From Playgrounds to Programs: Williston, North Dakota Funds 25 Community Projects

Where Do Your Tax Dollars Go?

If you’ve ever caught yourself asking, “Where are my city sales tax dollars going?” — the City of Williston has a pretty solid answer: community improvement.

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Funding Community Enhancement Projects

The City of Williston has officially approved $50,000 in funding for 25 Community Enhancement (CE) Projects as part of the Williston STAR Fund. The funding decisions came after the STAR Fund Advisory Board reviewed a record 39 applications during its January 20 meeting. Altogether, organizations requested more than $269,000, making this one of the most competitive years the program has seen.

The Community Enhancement Program plays a key role in improving quality of life across the Williston region by supporting nonprofit organizations and community-driven projects. According to Mayor Howard Klug, one theme stood out clearly in the 2026 applications: support for local youth.

“What really stood out was the community’s strong commitment to our youth,” Klug said. “So many projects focused on creating opportunities for kids in Williston—whether through summer and winter activities, special programs, or community events. It’s encouraging to see just how invested our community is in supporting the next generation.”

Investing in Community Programs

One example is the Williston Basin Skating Club, which received $4,000 to update youth rental hockey equipment. The club noted that smaller-sized gear sees the heaviest use and proper fit is critical for young players who are still developing. After each season, 80% of rental fees are returned, helping the program remain affordable and accessible to all families, regardless of income.

City Administrator Shawn Wenko said the CE Program is a meaningful way for the city to reinvest in the community.

“By giving back to area non-profit organizations, this funding serves as a thank-you to our entire community for shopping in Williston and supporting the STAR Fund,” Wenko said.

The 2026 recipients reflect a wide range of projects, including youth programs, accessibility improvements, cultural events, safety initiatives, and facility upgrades — all aimed at making the Williston area an even better place to live.

Read More: Local artists invited to help bring new life to Williston City Hall

2026 Community Enhancement Grant Recipients

1. Bio Girls – Annual Program Support ($2,000)

2. ConnectUs Therapy – “Not Today” Event ($2,500)

3. Fort Buford Sixth Infantry Division – Equipment & Uniform Upgrades ($1,000)

4. Good Samaritan Club – Building Improvements ($4,000)

5. Harmonic Creative World – Scholarships & Equipment ($2,000)

6. Labours in His Vineyard – Juneteenth Celebration ($1,000)

7. Marketplace For Kids – Program Support ($1,000)

8. Entertainment Inc – Secure Tool Storage Upgrade ($1,000)

9. Miss ND Scholarship Organization ($4,000)

10. Olive Motherhood Foundation – Program Support ($2,500)

11. The Power of Women – Annual Event Support ($1,000)

12. McKenzie County Ag Expo – Prairie Roots Homesteading Summit ($1,500)

13. Rising Stars Equestrian – Wheelchair Accessibility Equipment ($2,500)

14. The Stone Foundation – I Can Bike Camp ($2,000)

15. UMDHU – Safe Seats Program ($2,500)

16. Mon-Dak Gymnastics Support Group ($1,000)

17. Williston Basin Skating Club – Youth Rental Equipment ($4,000)

18. Western Star Foundation – Brew Your Business Program ($2,000)

19. Williston Elks Lodge – Student Engagement Initiative ($1,500)

20. Williston Trinity Christian PTO – Playground Equipment ($1,000)

21. Kids Day Out Foundation – Annual Event ($2,500)

22. Fred & Clara Eckert Youth Foundation – Hooked on Fishing Event ($2,500)

23. Springbrook Bible Camp – Splash Trax Purchase ($2,000)

24. Wilkinson Elementary PTO – Playground Updates ($1,000)

25. Opportunity Foundation – Disability Awareness Month Event ($2,000)

From playgrounds to scholarships, skating gear to safety programs, these projects show exactly how STAR Fund dollars are working locally — and making a real difference across Williston, and our region.