EXCLUSIVE: McKenzie County Farmer Poll Shows “Quality of Life” Options Most Desired
Steve Hallstrom
Special to The Farmer
Editor’s Note - The McKenzie County Farmer is kicking off our early 2026 coverage by reporting on issues and storylines that have risen in prominence in recent weeks. We thought it would be interesting to hear what local residents most want to see added to the landscape in Watford City, so we polled 50 residents to get their answers. - Steve Hallstrom
For years, the conversation in Watford City has centered on “essential” growth: housing, infrastructure, and oil field services. But as the calendar turns to 2026, the local dialogue has shifted toward the “quality of life” amenities that make a town feel like a permanent home.
The community recently hit a milestone in national retail credibility with the opening of a new McDonald’s in November 2025, a move often seen by economists as a “seal of approval” for a growing market’s viability. However, with the recent news that a Target store is slated to open its doors in nearby Williston later this year, local residents are increasingly hopeful that Watford City will keep pace.
A comprehensive survey of 50 area residents, ranging from middle-schoolers to our most senior residents, revealed a community hungry for more than just another restaurant. When asked what they would like to see come to Watford City that isn’t here now, the answers painted a clear picture of a town looking for places to gather, play, and shop.
Top Categories
1. Recreational Entertainment (Bowling, Arcades, & Family Fun): This was the undisputed champion of the survey. Over 50 percent of respondents asked for a Bowling Alley, Arcade, or a Family Fun Center. The call for “active” entertainment spanned every age group, from 11-year-olds wanting a Trampoline Park to 84-year-old Val S. simply wanting a place to bowl.
2. Big Box & Warehouse Retail (Costco, Walmart, Target): Coming in a strong second was the desire for major national retailers. Costco led the pack for adults, followed closely by Walmart and Target. Middle-schoolers and young parents alike voiced a desire for a Mall setting to consolidate shopping trips.
3. Youth & Young Adult Spaces: A recurring theme was the lack of “third spaces” - places to hang out that aren’t a park or a bar. Responses from the 11-13 age bracket and young adults (18-30) emphasized a Dance Club for teenagers, a Skating Rink, and an Indoor Amusement Park.
4. Dining Variety: While some older residents cautioned against “another restaurant,” the younger crowd is craving specific national flavors, specifically mentioning Raising Cane’s, Noodles and Company, Jersey Mike’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and a high-quality Mexican restaurant.
5. Niche & Industrial Amenities: Unique requests included Top Golf, Off-road racing, and a pragmatic call for an indoor facility to rent usable garage space, noting that many residents lack private garages to work on their own vehicles.
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