Here is the latest North Dakota news from The Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) A survey of business leaders in North Dakota and eight other states says the region's economy continues to show signs of improvement. A Creighton University economics professor says North Dakota continues to defy the recession with little or no job losses over the past several months.

Fargo, N.D. (AP) A judge has given preliminary approval to a settlement of a class action lawsuit filed over Fargo's traffic fines. Under the proposal, the city would pay out a maximum of $1.5 million to about 53,000 drivers. Fargo had been charging higher traffic fines than state law allowed.

Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem says four Mandan school board members may continue serving even though their terms have expired. The school board postponed its June 9 election because of a foul-up over candidate filing deadlines. The ballot has been rescheduled for Sept. 8.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) North Dakota will get nearly $25 million in federal transportation money for flood relief projects statewide. Almost $17 million will go to areas affected by Devils Lake flooding.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-01-09 1620CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list