WEST FARGO — The Thursday, Oct. 23 event to welcome new residents to West Fargo drew a small group, but that doesn’t mean Civic West won’t continue putting the effort.
Civic West, along with West Fargo Events, Visit Fargo-Moorhead and the West Fargo Fire Department, sponsored the community event Thursday that invited old and new residents to one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.
Civic West is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase civic knowledge and engagement in the community. The group has been hosting monthly fire hall chats that introduce speakers from local government and other civic organizations. Civic West is spearheading an effort to welcome new residents to the community and help them become more engaged.
“People don’t talk to each other, ever, anymore,” said Joan Bachman, a member of the welcome committee, which is designed to “help people get situated in town and to get to know each other.”
The steering committee has put together welcome bags with city information and giveaways and has been working on distributing them across town. Bachman said three apartment managers have agreed to hand out the bags to new renters. The group is hoping to partner with real estate agents as well.
Thursday’s reception included music by the local soul and blues group Treo’Soul and remarks from Mayor Bernie Dardis, who said the city is delighted to share what it has to offer with new residents. Dardis said after the population explosion of about 25 years ago, when residential properties boomed south of Interstate 94, the city is expecting a similar jump. He said after the F-M Diversion is complete, there are about 9,000 acres in northern West Fargo where developers have shown interest.
West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis speaks during a Civic West event to welcome new residents on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, at the West Fargo Fire Department.
Chris Flynn / The Forum
Fire Chief Dan Fuller said the department is ready for new growth. The department recently earned its Commission on Fire Accreditation International, an accreditation it shares with only three North Dakota cities, and fewer than 330 fire departments nationally. Fuller said the department is on track to respond to about 3,000 calls by the end of the year, up from 2,700 calls in 2024.
West Fargo Fire Department Chief Dan Fuller welcomes people to the Civic West event on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, at the West Fargo Fire Department.
Chris Flynn / The Forum
Wendy Reuer covers all things West Fargo for The Forum.
