BREAKING NEWS: Earl L. Enright, a prominent East Grand Forks civic leader, has officially sold his oil company after an impressive 36 years in operation. The sale, confirmed today, December 8, 1968, to the Farmers Cooperative Marketing Association, marks a significant transition for the local business landscape.
Enright, who has served as mayor for 12 years and is known for his advocacy in flood control, will be handing over the reins of the Enright Oil Company on January 1, 1969. This move allows him to focus on critical community projects, including his leadership role in the Red River Basin Committee and the ambitious 85-foot Huot Dam project planned for next year.
In an exclusive statement, Enright expressed pride in his business and community ties, noting, “I’d safely say 75 percent of my customers have been with me the entire 36 years.” He reminisced about the company’s humble beginnings in 1944, recalling the hard work during a time when “help was mighty hard to find.”
The sale comes at a time when East Grand Forks is gearing up for transformative projects that Enright has championed. His leadership in city affairs has led to significant improvements, including the modernization of local infrastructure and flood prevention initiatives. The Red River Basin Committee aims to enhance flood control measures, a critical need for the region.
With the transition of the Enright Oil Company, now managed by Jay Johnson, local residents can expect continued service backed by the cooperative’s resources. Enright’s dedication to community service remains unwavering as he prepares for a semi-retirement, stating, “It’s a wonderful area to live in. We’ve never had a complete crop failure in the 36 years I’ve been in business.”
Enright’s legacy extends beyond business; he has shaped local governance and community initiatives. His tenure included modernizing the city’s street department and improving travel infrastructure, which has spurred commercial growth in East Grand Forks.
As Enright steps back from day-to-day operations, he will continue to advocate for the community through his roles with various organizations. The Red Lake River Improvement Association, which focuses on flood prevention, is one of the key groups he remains active with, stating, “It’s been a slow developing project which has now advanced to the stage where borings will be obtained in January of ’69.”
Residents and officials alike are eager to see how Enright’s future endeavors will continue to impact the community positively. His commitment to East Grand Forks and its development is clear, and as he transitions into this new phase of life, the city stands to benefit greatly from his experience and dedication.
This moment marks not just the end of an era for the Enright Oil Company but also the beginning of new opportunities for community growth and development in East Grand Forks. Stay tuned for further updates as Enright embarks on this next chapter.
