Dear Minot:

Ninety days into my term as mayor...I've drank plenty of coffee, made many new friends, met more and more of my neighbors, and listened.  

And I’m still getting used to the title of "Mayor." To me, I'm just Tom.

I've implemented a couple of changes to our City Council meetings. First, I’ve encouraged more of a conversational "working together" climate, for the good of Minot. Does it have some bugs to work out? Yes, but for me it's a step in the right direction. Secondly, and this is one I am proud of, is the Pledge of Allegiance. Having members of our community step up and show their pride before each meeting is something special to me. It’s a constant reminder of what a great country we live in.  

Another theme of my campaign for mayor has been “Together we can.” Coming off the approval of the 2023 budget as a council, I can honestly say “we” worked together. We visited with department heads, we listened to residents, and we worked together to achieve a budget that addresses the needs of our community, is responsive to our staff, and is reflective of the needs of our residents.  

The spirit in the Magic City is alive and well. There is so much positive energy in our community, and I feel we are stepping forward together to bring our city to place it's never been. Growth is on our doorstep - we can all see it, and we can all feel it. We are seeing the victories our community needs, from tourism, to Visit Minot’s efforts to create events and bring more and more people to town, to the Minot Chamber EDC moving projects forward that position Minot as the next economic throttle for North Dakota.

For the first time in two years we rolled out the red carpet for the great Norsk Hostfest. Culture, history, entertainment, and food! We even got the opportunity to renew a friendship with our Sister City of Skien that started more than 40 years ago. I am so proud of my community and neighbors who helped by volunteering, organizing, and most of all, attending this great event. 

As we move forward, I challenge members of the council to continue to band together for the greater good of Minot. I challenge my neighbors of Minot to stay engaged, and be a part of the solution. We can't do it without you.

To the owners of small and large businesses in Minot, there is a new direction and a stronger voice working with you. The direction for the Minot Chamber of Commerce EDC could not be brighter than it is today, and I promise your involvement will only make it brighter. I see great things for Visit Minot, and when their efforts fill our community with new friends and visitors, we need to get out and spread the magic. Keep your eyes open.

It may say "Mayor" on my nametag, but if you're pouring the coffee, I’m just Tom.

Thank you, Minot. I’m looking forward to serving you.

You can find more about what’s happening at the City of Minot at minotnd.org, or find us on Facebook and Twitter. We’d also encourage you to sign up for our monthly electronic newsletter on our website.