In this episode of the Chamber Link, host Cale Dunwoody sits down with newly elected leaders Mayor-elect Josh Boschee of Fargo and Mayor-elect Eric Gjerdevig of West Fargo. Fresh off a pivotal primary election, the two leaders dive into their visions for the future of the FM metro area, reflecting on their campaign experiences and discussing how they plan to navigate the region’s current “exponential growth curve.”
Expect an authentic, forward-looking conversation on how these neighboring cities can move past historical silos to form a united, collaborative front on economic development, infrastructure, and workforce retention.
📌 Key Highlights From the Episode
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Collaborative Leadership Styles: Both mayors-elect emphasize a shift away from old political friction toward a cooperative approach. Josh highlights moving from a legislative mindset to local government, favoring informal “brown bag” working sessions and stakeholder transparency. Eric stresses that “listening is a far more important skill than speaking” and advocates for radical accessibility.
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The Growth & Infrastructure Conundrum: West Fargo’s massive population surge requires smart, strategic expansion. Eric details the immense logistical and financial hurdles of developing land between diversion channels, noting the hundreds of millions in infrastructure required before a single house can even be built.
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Tackling the Housing Pipeline: With a critical regional need for over 16,400 housing units, both leaders agree that “attainable housing” is paramount. Josh outlines a plan to look at housing as a pipeline—encouraging retirement-age residents to move into new condo developments, which naturally frees up starter homes for the “missing middle.”
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Predictability for Businesses: For the local economy to thrive, both cities must offer reliable partnerships. The leaders discuss navigating the new state-mandated 3% property tax cap on political subdivisions while keeping the region aggressively competitive against neighboring states.
🚀 Immediate Actions: Day One Priorities
Josh Boschee (Fargo): Plans to immediately establish a stakeholder-driven task force on housing affordability, alongside a mayoral advisory council on renting to ensure safe, equitable housing standards.
Eric Gjerdevig (West Fargo): Will take a highly pragmatic approach focused squarely on the upcoming budget process, ensuring the newly formed commission stabilizes and aligns resources responsibly right out of the gate.