WEST FARGO — The city of West Fargo says its investment in real estate developer EPIC Corp. is protected while the company’s future remains uncertain amid reports of widespread layoffs and unpaid contractors.
The city has contracted with EPIC so far for two projects: Lights at Sheyenne 32 and a downtown redevelopment project that includes the Sheyenne Plaza, the Firm and Pioneer Plaza buildings in downtown West Fargo.
“There are no other ongoing projects, TIF agreements, PILOT agreements or other incentives between the City of West Fargo and EPIC, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries regarding the two projects,” said Rachel Richter-Rodeman, communications manager for West Fargo.
Work on the development agreement for the Wright expansion has been halted until the city has more information, and the city has not received any communication from EPIC regarding any changes to the project’s status.
The city declined to be interviewed, saying it would be inappropriate to speculate without more information. Richter-Rodeman said EPIC has no outstanding or outstanding payments to the city and that the contracts in place protect the city’s investment.
On Monday, May 20, Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski said an EPIC employee contacted him regarding the status of the Beacon, a mixed-use complex that includes apartments and commercial space near downtown Grand Forks, regarding “financial issues.” He said he knew.
EPIC did not respond to a request for comment.
Mike McGarran has been a reporter and anchor for WDAY-TV since 2021.
