New Governor's Residence Discussed In North Dakota House - KXNet - Bismarck/Minot/Williston/Dickinson

An idea to build a new Governor's residence fails in the North Dakota House.

Lawmakers say the home is in dire need of a major renovation.

An architectural study found the home is in need of $2.8 million in upgrades to take care of safety issues, mold and asbestos.

Representative Matt Klein says the architects recommendation is to rebuild.

<<(Rep. David Rust / (R) Tioga) "You would think that the state of ND would want to have a place for the Governor that would be something to be proud of versus something that looks like it needs to be torn down.

(Rep. Gail Mooney / D Cummings ) "To move forward on something this massive and with opposition from the Governor, I just think we can take our time and study it out a little longer."

(Rep. Jim Kasper / (R) Fargo) "Our Governor does business for the state of North Dakota, he represents the people of North Dakota. That house sends an image around the world to the world. It's time to make a change.">>

Governor Dalrymple says the current residence is "perfectly adequate." The home was completed in 1960 and is an example of prairie style architecture.

A major renovation was completed in 2000.

Lawmakers also defeated a measure in 2011 for new governor's home.