# Bismarck City Commission 2026-08-11

The Bismarck City Commission held a meeting on August 11, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included approval of a passenger rail siting study contract with KLJ and the ongoing water treatment plant expansion project. The water treatment plant expansion, initially estimated at $83 million, has seen costs rise to $130 million due to additional site conditions and design changes. The city has secured $50 million in state funding and is seeking approval to apply for and accept an $80 million low-interest loan through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to cover remaining costs. Commissioners discussed funding uncertainties and rate impacts, with assurances that planned water fee increases would cover anticipated expenses. Additionally, the commission approved various ordinance amendments and easement releases, and accepted the city's 2025 comprehensive financial audit, which reported a clean opinion and sound financial management. A motion was also passed to allow the mayor to establish a committee to study and engage the community on fee structures related to infrastructure repairs and special assessments.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** August 12, 2026

### Sources
- [Bismarck City Commission 2026-08-11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzJE-px18rk) - Dakota Media Access