Government
The City of Halstad is on the move! Imagine walking into a community where your neighbors wave while passing on the street, kids ride their bikes to the park and you can stop in one of the local businesses to be greeted by name. Halstad is just that, and much more. We’d love for you to experience all that is our city.
Halstad is located on two major US highways in northwest Minnesota, and are perfectly located between two of North Dakota’s largest cities. We are just a quick 40 minute drive from multi-plex movie theaters and great shopping, but still far enough to ensure a safe and quiet neighborhood for your family.
Stop in for a visit, we’ll be glad to show you around!
Check out the Welcome to Halstad brochure to find out more about the City of Halstad!
Boards & Commissions
Halstad has four volunteer-based boards, commissions and advisory committees, with over 15 members. The City actively seeks applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Appointments are made once each year in the Fall. Interim appointments are made as needed.
City Council/Mayor
The Halstad City Council is the governing body of the City of Halstad. It consists of 5 elected members.
EDA
The Halstad Economic Development Authority was established by the Halstad City Council to assist with the development and betterment of the community. The group strives to assist local businesses, encourage development and strengthen and support the community.
Planning Commission
The Halstad Planning Commission was established by the Halstad City Council to assist with city planning and long-term development. The planning commission primarily acts in an advisory capacity to the elected body. The commission studies issues, oversees the preparation of plans and ordinances, and reviews and advises on development proposals.
Utilities Commission
Meetings
The Halstad City Council meets on the first Monday after the first Tuesday of each month. The meetings generally start at 5:15 PM and are held at the Halstad Telephone Company meeting room. Those who have business with the City Council may have an item added to the agenda by calling 218-456-2128.
Elections
City Council and Mayoral Election
The filing dates for city offices of Mayor and Council Members are from August 2, 2022 until August 16, 2022 at 5 pm. The Affidavit of Candidacy and a $2.00 filing fee must be filed with the City Clerk by the August 16th, 5:00 pm deadline. Affidavit and fee may be mailed to 405 2nd Ave West, Halstad, MN 56548 or they may be dropped off at Halstad Municipal Utilities
The following offices will be on the November 2022 ballot:
Mayor-2 year Term
Council Member -4 Year Term
Council Member – 4 Year Term
Mail-in Ballots
The Halstad City Council has determined that it will remain a Mail-In Ballot Precinct. This decision is due to the difficulty in finding election judges, and the additional costs for training, machine upkeep, mailing, and other election activities. The Norman County Auditor/Treasurer will administer the election process for the City of Halstad.
Go to Norman County Auditor Web Site for election questions, or email Auditor@co.norman.mn.us. Your ballot will be sent to you when it is ready (as early as 30 days before Election Day).
Links to the Minnesota Office of the Secretary of State:
Election Notices/Public Postings
2022 Notice of Offices to be Voted for the State General Election
Ordinances
The only official edition of the City of Halstad Ordinances is the printed version maintained by the City Council. Amendments, additions or deletions may not be reflected in the latest online version of the ordinances.
Audits
Annual audits are conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.
Mayor
The Mayor is the presiding officer, and a regular member of the council. The Mayor is often asked to officially speak for both the council, and the community as a whole. The Mayor’s term of office is 2 years with no restrictions on the number of terms served. A candidate for Mayor must have been a resident of Halstad for at least one year. Once elected, the Mayor must reside within the city.
City Services
City services are provided to over 600 people including water, sewer, electricity, garbage and recycling. Halstad Municipal Utilities prides itself on high quality, affordable services for local residents. Most recent updates include new generators for backup power and underground power lines.
Emergency Services
The Halstad Fire Department is composed of 22 volunteers and the Halstad Rescue Squad is composed of 12 volunteers providing the city of Halstad and the surrounding area with emergency and non-emergency services. As a function of city government, both the fire department and rescue squad are committed to providing prompt and professional service to our community.