Garretson Girls basketball had a couple games last week, heading to Dell Rapids and Sioux Falls on Tuesday and Friday.
Ava Ockenga guards her opponent. //Carrie Moritz, Gazette
"The first after Winter Break was at Dell Rapids St. Mary," said Head Coach Matt Schrank. "We had a ton of opportunities early on, but just couldn’t get the ball to fall into the hoop. We were down after the first quarter 5-8.
"We had a little offensive success early in the 2nd quarter, but still trailed at halftime 16-15. We came out in the 2nd half ready to take over the game. We outscored the home team 20-3 in the 3rd and controlled the rest of the way.
"We won the game 46-35 to move to 5-2."
Sydney Olson led the team with 14 points, Adi Fink had 10 and Kylie Christensen had 9. Tayler Benson, Jordyn Williams, and Olson each had 3 steals. Olson had 8 rebounds as well, and Christensen had 3 blocks respectively.
Continued Schrank, "On Friday, January 5th we traveled to Sioux Falls Christian for the 2nd straight year. The Lady Chargers are receiving votes as a top 5 team in Class A. We jumped on them right away and led after the first quarter.
"After the first quarter we would find it hard to score. At the end of the 2nd quarter, we had a 3-pointer get wiped off the score board because of a foul and SFC went on a 7-0 run to take a 6 point lead into halftime.
"The 2nd half was more of the same. The offensive side of the ball was a struggle and even though we made plenty of stops, we couldn’t cut the deficit enough. We ended up losing 45-34."
After a weeklong break, the team will be back on the court on Friday, hosting Colman-Egan in a double header. Varsity will start at 6:15 p.m.
Last week, the GHS Boys Basketball team hosted the first two of three days in the Big East Tournament, taking on Sioux Valley, Parker, and Beresford.
#30 Carter Siemonsma attempts a layup around a Cossacks player while #33 Treyton Decker looks on. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
On Thursday, January 4, the Dragons faced the Cossacks, who are 8-0 on the season. They ultimately took the win over Flandreau on Saturday at the tournament. Garretson fell to the team 25-66 in the first round.
Ian Buettner shoots from the corner. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
In the second round against Parker on Friday, the Dragons fared better, nearly snatching the win. Parker ultimately prevailed, hitting the hoop for three more points and ending with 46 points to Garretson's 43.
On Saturday, the team headed to Baltic for the third round against Beresford, and the two teams battled it out in the high-scoring game. Beresford was able to snag the lead and keep it, winning 55-76.
The team will be back on the home court this Friday, January 12 in a double-header against Colman-Egan, with the boys' varsity game beginning at 8:00 p.m.
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for Jan. 2, 2024
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on January 2, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on December 26, 2023. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, Karsky, and Kippley. Also present were Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, and Eric Bogue, Chief Civil Deputy State's Attorney.
Chair Bender called the meeting to order.
MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to approve the agenda. 5 ayes
ELECTION OF 2024 CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
2023 Commission Chair Bender called for nominations for the 2024 Commission Chairperson. MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to nominate Dean Karsky as Commission Chairperson for 2024. Roll Call Vote to elect Dean Karsky as the 2024 Commission Chairperson. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky called for nominations for the 2024 Commission Vice-Chairperson. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to nominate Gerald Beninga as Commission Vice-Chairperson for 2024. Roll Cal Vote to elect Gerald Beninga as the 2024 Commission Vice-Chairperson. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
DESIGNATION OF
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPERS
Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, was present to report on the proposals received from the Argus Leader, Brandon Valley Journal, Garretson Gazette, and Minnehaha Messenger for designation as official county newspapers. The proposal from the Argus Leader includes a rate of $0.26 per line. The proposals from the Brandon Valley Journal, Garretson Gazette, and Minnehaha Messenger each included a rate of $0.32 per line for meeting minutes and $0.35 per line for other notices. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to designate the Argus Leader, the Brandon Valley Journal, the Garretson Gazette, and the Minnehaha Messenger as official newspapers for Minnehaha County in 2024. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT APPOINTMENT
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented a recommendation to appoint Steve Groen as Minnehaha County Highway Superintendent for 2024-2025. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve the appointment of Steve Groen as Minnehaha County Highway Superintendent for 2024-2025. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RECORD OF NON-ELECTED DEPARTMENT HEADS
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented the list of non-elected Department Heads, as of January 1, 2024.
Tom Greco-Commission Office
Chris Lilla-Equalization
Mark Kriens-Facilities
Steve Groen-Highway
Carey Jo Deaver-Human Services
Kari Benz-Human Services
Monte Watembach-Information Technology
Jamie Gravett-Juvenile Detention Center
Bill Hoskins-Museum
Scott Anderson-Planning & Zoning/Parks
Juile Hofer-Public Advocate
Traci Smith-Public Defender
CORONER APPOINTMENT
Upon the request of Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to authorize the appointment of Dr. Kenneth S. Snell as Minnehaha County Coroner for 2024. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RESOLUTION MC24-01
AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY CORONER
WHEREAS, the Legislature of the State of South Dakota adopted SDCL § 7-7-1.4 which established that the board of county commissioners in a county may appoint, by resolution, a coroner who shall serve at the pleasure of the board; and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners previously appointed Dr. Kenneth S. Snell, a duly qualified medical pathologist, to perform the duties of the Minnehaha County Coroner and to serve in the capacity of Medical Examiner for a one-year term in 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners wish to re-appoint Dr. Snell in 2024 to satisfy the intent of the statutes for Coroner; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners herby appoint Dr. Kenneth S. Snell as Coroner for Minnehaha County for a one-year term beginning on January 1, 2024 and ending on December 31, 2024.
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Commission Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
COMMISSIONER SALARY
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, gave a briefing on the determination of the 2024 salary for Minnehaha County Commissioners. To accommodate the payroll system, a salary $34,465.60 for the non-chair Commissioners and $35,984.00 for the Chair would be a divisible number for the 26 pay periods in 2024. This would be an increase of 5% for the Commissioners. Public comment was received from Rick Weible. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to elect a salary and approve Resolution MC 24-02. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Resolution MC24-02
A RESOLUTION TO ELECT SALARY, RATHER THAN PER DIEM METHOD OF PAYMENT TO COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, AND SET THE 2024 ANNUAL SALARY AT $34,465.60 EXCEPT FOR THE SALARY OF THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WHICH WILL BE SET AT $35,984.00
WHEREAS, during the first regular business meeting of 2024 the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners, the Board considered and approved the following action regarding Commission salaries;
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, pursuant to SDCL 7-7-5 the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners set the following salaries for Commissioners:
• The 2024 annual salaries for the four part-time non-chair Commissioners will be $34,465.60;
• The 2024 annual salary for the part-time Chairperson of the Board of Commission will be $35,984.00.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Dean Karsky
CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to approve the consent agenda. By roll call vote: 5 ayes. The consent agenda includes the following items:
Commission Meeting Minutes for December 26, 2023
Bills to be Paid $1,606,890.90
3200 RUSSELL LLC Motels $180, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Lease-Rental Agreement $372.88, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Maintenance Contracts $302.36, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Office Supplies $129.63, AIRGAS USA LLC Small Tools & Shop Supplies $120, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Automotive/Small Equipment $987.66, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Gas Oil & Diesel $205.36, ALL NATIONS INTERPRE Interpreters $199.8, ALL STAR INVESTIGATI Professional Services $650, ALPHAGRAPHICS Printing/Forms $319.58, AMBUSH LLC Uniform Allowance $156.75, AMERICAN INK LLC Special Projects $179.31, AMERICAN INK LLC Uniform Allowance $250.26, ANGEL, EDWARD P Attorney Fees $1029.9, ANNETTE KRENKE Sign Deposits $50, ASH LAW OFFICE PLLC Child Defense Attorney $1440.65, AVERA HEALTH PLANS I Insurance Admin Fee $6420.16, AVERA MCKENNAN Hospitals $2530.69, AVERA MCKENNAN Professional Services $76.34, BLACKBURN & STEVENS Attorney Fees $2103.4, BOB BARKER COMPANY I Inmate Supplies $196.42, CBS PROPERTIES LLC Welfare Rent $500, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Lease Principal $719.04, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Maintenance Contracts $552.87, CIOX HEALTH LLC Clinics - Auxiliary Services $28.5, CIVIL DESIGN INC Architects & Engineers $16851.25, CONSTELLATION Natural Gas $4991.12, CREEKSTONE FALLS Welfare Rent $5357.87, D&R WELDING Truck Repairs & Maintenance $850, DAN GRAPEVINE Uniform Allowance $46.16, DEMATTEO LAW FIRM PR Attorney Fees $1112.8, DEMATTEO LAW FIRM PR Child Defense Attorney $3015.9, DINGES PARTNERS GROU Safety & Rescue Equipment $1422.95, DUST TEX SERVICE INC Janitorial Chemical Supplies $217.5, EICH LAW OFFICE LLC Child Defense Attorney $406.6, ENGLISH LAW Attorney Fees $6300, ETTERMAN ENTERPRISES Small Tools & Shop Supplies $138.02, FIRST DAKOTA NATIONA Lease Interest $780.33, FIRST DAKOTA NATIONA Lease Principal $3075.42, FLEETPRIDE INC Truck Repairs & Maintenance $565.29, GALLS PARENT HOLDING Uniform Allowance $379.1, GBR INC Interpreters $120, GEORGE, MICHAEL Welfare Rent $2550, GLOBAL TEL LINK (GT Telephone $7.21, GOEBEL PRINTING INC Printing/Forms $6521.62, GOURLEY PROPERTIES I Welfare Rent $1585, GRAHAM TIRE CO NORTH Automotive/Small Equipment $639.12, GRAINGER Automotive/Small Equipment $7.3, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Memberships $55, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Miscellaneous Expense $210, GUARDRAIL ENTERPRISE Road Maint & Material $2754, HEARTLAND FUNERAL HO Burials $6500, HERITAGE FUNERAL HOM Burials $3500, HOUSTON ENGINEERING Architects & Engineers $29049.15, HUB INTERNATIONAL GR Hazard Insurance (Bldgs) $382275, HYVEE ACCOUNTS RECEI Program Activities $144.4, I STATE TRUCK CENTER Truck Repairs & Maintenance $65.89, INNOVATIVE OFFICE SO Office Supplies $147.5, INTEGRATED TECHNOLOG Building Repairs & Maintenance $343.9, INTERSTATE OFFICE PR Office Supplies $354.95, JCL SOLUTIONS Inmate Supplies $1697.5, JCL SOLUTIONS Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $3734.78, JSA CONSULT ENGINEER Architects & Engineers $4577.5, JVR COUNSELING Psych Evals $2000, KNECHT, ANDREW J Attorney Fees $3691.5, KOCH HAZARD ARCHITEC Communication Equipment $1995, KOLBECK LAW OFFICE L Attorney Fees $2805.1, KRUSE LAW OFFICE Attorney Fees $3118, LEWIS DRUGS INC Pharmacies $564.96, LIGHTNING TOWING Professional Services $370, LOCKWOOD & ZAHRBOCK Child Defense Attorney $709.2, LOPEZ, REBECA Interpreters $75, LUTHER, JEFF Medical Director $2750, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Evening Report Center $930.68, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Interpreters $65, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Shelter Care/Reception Center $83772.29, LUX NORTH Welfare Rent $1029.34, LYNN, JACKSON, SHULT Attorney Fees $36415.99, MCKESSON MEDICAL SUR Clinics - Auxiliary Services $400.93, MEDSTAR PARAMEDIC IN Transportation $4000, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Attorney Fees $40, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Clinics - Auxiliary Services $2790, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Natural Gas $2829.28, MIDSTATES UNIFORM & Uniform Allowance $213.96, MIDWEST UNDERGROUND Heavy Equipment $33828.96, NICHOLE CARPER Attorney Fees $1665, NORTH RIDGE APARTMEN Welfare Rent $700, NORTHEAST INVESTMENT Welfare Rent $1600, NYBERGS ACE HARDWARE Program Activities $19.93, OLSON OIL CO. Miscellaneous Expense $43.75, PENNING, LESLIE A Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $480, PHOENIX SUPPLY LLC Inmate Supplies $1425.44, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $6664.5, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOC Professional Services $3200, PURPLE COMMUNICATION Interpreters $260, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Postage $132.24, RELIANCE TELEPHONE I Telephone $1, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Attorney Fees $2667.3, RISK ANALYSIS & MANA Insurance Admin Fee $2866.5, ROEMEN'S AUTOMOTIVE Gas Oil & Diesel $86.91, ROTOROOTER Building Repairs & Maintenance $295, SAFE HOME LTD PTNRSH Rent Subsidies $10845, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Child Care Items $33.76, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Clinics - Auxiliary Services $140.8, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Memberships $50.04, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Miscellaneous Expense $115.04, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Office Supplies $71.91, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Other Supplies $112.68, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Professional Services $-6.26, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Safe Home Donations $91.29, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Supplemental Food $215.08, SANFORD Other Medical Services $116.48, SANFORD CLINIC Contract Services $29367.28, SCHAUNAMAN, KURT Uniform Allowance $237.11, SD ASSOC COUNTY HIGH Memberships $350, SD ASSOC OF COUNTY C Memberships $33471, SD BUILDING OFFICIAL Memberships $50, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Psych Evals $600, SDML WORKERS COMPENS Workers Compensation $564016, SECOG Miscellaneous Expense $26903, SIOUX EMPIRE FAIR AS Miscellaneous Expense $12500, SIOUX FALLS CITY Lease-Rental Agreement $43421.71, SIOUXLAND ORAL Clinics - Auxiliary Services $2149.42, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $3848, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $593, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Extension Background Checks $50, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Miscellaneous Expense $425.11, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Notary Exp $30, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Printing/Forms $90.35, STEWART TITLE COMPAN Attorney Fees (Repaid) $85.05, STREICHERS INC JAG Grant 2023 $16448.09, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $78, SUMMIT FIRE PROTECTI Safety & Rescue Equipment $65.02, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Board Of Prisoners-Meals $59446.37, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $1605.69, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Inmate Supplies $545.91, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $3707.41, SWEATMAN PROPERTIES Welfare Rent $600, TIRES TIRES TIRES IN Gas Oil & Diesel $51.99, TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS IN Architects & Engineers $993.46, TRC 41ST Welfare Rent $1150, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $3132.5, TSCHETTER & ADAMS LA Attorney Fees $1039.33, TSCHETTER & ADAMS LA Child Defense Attorney $311.21, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Safety & Rescue Equipment $1660.99, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS I Welfare Rent $943, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS P Welfare Rent $4090.79, UNIVERSITY PARK LEGA Professional Services $1268.75, US FOODS INC Professional Services $742.94, VB FALLS TERRACE Welfare Rent $800, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Automotive/Small Equipment $6, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Gas Oil & Diesel $161, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $57963.24, XCEL ENERGY INC Welfare Utilities $751.91, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $100, YMCA Welfare Rent $700.
December 2023
Commission Salaries
COMMISSION Salaries $35,830.85
AUDITOR Salaries $58,002.78
TREASURER Salaries $99,767.57
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Salaries $87,694.52
STATES ATTORNEY Salaries $452,558.63
PUBLIC DEFENDER Salaries $268,059.12
PUBLIC ADVOCATE Salaries $82,463.21
FACILITIES Salaries $59,747.91
EQUALIZATION Salaries $116,388.81
REGISTER OF DEEDS Salaries $49,327.89
HUMAN RESOURCES Salaries $37,734.43
SHERIFF Salaries $1,367,945.91
JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER Salaries $196,195.81
HIGHWAY Salaries $153,321.38
HUMAN SERVICES Salaries $154,563.20
MUSEUM Salaries $90,652.58
PLANNING Salaries $43,996.26
EXTENSION Salaries $3,497.60
The following reports were received and placed on file in the Auditor's Office:
Coroners Report - September 2023
Coroners Report - October 2023
Coroners Report - November 2023
Routine Personnel Actions
New Hires
1. David Aaron, variable hour Civil Process Server for the Sheriff's Office, at $22.00/hour effective 12/12/2023.
2. Aaron Jorgensen and Daniel Stewart, Correctional Officers for the Jail, at $25.37/hour (14/1) effective 1/8/2024.
3. Bert Bucher, Deputy Public Defender for the Public Defender's Office, at $3,492.00/biweekly (22/2) effective 1/8/2024.
Promotions
1. Brett Johnson, Supportive Services Manager to Community Services Engagement Manager for Human Services, at $44.72/hour (18/14) effective 1/6/2024.
Step Increases
1. Scott Berg, Highway Maintenance Team Member for the Highway Department, at $32.45/hour (12/13) effective 1/4/2024.
2. Joy West, Safe Home Manager for Safe Home, at $3,086.40/biweekly (20/6) effective 12/11/2023.
3. Moises Membreno, Juvenile Correctional Officer I for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $24.16/hour (13/2) effective 12/12/2023.
4. Sara Sackmann, Paralegal for the Public Defender's Office, at $36.70/hour (16/10) effective 1/2/2024.
5. Traci Smith, Public Defender for the Public Defender's Office, at $6,969.60/biweekly (26/13) effective 12/27/2023.
Variable Hour Pay Increases
1. To increase the hourly rate of pay effective 12/23/2023 for the following individuals in variable hour positions:
Regan Richardson, Clerical Worker for Facilities, at $19.70/hour.
Daniel Breci, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $23.00/hour.
Tyricia Davis, Juvenile Correctional Worker for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $22.00/hour.
To record significant employee anniversaries for January 2024: 5 years-Morgan Boeckholt, Robert Mason, William Mattocks, Jason Gearman, Christopher Lilla, Brianna Palomaki; 10 years-Ellen Boesel, Leah Bouw, Robert Harrison, Lyndee Kamrath, Michael Larson; 20 year-Patricia Hughes, Mark Kadi, Michelle Thomas, Ryan Mickelson.
To record volunteers in County Departments for January 2023. This list is on file at Human Resources.
Notices and Requests
Authorize the Auditor's Office to Publish a Notice to Bidders for Radio Tower Equipment Structures
JUVENILE JUSTICE CENTER
GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE
Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, presented a request for authorization for the Chair to sign the Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for the Juvenile Justice Center. Henry Carlson has prepared a Guaranteed Maximum Prince (GMP) for the Juvenile Justice Center based on the design development in conjunction with Architecure Inc and HDR. A briefing was provided to the Building Committee on December 19 where direction was given to proceed with the approval of the GMP. The total construction cost is proposed at $42,590,000. The total GMP is $50,000,000 which includes both construction and owner contingencies, professional fees, and furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The project is separated in two phases: Phase one is from April 2024 to August 2025 and phase 2 is from August 2025 to November 2026. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to authorize the Chair to sign the Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment for the Juvenile Justice Center. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
EQUIPMENT PURCHASE
Upon the request of Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to authorize the Highway Department to purchase a Bobcat T770 track skid loader utilizing the NASPO State of South Dakota Contract 17286 for a total of $80,362.76. 5 ayes.
Upon the request of Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to authorize the Highway Department to purchase a semi-tractor truck using the Sourcewell Contract for a total cost of $181,450.15. 5 ayes.
RESOLUTIONS
Upon the request of Leah Anderson, Auditor, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve Resolution MC 24-03 to Establish Rates of Pay for Election Workers and Rental rates for Polling Locations for the 2024 Election Cycle. By roll call vote: 4 ayes with Commissioner Beninga abstaining. Public comment was received from Rick Weible.
RESOLUTION MC24-03
TO ESTABLISH RATES OF PAY FOR ELECTION WORKERS AND RENTAL RATE FOR POLLING LOCATIONS
WHEREAS, it may be necessary to appoint election officials in 2024; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to SDCL 12-15-11, the fee paid to election officials shall be established annually by the Board of County Commissioners at its January meeting; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners that for the year 2024, election officials shall be paid as follows:
Precinct Superintendent $250.00 per day
Precinct Deputy $200.00 per day
Absentee Precinct Superintendent $18.00 per hour
Absentee Board, Absentee Assistants, Resolution Board $16.00 per hour and Counting Center Assistants
Precinct setup (Paid to Supt. & Deputy) $15.00 per session
Precinct tear down (Paid to Supt. & Deputy) $15.00 per session
Election School attendance paid to all attendees. $25.00 flat rate
Usage of Personal Cell phone at Precinct (One Individual) $10.00 flat rate
Mileage reimbursement for delivering pollbooks and ballot boxes SDCL 12-15-11
Post-Election Audit Board (Training & Conducting Audit) $18.00 per hour
(ARSD 05:02:23:15)
Rate of rent for polling locations. $200 flat rate
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
Upon the request of Leah Anderson, Auditor, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve Resolution MC 24-04 Establishing Record of 2024 Minnehaha County Designated Polling Places. By roll call vote: 5 ayes. Public comment was received from Penny BayBridge.
RESOLUTION MC24-04
ESTABLISH RECORD OF 2024 MINNEHAHA COUNTY DESIGNATED POLLING PLACES
WHEREAS, pursuant to SDCL § 12-12-1 and § 12-14-1 the County Auditor shall give notice of all designated polling places prior to any election he or she is charged with conducting, and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office intends to make a record of all designated polling places in the County for 2024 elections, now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY the Minnehaha County Commission that the following locations will serve as polling places in 2024:
Precinct Polling Place Address
1-4 Center for Active Generations (Main Campus) 2300 W 46th St
1-5 Center for Active Generations (Main Campus) 2300 W 46th St
1-6 Sunnycrest United Methodist Church 4801 W 41st St
1-9 Peace Lutheran Church 5509 W 41st St
1-10 Sioux Falls First Church 6300 W 41st St
1-17 Sioux Falls First Church 6300 W 41st St
1-19 Calvary Chapel Sioux Falls 1605 W 51st St
2-1 Calvary Chapel Sioux Falls 1605 W 51st St
2-2 Southern Hills United Methodist Church 3400 E 49th St
2-3 Morningside Community Center 2400 S Bahnson Ave
2-6 Westminster Presbyterian Church 3801 E 26th St
2-8 Embrace Church 2800 E 57th St
2-9 Embrace Church 2800 E 57th St
2-14 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 5500 E 57th St
2-17 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 5500 E 57th St
2-18 Eastside Baptist Church 6101 E 49th St
3-1 First Presbyterian Church 2300 S West Ave
3-5 SD Military Heritage Alliance Inc 1600 W Russell St
3-9 Saint Michael’s Catholic Church 1600 S Marion Rd
3-10 Good News Church 1800 S Valley View Rd
3-11 Church at the Gate 6820 W 26th St
3-12 Career & Technical Education Academy 4700 W Career Cir
3-13 Kuehn Park Community Center 2801 S Valley View Rd
3-14 George McGovern Middle School 6221 W Maple St
3-15 Connection Church 201 S Marion Rd
3-16 Memorial Middle School 1401 S Sertoma Ave
3-17 Memorial Middle School 1401 S Sertoma Ave
3-18 George McGovern Middle School 6221 W Maple St
3-19 Prairie West Library 7630 W 26th St
3-20 McCrossan Visitor Center 47135 260th St
4-2 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1600 E 12th St
4-3 East Side Lutheran Church (Barn) 1300 E 10th St
4-4 Wesley United Methodist Church 1700 E 6th St
4-5 The Word of Life Pentecostal Church 3513 N 10th Ave
4-6 Faith Lutheran Church 601 N Cliff Ave
4-7 Kenny Anderson Community Center 3701 E 3rd St
4-8 Saint Lambert’s Catholic Church 1000 S Bahnson Ave
4-9 Grace Lutheran Church 3300 E 18th St
4-10 Center for Active Generations (East) 5500 E Active Generations Pl
4-11 Wild Flower Presbyterian Church 4800 E 6th St
4-12 Hilltop United Methodist Church 1312 S Bahnson Ave
4-13 Grace Lutheran Church 3300 E 18th St
4-15 Lord of Life Lutheran Church 2600 S Sycamore Ave
4-16 The Word of Life Pentecostal Church 3513 N 10th Ave
4-17 Ben Reifel Middle School 6700 E 41st St
4-18 Ben Reifel Middle School 6700 E 41st St
4-19 Kenny Anderson Community Center 3701 E 3rd St
5-1 First Lutheran Church 327 S Dakota Ave
5-2 First Lutheran Church 327 S Dakota Ave
5-3 Zion Lutheran Church 1400 S Duluth Ave
5-4 Dakota Abilities 1116 S 4th Ave
5-6 Hope Lutheran Church 1700 S Cliff Ave
5-7 All Souls Church 2222 S Cliff Ave
5-8 Instructional Planning Center 201 E 38th St
5-9 Our Savior's Lutheran Church 909 W 33rd St
5-10 First Presbyterian Church 2300 S West Ave
5-12 Instructional Planning Center 201 E 38th St
5-15 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
5-16 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
5-18 Faith Family Church 127 N Spring Ave
5-19 St Mark's Lutheran Church 2001 S Elmwood Ave
5-20 Oyate Community Center 2421 W 15th St
5-21 Trinity Baptist Church 2400 W 18th St
5-22 SD Military Heritage Alliance Inc 1600 W Russell St
5-23 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
VP-1 Valley Springs American Legion Club 615 Broadway Ave (Valley Springs)
VP-2 Split Rock Fire Station 7201 E Arrowhead Pkwy
VP-3 Brandon Municipal Golf Course 2100 E Aspen Blvd (Brandon)
VP-4 Mapleton Township Hall 47419 258th St (Renner)
VP-5 Brandon City Hall - Council Chambers 308 S Main Ave (Brandon)
VP-6 Risen Hope Baptist Church 8545 W 26th St
VP-7 Hartford Senior Center (next to City Hall) 119 N Main Ave (Hartford)
VP-8 Humboldt Community Center 118 S Main St (Humboldt)
VP-9 Baltic Elementary Gymnasium 500 3rd St (Baltic)
VP-10 American Legion 504 N Main Ave (Garretson)
VP-11 Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids 701 N Orleans Ave (Dell Rapids)
VP-13 Taopi Community Hall 102 E 3rd St (Colton)
VP-15 Brandon Fire Station 401 N Sioux Blvd (Brandon)
VP-16 Crooks Community Center 701 S West Ave (Crooks)
VP-17 Wall Lake Township Hall 26452 463rd Ave (Hartford)
VP-21 Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids 701 N Orleans Ave (Dell Rapids)
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
Penny BayBridge, Sioux Falls, SD, spoke about election concerns.
Rick Weible, Elkton, SD, spoke about election concerns.
Jennifer Foss, Sioux Falls, SD, spoke about election concerns.
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Bender spoke a recent meeting regarding amendments to the Joint Housing Board.
MOTION by Jean Bender, seconded by Joe Kippley, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (1), (3), (4), and (6) at 10:00 a.m. 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky declared the executive session concluded at 10:45 a.m.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to adjourn at 10:46 a.m. 5 ayes.
The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the total approximate cost of $300.65 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
FACT OF ADOPTION
An ordinance amending Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County.
The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance 16-181-23 on December 26, 2023. This ordinance amended Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County by rezoning the properties legally described as: The W772.8’ N411.9’ S½ Government Lot 2 SW¼ (Ex. H-3) Section 7 T102N-R49W, Minnehaha County, SD., from the A-1 Agricultural District to the C Commercial District and amending the official zoning map referred to in Article 2.03 to include the properties within the C Commercial Zoning District.
The entire ordinance is on file in the office of the County Auditor and available for inspection during regular business hours.
-Leah Anderson, County Auditor
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $22.36 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-4-24-2tc
Minutes of the Town of Sherman
January 2, 2024
The Sherman Town Board met in regular session Tuesday January 2, 2024 @ 7:30pm
Members Present: Gerry Karpen, Dawn Williams, and Cheryl Swenson
Absent: Darrin Trower
Others Present: Ellen Karpen, Larry Sutton, Sgt Munkvold, Deputy Patterson, Deputy Sullivan, Ryan Townsend, Lee Ellis and Kara Duncan
Karpen called the meeting to order.
Routine Business:
Approval of the agenda- Motion by Williams to approve the agenda, 2nd by Karpen-all ayes, motion carried.
Minutes of the December 5, 2023 meeting were read—Williams made a motion to approve the minutes, 2nd by Karpen—all Ayes, motion carried.
The Treasurer’s report was read—Williams made a motion to approve the Treasurers report as read, 2nd by Karpen—all Ayes, motion carried
Claims Approved to be paid:
Minnehaha Community Water $50.00 water, Excel Energy $288.40 for street lights, $57.62 for town hall lights, $29.44 for park lights, Garretson Gazette $22.37 for Nov. minutes, Lowe Sand & Gravel $630.00 for 3 loads of gravel, Palisades Propane $202.75 for propane, Broken JN Farms, LLC $665.00 for 2x spraying for mosquitos, SECOG $222.00 for annual dues.
Old Business:
None
New Business:
1. Ryan Townsend—260 Summer Ave—discussion was held on said property.
2. Set salaries for the year—tabled until next month
3. Appoint Town Clerk, Treasurer, Paper and City Attorney-Karpen made a motion to keep the same as last year, Cheryl Swenson Town clerk and Treasurer, Paper is Garretson Gazette, and city attorney Dean Hammer, 2nd by Williams—all ayes motion carried.
4. Trower’s 3 year term will be up this year.
5. Earliest date to file petitions is Jan. 26, 2024. If anyone is interested in being on the town board, you can get a petition from Swenson. Need at least 3 names on your petition.
Williams made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Karpen—all ayes. Next regular meeting will be February 6, 2024 @ 7:30pm. Cheryl Swenson Town Clerk
Published at the total approximate cost of $25.24 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-000005
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry,
For a Change of Name to
Jayson Ryder Lamar Elsberry
CIV: 24-000005
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry to Jayson Ryder Lamar Elsberry.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Cathy Arant, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-8
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Erica Rebecca Jones,
For a Change of Name to
Erica Rebecca Alden
CIV: 24-8
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Erica Rebecca Jones, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Erica Rebecca Jones to Erica Rebecca Alden.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-9
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Casey Daniel Nelson,
For a Change of Name to
Casey Daniel Alden
CIV: 24-9
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Casey Daniel Nelson, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Casey Daniel Nelson to Casey Daniel Alden.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Minnehaha County, SD, requests formal bids for Radio Tower Equipment Structures.
Sealed bids will be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, no later than 10:15 a.m. on January 24, 2024. Bids will be publicly opened and read at the Commission Training Room, 3rd Floor of the Minnehaha County Administration Building at 10:30am.
Specifications and proposal forms that must be used are available at Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, located at 415 N. Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Facilities Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the county.
A pre-bid meeting will be held on _____January 16_______, 2024, at _1:00__ p.m. in the Commission Training Room, 3rd Floor of the Minnehaha County Administration Building.
Published at the total approximate cost of $13.85 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
NOTICE OF VACANCY
MUNICIPALITY OF GARRETSON
The following offices will become vacant due to the expiration of the present term or due to the resignation of office of the elective officer:
Mayor, 2 year term
City Council -Ward 1- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 1- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 2- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 3- 2 year term
Circulation of nominating petitions may begin on January 26th 2024 and petitions may be filed in the office of the finance officer located at 705 N Main Avenue Garretson SD 57030 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., central; time not later than the 23rd day of February, 2024, or mailed by registered mail not later than the 23rd day of February, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. central time. Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $18.53 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-2tc
NOTICE OF VACANCIES ON SCHOOL BOARD
GARRETSON SCHOOL
DISTRICT
NO. 49-4
The following school board positions will become vacant due to the expiration of the present term of office.
Two at-large positions for a term of three (3) years:
Incumbent: Jodi Gloe
Incumbent: Andy Hulscher
Circulation of nominating petitions may begin on January 26th and petitions may be filed in the office of the business manager located at 505 2nd St., Garretson, SD 57030, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. central time, not later than February 23rd, at 5:00 p.m., or mailed by registered mail not later than February 23rd, at 5:00 p.m.
Jacob Schweitzer
Business Manager
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $17.25 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice to Bidders
Minnehaha County Highway Department requests bids for “Gravel Crushing”.
This project consists of crushing 13,661 cubic yards of gravel and 6,530 cubic yards of asphalt millings. These aggregates are located at the County's gravel pit, 26265 467th Ave, Hartford, SD.
Online bids shall be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, not later than 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Bids shall be publicly opened and read at the Auditor’s Office at 10:30am.
For this project, bids will be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy. Sealed paper copies to be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Bidding information can be downloaded at www.questcdn.com. Reference QuestCDN project number 8914454 for a non-refundable charge of $15.00. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or for assistance in membership registration, downloading digital project information and vBid online bid submittal. Project bid documents must be downloaded from QuestCDN which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to vBid online bidding for the submittal of your bid.
For sealed paper bids, specifications and proposal forms that must be used are also available at Minnehaha County Highway Department located at 2124 E 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Highway Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the County.
Published at the total approximate cost of $23.79 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice to Bidders
MC24-01 Micro-Surfacing and Crack Seal
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project consists of crack sealing and micro-surfacing approximately 22.58 miles of 2-lane highway and milling and micro-surfacing approximately 2.36 miles of 2-lane highway in Minnehaha County. Alternate 1 includes an additional 10.07 miles of crack sealing and micro-surfacing and Alternate 2 could include another 4.04 miles of crack sealing and micro-surfacing. Work consists of routing and sealing existing cracks, micro-surfacing the existing asphalt surfacing, grinding rumble strips, fog sealing the rumble strips, and new striping.
Online bids shall be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, not later than 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Bids shall be publicly opened and read at the Auditor’s Office at 10:30am.
For this project, bids will be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy. Sealed paper copies to be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Bidding information can be downloaded at www.questcdn.com. Reference QuestCDN project number 8913359 for a non-refundable charge of $22.00. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or for assistance in membership registration, downloading digital project information and vBid online bid submittal. Project bid documents must be downloaded from QuestCDN which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to vBid online bidding for the submittal of your bid.
For sealed paper bids, specifications and proposal forms that must be used are also available at Minnehaha County Highway Department located at 2124 E 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Highway Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the County.
Published at the total approximate cost of $26.48 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Town of Sherman Notice of Vacancy
One three year term on the Sherman Town Board.
Earliest day to begin petition circulation is Jan. 26, 2024. Deadline
For filing nominating petitions if Feb. 23, 2024 at 5:00 pm. Petitions
May be obtained and must be returned to the Town Clerk.
Cheryl Swenson, Town Clerk
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $10.22 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Members of the Lions Club in Brandon are exploring whether a branch could be started in Garretson; parks were at the top of the agenda at Monday's city council meeting as the council decided whether to decrease the length of stays at Split Rock Park; and we look back at the top stories of 2023. Plus, the Jesse James Wrestling Invitational was a success, and basketball is back in full swing after the holiday break, plus more!
E-Edition Subscribers and Mail-Edition Subscribers Access More Features!
The front page is always free! Subscriptions ensure the future of this newspaper, a valued piece of the community.
E-Edition subscribers get access to a Subscribers' Area, and are able to view extra photos, articles, and an issue of this week's paper in both a Flipbook and PDF format. Mail-Edition subscribers receive access to full front page articles and extra photos, as well as full archives.
The Garretson Gazette sends a weekly newsletter to let you know when the next issue is available, along with a weekly run-down of the week's articles. To receive the Gazette in your email inbox, please ensure you enter our email address () into your "safe emails" list and subscribe to our newsletter using the form below. Thanks!
Nelda Grace Hove, age, 91, passed away on January 7, 2024, at the Dells Nursing and Rehab Center in Dell Rapids, SD.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church in Garretson, SD with Pastor Corey Scott officiating. The burial followed at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Garretson.
In lieu of flowers, family wish memorials, which will be directed to the Zion Lutheran Church.
Nelda Grace Gortmaker, the youngest of 5 children, was born to Edward and Nellie Viet Gortmaker on November 14, 1932, in Monroe, SD. She was named after her mother, which she was very proud of. She grew up in the Monroe and Parker area, graduating from Monroe High School. While in high school, she was active in Volleyball, Basketball, Mixed Chorus, Girls Glee Chorus, and the Senior Class 3-act Play.
After graduation, which was May 17, 1951, she moved to Sioux Falls and got her first job at Manchester Biscuit Company. A couple of years later she met and married the love of her life, Dennis G. Hove on September 28, 1953, in Garretson. After living in Sioux Falls for a year, Nelda and Dennis moved to Garretson to raise their four children.
Over the years, Nelda was involved at Zion Lutheran Church, American Legion Auxiliary, Tops and Kops Club, and a volunteer at the Garretson Museum which she loved. She cleaned for the First National Bank and was a dietary aide at Palisade Manor until her retirement in 2012 after working for 26 years.
Nelda loved traveling! Nelda and Dennis traveled to many destinations making lots of wonderful memories. After Dennis’ death, Nelda continued traveling with her son, Kevin. They went to such places as Alaska, New England, Washington DC, New York City, San Francisco, Bransen, MO, LA and many other places on the East Coast. Her favorite destination was Alaska. Nelda was a diehard fan of the Minnesota Twins. You could always find her in front of the TV cheering them on even at family gatherings.
Nelda left a wonderful, delicious legacy to her family. For many occasions, she made homemade cinnamon bread and strawberry rhubarb jam. She taught her granddaughter, Heidi to make bread and her son Kevin to make the jam. So, the tradition will go on. Every Christmas she would always make these as gifts for her children.
Nelda moved to Edgewood Vista Assisted Living in Sioux Falls in May of 2018. She was then diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. In February of 2023, she moved to Dells Nursing and Rehab Center in Dell Rapids, SD where she passed away at the age of 91 on January 7, 2024. She will be greatly missed.
Nelda is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Donna Aanenson of Garretson; sons, Kevin Hove of Sioux Falls, and Kory (Lisa) Hove of Valley Springs; six grandchildren, Scott (Danielle) Shelby, (Kacey), Heidi (Tony), Roos, Lindsey (Garrett) Bratland, Kelsey (Sidney) McKinney, and Kaden; 14 great-grandchildren, Megan, Autumn, Collin, Austin, Haylee, Paxtin, Emersyn, Genesis, Addilyn, Braxtyn, Hayedyn, Henrik, Kaiyah, and Wyhatt; her sister, Lila Kostboth of Freemont, NE; sister-in-law, Janet (Tom) Vandersnick of Ft. Pierre; brother-in-law, Bruce Greiner; and many nieces and nephews and other family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dennis; her son, Kent; son-in-law, Randy; brother, Bud; two sisters, Kathleen and Betty; brothers-in-law, Wayne, Cal, Eddie, Myrl; sisters-in-law, Mary and Audrey.
Members of the Lions Club in Brandon are exploring whether a branch could be started in Garretson; parks were at the top of the agenda at Monday's city council meeting as the council decided whether to decrease the length of stays at Split Rock Park; and we look back at the top stories of 2023. Plus, the Jesse James Wrestling Invitational was a success, and basketball is back in full swing after the holiday break, plus more!
You can receive your newspaper through email!
The Garretson Gazette sends a weekly email letting you know when this week's issue is available, along with a run-down of each week's articles. Please ensure you enter our email address () into your "safe emails" list and subscribe to our email newsletter using the form below. Thanks!
As of December 31, Deb Matthiesen has retired after 35 years with the United States Postal Service.
Matthiesen told the Gazette that she started at the distribution plant in Sioux Falls in 1988, doing various tasks, working with sorting machines, mail deliveries and routes. In 1992, when the USPS did its major reorganization, she got her first promotion shortly thereafter.
“I’d done various different jobs at the plant,” Matthiesen said. “But that’s when I got my first managerial position. In 1995, my husband and I moved to an acreage outside of Garretson. I continued to work at the post office in Sioux Falls, but in 2001 the Garretson postmaster retired and I was selected to become the new postmaster here.”
“I was pretty excited about it, both for the job itself and for the first time I would have weekends off. My shift in Sioux Falls, I had Mondays and Tuesdays off. Now the full weekends didn’t last as I did start driving some of our Saturday routes however, but that was all right. I also really enjoyed the change of pace.”
“At the plant in Sioux Falls, the work never stops, you just do your work and continue until your shift ends and the next one takes over and continues where you left off. In Garretson and post offices like it, you run the show; you do everything, you sort, you deliver, you open the store, you help the customer and do every little thing the post office does, but you and your team handle it all yourselves, until you close at the end of the day and the last driver goes home. That provides a kind of satisfaction, knowing you got the job done for that day, and you’re ready to start the next one.”
Matthiesen has also been a very active member of the Garretson Volunteer Ambulance Service.
“It’s something I’m extremely proud of, that I enjoy doing and that I will continue to do,” she said. “I will probably be doing it more often now.”
“I do want to talk especially about that for a minute. In my role as Postmaster, I get to know a lot of people face to face, and the number of people who’ve gotten to know me is amazing to me sometimes. Working with the Ambulance, I can’t convey to you the number of times that it’s helped me in my work. When you get to a scene, people are scared and greatly concerned. When they see somebody they know, when they see a friendly face, it helps in ways you can’t imagine. We have an excellent squad of Firefighters, Fire/Rescue team and the very best ambulance crew you can imagine, and we all work very well together. I’m proud to serve with them. It’s one of the many reasons I enjoy living in this community.”
Since the 1980s, how the post office operates and delivers the mail has changed drastically. Nelson said that she recalls a time where there were no computers on the sorting floor and only a few in the offices. Now, they’re everywhere and everything throughout the mailing system is managed by computers, from forms and package tracking to regular meetings.
Article continues below
Free article brought to you by these proud businesses:
Article continues below
Enjoy this free article! The Gazette is proud to present the local news of Garretson, South Dakota, giving its subscribers news of interest, school coverage, and local/statewide government coverage. Your support of the Gazette and its advertisers ensures this coverage will continue into the future. Consider getting your subscription today! E-edition subscribers get access to their issues sooner than anyone else, both on this site and in your email inbox.
“By far though, the biggest change is volume,” she said. “Volume has steadily decreased while costs have continuously increased. These things are related. We still must make our deliveries to every customer, wherever they are, and if we have less volume overall, then it’s less resources we can draw from to make those deliveries. You started seeing it more in the 1990s as email, the internet and other electronic communications became mainstream. Even with the spikes of the advent of online shopping and COVID, volume is still down and in decline.”
Garretson though, as in many things, bucks this trend a bit.
“We have a strong local business community that uses our Postal Service for large parts of their business needs. Alliance Communications, Nordstrom’s Auto, and Garbage N More with their regular postcards, all of these businesses have helped keep our local post office strong for our area.”
As she worked her final days at USPS as 2023 likewise ended, Matthiesen said that she was feeling a bit nostalgic.
“What I will miss, is seeing the people,” she told us. “That personal contact is wonderful. Helping a customer find a lost package. As I’ve got thirty-five years of experience in the postal service, I know how things work and how the system works and I’m usually able to figure out what went wrong and where, and I can locate the missing letter or package. It hasn’t really hit me yet, in a lot of ways I can’t believe I’m done. I just want to say thank you to everyone for your patronage and friendship.”
Matthiesen said that she’s looking forward to being a farm wife and a grandma, and aside from continuing to work with the ambulance, she might do a bit of traveling and vacationing too.
Mike VanWhe is taking over as the new postmaster for the Garretson post office and was installed in the job as of Dec. 28th, 2023. Look for an introductory profile article with him in an upcoming issue of this newspaper.
UPDATE 1/8/24: A prior known last name of Nelson was used in the printed edition of the article. This has been corrected in the online version.
The City of Garretson was awarded $600,000 in the form of a grant to re-build 4th Street by the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), it was announced on December 22.
The "4th Street Project" has been in development for several years now and follows a re-build of infrastructure and streets on 3rd Street, Main Avenue, and the streets along the truck route that included Railroad Avenue, Essex Street, and Depot Avenue.
A water study conducted in late 2022 showed that the water main under the street was in dire need of replacement. In that study, the cast-iron pipes severely underperformed expected water flow rates at the three hydrants located along that route.
[FILE PHOTO] A Power Point presentation accompanied the water study results given by Infrastructure Design. Here, the engineers outlined the first set of recommended improvements in order of priority, with the first a replacement of the main line on 4th Street from Main Avenue to Rose Avenue.
The full construction project will include a replacement of the water main, sewer line, curb and gutter, sidewalks, and street, and an early 2023 estimate placed the project at $3 million for 4th Street alone. The expected five-and-a-half-month project will be split into two parts, with the first constructed in 2024 that will include all of the infrastructure from Main Avenue to Sherman Avenue. The second part is expected to be completed in 2025 and will span Sherman Avenue to Oak Drive.
A third part, which would include the side streets and 5th Street from Center to Manor Circle, is planned for 2026 but has not yet received an estimate of cost.
The $600,000 grant was awarded by the South Dakota Department of Transportation and was part of a $4.4 million economic development grant fund geared towards infrastructure improvements to counties and smaller communities across South Dakota. Communities must have a population of less than 5,000 residents to qualify, and do not include the costs for utility work. Only those streets that are slated for construction or reconstruction and considered major streets in town are eligible. A major street in the SDDOT definition included those that service business areas/Main Street, elevators, schools, and hospitals.
Fourth Street is not only a major thoroughfare to Main Avenue and the business district, but also serves Palisade Healthcare, Avera Clinic, and the Garretson Ambulance Services.
“The economic development grant program is a key way for the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) to assist local governments with infrastructure improvements,” said Transportation Secretary Joel Jundt. “Without the grant funds, many rural communities would not have the financial ability to improve access and foster quality of life opportunities for residents today and into the future.”
The grants provided funding for 80 percent of the project up to $600,000. Other grants were awarded to Colton for their 4th and 6th Street project, Mount Vernon, Oglala Sioux Tribe, Tyndall, Tripp County, and Wagner. Union County received an agri-business grant to service a road leading to Farmers Coop Grain Elevator.
SIOUX FALLS – The Minnehaha County Commission meeting room was again filled with people last week, and most of them were there to talk about an agenda item on raises for elected department heads.
Former Minnehaha County Commissioners Jeff Barth (left) and Cindy Heiberger (at podium) were at this week's commission meeting to support the current commissioners as they discussed salary increases for elected department heads. While the majority of the people in the room supported the work done by county auditor Leah Anderson, and a few of them were hostile toward the commissioners, all of the elected officials in question received a 7.5% pay increase. (Photo by Dave Baumeister)
Those office holders are the State’s Attorney, Sheriff, Treasurer, Register of Deeds and the Auditor.
As requested at the previous meeting, three resolutions were prepared and presented by Human Resources Director Carey Deavers.
The first resolution called for a 7.5% raise for all five elected department heads.
The second called for a 7.5% raise for four of the department heads, but no raise for the county auditor.
Both of those resolutions were asked for by Commissioner Joe Kippley.
Commissioner Jen Bleyenberg asked for a resolution offering a 5% raise for all of the elected department heads, as that was what commissioners raised other county salaries for 2024.
People supporting Minnehaha County Leah Anderson, who made up most of the gallery, were very much against other department heads receiving a raise that Anderson would not.
Most commentors jumped on that saying that “option two should be scratched and should never have been presented.”
And when public comment had finished and the issue went back to commissioners for discussion, a motion and a vote, that second option was never discussed.
The week before when Kippley did ask for a resolution on not giving the auditor a raise, he also asked that one be prepared to give her, and other elected department heads, a 7.5% raise – 2.5% more than what was originally budgeted for.
While this was not the 19.5% increase that Anderson, herself, asked for, it was 2.5% more than was planned for in September.
And probably 2.5% more than the elected officials would have gotten if the matter preceded naturally.
At the meeting, Kippley thought the 7.5% raise was fair, since along with the 5% increase, other county employees also get raises for “steps,” which are based on their years of service.
WANT TO SEE MORE?
More article below - Read with a mailed subscription or full on-line subscription!
Your financial support of this locally-owned, locally-run newspaper and its advertisers ensures we can continue bringing you great content. Thank you for your support!
MAIL SUBSCRIBERS: Register to receive full access to archives, past issues, extra photos, and more. (Allow up to 3 business days for full activation.) On a recurring subscription? You likely already have an account!
Students of all ages are encouraged to travel the world, and over the past ten years, Michelle Pliska has been making that possible for Garretson students and adults.
In June 2023, a group of students traveled to Germany, Czech Republic, and France, experiencing the Eiffel Tower in Paris as one of many sights. //photo courtesy 605 Travel Facebook page.
This summer, she has an adult travel group heading to Italy and Greece, and June 2-12, 2026 she will lead her final official tour with Garretson students as she hands the reins to High School Social Studies teacher Reece Moehlenbrink.
“There is an opportunity to have the world be your classroom,” she said. “There’s so much learning that goes on…seeing the things they’re reading about in textbooks come alive.”
Pliska’s tours have been through EF Tours, one of the preeminent companies for student educational travel. They provide an immersive experience through cultural exploration and historical education. They work to bring people together throughout the world, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, and ability.
Education from experiencing the history of Europe is not the only benefit, Pliska pointed out. “The other part of the learning is like a journey for your self-growth. It encourages problem-solving and social communication, having to figure out how to get along with each other within the group… There’s just so many levels of learning that goes on.”
Every tour has a guide that travels with the group, and two meals per day plus flights and admission fees are taken care of.
Oftentimes, the meals are the best way for attendees to experience the culture as they sample local cuisine and dining preferences.
Pliska said students have found it to be the trip of their lifetime, opening their eyes to other cultural experiences.
On trips, attendees travel by plane, train, bus, and in the case of the Scandinavian tour, ferry. The trip will begin in Oslo, Norway, and finish in Helsinki, Finland after visiting Stockholm, Sweden, Copenhagen, Denmark, and other smaller municipalities. While in Helsinki, attendees will have a day trip to visit Tallinn, Estonia, as well.
While the up-front cost for the trips can seem prohibitive, Pliska pointed out that many students have successfully paid for their trips with their part-time job. She has spaced them out in a way that allows for plenty of time to make monthly payments of around $200.
To get in on the Scandinavian trip, a deposit of $99 must be made at the time of registration. Right now is the best time to register, as that deposit includes a $200 discount.
Beyond the experience, high school students who attend can apply for credits for high school or college if they wish.
However, despite the focus on the students’ experiences, all ages are invited to join the trip.
“I’d invite any former graduates or anybody that wants to come along,” Pliska said.
Another opportunity for travel is this coming summer. That trip is headed to Greece and Italy, and is adult-focused. The nine nights will include visits to the Colosseum, Pompeii ruins, and the Parthenon, and will be leaving Sioux Falls on June 7. Only a few spots are still available.
“Some of the best experiences are the ones not written here [on the itinerary],” Pliska said. “They’ll find treasures along the way, and that’s sometimes the best ones.”
