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December 13, 2022

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum released his 2023-25 executive budget Wednesday, Dec. 7. His proposal calls for cutting income taxes, addressing workforce needs, and investing in education, infrastructure, and other priorities. A line item in the budget provides $3,779,100 in one-time funding for planning and design to support a proposed renovation of Mayville State University’s Old Main.

“We are extremely appreciative of Governor Burgum and his commitment to this high-priority project for Mayville State University,” said Mayville State University President Dr. Brian Van Horn. “This is an important first step in seeing the renovation of Old Main become a reality, and we are grateful for the governor’s support. The project provides the backbone for the instructional space we use and intend to grow as we help to educate our future workforce, a benefit to our local communities, state, and region.”

Old Main is the iconic face of Mayville State University. The four-story 55,000 sq. ft. building, constructed in two phases, in 1890 and 1905, is the original building on the Mayville State campus and has served the campus and community for decades. Eighty-three percent of the building space is used for instructional and academic purposes.

Renovation of the building is important for the life safety of students, faculty, and staff. Total budgeted cost for the renovation of Old Main is $49,970,100. The one-time funding will address the most significant deferred maintenance on the Mayville State campus.

“Our local District 20 legislators, Jared Hagert, Mike Beltz, and Randy Lemm, together with legislators throughout the state, have been very helpful in bringing this project forward,” said President Van Horn. “We thank them for their efforts and look forward to working together with them as we seek the additional funding to complete the project.”

“Mayville State is a significant partner in helping with our state’s workforce needs, educating future teachers, business and nursing professionals, scientists, and more,” said Dist. 20 Representative Jared Hagert. “The renovation of Old Main is a sound investment in the future of North Dakota. It is important that Mayville State’s students, faculty, and staff have a safe and comfortable place to learn and do their work that so positively impacts our local communities, region, and state.”