Tower City, North Dakota

Every strong community is built on a shared set of values and a clear vision for the future. In Tower City, North Dakota, our vision statement and core values reflect who we are as a community and where we want to go together. These principles were developed with input from residents, city leaders, and community organizations, and they guide the decisions made by our city officials as they work to keep Tower City a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place to live.

Our Vision Statement

Tower City will be a safe, clean, and friendly community that honors its heritage, supports its families, and embraces thoughtful growth while preserving the small-town character that makes this a great place to call home.

This vision reflects the priorities that Tower City residents have expressed consistently over the years. We are proud of our history as a railroad town founded in 1879, and we are committed to carrying forward the hard-working, neighborly spirit that the earliest settlers brought to this corner of the North Dakota prairie. At the same time, we recognize that a healthy community must look forward, adapting to new challenges and opportunities while staying true to the values that define us.

Our Core Values

Safety and Well-Being – The safety of our residents is our highest priority. We are committed to maintaining a community where families feel secure, children can play outside without worry, and neighbors look out for one another. This includes supporting our local emergency services, maintaining safe roads and public spaces, and promoting awareness of the safety issues that affect rural communities, including online safety and protecting personal information in an increasingly connected world.

Community and Neighborliness – Tower City is a place where people know each other by name and lend a hand when it is needed. We value the bonds that connect our residents, from the volunteers who organize Memorial Day programs at Greenwood Cemetery to the parents who support student activities at Maple Valley School. Strengthening these connections and welcoming newcomers into our community is central to everything we do.

Education and Youth – Our children are our future, and we are committed to supporting the educational opportunities that help them succeed. Maple Valley High School, located right here in Tower City, provides a close-knit learning environment where students receive personal attention and strong community support. We value partnerships between the school, families, and the broader community that enrich the educational experience and prepare our young people for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Preservation of Heritage – Tower City's history is a source of pride and identity. From our founding along the Northern Pacific Railroad to the generations of families who have farmed, worshipped, and raised children here, our heritage connects us to something larger than ourselves. We are committed to preserving our historical sites, supporting our churches, and keeping the traditions like the North Dakota State Horse Pull alive for future generations to enjoy.

Responsible Growth – We believe that a healthy community adapts and grows while staying true to its character. Tower City welcomes responsible development that strengthens our local economy, supports small businesses, and improves the quality of life for residents. Whether it is maintaining our parks and recreation areas, supporting local lodging and hospitality businesses along the I-94 corridor, or exploring new ways to serve residents, we approach growth with care and intention.

Transparency and Civic Engagement – Good governance depends on open communication between city leaders and the people they serve. We are committed to keeping residents informed about city business, encouraging participation in council meetings, and welcoming feedback and suggestions from everyone in our community. Tower City belongs to all of us, and every voice matters in shaping its future.

Living Our Values

These core values are more than words on a page. They are the principles that guide how our city council makes decisions, how we invest community resources, and how we treat one another as neighbors. As Tower City continues to grow and evolve, these values will remain our foundation, ensuring that this community stays true to its motto: Small Town Living at Its Best. We encourage every resident to get involved, share their ideas, and help us build the future of Tower City together. Visit our Contact Us page to share your thoughts or suggestions.