By Ethan Kramer
FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – Five candidates vying to become Fargo’s first full-time mayor squared off Tuesday night at the historic Fargo Theatre.
Sekou Sirleaf, Josh Boschee, Denise Kolpack, Michelle Turnberg and Dave Piepkorn each made their case to voters, tackling some of the city’s most pressing issues — from property tax relief and homelessness to crime, small business support and government transparency.
The candidates clashed at times, particularly around homelessness. Piepkorn argued the city devotes too many resources to the issue, while Kolpack said the city hasn’t done enough. Turnberg stressed that the city is not a non-profit, and Sirleaf pushed back on what he called the stigmatization of homelessness — a point Turnberg disputed.
On crime and public safety, Piepkorn said the mayor has been soft on crime and called for a new approach, while Boschee and Kolpack both argued that perception is reality when it comes to public safety but noting crime being down throughout the city. Turnberg credited new police leadership as a step in the right direction and called first responders a top priority.
Candidates also clashed over the future of the Downtown Engagement Center, which is set to close as the city transitions to a new resource and recovery center.
Turnberg and Piepkorn expressed skepticism over the funding and services tied to the facility, while Boschee, Kolpack and Sirleaf voiced support for keeping services available — with Kolpack noting the city has been working with the governor’s office and the state health department on a path forward, and Sirleaf arguing the funding exists if the city looks for it.
The debate also touched on plans to help small businesses thrive, the future location of the city’s convention center and what transparency would look like under each candidate’s leadership. Boschee stressed the importance of supporting local businesses, noting that it is more revenue for the city.
The election is Tuesday, June 9.
