Oil Patch Gets Federal Rep | Video

Chris Williams | 10/30/2012

When oil country started booming again, it created some challenges for cities in western North Dakota. Infrastructure the most notable, but improvements have been made and more help is on the way.

"I feel we need somebody up here in the energy patch up here full time, and that`s why we`re here today," said Senator John Hoeven.

Local leaders met at the Williston library today, where Hoeven introduced Jon Cameron. He will serve as a Hoeven`s federal representative in the oil patch.

"I want to just let y`all know that I`m here to continue provide the quality services and outreach to the constituents, to the business, and to the local leaders," Cameron said.

Cameron will be helping local and federal government work together through regulations on infrastructure issues and other projects in the area.

"I will do everything I can to expedite the process and work with the federal agencies and the senator to make this a much better place than it already is, and it`s a wonderful place."

This is the first time a federal representative is being stationed in western North Dakota, and local leaders are excited about the new possibilities.

"We can partner where we get the federal government to help us with certain issues, and the state government with certain issues and the county and other cities. We can certainly makes the best of this," said Williston Mayor Ward Koeser.

"That`s why it`s needed to grow these small towns in the middle of the oil patch, so the workers can have a job 15-30 minutes away from their job," said Watford City Mayor Brent Sanford.

Cameron will be living in Williston, but he will be traveling quite often.

"Serving Dickinson, Williston, Watford city, Crosby, Tioga. All of the oil and gas producing counties. A full time person up here to make sure that we`re supporting all of you," added Sanford.

Cameron`s wife has been hired as an engineer tech in Williston.

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