Fargo City Commission to vote on motion to dissolve three volunteer commissions

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Three City of Fargo volunteer boards and commissions could be ending in 2026 if approved by the city commission on Monday night.

City staff wants to conclude the Human Rights Commission, Arts and Culture Commission and Native American Commission.

They say the intent is to reduce costs and the amount of staff time required to administer volunteer committees.

Mayor Tim Mahoney says the city remains committed to the goals of the commissions and hopes that they will continue as independent community organizations with continued city partnerships.

Last week, the Human Rights Commission chairman called out city leaders saying they refuse to stand with their Somali residents and called them “cowards”.

HRC held a press conference to express support for the Somali community in the wake of negative comments made by President Donald Trump.

They were upset that the city hadn’t issued a formal statement of support.

Mahoney issued a statement following the press conference saying in part, “The Human Rights Commission is the best-suited public body in Fargo to issue a statement in support of the Somali community. I commend the Human Rights Commission for their ongoing commitment to inclusion and respect for all residents.”

The city commission will take up the motion to dissolve the commissions tomorrow night and we’ll have live coverage.