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CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) The Valley City Board of Commissioners approved a request from the Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation to use 0,000 in economic development money to help fund construction of the Wellness Center in Valley City. The Commission approved the request on a 4 to one vote.

Valley City Mayor Bob Werkhoven said he voted ‘nay’ against the request. But many people in the audience said it sounded like Werkhoven said ‘aye’ (which sounds like eye) for a yes vote. Mayor Werkhoven apologized for his pronunciation and the confusion and frustration that his action may have caused the public.

Commissioners are supposed to say a loud ‘aye’ (sounds like eye) for a yes vote and a loud ‘nay’ for a no vote. Administrative Assistant Becki Anderson told newsdakota.com today that she heard Werkhoven vote nay and she said the official vote will be recorded as 4 to one.

Valley City resident Gary Schlegel told the commission he has problems with the funding method.

Valley City resident Jackie Owen supports the Wellness Center and believes it will benefit and enhance the quality of life in the community.

Valley City resident Bob Drake says the development corporation should pursue other projects more pressing in the city. He questioned the viability of the project.