The SB 2390 Conference Committee meeting held on April 25, 2025, focused on key discussions regarding community population caps and their implications for funding allocations. The committee aimed to finalize agreements on the proposed population threshold for communities eligible for certain benefits under the bill.

During the meeting, a significant point of discussion was the proposed cap of 4,500 residents. A committee member inquired about which communities would be excluded from the original threshold of 8,000 if the cap were set at 4,500. In response, it was noted that several communities would not qualify under the new cap, specifically naming Horace, Watford City, Valley City, Veil Lake, and Wahpeton.

Horace, in particular, was highlighted as a community experiencing rapid growth, with a population estimate of approximately 5,600, up from 3,000 in 2023. This growth trend underscores the shifting demographics in the area and raises questions about the adequacy of the proposed cap in addressing the needs of expanding communities.

The committee's discussions reflect ongoing considerations about how best to allocate resources and support to communities as they grow, ensuring that legislative measures align with current population dynamics. As the meeting progressed, the committee continued to evaluate the implications of these population thresholds on funding and community support initiatives.

In conclusion, the SB 2390 Conference Committee made strides in addressing the population cap issue, with further discussions anticipated to refine the bill's provisions and ensure equitable support for North Dakota's diverse communities.