Fargo Voters to Decide on 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax Extension

The current 1% sales tax for infrastructure is set to expire in 2028, and city officials are seeking voter approval to extend it.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 9:21am

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Voters in Fargo, North Dakota will have the opportunity in June to decide whether to extend the city's 1% sales tax for infrastructure projects. The current infrastructure tax, which is part of Fargo's overall 2.25% sales tax rate, is set to expire in December 2028. City officials are seeking to put the tax extension on the June ballot, arguing the funds are crucial for maintaining Fargo's roads, water systems, and flood control measures.

Why it matters

Fargo's infrastructure needs are significant, with the city needing to invest in maintaining and upgrading its roads, water and wastewater systems, and flood control measures. The 1% infrastructure sales tax provides a dedicated funding source for these critical projects, and its extension would ensure Fargo can continue to address its infrastructure priorities in the coming years.

The details

Fargo's current 2.25% sales tax includes a 1% tax for infrastructure that is set to expire in December 2028, as well as a 1% tax for flood control that runs until 2084 and a 0.25% tax for public safety that expires in 2045. The infrastructure tax can only be used for flood control, water, wastewater, and street projects. City officials argue the tax extension is focused on 'needs not wants' to ensure Fargo's infrastructure remains safe, reliable, and prepared for the future.

  • Fargo's current 1% infrastructure sales tax is set to expire in December 2028.
  • The 1% flood control sales tax runs until 2084.
  • The 0.25% public safety sales tax expires in December 2045.

The players

Brenda Derrig

Fargo Assistant City Administrator

Dave Piepkorn

Fargo City Commissioner, the only member to vote against putting the tax extension on the June ballot

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What they’re saying

“We are focusing on needs not wants. Ensuring that Fargo's infrastructure remains safe, reliable and prepared for the future.”

— Brenda Derrig, Fargo Assistant City Administrator

What’s next

Fargo voters will decide on the 1% infrastructure sales tax extension in June 2026.

The takeaway

Fargo's infrastructure needs are significant, and the 1% sales tax extension is crucial for the city to continue investing in its roads, water systems, and flood control measures. The vote in June will determine whether Fargo can maintain this dedicated funding source for its critical infrastructure priorities.