Survey could help GF County decide charter question

The Grand Forks County Commission has approved the concept of a survey to gauge public opinion on Home Rule.

A committee has been working on the basis for a potential vote this year on establishing a Home Rule Charter, which would give the county leeway on adopting laws  – and open new potential revenue streams including a local sales tax.

Commissioner David Engen says a survey is a must.

“I think it’s something we almost have to do. We need to know the attitude of the county going forward,” Engen said.

Commissioner Tom Falck said a survey would cost $25,000 to $30,000. It’s believed the money could come from the County General Fund.

Finance Director Deb Nelson says there is precedent for funding such a survey.

“When (the county tried a) Home Rule charter in 2008, a telephone survey was done,” she said. “I think it was just under $12,000, so county funds could be used for that purpose.”

Falck said the survey must be structured so that the Commission is not taking any sides.

The Commission voted 4 to 1 to approve further research on a survey. The Home Rule committee will work on details at a future meeting.