State of Region 2

Stay connected to our region’s rural priorities and join us in shaping community‑driven solutions!

State of Region 2 highlights the unique challenges and opportunities facing our communities and moves us toward clear, actionable progress.

This annual gathering brings together SBPC’s board and committee members, regional partners, and community leaders to reflect on the year and explore what is next for North Dakota Region 2 (Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, and Ward counties).

Food and beverages will be provided. RSVP through the event page is required to confirm your attendance.

Agenda

5:00 PM — Check-in & Networking

Connect with regional leaders, partners, and community members.

Appetizers provided.

5:30 PM — Welcome & Opening Remarks

5:40 PM — SBPC Regional Update & Priorities

A look back at the year’s accomplishments and a preview of what is ahead. 

6:00 PM — Panel Discussions

Rural Housing: Turning Need into Action

Housing remains one of the most significant barriers to growth across the region. This panel will explore the challenges and opportunities shaping rural housing development. As we prepare to launch a regional housing study, panelists will discuss strategies, partnerships, and practical solutions that can help communities meet local housing needs and support future growth.

Panelists: Lisa Rotvold (Executive Director, Red River Community Housing Development Organization), Brian Hoffart (Executive Director, Rugby Job Development Authority)

Growing Talent, Strengthening Communities

A strong workforce is essential to the continued growth and success of Region 2. This panel will highlight how education, training, and workforce partners are expanding career opportunities, strengthening talent pipelines, and preparing residents for the jobs and industries shaping the region.

Panelists: Lyle Krueger (Assistant Director, Central Regional Area Career and Technical Center), Maggie Backen (Minot Programs Director, Dakota College at Bottineau)

The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBPC. 

7:50 PM — Closing Remarks

Read about last year's State of Region 2 and view photos from the event here.

Event Sponsors

Thank you to our banking and lending partners for their commitment to advancing regional development. Your support plays a vital role in strengthening our communities and driving progress.

About Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC): Organized under Chapter 54-40.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, SBPC got its start in 1972 with a single mission: to advance economic progress in North Dakota Region 2. Though we’ve grown and changed since our founding, our passion for helping communities and entrepreneurs stays the same. 

North Dakota Regional Councils:  SBPC is one of eight regional councils serving North Dakota. The state established regional councils recognizing that planning and development efforts can be strengthened when aided by studies, planning, and implementation of both a statewide and regional character. The impact of regional councils can be seen, felt, and measured all throughout North Dakota.  Whether it is building local economies, building communities, improving infrastructure, or developing workforce, regional councils often play a role in enhancing grassroots efforts for community and statewide progress!  Visit https://ndarc.com to learn more. 

This event serves as Souris Basin Planning Council’s annual meeting.

Souris Basin Planning Council does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services. For special accommodations or questions regarding the meeting schedule, please contact staff in advance at 701.255.1982. In the event that any or all of the members of the governing body participate in the meeting by telephone or video, a speakerphone or monitor will be available at the location noted for each meeting.