The Williston City Commission has approved STAR Fund grants for a new taproom and air ambulance. Hops & Berry, LLC will receive up to $10,000 while Executive Air Taxi Corporation will collect up to $108,000 from the STAR Fund’s Flex PACE Interest Buydown Program, according to a press release.

Hops & Berry is a new self-service beer and wine taproom that will be in housed in the Renaissance on Main building in Downtown Williston. The taproom will offer up to 46 craft beer selections, eight wines and limited food options. Hops & Berry is owned by Williston attorney TJ Corcoran.

Williston Economic Development Executive Director Shawn Wenko said the new food and beverage option will fill a critical niche in Williston.

“Hops & Berry is going to be a great addition to our thriving downtown,” said Wenko. “The self-serve option is unique concept that I believe residents and visitors alike will enjoy.”

Meanwhile, Executive Air Taxi will utilize its STAR Fund grant to build an aircraft hangar and flight crew facility at the new Williston Basin International Airport. The Bismarck-based firm is a full-service aviation company that will offer air ambulance service to the Williston region.

Wenko said this project will improve healthcare options for residents.

“We are less than a month out from the opening of our new airport XWA. Executive Air service is critical towards enhancement of medical care and options in the community,” Wenko said.

The Flex Pace Interest Buydown Program utilizes funds from the STAR Fund and Bank of North Dakota to help businesses grow, prosper and succeed. BND provides a two to one match to the STAR Fund allocation. Hops & Berry will receive $10,000 from the STAR Fund for its $250,000 build-out while Executive Air will receive $108,000 from the STAR Fund for its $650,000 building.