We
Once the provider places the order and prior authorization is
MRI scans provide highly detailed images of soft tissues, making them one of the most accurate tools for diagnosing conditions related to the brain, spine, joints, and organs.
Some people look forward to filing their tax returns, while others recoil at the thought of paying what they owe. Regardless of which camp taxpayers are in, come April most people have a question or two related to their returns.
As the deadline to file tax returns draws closer, taxpayers hoping to make the process as smooth as possible can consider these frequently asked questions and answers, courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service.
When is deadline day?
Though taxpayers periodically get an extra day or two to file their returns when April 15 coincides with a holiday or lands on a weekend, there's no such reprieve in 2025. This year all taxpayers who are not requesting an extension must file their income tax returns by April 15, 2025. What if my address has changed?
The IRS urges all taxpayers to use their new address when filing their returns. Additional ways taxpayers can update their address with the IRS is through the filing of Form 8822, Change of Address or Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party-Business. Written statements or oral notifications are additional ways to notify the IRS of an address change, and these methods must include personal information, including the old and new address as well as the taxpayer's Social Security
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number, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or Employer Identification Number.
Is there an age limit on claiming my child as a dependent?
A child must meet either the qualifying child test or the qualifying relative test in order to be claimed as a dependent. To meet the qualifying child test, your child must be younger than you or your spouse if filing jointly and either younger than 19-years-old or be a "student" younger than 24-years-old as of the end of the calendar year.
There is no age limit to claim a child as a dependent if a child is "permanently and totally disabled" or meets the qualifying relative test.
In addition to meeting the qualifying child or qualifying relative test, you can claim that person as a dependent only if these three tests are met:
1. Dependent taxpayer test
2. Citizen or resident test, and
3. Joint return test
Taxpayers who remain uncertain about their eligibility to claim a child as a dependent are urged to contact the IRS or a tax preparation professional for clarification before filing their returns. What should I do if my W-2 is incorrect?
Employers must provide employees with a W-2 by January 31. If the W-2 is
incorrect and has not been fixed by the end of February, taxpayers can contact the IRS and request to initiate a Form W-2 complaint. When such a request is initiated, the IRS sends a letter to the employer and requests that they furnish a corrected W-2 within 10 days. The IRS also sends a letter to the taxpayer with instructions and Form 4852, which can be used to file a return if a corrected W-2 is not provided before the filing deadline.
How can I file for an extension?
There are three ways to request an automatic extension of time to file an income tax return.
1. You can pay all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicate that the payment is for an extension using your bank account; a digital wallet such as Click to Pay, PayPal, and Venmo; cash; or a credit or debit card.
2. You can file Form 4868 electronically by accessing IRS e-file using your tax software or by using a tax professional who uses e-file.
3. You can file a paper Form 4868 and enclose payment of your estimate of tax due (optional).
Tax day arrives on April 15. Taxpayers who have lingering questions about their returns are urged to contact the IRS via irs. gov or work with a certified tax professional.
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Arecent oil tax study found that North Dakota’s oil and gas industry has generated over $32 billion in tax revenue since 2008, with significant portions allocated to local governments. However, disparities exist in the amount of revenue remaining in the oil-producing counties of Williams and McKenzie compared to urban centers like Bismarck, Fargo and Grand Forks.
The study, conducted by the Western Dakota Energy Association, in collaboration with the North Dakota Petroleum Foundation, analyzed tax revenues collected from oil extraction and production taxes. While a substantial portion of these funds support statewide infrastructure, education and public services, the report raises questions about whether the distribution system adequately benefits the counties that generate the wealth.
According to the report, Williams County retained approximately $1.61 billion in oil and gas tax revenue from 2008 to 2024. McKenzie County kept about $1.32 billion in tax revenue. These funds have been instrumental in improving local roads, expanding public services and maintaining infrastructure in communities experiencing rapid population growth due to the oil boom.
Despite these significant sums, local officials argue that the funds retained in these counties are insufficient to cover the full impact of oil development. The rapid expansion of workforce populations has strained schools, emergency services and public infrastructure, prompting calls for a more equitable revenue distribution model. Comparisons with Urban Centers
In contrast, North Dakota’s largest cities, which are not major oil-producing regions, have received substantial funding
NORTH DAKOTA OIL AND GAS TAX DISTRIBUTIONS (2008-2024). THIS CHART ILLUSTRATES HOW OIL TAX REVENUES HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED ACROSS VARIOUS STATE FUNDS, INCLUDING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND EDUCATION. | SOURCE: WESTERN DAKOTA ENERGY ASSOCIATION & NORTH DAKOTA PETROLEUM FOUNDATION.
from oil tax revenues. Bismarck has benefited from approximately $738 million in oil-related tax revenue. Fargo, the state’s largest city and a significant economic hub, has received $1.83 billion while Grand Forks has collected around $811 million.
Critics argue that while these cities contribute to the state’s overall economy, they do not bear oil-producing counties' direct environmental and infrastructural burdens. Local officials in Williams and McKenzie counties contend that more funds should be retained in oil-producing areas to address the challenges associated with extraction, including road maintenance, emergency response and affordable housing
initiatives.
Statewide Allocation System
North Dakota’s oil tax revenues are distributed through various state funds, including the Legacy Fund, which receives 27% of total collections. Other major allocations include the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund with 17% and counties, cities and school districts 13%. While these funds benefit the entire state, there is ongoing debate over whether the formula fairly compensates communities directly impacted by the oil industry.
The issue has prompted discussions among state lawmakers and local officials regarding potential adjustments to tax
distribution models. Some advocate for a higher percentage of revenues to remain within oil-producing counties, while others emphasize the importance of statewide investments in education, infrastructure and tax relief.
As North Dakota continues to rely on oil and gas production as a cornerstone of its economy, the debate over tax revenue distribution persists. Local leaders in Williams and McKenzie counties are likely to push for policy changes to ensure their communities receive a fair share of the wealth they help generate.
Life in the Bakken isn’t cheap. Making $20 per hour might sound like a solid wage, but in Williston, it barely covers the essentials. New data from Job Service North Dakota reveals that, after taxes and necessities, workers have little left for savings, investments or even a night out. McKenzie County and Williams County rank among the most expensive places to live in the state, with housing, transportation and other necessities significantly outpacing costs elsewhere.
Williams County follows closely behind McKenzie County with an annual cost of living of $28,562. Housing costs here remain slightly lower than in McKenzie but still rank among the highest in North Dakota. According to the report, the average monthly rent-related expense is $998, with
transportation and taxes also adding up.
Breaking Down the Numbers
A single person working full-time at $20 per hour earns $41,600 per year before taxes. After federal, state and FICA taxes, take-home pay shrinks to $32,593.60 annually.
Living in Williams County leaves just over $4,000.00 in disposable income for an entire year. Spread out over 12 months, that equates to just over $300.00 per month—a sum that must cover all remaining expenses not calculated in the cost of living estimate, including car payments, auto insurance, health insurance, cell phone bill, internet and streaming services, dining out, entertainment and personal expense and savings and investments
The Tight Reality
With just over $300 left each month,
even modest financial goals become difficult. A typical car payment alone could consume most of this amount, leaving little for discretionary spending or emergencies. Unexpected expenses—such as car repairs, medical bills or rising fuel prices—could quickly push a worker into financial hardship.
Without an emergency fund or employer-provided housing assistance, many residents must turn to side gigs, shared housing or drastic budget cuts to stay afloat. Some opt for older vehicles to avoid car payments, while others cut back on dining out or subscription services.
At this income level, saving for retirement, homeownership or investments is a challenge. With the rising cost of housing and utilities, even workers earning above minimum wage struggle to build wealth. While some oil-related jobs offer higher wages, they often come with grueling schedules and job instability tied to fluctuating energy markets.
Making It Work
For those earning $20 per hour in Williston, financial survival means careful budgeting, frugal spending and creative money management. Seeking higher-paying roles in trades or skilled labor, negotiating employer benefits like housing stipends or adopting a strict savings plan can help residents stretch their dollars further.
For those struggling to make ends meet, experts recommend budgeting aggressively and considering alternative housing solutions. Shared housing arrangements, employer-provided accommodations and mobile home living have all become more common strategies for cutting costs.
Another approach is taking advantage of higher-paying jobs in the energy sector, where wages can often compensate for the elevated living expenses. However, these positions come with their own challenges, including long hours and unpredictable employment cycles tied to oil market fluctuations.
Beyond housing and jobs, financial experts suggest being mindful of everyday expenses such as transportation and food. Gas prices in western North Dakota are often higher than in other parts of the state, making fuel-efficient vehicles a wise investment. Cooking at home rather than eating out can also yield substantial savings, especially for workers on rotating shifts.
While the challenges of living in oil country remain significant, so too are the opportunities. As the region continues to evolve, so do the ways in which its residents adapt, survive and thrive.
Williston native, and owner of Bonetraill Historical Consulting, is a U.S. Army combat veteran and local historian.
If you’ve ever driven through northwestern North Dakota, you’ve likely passed by towns with names that make you pause and wonder: where did that name come from? The history of Williams County’s small towns—and the ghost towns left behind—reveals a story of ambition, expansion and the realities of settling the rugged prairie.
After North Dakota achieved statehood in 1889, and especially after the turn of the 20th century, towns sprang up across the state, many in Williams County. At one time, no matter which direction you traveled, a town would be no more than 15 miles away—a day’s journey on horseback. This explosion of development led to what historian Elwyn B. Robinson called the “too much mistake.” Too many towns, too many rail lines and not enough people or resources to sustain them long term. While some communities thrived, others faded into memory, leaving behind odd and fascinating names that tell the story of the region.
Take Alamo, for example. Not named after the famous Texas battle, but rather after the cottonwood trees surrounding the area—known as “alamos” in Spanish. Originally called Cottonwood Lake, the town rebranded when the railroad arrived, cementing its place in local history.
Bonetraill, another uniquely named
spot, owes its origins to early settlers hauling buffalo bones to Williston. Adding an extra “L” to its name was likely influenced by settlers from Traill County, in eastern North Dakota, and home to Bonanza Farms. Though Bonetraill once had stores, a blacksmith shop and even a pool hall, today it is a ghost of its former self.
Then there is Zahl, named after Frederick “Doc” Zahl, a well-known buffalo hunter and early settler who had been in the area for decades before any permanent settlement was established. Zahl’s strategic location helped it flourish into a bustling town with banks, hotels and grain elevators. Zahl still serves as a strategic place for farmers with its elevator still in operation.
Wildrose, as picturesque as its name suggests, earned its moniker from the vibrant wild roses dotting the prairie in the summer of 1909. The arrival of the Great Northern Railroad spurred rapid growth, making it a leader in grain marketing at one time.
Corinth, like many towns in the region, took its name from somewhere else— its first postmaster, Laur S. Evenson, had come from Corinth, New York. The railroad’s expansion turned it into a vital stop along the branch line in 1916.
Appam’s origins are a bit more mysterious, with its name supposedly given by a railroad surveyor. What is certain is that early town planners aimed to ensure every rail stop had a distinct name to avoid confusion.
Hanks, originally called Howard, underwent multiple name changes before settling on its final identity, honoring W.F. Hanks, a local rancher and banker
from Powers Lake. It became an important coal-mining hub, supplying lignite to neighboring communities.
And finally, Grenora—the last stop on the northern branch line. Unlike the other towns, Grenora’s name is a direct nod to its railway roots, an abbreviation of GREat NOrthern RAilroad. Once described as a “little town growing fast” in a 1911 Williston newspaper article, Grenora defied the odds and continues to exist today with a population of just over 200.
These towns, whether thriving or merely remnants of the past, embody the pioneering spirit that shaped North Dako-
ta. They serve as reminders of the boomand-bust cycles of settlement, the vital role of the railroad and the resilience of those who called these places home. While many names may fade from maps, their stories remain an essential part of our history.
This article was written from information from “Origins of North Dakota Place Names,” Douglas A. Wick, 1989, “Since 1887: The Story of Williston and Area,” and “The Wonder of Williams: A History of Williams County North Dakota” Vol. 1 & 2, Williams County Historical Society, 1975.
Fold up those napkins, barbecue lovers. Pit 105, the smoky soul of North Dakota's grill scene, will shut its doors for good on March 22. The news was broken on Facebook with all the glory of a brisket slamming onto the table, confirming rumors that have been circulating around town. This is not a fading away into the silence; Pit 105 is building up for an all-finger-licking finish.
Located at 105 Main St., Pit 105 was a paradise for the meat lovers for the past four years. The Boreson family, along with the crew from Busted Knuckle Brewery, describe their creation as a "low and slow, smoked and bold bar-b-que in NODAK,"
or so says their website. But as Busted Knuckle seems to be aiming for retirement, both teams are willing to close the doors and make a new memory. The businesses are shutting down amicably, saying that regret is not part of the equation.
"It has been a wild and wonderful four years with the Boresons and we wouldn't change a thing," the Facebook post read. But even so, the news feels like spilling sauce on a new shirt. Pit 105 was not just a restaurant — far from it. It was the heartbeat of downtown. Families piled in after the games, workers snagged lunch on the fly and a band of BBQ die-hard fans kicked back over perfectly smoked meats and locally brewed beers.
But they certainly are not going down without a fight. For the last month, the party has just begun: good food, rocking
What becomes of 105 Main St. after the smoke settles? Will another spot flare up, or will it sit as an empty BBQ motif in the heart of Williston? That detail remains to be known, however, the clock is ticking. This closure hurts. Little joints like Pit of ribs and soak it in while it's still here. March 22 is the official end, but they sure want to make it smoky, sudsy and musical loud bang. Pit 105 may burn out, but its flavor will hang in Williston long after the pit is cold.
JEFF ZARLING jzarling@dawasg.com
In February, Meg-A-Latte coffee house marked thirteen years in business and opened a store in Bismarck, the company’s seventh location in the state.
When Megan (Fleck) Wold graduated from Williston High School in 2004, she could not have imagined becoming the owner of a coffee shop with a presence throughout North Dakota. Her dream was to pursue a career in interior design around her passion for interior spaces.
College and Coffee
After graduating, Wold made her way to North Dakota State University in the fall of 2004 to pursue an interior design degree. While attending college she worked at a coffee shop in Moorehead, M.N., called Moxie Java, a franchise with about twenty shops at the time.
“I became the manager and fell in love with the coffee shop life,” Wold reflected fondly. “It felt good to be a part of peoples’ daily lives. It’s a place where friends gather, people connect and it’s a pleasing and uplifting place. But I didn’t think it was my future.”
Fashion and Retail
A year and a half into college, Wold switched her focus and ultimately earned a double major in fashion marketing and advertising and public relations around her interest in fashion and clothes. She envisioned a career in Minneapolis as a buyer or marketer for a fashion-forward company.
throughout the company.
“I loved it,” stated Wold. “I could see being there a long time or moving to the Twin Cities for a similar role but never considered moving back to Williston.”
She and her long-time boyfriend, Eddie Wold, were married in 2007. As the couple considered having children, they felt strongly about raising their kids around family back in Williston.
“How do we make Williston work?”
Meg laid out the crux of the situation. “Eddie painted cars and was an artist. He would be able to make it work anywhere. It turned out Vanity in Williston had an opportunity.”
The pair moved back to Williston and Meg managed the Vanity store for about a year and half before leaving to take on marketing and office administration for a local electrical, phone and data company.
Needing more of a challenge, she joined Halliburton as a frac buyer where she was responsible for purchasing sand, trucks, tools and anything that the division needed. Her experience at Vanity fit the role well dealing with projections, procurement and more involvement with revenues and budgets.
Reassessing and Launching a New Path
her own boss, she defined two goals – flexibility to spend time with the kids and passion for her chosen field.
“I narrowed it down to a coffee shop or daycare. Eddie said, ‘You will not be running a daycare,” Meg shared with a laugh.
The decision to open a coffee shop was made in November of 2011 and the store opened on Feb. 3, 2012.
The interim period brought a flurry of activity including business plan development with help from Keith Olson at the Small Business Development Center and
Shortly before graduating in 2007, she landed an internship with Vanity, a women’s fashion retailer based in Fargo with over 200 stores in North Dakota, Colorado and other states at the time. After graduation, Wold moved to a full-time procurement position responsible for purchasing merchandise and managing store inventory
With one child and plans for another, Meg reassessed her future vision. While Halliburton was a great company, she wanted more flexibility and didn’t have the same passion for frac sand as she’d had for fashion or coffee.
Besides knowing she wanted to be
MEG-A-LATTE — Page 9 (continued)
development of the coffee shop. Meg’s experience in coffee, interior design and purchasing, coupled with Eddie’s and his family’s experience in art and construction, brought to life Meg’s vision of a space to gather and experience coffee and connection.
Ideas for the name had been bouncing around until a family gathering where all the options were placed in a cup.
“Blake picked one out and it was MegA-Latte,” Meg recalled fondly. “I can’t remember who wrote it but it immediately connected with everyone.”
Embracing Growth
Meg-A-Latte was embraced strongly from the beginning.
“The boom was nuts,” recalled Meg. “We were so busy and then I was approached by New Hope Church about a coffee shop space they were planning to lease in their new building, with the lease revenue going towards missions. I only had plans for a single location but started to think about the opportunity.”
After careful consideration and planning, Meg-A-Latte opened in the church in August of 2013, not long after the birth of their second child.
“I thought, ‘Okay, great,’ but didn’t have plans for any more,” stated Meg. “Customers often asked for a drive-through. I wasn’t sure, as I like the personal relation-
ships of people coming in. One day we drove by the Harvest Plaza under construction and noticed a drive-through window and just knew we belonged there.”
Once again planning was under way and Meg was pregnant.
“We opened Harvest Hills in May of 2016 and our son Rylan was born in July,” Meg shared with a smile. “It seems pregnancy and new stores come together. We now have eight stores with Grand Forks, but, no, we do not have eight kids. Although the manager of Watford City was pregnant during that one.”
Meg said the Harvest Hills experience changed her business mindset and the trajectory of their growth.
“Customers asked for more options, grab and go foods and expanded menu items,” Meg said. “Coupled with the drivethrough, the changes were driving growth and profitability.”
At the same time, the original location was bursting and the space could not be expanded. The old Pizza Hut building was coming up for sale and Meg and her team put together plans based on the Harvest Hills experience that became The Loft.
“Harvest Hills and The Loft set the model, the systems and the processes for continued growth,” said Meg. “While traveling and having a desire for good coffee and inviting spaces, I realized we could have a Meg-A-Latte anywhere.”
Watford City was opened in May 2021 and the manager of Harvest Hills expressed
interest in managing the new store. Leveraging some brand recognition from eight years with a kiosk at the North Dakota State Fair, Minot became the next target with a store opening in November of 2023. The stores in Fargo and Bismarck were opened in January and February of this year, respectively, with Grand Forks slated to open soon, rounding out existing plans.
Meg attributes her success to people, systems and processes. She has been able to recruit and retain good people, including Jess Byman who has been with the team for
over ten years.
“Jess has kind of pushed me at times,” reflected Meg. “Support from her, my family, and others have been key to our success. Organizational structure and a system-oriented approach have also been critical. It’s always exciting to see opportunities for our managers and others to grow.”
Meg-A-Latte https://meg-a-latte.com/
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JEFF ZARLING jzarling@dawasg.com
Troy Girolamo was raised on a farm outside of Eau Claire, Wis. He came to Williston looking for opportunity and made the most of that opportunity with the creation and growth of G-Style Trucking.
Connecting with Farming Roots
Like many entrepreneurs, Girolamo has a number of business interests beyond his core company. He had a desire to add to those interests by getting back into farming and connecting with his roots. It’s been said, “you can take the boy out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the boy.”
Girolamo had been looking for some farmland to acquire and had his eye on an 1,800 -acre parcel on the southern edge of the Missouri River near Williston. The property was listed for sale in February of 2022. In early 2024 he made an offer and closed on the deal in April.
What to do with the House
Girolamo had his farmland but wasn’t so interested in the house. He and his wife, Kayla, discussed a number of ideas including carving out the house with a few acres and selling it. At some point, she suggested creating a venue — something high-end, something unforgettable.
The house had been abandoned and left in disrepair. There was water damage, foundation problems and numerous other deferred maintenance issues. They put together a team and dug into the maintenance and renovations to reposition the property as a venue and take the finishings up a notch.
Luxury, Elegance, and Unparalleled Service
The Girolamos hired Amaya Theetge
to manage the venue, Mary Berg of Elite Designz to design the decor and Dabeno’s Bistro as the exclusive caterer for events.
Theetge also maintains her management position with the Dabeno’s family of restaurants.
“The lodge boasts stunning architecture, beautiful woodwork and custom touches throughout, providing a picturesque backdrop for weddings, corporate retreats and special events,” stated Theetge. “The goal was to provide an experience of luxury, elegance and unparalleled service.”
The 7,700 square foot lodge is fully furnished and includes five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a loft, patio, event hall, bar, main kitchen, catering pantry and full-service bar. Kayla and Berg created unique designs for each of the spaces including an opulent bridal suite, the groom’s loft, two additional well-appointed bedrooms and a game and theatre room. They have plans to
rotate the décor for each season. Weddings, Events, and Overnight Stays
The River Ranch has been designed as a premiere wedding venue including four ceremony sites on the property. It opened for its first event on Oct. 12, 2024, for Theetge’s own wedding, with the stereotypical reality TV race to finish the renovations and decorating while the wedding party arrived.
The event hall can accommodate corporate events, retreats and other events with seating for 200 comfortably around banquet tables or a total capacity of 446 in other configurations. The hall includes a full-service bar, overhead doors, audio/ video equipment, climate control, tables, chairs, linens, set up and tear down and cleaning for events. More features are being added including pipe and drape, lighting features, and more.The ranch can also be used for overnight stays.
“We have 16 beds and have accommodated up to 24 guests with the use of air mattresses for a couple of kids,” Theetge said.
Other amenities and features include full-service catering and private chef service from Dabeno’s, a fleet of Can-Am side-bysides, and custom decorating.
The River Ranch plans a number of community events from ticketed affairs to free events.
“We hosted a free sledding event for families to come out and enjoy the property,” shared Theetge. “In February, we held the Wild Hearts Gala to benefit local fire departments. It included dinner, dancing, a silent auction and a live auction.”
Plans are in the works for A Night in Napa, a wine-centric event in March or April, High Tea, a garden fairytale themed tea party for Mother’s Day in May and more events nearly every month.
“We’re excited about sharing this beautiful place in Williston,” Theetge states. “I encourage people to contact me and we can explore the possibilities.”
The River Ranch https://theriverranchevents.com/
The Williston City Commission has awarded $60,000 in Community Enhancement Grant funding to 34 projects from across the region, marking another record year for the STAR Fund program.
The Williston STAR Fund Advisory Board reviewed 50 Community Enhancement applications with a total ask of $482,890. The influx of applications prompted the Board to recommend that the City Commission increase the CE Grant allocation from $50,000 to $60,000, which was approved during the regular commission meeting on Feb. 11. The City Commission subsequently approved the 34 recipients as recommended by the board during the next regular meeting on Feb. 25.
The 2025 CE applications were diverse, including several youth initiatives, historical and tourism projects and more. Projects were funded across the region, including Watford City, Fortuna, Tioga and Sidney.
"Williston remains committed to advancing regional initiatives that align with our core priorities, including education, workforce development and overall quality of life,” said Economic Development Executive Director Anna Nelson. “As the region’s hub city, we take pride in utilizing the STAR Fund Community Enhancement Grant program to support organizations that contribute to, invest in, and strength-
en our community."
Williston Mayor Howard Klug highlighted the goals of the program, emphasizing its focus on supporting a wide range of various groups.
“With 50 applicants and limited funds, the program was able to assist 34 different entities, including organizations that were just starting, those needing capital improvements and non-profits holding special events,” said Klug, adding that the 2025 projects included some key mental health programs.
Community Enhancement grants are an important part of the Williston STAR Fund as it aims to fund nonprofit groups and projects that improve the quality of life in the Williston trade region. The intent is to maximize its impact by distributing the available funding to support as many community programs as possible.
Applications for CE grants typically open in the fall. The 2026 grant application period will be announced by the Williston Economic Development Office.
To learn more, subscribe to the Williston Wire and Williston Works Podcast, visit www.willistondevelopment.com and follow Williston Economic Development on Facebook @willistoneconomicdevelopment, Instagram @willistoneconomicdevelopment and LinkedIn.
For additional information or for interview requests, please call 701.577.8110 or email Brenda Schmidt at brendas@ ci.williston.nd.us.
&
Williams County's 2023 resident population was 39,113, a one-year numeric change of +1,147 or +3.0 percent. As of 2023, Williston was the largest city (incorporated place) in Williams County with a population of 27,706. The unemployment rate for Williams County in December 2024 was 2.1 percent. One year prior, the unemployment rate was 1.6 percent. There were 984 job openings for Williams County in February 2025. On average for Q3 (Jul-Sep) 2024, Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction was the private industry employing the largest number of workers in Williams County. The private industry with the highest average weekly wage in Q3 (Jul-Sep) 2024 was Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction.
[CENS 2023]
1-Year Numeric Change
1-Year Percent Change
10-Year Numeric Change
10-Year Percent Change
Numeric Change Since 2020 Census Percent Change Since 2020 Census
Components of Population Change [CENS 2023]
Natural Increase
Domestic Migration
International Migration Residual
Williams County's 2023 resident population was 39,113, a one-year numeric change of +1,147 or +3.0 percent. As of 2023, Williston was the largest city (incorporated place) in Williams County with a population of 27,706. The unemployment rate for Williams County in December 2024 was 2.1 percent. One year prior, the unemployment rate was 1.6 percent. There were 984 job openings for Williams County in February 2025. On average for Q3 (Jul-Sep) 2024, Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction was the private industry employing the largest number of workers in Williams County. The private industry with the highest average weekly wage in Q3 (JulSep) 2024 was Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction.
ABOVE: THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IN DECEMBER 2024 WAS 2.1%, SLIGHTLY UP FROM 1.6% A YEAR PRIOR.
LEFT: 984 JOB OPENINGS WERE AVAILABLE IN FEBRUARY 2025, WITH THE HIGHEST DEMAND IN: AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS (88 OPENINGS); REGISTERED NURSES (45 OPENINGS); CONSTRUCTION LABORERS (46 OPENINGS)
To view the full Williams County Area Profile report scan the QR Code below, or visit the link:
Population Race and Ethnicity (%) [CENS 2023]
or
Source: https://www.ndlmi.com/ admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/ lmi_apwilliamscounty.pdf
Williston Basin International (XWA) 14127 Jensen Ln
Williston (701) 875-8594
Williston Housing Authority 1801 8th Ave. W
Williston (701) 572-2006
APPLIANCES
Ekblad Appliance 22 W Broadway
Williston (701) 572-3769
Red Rock Ford 410 32nd Ave W
Williston ..................... (701) 577-2142
BOOK STORES
Books on Broadway 121/2 West Broadway
Williston (701) 572-1433
The TRUNK 4315 9th Ave W St 426, Badlands Town Center (503)-991-4599
CONSTRUCTION
Williston Roofing 904 2nd St. W
Williston (701) 339-2345
DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY
Model Cleaners 1129 2nd Ave W
Williston (701) 572-3734
ENTERTAINMENT
Strike Zone 1804 2nd Ave W
Williston (701) 572-33344
FINANCIAL
American State Bank & Trust
223 Main St
Williston (701) 774-4165
Stifel Nicolaus 322 Main St.
Williston (701) 572-4527
Western Cooperative Credit Union 1300 Bison Drive
Williston (701) 572-4000
Everson-Coughlin Funeral Home 112 4th St E
Williston (701) 577-3738
Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home 218 W Highlan Drive
Williston (701) 572-6329
Handy Andy's Nursery 3515 W Front St.
Williston (701) 572-6083
HEALTHCARE
CHI St. Alexius 1301 15th Ave W
Williston (701) 572-7651
McKenzie Health 3-4th St. E
Williston (701) 577-6377
HEATING & PLUMBING
Braaten Plumbing 5237C 134th Ave NW
Williston .................... (701) 774-0070
Haskin Heating & Cooling 2407 2nd Ave W, Suite D
Williston (701) 770-4516
Williston Home & Lumber
320 26th St E
Williston (701) 572-8356
HYDRO-VAC TRUCK SERVICE
VAC-U-JET
5979 US - 85
Williston (701) 572-0826
INDUSTRIAL SERVICES
IESS
314 42nd St West
Williston (701) 572-2393
Ritter Brothers 319 Main St
Williston (701) 572-2051
49th Latitude Land Survey 1411 West Dakota Pkwy, Unit 111 & 112, Suite 2b, Williston (701) 580-2651
Williams County Williston (701) 577-4500 (Auditor)
Advanced Filtration 4502 139th Ave W
Alexander, ND (701) 770-2275
Finesse Painting Williston (205) 441-0009
VAC-U-JET 5979 US - 85
Williston .................... (701) 572-0826
Lucas Natwick | eXp Realty Williston (701) 580-0564
Rugby Homes & RV Center 321 Gate Ave Williston (701) 572-2250
Arnie's Powersports & Cycle 413 2nd St W Williston (701) 572-3382
Spicy Mexican Food 2605 19th Ave W, Site 101, Williston
26th Street Liquor 105 26th St. E. Williston (701) 572-2954
Cooks on Main 224 Main St. Williston (701) 572-2665
Nodak Nutrition 424 32nd Ave W #6 Williston (701) 609-5511
Second Opportunity ReStore 2124 2nd Ave W Williston (701) 774-2537
Talon Smoke Shop 1804 W Trenton, ND (701) 572-5110
The TRUNK 4315 9th Ave W St 426, Badlands Town Center (503)-991-4599
Braaten Plumbing 5237C 134th Ave NW Williston (701) 774-0070
VAC-U-JET
5979 US - 85
Williston (701) 572-0826
TRANSPORTATION
Northwest Dakota Public Transit Williston (701) 577-6753 Watford City (701) 842-3440
UTILITIES
Mountrail-Williams Electric Coop Williston, ND (701) 577-3765
Sheridan Electric Co-op Medicine Lake, MT (406) 789-2231
VAC-U-JET
5979 US - 85
Williston (701) 572-0826
Master of None LLC Williston, ND (701) 580-5664
City in Transylvania
22. Where astronauts go 23. Men's hairstyle 24. Indicates position 25. One point east of due south 28. Businessmen may have one 29. Grass part 31. Running back Gurley 33. Unwavering 36. Options 38. Annoy 39. Greek mountain 41. Pastas
44. Fishes
45. Wrap
46. Potentially a criminal (slang)
48. Seize
49. The Constitution State
51. Upset
52. 1991 men's Wimbledon champ
54. Central Chinese province
56. Predisposition
60. A notice of someone's death
61. One-time Kentucky Rep.
62. Swiss river
63. Dried-up 64. Finger millet
65. __ Allan Poe 66. German river 67. Brew
68. Kenyan river CLUES DOWN
1. Millisecond
2. Acts as military assistant
3. Knot in a tree
4. Husband-and-wife industrial designers
5. The Ocean State
6. Point the finger at
7. Parts in a machine
8. Midway between northeast and east
9. Portray precisely 10. Blister
11. Mental illness
12. Nose of an animal
14. What students receive
17. Semitic peoples
20. Beats per minute
21. Family of drugs
23. Atrocious
25. Type of microscope (abbr.)
26. __ or bust
27. Icelandic poems
29. A citizen of Pakistan
30. Very pale
32. Metric linear unit
34. Sea eagle
35. Biblical judge of Israel
37. Isaac's mother (Bib.)
40. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.)
42. Cool!
43. Large hotel room
47. Type of boat (abbr.)
49. Picked
50. Type of hookah
52. Attack
53. Directs
55. Belgian WWII resistance fighter
56. Finished negotiation
57. Heroic tale
58. Middle Eastern country
59. Protein-rich liquids
61. Malaysian Isthmus
65. Spielberg's alien
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Raymond Family Community Center
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