Letter to the editor
I have followed the Ward initiative closely, and after researching the pros and cons, I have concluded that Wards would better meet Fargo’s growing needs. I plan to vote yes. When we moved to Fargo in the early 1950s, the population was 38,000. We had one public high school, one public library, and 13th Avenue South was a narrow gravel road.
At that time, Fargo had four Commissioners and a Mayor.
Fast forward to 2026. Fargo’s population is approaching 140,000 people, covers 51 square miles, and is a far more complex city yet we still have the same number of elected Commissioners. Wards would give residents a dedicated representative who understands their area, encourages stronger relationships between citizens and City Hall, and due to the smaller area of Wards, make it easier and less expensive for more people to run for elective office.
Fargo has changed dramatically in both size and population over the past 75 years. I believe our form of government representation should change with it.
I hope Fargo voters will consider the benefits of Wards on the October 6th election.
-Deborah Frederickson
Fargo, ND
