WILLISTON — The City of Williston announced significant progress in reducing its long-term debt through the strategic use of debt-relief provisions made available under Senate Bill 2323.

According to City of Williston information, as part of this effort, the City will retire two municipal lease-purchase agreements for critical fire apparatus ahead of schedule:

— 2022 Fire Engine Lease, $784,867 payoff

— 2023 Fire Engine Lease, $1.08 million payoff

Originally scheduled to mature in 2032 and 2033, both leases will now be fully paid off by the end of April 2026, generating about $362,000 in interest savings with no early payment penalties.

“Senate Bill 2323 has given North Dakota cities a powerful tool to reduce debt costs and improve fiscal flexibility,” said Hercules Cummings, City Finance director. “By acting now, we are saving taxpayer dollars that can be redirected to other priority needs.”

These actions are part of the City’s broader, long-term financial strategy. Williston’s rapid growth required significant investment in infrastructure, equipment and public safety resources. Investments were made with a clear plan to manage and reduce debt over time.

“Williston’s growth required significant investment in infrastructure and equipment to support a rapidly expanding community and remain competitive in North Dakota’s economic landscape,” said Shawn Wenko, city administrator. “That required taking on debt, but it was done intentionally and with a long-term plan to pay it down. We’ve been disciplined in executing that plan, and Senate Bill 2323 allows us to accelerate those efforts. This is about continuing to strengthen the city’s financial position while maintaining the services and infrastructure our residents rely on.”

Remaining SB 2323 proceeds will be applied strategically to retire additional obligations, including the Airport Revenue Bond, USDA loan, and Public Works Certificate of Participation, targeting higher-cost debt and improving long-term financial flexibility.

Separately, the city’s State Revolving Fund (SRF) water loan will be fully retired in the coming months, further reducing total debt and eliminating associated federal requirements.

The passage of Senate Bill 2323 was made possible through the efforts of Mayor Howard Klug, Commissioner Brad Bekkedahl and district legislators, who played a key role in advancing the legislation and advocating for its approval, according to the city.