Nelson County JDA November 2026

ANETA, ND – October 14, 2026 – The Nelson County Job Development Authority (NCJDA) met October 14 at the Aneta Senior Center, welcoming local business owners, community organizations, and representatives from area communities to discuss funding requests and economic development opportunities throughout Nelson County.

The meeting featured presentations from several businesses and organizations seeking assistance through NCJDA’s Storefront Improvement and General Funding programs. Requests included an exterior mural at the McVille Community Library, roof improvements at Sheri’s Design Studio in Michigan, ADA door and window upgrades at the future Nelson County Health Systems Lakota Clinic, window replacements for Michigan’s historic Kite Building, and a proposed historical film about the 1945 Michigan Train Wreck. Additional requests were presented by the Dahlen Fire Department, Blackswan Outdoors, Sissy’s Sandwiches, Michigan Hometown Foods, and McVille Market.

Following discussion and review of available funding, the board approved $500 toward the McVille Community Library mural project, $2,500 toward improvements at the Nelson County Healthcare Systems Lakota Clinic, $3,785.74 towards new windows at the Michigan JDA-owned Vasichek Insurance and NCHS Clinic Building in Michigan, and $9,500 toward a new furnace installation at McVille Market. The board also discussed the importance of connecting businesses and community organizations with alternative financing opportunities, including Bank of North Dakota Flex PACE loans and other available resources. Several additional requests were declined based on funding limitations, program guidelines, or the availability of other financing options.

The board also reviewed NCJDA’s financial reports and received an update from Executive Director Anna Halvorson on ongoing economic development initiatives, including business assistance, housing rehabilitation, storefront improvements, apprenticeship programming, and community beautification. Preliminary results from the NCJDA Apprenticeship Program surveys showed encouraging progress, with the percentage of apprentices indicating they were very likely to remain with their current employer for the next two years increasing from 60% at the initial survey to 100% at the mid-point and final stages.

The board will continue developing its priorities and goals for 2027 at its December meeting. The next regular NCJDA board meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2026, in Pekin, North Dakota.