Fargo Mayor Proposes Using Flood Relief Funds for Homeless Services Center

Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney has proposed transferring $144,000 from the 2009 “Spirit of Fargo” flood relief fund to support the city’s newly opened Resource and Recovery Center. According to city documents, the funds would pay for equipment, fixtures, and winter warming operations at the homeless services facility.

The City Commission is scheduled to consider the transfer on Monday, June 22. The proposal aims to utilize the remaining balance of a fund created after the Red River crested at a record 40.84 feet in 2009.

Why is the city using flood relief funds for homeless services?

Mayor Mahoney told reporters that the “Spirit of Fargo” Fund has been used over the years to aid people during disasters. He stated that with approximately $144,000 remaining, using the balance for the Resource and Recovery Center is appropriate.

The original fund was established in 2009 through a partnership between the United Way of Cass-Clay, the Impact Foundation, and the Dakota Medical Foundation. It was designed to help agencies and residents in Cass County with unmet needs following the record flooding.

Did You Know? During the 2009 flood event, thousands of volunteers placed millions of sandbags to prevent widespread flooding after the Red River reached a record height of 40.84 feet.

How does the Resource and Recovery Center operate?

The center opened May 28 in a 54,500-square-foot former warehouse located at 2001 First Ave. N. It provides a clinic and connections to housing solutions for individuals struggling with homelessness.

The facility replaces the Downtown Engagement Center (DEC), which operated out of a former police station. City health officials determined the DEC was too small to provide necessary services, and local businesses reported that a growing homeless population was impacting downtown foot traffic.

Mahoney said that homelessness activity downtown has decreased since the move. “I think we are getting the results we wanted,” Mahoney said.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that repurposing legacy disaster funds for current social infrastructure reflects a shift in how cities manage dormant reserves. While the original intent was flood recovery, the city is now weighing the immediate need for warming operations against the fund’s historical purpose.

What is the financial status of the facility?

Renovating the warehouse location was expected to cost $1.4 million. The City Commission previously voted to seek donations to cover these costs.

Fargo Mayor TIM MAHONEY On The 2023 Flood Fight | KFGO

Mahoney reported that the city has collected between $700,000 and $750,000 in donations, along with $100,000 in in-kind services. He added that additional pledges have been secured for next year.

What happens next for the center?

The current location is a temporary arrangement. The city signed a two-year lease for the warehouse that began in January.

Because the lease is limited, the city may need to identify a permanent solution before the agreement expires. City officials have not yet discussed plans for the facility beyond the lease term.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money is being transferred from the flood fund?
Mayor Mahoney has proposed transferring $144,000.

Where is the Resource and Recovery Center located?
The center is located in a former warehouse at 2001 First Ave. N. in Fargo.

Why was the center moved from its previous downtown location?
City health officials stated the previous location was too small, and downtown businesses expressed concerns regarding the impact of the homeless population on foot traffic.

Do you believe repurposing old disaster relief funds for current social services is an effective use of city resources?