City Commission Votes to Send Revised ETA Map to Burleigh County Commission for Consideration

The Bismarck City Commission voted on Tuesday to send a revised version of the extraterritorial area (ETA) map to the Burleigh County Commission - a map that had been shared during an earlier combined meeting between the two commissions. If that new map is not accepted, the City Commission will discuss potential next steps, including the possibility of withdrawing from the joint powers agreement between the two political subdivisions.

"This is an extremely layered issue, but I believe the best outcome in this scenario comes in the form of a compromise," said Bismarck Mayor Michael Schmitz. "I feel that we delivered that compromise in the form of the map that our staff presented. We worked to create a way for 95% of residents to move from the ETA to Burleigh County. However, Burleigh County's leadership appears unwilling to meet us in that compromise. Our concern is that the City of Bismarck has the right to prioritize its urban planning, infrastructure coordination and long-term growth."

The ETA - this area extending up to four miles outside the city limits - has been discussed at varying degrees of intensity over the years, talks have become more intentional in recent months. The ETA had been discussed at a City Commission meeting in May, at a Bismarck-Burleigh Commissions Committee meeting in June and meetings that included both commissions have occurred recently.

Schmitz also asked that Community Development work to align the language of ordinances related to accessory buildings in the ETA with Burleigh County regulations.

Burleigh County's next regular commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 20, in the Tom Baker Meeting Room of the City/County Building.

More information about the proposed ETA changes is available online.