West Fargo Mayor Announces Retirement

Bernie Dardis will not seek reelection after serving since 2018.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis has announced that he will not be running for reelection, stating that serving as both a city commissioner and mayor "has been a great honor and privilege." City Commissioner Eric Gjerdevig has subsequently launched a campaign for the mayor's position.

Why it matters

Dardis' retirement marks a significant transition for the city of West Fargo, as he has been a key political figure in the community for nearly a decade. Gjerdevig's decision to run for mayor presents an opportunity for new leadership and a potential shift in the city's priorities and direction.

The details

Mayor Bernie Dardis has served West Fargo since 2018 after previously serving as a city commissioner. In his statement, Dardis expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the city. Commissioner Eric Gjerdevig, who served on the city commission from 2018 to 2022 but chose not to seek reelection, has now announced his campaign for the mayor's position.

  • Mayor Dardis has served since 2018.
  • Gjerdevig served on the city commission from 2018 to 2022.

The players

Bernie Dardis

The outgoing mayor of West Fargo, who has served in the position since 2018 after previously serving as a city commissioner.

Eric Gjerdevig

A city commissioner who served from 2018 to 2022 and has now launched a campaign for the mayor's position.

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What’s next

The election for the West Fargo mayor's position will take place in the coming months, with Gjerdevig's campaign challenging the open seat left by Dardis' retirement.

The takeaway

Dardis' decision to step down as mayor after nearly a decade of service marks a significant transition for West Fargo, as the city prepares to elect new leadership that will shape its future direction and priorities.