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N.D. – (NewsDakota.com) Governor Doug Burgum announced that 9 million dollars in additional budget cuts are needed nearly across the board to balance the state budget.

One of those projects on hold indefinitely is the funding to construct the new Communication and Fine Arts Building on the Valley City State University campus. Under the plan two structures, Foss Hall and McCarthy would be eliminated and a new building would house those classrooms and a Fine Arts Building.

Robinson talked about the budget cut in an interview with reporter Steve Urness.

Earlier this month, Robinson said in an attempt to balance the budget the North Dakota Department of Transportation proposed a number of reductions which include closing a number of highway maintenance shops across the state.

He said those on the list include Starkweather, Finley, Fessenden, Gackle, Litchville, New England, Courtenay, and Mayville. The budget savings here will result in a total of $1.4 million. The department will also reduce the number of employees in this area by five full time employees.

He said the department also announced the closing of several drivers license offices. They include Carrington, Crosby, Mayville, Carson, Langdon, Lisbon, Wishek, Rugby and Rolla. In addition, the department will be closing one additional rest area at Pleasant Lake.

Robinson reminded District 24 residents that the first legislative forum is scheduled for Saturday, January 21st in the Skoal Room of the Student Center on the Valley City State University campus. The forum will begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude by 11:00 a.m.

District 24 Representative Dwight Kiefert and Daniel Johnston will also give presentations and take questions from the public during this legislative forum.