to implement our Community Commitments, however large-scale staffing and building projects have been delayed due to budgetary constraints.

DAN FULLER FIRE CHIEF

FTEs

2027 Department Priorities: Reduce the overall operational budget through building new efficiencies Maintain a sustainable budget for future operations Begin a multi-year replacement of turnout gear with new PFAS Free Gear Continue to update aged systems at the Southside Fire Station

2027 EXPENDITURES: $7,770,498

17.9% of General Fund

WEST FARGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

WEST FARGO POLICE DEPARTMENT Department Overview:

The West Fargo Police Department operates with 83 sworn police officers, 17 civilian employees and nine volunteers. The department has the responsibility to protect life and safeguard property in a highly effective and efficient manner and to engage the community in a collaborative crime prevention program. The WFPD operates three divisions overseen by the Chief, Assistant Chief, three Captains and two Lieutenants. These divisions are the Community Services and Investigations Division, the Patrol Division, and the Professional Standards and Training Division.

PETE NIELSEN CHIEF OF POLICE

100 2027 Department Priorities:

FTEs

In June 2025, the department promoted Sergeants Shane Orn and Tim Runcorn to Lieutenant, with a focus on overseeing the Patrol Division. In 2026, the department hired a full-time Senior Community Service Officer. This position oversees the additional part-time CSOs, conducts parking and code enforcement, supports staff with noncriminal tasks and addresses public nuisance complaints. By taking lower-level calls for service, the Senior CSO helps alleviate the additional call volume previously taken by Patrol Officers. The department moved the entire patrol division to a 12-hour shift schedule to alleviate staffing concerns. By moving to 12-hour shifts, the department has stretched limited personnel by providing overlap during peak call times, reducing downtime and providing a compressed schedule to help prevent burnout. A booking room was added directly at the West Fargo Police Department. This allows officers to book a suspect directly at the department instead of transporting them to the Cass County Jail, saving officer time, fuel costs and booking fees. Continue to innovatively recruit and retain officers to be fully staffed and continue serving the City of West Fargo at the highest level.

2027 Budget Notes: Compensation and Benefit increases remain consistent with City-wide Cost of Living Adjustment and regular Step Increases. An increase in the Equipment line item reflects the transition to Axon hardware and software for body-worn cameras and other camera equipment.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $16,614,012

38.2% of General Fund

PUBLIC WORKS MATT ANDVIK SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

BRIAN MATZKE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS OPERATIONS

LOGAN JACOBSON DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS PUBLIC WORKS ADMINISTRATION Division oversees the daily operations, budget, and long-term strategy of the Department. PW Admin also includes staff training and staff who provide support services across the department.

2027 Department Priorities

Provide strategic leadership and operational support to all Public Works divisions Offer CDL training for new employees requiring a Class B or higher commercial driver’s license. Deliver knowledgeable and responsive customer service to residents and internal departments. Ensure all Public Works operations align with the City’s Mission and Core Values

FTEs

1.0%

2027 EXPENDITURES: $453,515 of General Fund

FLEET & FACILITY Division oversees the general maintenance of City owned facilities, grounds and fleet maintenance.

2027 Department Priorities

Deliver high-quality maintenance and custodial services for all City-owned buildings. Maintain and repair a fleet of over 550 City-owned vehicles and equipment. Implement and continuously refine the equipment purchasing schedule across departments to ensure costeffective replacement and acquisition. Manage the City’s insurance coverage and claims to maximize value and minimize risk.

FTEs

2.6%

2027 EXPENDITURES: $1,137,730 of General Fund

RIGHT-OF-WAY Division oversees the maintenance of off-street public right-of-way including mowing, planting, watering, street poles and flags, and roundabouts.

2027 Department Priorities

Maintain and enhance City-owned green spaces, sidewalks, medians, and landscaping features. Manage seasonal decorations and public beautification efforts, including flags, holiday lights, and downtown décor throughout the Downtown. Ensure year round safe pedestrian access by clearing snow and ice from City-owned sidewalks during winter months.

FTEs

2.1%

2027 EXPENDITURES: $899,301 of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS STREETS Division oversees the operation, maintenance and repair of public streets, signs, and right-of-way areas including maintaining roads during winter months.

2027 Department Priorities

Prioritize high-traffic and deteriorating roads for resurfacing and full-depth reconstruction. Expand annual crack sealing & patching programs to prolong road life and minimize future costs. Use Plow Ops and real-time data to improve snowplow routes and reduce response time. Increase anti-icing operations with brine application before storms. Install high-visibility markings and pedestrian signage in school zones and high-traffic areas. Provide real-time updates on plowing, construction, and closures through Plow Ops or city website. Actively seek federal and state infrastructure and transportation grants. Prioritize projects with measurable ROI in terms of safety, longevity, and public benefit.

FTEs

8.9%

2027 EXPENDITURES: $3,884,061 of General Fund

STREET LIGHTS (ELECTRICIANS) Budget includes the cost to maintain street lights and traffic signals. Budget does not include FTE costs. 2027 Department Priorities

Maintain and repair all street lights and traffic signal systems within city limits. Service and maintain the City’s emergency siren infrastructure to ensure public safety.

1.1%

2027 EXPENDITURES: $459,500 of General Fund

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS - ENTERPRISE FUNDS FORESTRY The Department’s mission is to maintain a safe and healthy urban forest through tree planting, maintenance, and public education. 2027 Department Priorities

5 Maintain core forestry services — including tree pruning, disease FTEs diagnosis, boulevard maintenance, and public education. Uphold urban forest standards — continue efforts to sustain Tree City USA designation and Growth Awards via annual Arbor Day and 2027 EXPENDITURES: 2.8% maintenance activities. $849,973 of Enterprise Fund Use departmental reports and public input — Forestry agendas, annual reports, and citizen feedback will likely guide prioritization in the absence of expanded funding. Continue to implement Emerald Ash Borer plan- continue with removal and replacement of Ash trees.

SANITATION The Department provides convenient and affordable residential and commercial solid waste services to the citizens of West Fargo. Staff oversee garbage collection, the City’s private recycling collection contract and operate the City’s inert landfill, transfer station, recycling, compost, and yard waste facilities.

2027 Department Priorities

Deliver high-quality waste collection service to both residential and commercial customers. Efficiently operate and maintain the transfer station, inert landfill, and compost and recycle drop sites to provide residents with additional services. Continue to streamline commercial routes, scheduling of bulky items, and tree branch collection. Continue to implement inert landfill improvements including increasing compaction density.

FTEs

2027 EXPENDITURES: $8,502,636

27.7% of Enterprise Fund

SEWER The Sewer Division maintains approximately 193 miles of sanitary sewer lines, 34 sanitary lift stations, and handles 3701 manholes, 3 Lagoon Cells, and overflow prevention. The Department is also responsible for about 22 miles of storm sewer pipe, over 70 retention ponds, 51 storm lift stations, and almost 8251 catch basins and operates a formal stormwater management program. 2027 Department Priorities

16 FTEs

Continued efforts to populate and utilize the asset management system to prioritize projects. 2027 EXPENDITURES: 30.6% Stormwater and sewer system modeling is key to identifying weak $9,382,750 of Enterprise Fund points and planning improvements. Cost projections and financing alternatives from the master plan will inform decision-making. All systems will incorporate stormwater best management practices and follow regulatory guidelines to protect water bodies.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS - ENTERPRISE FUNDS VECTOR The City of West Fargo supports Cass County Vector Control through funding for mosquito spraying. 2027 EXPENDITURES: $218,559

0.7% of Enterprise Fund

WATER The Water Department maintains the water distribution system of 202 miles of pipe in the city to ensure the delivery of safe, clean drinking water to the residents. 2027 Department Priorities

Continue phased replacement of aging or undersized water mains to reduce breaks and improve reliability. Ensure full compliance with EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards and North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality requirements.

11 FTEs

2027 EXPENDITURES: $1,309,091

38.2% of Enterprise Fund

Expand real-time monitoring and lab testing frequency for contaminants, including PFAS, lead, and nitrates. Aggressively pursue federal and state funding, including Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans or SRF programs.

OTHER GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS

WEST FARGO PUBLIC LIBRARY Department Overview:

As a civic resource, the West Fargo Public Library's mission is to provide equitable access to resources and opportunities that help residents achieve their goals, explore their passions, and build social connections. We envision a library whose services ensure that every person has resources and opportunities to learn, meet, share, read, play and create. To achieve our goals, the West Fargo Public Library offers a wide range of materials, programs, and services, including skill-building classes, entertainment and cultural events, technology tools, the Library on Wheels, community meeting spaces, and the latest physical and digital books and media at two convenient locations.

JENNA KAHLY LIBRARY DIRECTOR

FTEs

2027 EXPENDITURES: $2,780,940

2027 Department Priorities: Provide continued access to resources and opportunities for residents to achieve their goals, explore their passions, and develop social connections. Offer a wide selection of in-demand books, media, and programs reflective of the West Fargo community. Continue partnership with state and ODIN libraries to offer services and resources at low cost to taxpayers. Continue successful operation of two locations and outreach services to meet residents where they are. Continue to provide high-quality services while demand for services continues to grow in West Fargo. Maintain fiscal responsibility by enforcing service area and non-resident cardholder fees

2027 Budget Notes: Majority of budget lines were unchanged in an effort to maintain flat spending Additional savings were gained by updating assorted contracts and agreements. Increases in the cost of goods account for the small increases to library collection materials.

WEST FARGO MUNICIPAL AIRPORT The West Fargo Airport Authority governs the workings of the West Fargo Municipal Airport in West Fargo, North Dakota. The airport is used by private and commercial pilots around the region. The Airport is funded through a designated mill levy. Airport employees are not City of West Fargo employees. One West Fargo Commissioner serves on the Airport Authority Board.

2027 EXPENDITURES: $272,300 31

REVENUES

2027 BUDGET REVENUES BY MAJOR FUND

GENERAL FUND REVENUES

*A detailed list of transfers can be found in Appendix A.

UTILITY FUND REVENUES

UTILITY RATE CHANGES FOR 2027 Increases in Utility Fund Revenues are based on an increase in Utility Rates. The following table shows the proposed rate increase for an average residential property. Rates will differ based on usage, meter size, garbage can/dumpster size, etc.

OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDS Other levied funds have a specified number of mills dedicated specifically to one department or service.

*Per NDCC, the Airport Authority and Library Board set and approve their own expenditures, while the City Commission sets their mill levy.

PROPERTY TAX CALCULATIONS In accordance with new State law, the City of West Fargo has calculated an increase in revenue of 5.4%, which includes the allowed 3% increase, plus a 2.4% increase from new growth. 2026 Property Tax Levy was calculated using the following method:

*Special Assessments on City Owned Properties *Exempt from 3% Cap per NDCC *Calculated by City Assessor following NDCC guidelines

*Calculated following NDCC guidelines

*Added back into total following 3% calculation

*Discount to property owners per NDCC guidelines

Total Property Tax is Apportioned to the following funds based on departmental budget needs.

SPECIAL FUNDS

PUBLIC SAFETY SALES TAX

*PSST is transferred to the General Fund for operational costs of both Police and Fire Departments.

PERCENTAGE OF GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES BY DEPARTMENT

Police Department $16,614,012 • 38.2%

All Other Departments 19,137,548 • 43.9%

Fire Department $7,770,498 • 17.9%

PERCENTAGE OF POLICE & FIRE EXPENDITURES FUNDED BY PSST

TOTAL POLICE & FIRE EXPENDITURES $24,384,510

Public Safety Sales Tax $4,627,417 16% of total Police & Fire Expenditures

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT SALES TAX

Ending Fund Balance is carried into the following year.

*Capital Improvement Construction Projects can be found listed in the 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan, approved by the West Fargo City Commission.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SALES TAX

PUBLIC PLAZAS & WEST FARGO EVENTS Economic Development Sales Tax as well as other revenue sources are used to fund the operations of Public Plazas, owned by the City of West Fargo. These are The Lights and the POW/MIA Plaza in Downtown West Fargo. In addition to aiding in funding utilities, maintenance, IT, etc., the City of West Fargo partners with West Fargo Events who manages annual community events in these City-owned spaces. This allows the City to continue providing community centered entertainment for all ages, without the cost of FTEs, equipment, or event logistics.

OTHER SPECIAL FUND REVENUES Special Funds are generally transferred into the General Fund or other revenue funds.

DEFERRED EQUIPMENT FUND

Funds were transferred from the General Fund for major equipment purchases. The fund will grow in the future based on a forthcoming policy.

AGENCY FUNDS Agency Funds are passed through the City, from collected tax revenues or state funds and paid out to other government agencies. These funds have a net zero impact on the City’s overall budget.

DEBT SERVICE FUNDS

Debt Service Fund Revenue is used to make payments on General Obligation Bonds, Special Assessment Bonds and other types of bonds, loans, etc. Debt Service Funds begin the year with a cash balance that is also used when making payments. New Annual Revenue is added to this balance. Because of this, a fund’s revenue and payments in a given year will not be a 1:1 match. Funds shown with Revenue and no Bond Payment indicate that payments are made to other funds or obligations.

RIB: Refunding Improvement Bond (Special Assessment Infrastructure) GO: General Obligation W&S: Water & Sewer Revenue Bonds TIF: Tax Increment Financing (Economic Development Projects)

NET POSITION OF MAJOR FUNDS

APPENDIX A: GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS

APPENDIX B: DEPARTMENTAL EXPENDITURES 46

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Non-Departmental Expenditures include items that are used across departments or for funds related to the West Fargo City Commission. Non-Departmental expenditures are managed by the Department of Administration.

COMMUNITY & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

FIRE DEPARTMENT

POLICE DEPARTMENT

PUBLIC WORKS ADMIN

PUBLIC WORKS

LIBRARY

AIRPORT