A former elementary school teacher in Jamestown, North Dakota, has pleaded guilty to charges of corruption and solicitation of minors. Michael Paul Romans, aged 45, entered his plea on January 21, 2026, in Southeast District Court. He faced accusations of engaging in a sexual relationship with a minor and had been on administrative leave since December 29, 2025. Romans resigned from his position at Gussner Elementary School on January 15, shortly before his arraignment. Sentencing is scheduled for April 8, with Romans currently detained on a $50,000 bond.
Concerns about the environmental impact of a proposed transmission line project were voiced during a public hearing on January 16. The North Dakota Public Service Commission hosted the event, where approximately 100 residents gathered to express their apprehensions regarding the JETx project. This initiative involves constructing a 92-mile double circuit 345 kilovolt transmission line connecting substations in North Dakota. Participants raised issues related to potential health risks, property value declines, and the adequacy of public input processes. The commission is tasked with evaluating whether the project aligns with environmental preservation standards and community well-being.
In a different area of civic engagement, the Jamestown Finance and Legal Committee has recommended approval of a revised memorandum of agreement for joint library services with Stutsman County. This proposal comes after the city of Jamestown announced its intention to withdraw from the existing agreement due to concerns over financial contributions from the county. The new agreement, expected to be approved at the March city council meeting, will determine funding shares based on population distribution from the most recent U.S. Census.
Additionally, Fried Township is collaborating with Stutsman County to draft an ordinance for solar facilities. New Leaf Energy is proposing a $370 million solar farm project, which would generate 247 megawatts of energy north of Jamestown. During a board meeting on January 20, lead project developer William Dean outlined plans for the project and addressed community concerns regarding proximity to residences and environmental impacts.
Tragedy struck the community on January 21, when a 16-year-old boy, identified as Jake Stiles, was killed in a pedestrian accident involving a semi-truck. The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported that the incident occurred at the intersection of 4th Street and 5th Avenue Northeast. Stiles was a freshman at Jamestown High School.
On the infrastructure front, the Jamestown Public Works Committee has taken steps to replace lead water service lines throughout the city. A preliminary report detailing the project, estimated to cost $5.7 million, was unanimously approved on January 22. The initiative is part of a multi-year effort mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to comply with the Lead and Copper Rule, with a deadline for completion set for 2037.
In local recognition, Don and Sharon Caine were honored as the Outstanding Citizens of the Year by the Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce at an awards banquet on January 22. Their extensive involvement in community service and various organizations has made a lasting impact on the region. Other awards presented included the Above and Beyond Award to Amy Walters and the Young Professional of the Year Award to Riley Akervik, highlighting contributions to the arts and other community efforts.
These events reflect a community navigating significant challenges while celebrating local achievements and addressing pressing concerns.
