Fargo mayoral candidate Josh Boschee addresses billion-dollar debt, facial recognition controversy

By Ethan Kramer

Published: Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:52 PM CDT

FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) - North Dakota State Senator Josh Boschee sat down with Valley News Live to discuss his campaign for Fargo’s first full-time mayor position, addressing the city’s billion-dollar debt, a facial recognition case and a proposed flavored nicotine ban which were among numerous topics discussed.

Boschee said he views the city’s debt similarly to a mortgage. According to Boschee, about $550 million relates to infrastructure including water, roads and wastewater as the city grows. Another $200 million involves the wastewater treatment plant, and close to $200 million relates to water intake processes and clean water.

“Certainly a billion dollars is a large number. I’m used to working with a $20 billion budget out in Bismarck,” Boschee said.

Boschee said the city should apologize for its role in the Angela Lipps case. Lipps, a Tennessee grandmother, spent months behind bars after Fargo Police used facial recognition technology that wrongly identified her in a bank fraud case. Charges were dismissed, and the city has not apologized.

“Well I think first and foremost better communication again from the city or law enforcement up front would have helped alleviate a lot of concerns the public had,” Boschee said. “Should Fargo apologize? I think Fargo should apologize for the role that we had.”

Boschee said he was disappointed the City Commission tabled discussion on a proposed flavored nicotine ban until after the June election. He said the commission is setting itself up to be a lame duck commission.

“They still have two months worth of work, three months actually until the new commission takes place,” Boschee said.

Boschee said he wants to visit with all stakeholders before any proposal moves forward, including public health advocates, young people and store owners. He said he wants to keep young people healthy, but acknowledged people have access to the internet and will find other ways if flavored nicotine or vaping products are banned for adults.

Note: The full interview with Boschee will be available Wednesday on the Valley News Live website and digital platforms.

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