The HB 1369 Conference Committee meeting held on April 25, 2025, focused on the allocation of funds related to potential federal grants for the Grand Forks Air Force Base and its implications for local school districts.

The discussion began with Representative Richter inquiring about the status of a proposed $20 million allocation from a specific fund. The committee members acknowledged that while the funds are available, the actual need for the full amount in the upcoming biennium remains uncertain. The Air Force base has been placed on a priority list, indicating a likelihood of receiving federal funding, but the timeline and rationale for selection are unclear.

Committee members expressed concern about the necessity of having the funds ready to match any federal grants that may be awarded. It was noted that if Grand Forks is selected, they would need to cover a percentage of the match, and the committee did not want to miss this opportunity. However, if the base is not chosen, the funds would remain available for other school districts, thereby increasing their financial resources.

Further discussions raised questions about the original intent behind setting aside the $20 million, which was to protect the construction loan fund from being depleted. There was also a suggestion to consider alternative financing options, such as a line of credit, to avoid tying up funds that could benefit other districts.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution, but it highlighted the ongoing uncertainty surrounding federal funding and the importance of being prepared for potential opportunities. The committee plans to continue monitoring the situation and will revisit the allocation as more information becomes available.