Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority

Learn about how the Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority (RWJPA) has been impacting the region

What is the Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority (RWJPA)?

The RWJPA was formed on March 19, 2012 to challenge and to oppose the planned construction of dams on the Wild Rice and Red Rivers as proposed in the Fargo Metropolitan Area and Risk Management Project.

The RWJPA and the Metro Flood Diversion Authority settled their disagreements and signed a Binding Settlement Term Sheet on October 27th, 2020 and on February 1st 2021 the two parties signed a Settlement Agreement which superseded the Binding Settlement Term Sheet.

On February 16th of 2021, the RWJPA amended their JPA to all actions necessary to perform all of the terms of the Settlement Agreement including, but not limited to, the following terms: adopt Bylaws and policies, contract with third parties for administration and other purposes, execute stipulations and releases; dismiss lawsuits; enforce the terms of the Settlement Agreement receive funds in order to establish and administer the Economic Impact Relief Fund (also called Relief Fund) as defined and set forth in the Settlement Agreement.

What is the RWJPA Relief Fund?

The RWJPA Relief Fund was established as a result of the Settlement Agreement. Funds are to be used for projects that include public purpose economic assistance and infrastructure within Richland and Wilkin County.

Who Can Apply for the RWJPA Relief Fund?

Applicants can be for Profit Entities, Not-For Profit Entities and Government Entities and funds being requested must be for projects located with in Richland and Wilkin County.

Who Decides whether I receive funding or not?

All eligible applications will be reviewed by Richland Wilkin Joint Powers Authority for approval. Funding for projects will be competitive and will depend on funding availability and the proposed projects scope to deliver economic development activity and increase tax base. Applications to be considered will need to be submitted to justin@sveda.biz or the online application filled out by the 5th day of the month for consideration at that month's RWJPA meeting.

Projects funded by the RWJPA

City of Campbell- Community Center Updates
City of Rothsay- Lot Purchase
City of Rothsay- Event Center Improvements
Diversion Properties- Stratford Project
Hankinson CDC- Relocation of Soo Line RR
Richland #44 Foundation- Performing Arts and Event Center
RW Food Pantry- Construction
SVEDA- Marketing
Wyndmere CDC- Purchase Real Property
Over 50 Spec homes completed or set to be completed in the region

To print a copy of the Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority Application for Distribution of Relief Funds, please click here. Please have the filled application returned to SVEDA by the 5th of the month at justin@sveda.biz or by mail at 1505 11th St N Wahpeton ND 58075.