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Protecting Property Rights Takes Courage & Advocacy

Carrie Moritz
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By Lura Roti for South Dakota Farmers Union

            County Commissioners have the power to protect landowner rights. It requires bravery. And if you think your land is not in danger of private interests using eminent domain to lay claim to it – just wait.

            These were the messages shared by panelists to a packed convention hall during the Landowner Rights panel discussion held in Huron during the South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention November 30.

            “Ultimately, this all comes down to you on the ground. And it comes down to courage,” said Brian Jorde, Managing Lawyer, Domina Law Group. “Last session legislators did not have courage. For those of you who have not been active on this. We need you because you are next. If slow but steady erosion of property rights is not confronted, you will be next.”

            Jorde was joined by Suzanne Smith, Spink County Commissioner; Drew Dennert, Brown County Commissioner and Curt Soehl, Sioux Falls City Councilor.

            “The panelists did an outstanding job expressing the intimidation these County Commissions had to go through to protect their landowners – but the ordinances worked. They were upheld by the Public Utilities Commission,” said Ed Fischbach, a fourth-generation Mellette crop and cattle farmer who has been advocating for property rights since receiving a survey notice letter from Summit Carbon Solutions July 2021.

            The ordinances Fischbach references were established by County Commissions and put setbacks in place that restrict how close a CO2 pipeline can be to residences and high concentration areas such as schools and roadways.

            Today, only five South Dakota counties have ordinances in place. More need to follow suite said Smith who has served as a Spink County Commissioner since 2017.

            She urges other counties to pass ordinances because they protect property owners and citizens of the county.

            “We were harassed from very beginning on this from Summit, “we are going to sue you, we will sue you.” “That’s fine, go ahead and sue us.” And they did,’” Smith said.

            Smith shared that when a chair of another county commission told her she was brave for writing the ordinance, she said, “There’s nothing brave about doing the right thing.”

            The other counties that have similar ordinances are: Brown, McPherson, Moody and Minnehaha. To view Spink County Hazardous Liquid Pipelines ordinance, it is on the homepage of the county website www.spinkcounty-sd.org.

Safety of rural citizens is a concern

            Using eminent domain for private gain goes against landowner rights policy established by South Dakota Farmers Union members decades ago, said Doug Sombke, President of the organization. And because current state laws do not fully protect private property rights, Sombke encourages county governments to step up to protect landowners’ rights.

            “Every problem that we face is local. The one way to stop this and keep our families safe is if County Commissions across South Dakota pass ordinances to make it safe for their citizens,” Sombke said.

            In addition to violating property rights, safety of a CO2 pipeline was another concern discussed.

            “My concern would not be for the City of Sioux Falls, who has one of the top 37 fire departments in the country. I don’t know what a rural volunteer fire department would do …We all know they (CO2 pipelines) are very dangerous if they were to erupt. If you have a rural fire department that is taking care of these pipelines I would every concerned for safety of the crews or the residents,” said Soehl, who served 20 years on Sioux Falls Fire Department and was captain in the Hazardous Materials Unit.

            Safety is also a concern expressed by Fischbach. “This pipeline is only buried four-feet in the ground. How many of us have buried our combines more than four-feet in a wet year? And if you hit it, you are done,” said Fischbach referencing the fact that if a CO2 pipeline springs a leak, the result is much different than a natural gas or fuel pipeline. “The gas will asphyxiant you – you will not be able to breath. This is the testimony I heard from first responders to a CO2 leak in Mississippi.”

            Safety concerns are among the reasons Ipswich farmers, Lance and Sarah Perrion called on their County Commissioners to establish an ordinance a while back.

            “When we asked what the county would do to protect us from a leak, they said it would be our responsibility,” explained Sarah Perrion. “So, they expect my kindergartener to carry a gas mask to school?”

            While the Perrions wait for Edmunds County to implement an ordinance, they join a growing number of rural citizens willing to show up to support South Dakotans First Coalition. It’s the nonpartisan coalition South Dakota Farmers Union helped launch in October of 2023.

            South Dakotans First Coalition is dedicated to safeguarding and upholding the property rights of individuals against the encroachment and profit-seeking actions of corporations. The bottom line is no eminent domain for private gain.

            Yankton farmers, David and Ione Cap are grateful that something is being done to help protect the land that has been in David’s family for more than a century.

            “The ground that our cattle graze today was cared for by my forefathers who had it before me. They took good care of it,” said Cap, 82. “I have taken good care of it and I hope that when I pass it on to our grandchildren it is in even better shape than when it was passed to me.”

            To learn more about South Dakotans First Coalition, visit www.southdakotansfirst.com. And to learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union supports family farmers, ranchers and rural communities, visit www.sdfu.org.

Public Notices published December 7, 2023

Carrie Moritz
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Public Notices published December 7, 2023

Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for Nov. 28, 2023

            THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on November 28, 2023, pursuant to adjournment on November 21, 2023. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, and Karsky. 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 Beninga, to approve the agenda. 4 ayes

CONSENT AGENDA

            MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve the consent agenda. By roll call vote: 4 ayes. The consent agenda includes the following items:

            Commission Meeting Minutes for November 21, 2023

            Bills to be Paid $1,302,370.52

            3200 RUSSELL LLC Motels $435, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Lease-Rental Agreement $170.52, ACTIVE DATA SYSTEMS Professional Services $3750, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Automotive/Small Equipment $119.11, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Gas Oil & Diesel $166.22, ANDERSON, JENNIFER Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $2539.12, AVERA MCKENNAN Professional Services $359.91, AXON ENTERPRISE INC Safety & Rescue Equipment $314.4, BIRMINGHAM & CWACH L Attorney Fees $370.45, BLACKSTRAP INC Road Material Inventory $42057.23, BRAUN, MASON Investigators Expenses $145.86, BURNS, JASON Investigators Expenses $169.83, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Maintenance Contracts $45.5, CIVIL DESIGN INC Architects & Engineers $22700, COMPUTER FORENSIC RE Professional Services $12570, COUNTRY MEADOWS SF L Welfare Rent $669, DELL MARKETING LP Data Processing Equipment $1396.33, DIESEL MACHINERY INC Automotive/Small Equipment $96.38, EH HOSPITALITY LLC Welfare Rent $250, ENGLISH LAW Attorney Fees $6300, ERIN M JOHNSON PLLC Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $6206, ERIN M JOHNSON PLLC Crisis Intervention Program $53.5, GEOTEK ENGINEERING & Architects & Engineers $1831.75, GLOBAL TEL LINK (GT Telephone $11.94, GRAHAM TIRE CO NORTH Automotive/Small Equipment $820.52, HEALTH & LAW RESOURC Professional Services $250, I STATE TRUCK CENTER Trucks/Tractors/Trailers $54396, INTERSTATE OFFICE PR Office Supplies $720.01, JEFFERSON PARTNERS L Transportation $781.45, JOHN ZOMER Sign Deposits $50, KOCH, ELIZABETH J Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $400, KRUSE LAW OFFICE Attorney Fees $2900, LEADS ONLINE LLC Investigators Expenses $3626, LEWIS DRUGS INC Pharmacies $545.41, LG EVERIST INC Bldg/Yard Repair & Maintenance $316.51, LOVING, PHILIP Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $1173.34, LUTHER, JEFF Medical Director $2750, MATTHEW AND SHANA NE Abatement Interest $55.8, MEADOWS AT GRAYSTONE Welfare Rent $3375, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Clinics - Auxiliary Services $90, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Miscellaneous Expense $207793.37, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Welfare Utilities $54.81, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Welfare Utilities $182.89, MIDSTATES UNIFORM & Other Supplies $690.9, NAPA AUTO PARTS Automotive/Small Equipment $11.62, OSBORN, ROXANE R Court Reporters $4402.6, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $2500, POMPS TIRE SERVICE I Automotive/Small Equipment $328.38, POMPS TIRE SERVICE I Truck Repairs & Maintenance $1451.82, PRAHM CONSTRUCTION I Contracted Construction $144000, PRICE, THOMAS L Professional Services $3360, PURPLE COMMUNICATION Interpreters $550, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Printing/Forms $372.04, SALEM, KARLA R Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $1842.5, SANFORD CLINIC Contract Services $27777.66, SCILAWFORENSICS LTD Professional Services $700, SD STATE BAR Memberships $12290, SHORT ELLIOTT HENDRI Architects & Engineers $14586.78, SIOUX EMPIRE FAIR AS Miscellaneous Expense $12500, SIOUX FALLS CITY Contracted Construction $642038.91, SIOUX FALLS CITY Electricity $10804.59, SIOUX FALLS CITY Water - Sewer $14324.42, SIOUX FALLS MINISTRY Welfare Rent $1530, SIOUX FALLS RUBBER S Office Supplies $246.77, SOUTHEASTERN BEHAVIO Professional Services $3537.5, SRF CONSULTING GROUP Architects & Engineers $1770, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $4151, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $723, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Inmate Supplies $2196, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $76.99, STREICHERS INC Volunteer Pers Items $1554, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $801.11, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $1781.23, TENNANT SALES AND SE Automotive/Small Equipment $257.63, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $2461.25, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $3692.66, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $50.

            The following reports were received and placed on file in the Auditor's Office:

Juvenile Detention Center Report for September, 2023

Juvenile Detention Center Report for Quarter 3, 2023

October 2023 Accounting Month End Reports

Routine Personnel Actions

Step Increases

            1. Robin Brust, Senior Property Technician for Equalization, at $24.74/hour (12/4) effective 12/2/2023.

            2. Melissa Hopf, Human Resources Generalist for Human Resources, at $34.11/hour (17/7) effective 11/26/2023.

            3. Hassanen Al-Habubi, Corrections System Operator for the Jail, at $20.81/hour (10/2) effective 11/14/2023.

            4. Nathan Krueger, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $33.27/hour (14/12) effective 10/4/2023.

            5. Muslim Alinizi, Juvenile Correctional I for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $24.16/hour (13/2) effective11/14/2023.

            6. Melissa Godber, Museum Interpreter for the Museum, at $21.86/hour (9/5) effective 11/30/2023.

            7. Molly Engquist, Curator of Exhibits for the Museum, at $3,407.20/biweekly (19/12) effective 11/29/2023.

            8. Anna Kirchenwitz, Victim Witness Assistant for the State's Attorney's Office, at $31.67/hour (16/6) effective 11/7/2023.

AMBULANCE ORDINANCE

PUBLIC HEARING

            Commissioner Kippley arrived at 9:03 a.m.

            Jason Gearman, Director of Emergency Management, was present for the second reading and public hearing on the revision to the ambulance ordinance service area map. There are three main reasons for the service area map changes. The first reason is that Crooks has previously contracted with MedStar as the surrounding area is MedStar's service area. In 2022, Crooks decided to contract with Dells Rapids Ambulance, which has caused some issues with dispatch in certain scenarios, where one side of the street is Dell Rapids Ambulance and the other side may be MedStar. The second reason for the update is that the service areas have not been updated since 2016 and, since that time, the City of Sioux Falls and other towns in Minnehaha County have expanded their city limits. The final reason for the update is that the update will avoid ambulances traveling through other ambulances' service areas while responding to their calls unless it is a mutual aid situation. All the Minnehaha County ambulance services have provided input into the proposed changes to the service area map and have agreed with the changes.

            Chair Bender asked for proponents and opponents to speak on the topic. There were no proponents or opponents in attendance to speak on the topic.

            MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Beninga, to adopt the Revised Ambulance Ordinance Service Area Map with an effective date of January 5, 2024. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

            Upon the request of Jason Gearman, Director of Emergency Management, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to authorize the Auditor's Office to publish a Notice of Ordinance Fact of Adoption. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

TEXT AMENDMENT

PUBLIC HEARING

            Kevin Hoekman, Planner, was present for the second reading and public hearing to consider an amendment to the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County to Regulate Intermodal Shipp/Storage Containers. Shipping containers are increasingly being used for various purposes, including individual storage and as building blocks for construction throughout Minnehaha County. The increasing use of shipping containers is leading to increasing complaints by neighbors concerned about the unsightliness of the metal boxes. Regulations regarding the use of shipping containers do not exist in the zoning ordinance, but the most recent building code book includes a section to regulate the use of shipping containers as a building material for larger structures such as sheds and even houses. The Planning Commission began a review of several ordinances throughout the country during the May 22nd meeting with additional review being held during the August 28th meeting. The final draft was reviewed and unanimously approved by the Planning Commission during the October 23, 2023, meeting. The proposed ordinance makes changes to three sections of the zoning ordinance. The greatest amount of change takes place in the accessory building section of the additional use chapter of the ordinance. Regulations for Intermodal shipping/storage containers are included with general requirements and specific to each zoning district. The temporary use section added a 90-day allowance for shipping containers without a building permit. The proposed revision also includes an addition to the definitions chapter.

            Chair Bender asked for proponents and opponents to speak on the topic. There were no proponents or opponents in attendance to speak on the topic.

            MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Kippley, to amend the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County to Regulate Intermodal Shipping/Storage Containers. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

ALCOHOL LICENSE

            A public hearing was held to consider a liquor license renewal application for the Safari Bar & Grill due to a liquor license compliance check violation that occurred in the current license year. Representatives from the Safari Bar & Grill were present for the hearing and stated that they hold training regarding the checking of id's to ensure that the person is over the age of 21, employees must pass a test regarding the training that they received, and an incentive is given if the employees pass the compliance check. MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Kippley, to approve a liquor license renewal application for Safari Bar & Grill. By roll call vote: 4 ayes 1 nay Beninga.

PRESENTATIONS

            Eric Kunzweiler, InterLakes Community Action Partnership Chief Executive Officer, gave a presentation on the services provided by the organization over the past twelve months. According to the latest American Community Survey, an estimated 9.5% of the Minnehaha County reported incomes under the poverty line. Some of the highlights include the services provided by the weatherization program, Early Head Start/Head Start, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, assistance given to those in need of affordable housing, and other housing issues. InterLakes Community Action Partnership also helps with assistance with prescription needs or navigating the healthcare system. Finally, InterLakes Community Action Partnership also provides referrals to help gain access to programs and services from partner agencies.

            Amy Carter, Children's Home Society Program Director, gave a briefing on the Children's Home Society highlighting the following areas: program updates which include a move to a new facility as well as organization name change; services provided by the organization; the needs of the organization in the community as well as the outcomes for the organization. Sheriff Milstead spoke about  the partnership between the Sheriff's Department and the Children's Home Society. A brief explanation of the funding sources for the Children's Home Society was also highlighted.

            Kris Graham, Southeastern Behavioral Health CEO, presented on the children and counseling services, which included highlighting the services provided, groups that are available through the organization, as well as the assessments that are used. The presentation also highlighted the Public Defenders Alternative Sentencing Program, which provides the following services: case management, psychiatry, individual & group therapy, recovery services, medication management, employment connection, and a benefits specialist.

RESOLUTION

            Leah Anderson, Auditor, presented a request for approval for a resolution to define and adjust the election precinct boundaries in Minnehaha County. The Auditor's Office has spent many months evaluating precinct boundaries for Minnehaha County. The Legislative, Municipal, and other boundaries as well as population increases were considered throughout the evaluation process. The Auditor's Office have identified changes to 37 precincts, added 10 precincts, and eliminated 4 precincts. The goal of the proposed changes was to reduce the number of precincts with multiple legislative districts to a minimum and to balance the population of each precinct to a more manageable number. MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve Resolution MC 23 - 40 to Change Boundaries of Election Precincts. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

Resolution MC 23-40

            A RESOLUTION TO CHANGE BOUNDARIES OF ELECTION PRECINCTS

            WHEREAS the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, pursuant to SDCL 12-14-1, may by resolution change the boundaries of election precincts already established;

            WHEREAS the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners has determined that it is in the best interests of Minnehaha County to revise election precincts throughout Minnehaha County in order to: reduce the number of election precincts with multiple legislative districts, reduce the population deviation among the election precincts, and avoid unreasonable waiting time imposed on voters;

            WHEREAS the election precincts within the municipal boundaries of the City of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, shall be designated respectively as Precinct 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-9, 1-10, 1-17, and 1-19; Precinct 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-6, 2-8, 2-9, 2-14, 2-17, and 2-18; Precinct 3-1, 3-5, 3-9, 3-10, 3-11, 3-12, 3-13, 3-14, 3-15, 3-16, 3-17, 3-18, 3-19, and 3-20; Precinct 4-2, 4-3, 4-4, 4-5, 4-6, 4-7, 4-8, 4-9, 4-10, 4-11, 4-12, 4-13, 4-15, 4-16, 4-17, 4-18, and 4-19; and Precinct 5-1, 5-2, 5-3, 5-4, 5-6, 5-7, 5-8, 5-9, 5-10, 5-12, 5-15, 5-16, 5-18, 5-19, 5-20, 5-21, 5-22, and 5-23; and

            WHEREAS the election precincts outside the municipal boundaries of the City of Sioux Falls, South Dakota shall be designated respectively as Precinct VP-01, VP-02, VP-03, VP-04, VP-05, VP-06, VP-07, VP-08, VP-09, VP-10, VP-11, VP-13, VP-15, VP-16, VP-17, and VP-21; and

            WHEREAS all of the above-named election precincts shall be described by setting for the certain highway, street or avenue designations or other landmarks that divide and border the election precincts; and any reference to highway, street or avenue below shall mean an imaginary line running down the approximate middle of each street or avenue; and

            WHEREAS, any omitted numbers in the election precinct numerical listing in this Resolution, both within and outside the municipal boundaries of the City of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, are omitted intentionally and have been superseded, reserved, or are contained within the City of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, outside of Minnehaha County;

            NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Minnehaha County election precincts be changed and that the boundaries shall be as follows:

            Precinct 1-4 - shall be bounded on the north by W 41st St from S Louise Ave to S Western Ave; on the east by S Western Ave from W 41st St to W 57th St; on the south by W 57th St from S Western Ave to S Louise Ave; on the west by S Louise Ave from W 57th St to W 41st St.

            Precinct 1-5 - shall be bounded on the north by W 41st St from Interstate 29 to S Louise Ave; on the east by S Louise Ave from W 41st St to W 57th St; on the south by W 57th St from S Louise Ave to Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from W 57th St to W 41st St.

            Precinct 1-6 - shall be bounded on the north by W 32nd St (extended by a horizontal line) from S Marion Rd to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29, from W 32nd St (extended by a horizontal line) to W 57th St; on the south by W 57th St from Interstate 29 to S Marion Rd; on the west by S Marion Rd, from W 57th St to W 32nd St.

Precinct 1-9 - shall be bounded on the north by W 41st St from S Holbrook Ave to S Marion Rd; on the east by S Marion Rd from W 41st St to W 57th St, on the south by W 57th St from S Marion Rd to S Holbrook Ave; on the west by S Holbrook Ave from W 57th St to W 41st St.

            Precinct 1-10 - shall be bounded on the north by W 41st St from S Sertoma Ave to S Holbrook Ave; on the east by S Holbrook Ave from W 41st St to W 57th St; on the south by W 57th St from S Holbrook Ave to S Sertoma Ave; on the west by S Sertoma Ave from W 57th St to W 41st St.

            Precinct 1-17 - shall be bounded on the north by W 41st St from the west Sioux Falls City Limits to S Sertoma Ave; on the east by S Sertoma Ave from W 41st St to W 57th St; on the south by W 57th St from S Sertoma Ave to Hwy 139/west Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W 57th St to W 41st St; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 1-19 - shall be bounded on the north by W 37th St from S Western Ave to S Minnesota Ave; on the east by S Minnesota Ave from W 37th St to the Big Sioux River; on the south by the Big Sioux River from S Minnesota Ave to S Western Ave; on the west by S Western Ave from the Big Sioux River to W 37th St.

            Precinct 2-1 - shall be bounded on the north by the Big Sioux River from S Western Ave to S Cliff Ave; on the east by S Cliff Ave from the Big Sioux River south to E 57th St; on the south by W & E 57th St from S Cliff Ave to S Western Ave; on the west by S Western Ave from W 57th St to the Big Sioux River.

            Precinct 2-2 - shall be bounded on the north by E 26th St from the Big Sioux River east to S Southeastern Ave; on the east by S Southeastern Ave from E 26th St to E 41st St (original horizontal extension), then to E 41st St at S Bahnson Ave, then by S Bahnson Ave from E 41st St to E 49th St; on the south by E 49th St from S Bahnson Ave to S Cliff Ave; on the west by S Cliff Ave from E 49th St to the Big Sioux River, then along the Big Sioux River to E 26th St.

            Precinct 2-3 - shall be bounded on the north by E 26th St from S Southeastern Ave to S Bahnson Ave; on the east by S Bahnson Ave from E 26th St to E 41st St; on the south by E 41st St from S Bahnson Ave to S Southeastern Ave at the original point where E 41st St (original horizontal extension) intersects with S Southeastern Ave; on the west by S Southeastern Ave from E 41st St (original horizontal extension) to E 26th St.

            Precinct 2-6 - shall be bounded on the north by E 26th St from S Bahnson Ave to S Sycamore Ave; on the east by S Sycamore Ave from E 26th St to E 41st St; on the south by E 41st St from S Sycamore Ave to S Bahnson Ave; on the west by S Bahnson Ave from E 41st St to E 26th St.

            Precinct 2-8 - shall be bounded on the north by E 49th St from the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks to S Bahnson Ave; on the east by S Bahnson Ave from E 49th St to E 57th St; on the south by E 57th St from S Bahnson Ave to the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks; on the west by the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks from E 57th St north to E 49th St.

            Precinct 2-9 - shall be bounded on the north by E 49th St from S Cliff Ave to the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks; on the east by the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks from E 49th St to E 57th St; on the south by E 57th St from the South Dakota Railroad Authority tracks to Cliff Ave; on the west by S Cliff Ave from E 57th St to E 49th St.

            Precinct 2-14 - shall be bounded on the north by E 41st St from S Bahnson Ave to S Sycamore Ave; on the east by S Sycamore Ave from 41st St to E 57th St; on the south by E 57th St from S Sycamore Ave to S Bahnson Ave; on the west by S Bahnson Ave from E 57th St to E 41st St.

            Precinct 2-17 - shall be bounded on the north by E 41st St from S Sycamore Ave to Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11; on the east by Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 from E 41st St south to E 57th St; on the south by E 57th St from Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 to S Sycamore Ave; on the west by S Sycamore Ave from E 57th St to E 41st St.

Precinct 2-18 - shall be bounded on the north by E 41st St from Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 to the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits; on the east by the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits from E 41st St to E 57th St; on the south by E 57th St from the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits to Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11; on the west by Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 from E 57th St to E 41st St; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-1 - shall be bounded on the north by W 26th St (extended) from Interstate 29, at a point where if W 26th St was extended horizontally to the west in would intersect with Interstate 29,  to S Kiwanis Ave; on the east by S Kiwanis Ave from W 26th St to W 37th St, then west on W 37th St to S Western Ave, also on the east by S Western Ave from W 37th St to W 41st St; on the south by W 41st St from S Western Ave to Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from W 41st St to W 26th St (extended) at a point where if W 26th St was extended horizontally to the west it would intersect with Interstate 29.

            Precinct 3-5 - shall be bounded on the north by W 60th St N from Interstate 29 to N Minnesota Ave; on the east by N Minnesota Ave from W 60th St N to W Russell St, then by W Russell St from N Minnesota Ave to N West Ave, then by N West Ave from W Russell St to W 6th St; on the south by W 6th St (along the quarter section line extension) from N West Ave to Interstate 29, at a point where if W 6th St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from W 6th St (extended) at a point where W 6th St would intersect with Interstate 29 to W 60th St N; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-9 - shall be bounded on the north by W 12th St from Skunk Creek to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from W 12th St to Skunk Creek; on the south and west by Skunk Creek from Interstate 29 to W 12th St.

Precinct 3-10 - shall be bounded on the north by W 26th St. from S Discovery Ave to S Queens Ave; on the east by S Queens Ave from W 26th St to W 32nd St, then on W 32nd St to S Sertoma Ave, then by S Sertoma Ave from W 32nd to W 41st St; on the south by W 41st St from S Sertoma Ave to S Grinnell Ave; on the west by S Grinnell Ave from W 41st St to W Alexandra St, then along W Alexandra St to S Discovery Ave, then along S Discovery Ave to W 26th St.

            Precinct 3-11 - shall be bounded on the north by W 12th St from S Sertoma Ave to Skunk Creek; on the east by Skunk Creek to S Severn Ln (extended) to a point where S Severn Ln would intersect with Skunk Creek, then along S Severn Ln to W Coughran Ct, then west along W Coughran Ct to W 26th St; on the south by W 26th St from W Coughran Ct (west intersection near S Queens Ave) to S Sertoma Ave; on the west by S Sertoma Ave to W 12th St.

            Precinct 3-12 - shall be bounded on the north by W Madison St from the west city limits east to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from W Madison St south to W 12th St; on the south by W 12th St from Interstate 29 west to Skunk Creek; on the west by Skunk Creek from W 12th St to the north city limits, then north along the west city limits to Madison St.

            Precinct 3-13 - shall be bounded on the north by W 32nd St from S Sertoma Ave to S Marion Rd; on the east by S Marion Rd from W 32nd St to W 41st St; on the south by W 41st St from S Marion Rd to S Sertoma Ave; on the west by S Sertoma Ave from 41st St to W 32nd St.

            Precinct 3-14 - shall be bounded on the north by 261st St/Hwy 38 from Marion Rd to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from the 261st St/Hwy 38 to W Maple St; on the south by W Maple St from Interstate 29 to N La Mesa Dr (West Sioux Falls City Limits); on the west by N La Mesa Dr (West Sioux Falls City Limits) from W Maple St to W Benson Rd, then along W Benson Rd to N Marion Rd, then along N Marion Rd to 261st St/Hwy 38; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-15 - shall be bounded on the north by Skunk Creek, from S Severn Ln (extended) to a point where S Severn Ln would intersect with Skunk Creek to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from Skunk Creek to W 32nd St (extended) to a point where W 32nd St would intersect with Interstate 29; on the south by W 32nd St (extended) to a point where W 32nd St would intersect  with Interstate 29 to S Queens Ave; on the west by S Queens Ave from W 32nd St to 26th St, then along W 26th St to W Coughran Ct (west intersection), then by W Coughran Ct to S Severn Ln, then by S Severn Ln (extended) to Skunk Creek.

Precinct 3-16 - shall be bounded on the north by Sands St along the northwest Sioux Falls City Limits to Skunk Creek; on the east by Skunk Creek from Sands St (extended) to W 12th St, then along W 12th St from Skunk Creek to S Sertoma Ave, then by S Sertoma Ave from W 12th St to W 22nd St; on the south by W 22nd St from S Sertoma Ave to the west Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W 22nd St to W 12th St, then along W 12th St from W Lakeside Dr to the west Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits to the north Sioux Falls City Limits; including all unincorporated areas with the bounded area.

Precinct 3-17 - shall be bounded on the north by W Broek Dr from the west Sioux Falls City Limits to W 32nd St, then east along W 32nd St to S Grinnell Ave; on the east by S Grinnell Ave from W 32nd St to W 41st St; on the south by W 41st St/267th St from S Grinnell Ave to the west Sioux Falls City Limits/S Lana Dr; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W 41st St & S Lana Dr to W Broek Dr; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-18 - shall be bounded on the north by W Maple St/Hwy 140 from N La Mesa Dr/the west Sioux Falls City Limits to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from W Maple St to W Madison St; on the south by Madison St from Interstate 29 to the west Sioux Falls City Limits (at N Daisy Ave); on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W Madison St to W Maple St (at N La Mesa Dr); including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-19 - shall be bounded on the north by W 22nd St from the west Sioux Falls City Limits to S Sertoma Ave; on the east by S Sertoma Ave from W 22nd St to W 26th St, then along W 26th St from S Sertoma Ave to S Discovery Ave, then by S Discovery Ave from W 26th St to W Alexandra St, then by S Grinnell Ave to W 32nd St; on the south by W 32nd St from S Grinnell Ave to W Broek Dr, then by W Broek Dr to the west Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W Broek Dr to W 22nd St; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 3-20 - shall be bounded on the north by the north Sioux Falls City Limits from 471st Ave to Interstate 29; on the east by Interstate 29 from the north Sioux Falls City Limits to Interstate 90, then east along the north side of Interstate 90 from Interstate 29 to the D and I Railroad tracks; on the east by the D and I Railroad tracks from Interstate 90 to W 60th St N, at a point where N Minnesota Ave and W 60th St N intersect; on the south by W 60th St N/Hwy 38 from N Minnesota Ave to N Marion Rd, then by N Marion Rd from Hwy 38 to W Benson Rd; on the south by W Benson Rd from N Marion Rd to the west Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the west Sioux Falls City Limits from W Benson Rd to Interstate 90, then along N Marion Rd/471st Ave to 259th St, then along 259th St to the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Tracks, then north along the west Sioux Falls City Limits to the north Sioux Falls City Limits; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 4-2 - shall be bounded on the north by E 10th St from Cliff Ave to Interstate 229; on the east by Interstate 229 from E 10th St to the Big Sioux River; on the south and west along the Big Sioux River from Interstate 229 to S Cliff Ave; on the west by S Cliff Ave from the Big Sioux River to E 10th St.

            Precinct 4-3 - shall be bounded on the north by E 6th St from N Cliff Ave to Interstate 229; on the east by Interstate 229 from E 6th St to E 10th St; on the south by E 10th St from Interstate 229 to N Cliff Ave; on the west by N Cliff Ave from E 10th St to E 6th St.

            Precinct 4-4 -shall be bounded on the north by E Rice St from N Cliff Ave to Interstate 229; on the east by Interstate 229 from E Rice St to E 6th St; on the south by E 6th St from Interstate 229 west to N Cliff Ave; on the west by N Cliff Ave from E 6th St to E Rice St.

            Precinct 4-5 - shall be bounded on the north by E 60th St N from N Minnesota Ave to Interstate 229; on the east by Interstate 229 from E 60th St N to a point where E Maple St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 229; on the south by a straight line from a point where E Maple St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 229; on the west by N Minnesota Ave from a point where E Maple St (extended) would intersect with N Minnesota Ave to E 60th St N; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area, excluding precinct 4-16, described as 3916 N Potsdam Ave.

            Precinct 4-6 - shall be bounded on the north by E Dike Pl from Show Pl to N Cliff Ave, then north on N Cliff Ave to E 72nd St N to the northern Sioux Falls City Limits, then along Interstate 90 to Exit 402 including the area within the Sioux Falls City Limits; on the east by the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits from Interstate 90 Exit 402 to E Rice St (along Veterans Pkwy); on the south by E Rice St from Veterans Pkwy to N Cliff Ave; on the west by N Cliff Ave from E Rice St to a point where E Maple St (extended horizontally) would intersect with N Cliff Ave, then following the horizontal line east of E Maple St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 229, then by Interstate 229 north to E 60th St N, then west on E 60th St N to N Minnesota Ave, then north along the D and I Railroad Tracks to a point where Show Pl and E Dike Pl (extended) would intersect; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

Precinct 4-7 - shall be bounded on the north by E Rice St from N Sycamore Ave to the east Sioux Falls City Limits at Veterans Pkwy and E Rice St; on the east by the east Sioux Falls City Limits from E Rice St to E Madison St/Hwy 142; on the south by E Madison St/Hwy 142 from the east Sioux Falls City Limits to N Sycamore Ave; on the west by N Sycamore Ave from E Madison St to E Rice St; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 4-8 - shall be bounded on the north by E 6th St from N Locust Ave to N Sycamore Ave; on the east by Sycamore Ave from E 6th St to E 18th St; on the south by E 18th St from S Sycamore Ave to S Bahnson Ave; on the west by S Bahnson Ave from E 18th St to E 10th St,  then from a point where a line would cross through Hills of Rest from S Bahnson Ave to N Locust Ave, then along N Locust Ave to E 6th St.

            Precinct 4-9 - shall be bounded on the north by E 6th St from Interstate 229 to N Locust Ave; on the east by N Locust Ave, then from a point where a line would cross through Hills of Rest from N Locust Ave to S Bahnson Ave from E 6th St to E 18th St; on the south by E 18th  St from S Bahnson Ave to Interstate 229; on the west by Interstate 229 from E 18th St north to E 6th St.

            Precinct 4-10 - shall be bounded on the north by E Arrowhead Pkwy/Hwy 42 from Sycamore Ave to S Powder House Rd; on the east by S Powder House Rd from E Arrowhead Pkwy/Hwy 42 to E 26th St; on the south by E 26th from S Powder House Rd to Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11; on the west by Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 from E 26th St to a point where E 18th St (extended) would intersect with Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11, then west along E 18th (extended) from Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 to Sycamore Ave, then north along Sycamore Ave to E Arrowhead Pkwy/Hwy 42.

Precinct 4-11 - shall be bounded on the north by E Madison St from Sycamore Ave to Veterans Pkwy; on the east by Veterans Pkwy from E Madison St to E Arrowhead Pkwy; on the south by E Arrowhead Pkwy from Veterans Pkwy to Sycamore Ave; on the west by Sycamore Ave from E Arrowhead Pkwy to E Madison St/Hwy 142.

            Precinct 4-12 - shall be bounded on the north by E 18th St from Bahnson Ave to Veterans Pkwy, at a point where E 18th St (extended) would intersect with Veterans Pkwy; on the east by Veterans Pkwy from a point where E 18th St (extended) would intersect with Veterans Pkwy to E 26th St; on the south by E 26th St from Veterans Pkwy to Bahnson Ave; on the west by Bahnson Ave from E 26th St to E 18th St.

            Precinct 4-13 - shall be bounded on the north by E 18th St from Interstate 229 to Bahnson Ave; on the east by Bahnson Ave from E 18th St to E 26th St; on the south by E 26th St from Bahnson Ave to the Big Sioux River; on the west by the Big Sioux River E 26th St to Interstate 229, then north along Interstate 229 to E 18th St.

            Precinct 4-15 - shall be bounded on the north by E 26th St from Sycamore Ave to Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11; on the east by Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 from E 26th St to E 41st St; on the south by E 41st from Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 to Sycamore Ave; on the west by Sycamore Ave from E 41st to E 26th St; Including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 4-16 - shall be bounded on the north by N Hainje Ave; and on the west by N Potsdam Ave; described as 3916 N Potsdam Ave in Sioux Falls.

            Precinct 4-17 - shall be bounded on the north by E Madison St/Hwy 142 from Veterans Pkwy to the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits; on the east by the eastern Sioux Falls City Limits from E Madison St/Hwy 142 to Hwy 11; on the south by the southern Sioux Falls City Limits from the east Sioux Falls City Limits along the south and west boundary of Arrowhead Park Greenway north to Hwy 11/E SD Hwy 42, then west along E 26th St to the east Sioux Falls City Limits including all unincorporated areas south of E 26th St to S Powder House Rd; on the west by S Powder House Rd from E 26th St to Arrowhead Pkwy, then by Veterans Pkwy from Arrowhead Pkwy to E Madison St/Hwy 142.; including all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 4-18 - shall be bounded on the north by E 26th St from Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 to Six Mile Rd (excluding unincorporated parcels along E 26th St); on the east by Six Mile Rd from E 26th St to 41st St, following the east Sioux Falls City Limits (excluding unincorporated parcels along Six Mile Rd); on the south by E 41st St from Six Mile Rd to Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11; on the west by Veterans Pkwy/Hwy 11 from E 41st St to E 26th St; excluding all unincorporated areas within the bounded area.

            Precinct 4-19 - shall be bounded on the north by Rice St from Interstate 229 to Sycamore Ave; on the east by Sycamore Ave from Rice St to E 6th St; on the south by E 6th St from Sycamore Ave to Interstate 229; on the west by Interstate 229 from E 6th St to Rice St.

            Precinct 5-1 - shall be bounded on the north by W 12th St from S Hawthorne Ave to S Menlo Ave continuing on W 10th St to Minnesota Ave; on the east by Minnesota Ave from W 10th St to W 18th St; on the south by W 18th St from Minnesota Ave to S Hawthorne Ave; on the west by S Hawthorne Ave from W 18th St to W 12th St.

            Precinct 5-2 - shall be bounded on the north by W 8th St from Minnesota Ave to the Big Sioux River; on the east by the Big Sioux River from W 8th St to S Cliff Ave, then along S Cliff Ave to E 14th St; on the south by E & W 14th St from S Cliff Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the west by Minnesota Ave from W 14th St to W 8th St.

            Precinct 5-3 - shall be bounded on the north by W 18th St from S Menlo Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the east by Minnesota Ave from W 18th St to W 26th St; on the south by W 26th St from Minnesota Ave to W Menlo Ave; on the west by S Menlo Ave from W 26th St to W 18th St.

            Precinct 5-4 - shall be bounded on the north by W & E 14th St from Minnesota Ave to S Cliff Ave; on the east by S Cliff Ave from E 14th St to E 21st St; on the south by E & W 21st St from S Cliff Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the west by Minnesota Ave from W 21st St to W 14th St.

            Precinct 5-6 - shall be bounded on the north and east by the Big Sioux River to a point where E 33rd St (extended) intersects the Big Sioux River; on the south by E 33rd St (extended) from the Big Sioux River to S Cliff Ave; on the west by S Cliff Ave from E 33rd St to the Big Sioux River.

            Precinct 5-7 - shall be bounded on the north by E 21st St from S 4th Ave to S Cliff Ave; on the east by S Cliff Ave from E 21st St to E 33rd St; on the south by E 33rd St from S Cliff Ave to S 4th Ave; on the west by S 4th Ave from E 33rd St to E 21st St.

            Precinct 5-8 - shall be bounded on the north by W & E 21st St from Minnesota Ave to S 4th Ave; on the east by S 4th Ave from E 21st St to E 31st St; on the south by W & E 31st St from S 4th Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the west by Minnesota Ave from W 31st St to W 21st St.

            Precinct 5-9 - shall be bounded on the north by W 26th St from S Grange Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the east by Minnesota Ave from W 26th St to W 37th St; on the south by W 37th St from Minnesota Ave to S Grange Ave; on the west by S Grange Ave from W 37th St to W 26th St.

            Precinct 5-10 - shall be bounded on the north by W 26th St from S Willow Ave to S Grange Ave; on the east by S Grange Ave from W 26th St to W 37th St; on the south by W 37th St from S Grange Ave to S Willow Ave; on the west by S Willow Ave from W 37th St to W 26th St.

            Precinct 5-12 - shall be bounded on the north by W & E 31st St from Minnesota Ave to S 4th Ave, heading south on S 4th Ave to E 33rd St, continuing on E 33rd to a point where E 33rd St (extended) intersects the Big Sioux River; on the east and south by the Big Sioux River to Minnesota Ave; on the west by Minnesota Ave from the Big Sioux River to W 31st St.

            Precinct 5-15 - shall be bounded on the east by N & S Cliff Ave from the Burlington Northern Railway south to the Big Sioux River; on the south and west by the Big Sioux River from S Cliff Ave to E 6th St; on the north by E 6th St from the Big Sioux River to the Burlington Northern Railway, then the Burlington Northern Railway to N Cliff Ave.  Excluding election precinct 5-16 described as 401 E 8th St.

            Precinct 5-16 - shall be bounded on the north by E 8th St; and on the west by N Reid St; it shall include E1/2 VAC REID ST LYING ADJ & LOTS A & B RAILROAD CENTER ADDITION & LOT 1 CO AUD SUB TRACTS 7,10 & 11 SW1/4, also described as 401 E 8th St.

            Precinct 5-18 - shall be bounded on the north by W Russell Ave from N West Ave to N Prairie Ave, heading south on N Prairie Ave to W 1st St, by W 1st St from N Prairie Ave to Minnesota Ave; on the east by Minnesota Ave from W 1st St to W 10th St; on the south by W 10th St from Minnesota Ave to N Prairie Ave, heading north on N Prairie Ave to W 6th St, then by W 6th St from N Prairie Ave to N West Ave; on the west by N West Ave from W 6th St to W Russell St.

Precinct 5-19 - shall be bounded on the north by W 26th St from S Kiwanis Ave to S Willow Ave; on the east by S Willow Ave from W 26th St to W 37th St; on the south by W 37th St from S Willow Ave to S Kiwanis Ave; on the west by S Kiwanis Ave from W 37th St to W 26th St.

            Precinct 5-20 - shall be bounded on the north by W 12th St from Interstate 29 to S Hawthorne Ave; on the east by S Hawthorne Ave from W 12th St to W 18th St; on the south by W 18th St from S Hawthorne Ave to a point where W 18th St (extended) intersects with Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from a point where W 18th St (extended) intersects with Interstate 29 to W 12th St.

            Precinct 5-21 -  shall be bounded on the north by W 18th from Interstate 29 to a point where W 18th St (extended) intersects with Interstate 29 to S Menlo Ave; on the east by S Menlo Ave from W 18th St to W 26th St; on the south by W 26th St from S Menlo Ave to Interstate 29 where W 26th (extended) would intersect with Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from a point where W 26th St (extended) intersects with Interstate 29 to a point where W 18th St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 29.

            Precinct 5-22 - shall be bounded on the north by W 6th St from Interstate 29 at a point where W 6th St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 29 to N Prairie Ave; on the east by N Prairie Ave from W 6th St to W 10th St, then on W 10th St to S Menlo Ave, then on S Menlo Ave to W 11th St; on the south by W 12th St from S Menlo Ave to Interstate 29; on the west by Interstate 29 from W 12th St to a point where W 6th St (extended) would intersect with Interstate 29.

            Precinct 5-23 - shall be bounded on the north by Maple St from Minnesota Ave to N Cliff Ave; on the east by N Cliff Ave from Maple St to the Burlington Northern Railroad; on the south by the Burlington Northern Railroad from N Cliff Ave to E 6th St , then by E 6th St from the Burlington Northern Railroad to the Big Sioux River, then along the Big Sioux River to E 8th St, then by W & E 8th St from the Big Sioux River to Minnesota Ave; on the west by Minnesota Ave from W 8th St to W 1st St, then by W 1st St from Minnesota Ave to N Prairie Ave, then by N Prairie Ave from W 1st St to W Russell St, then by W Russell St from N Prairie Ave to Minnesota Ave, then by Minnesota Ave from W Russell St to Maple St.

            Precinct VP-01 - shall be bounded on the north by 258th St/Hwy 130 from 484th Ave to 488th Ave/10th Ave; on the east by 488th Ave/10th Ave from 258th St/Hwy 130 to 268th St/100th St; on the south by 268th St/100th St from 488th Ave to 484th Ave; on the west by 484th Ave from 268th St/100th St to 258th St/Hwy 130. 

            Precinct VP-02 - shall be bounded on the north by Brandon Township from the northwest corner of Track N1/2 NE1/4 (EX H-1) 6 101 48 Split Rock Township 101-48 east to the Brandon City Limits, east along the southern Brandon City Limits to the intersection of E Aspen Blvd/Hwy 138 and 484th Ave; on the east by 484th Ave from E Aspen Blvd/Hwy 138 to 100th St/268th St; on the south by 268th St to the east Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west by the east Sioux Falls City Limits to the northwest corner of Track N1/2 NE1/4 (EX H-1) 6 101 48 Split Rock Township 101-48.

            Precinct VP-03 - shall be bounded on the north by 258th St/Hwy 130 from 482nd Ave/Hwy 11 to 484nd Ave; on the east by 484th Ave from 258th St/Hwy 130 south to E Aspen Blvd/262nd St/Hwy 138; on the south by E Aspen Blvd/262nd St/Hwy 138, west along the southern Brandon City Limits to S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11; on the west by S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11 from the south Brandon City Limits north to the Ellis and Eastern Railroad Tracks (Nobles Rock), then along the Ellis and Eastern Railroad Tracks (Nobles Rock) to E Aspen Blvd, then east on E Aspen Blvd to S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11, then north along Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11 to 258th St/Hwy 130.

            Precinct VP-04 - shall be bounded on the north by 256th St from 472nd Ave to 478th Ave/Hwy 121; on the east by 478th Ave/Hwy 121 from 256th St to the north Sioux Falls City Limits; on the south by the north central Sioux Falls City Limits from 478th Ave/Hwy 121 to Interstate 29, excluding the area within the city limits of the City of Sioux Falls surrounding the intersection of Interstate 90 and Interstate 29; on the west by the city limits of the City of Sioux Falls from Interstate 90 north to the intersection of Interstate 29 and 258th St./Highway 130, continuing north on 472nd Ave. to 256th St.

            Precinct VP-05 - shall be bounded on the north by Interstate 90, excluding the area within the Sioux Falls City Limits surrounding Interstate 90 Exit 402, east to N Sioux Blvd (extended) at a point where N Sioux Blvd would intersect with Interstate 90 in the City of Brandon; on the east by Sioux Blvd from Interstate 90 to E Aspen Blvd, then along E Aspen Blvd to the Ellis and Eastern Railroad Tracks (Nobles Rock), then southeast along the Ellis and Eastern Railroad Tracks (Nobles Rock) to S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11, then along S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11 to the south Brandon City Limits; on the south from S Splitrock Blvd/Hwy 11 northwest along the south Brandon City Limits, continuing west on the border of Brandon Township to the Sioux Falls City Limits; on the west from the southwest corner of Track Gov Lots 1 & 2 SW1/4 (EX H-1 & H-2) 31 102 48 Brandon Township 102-48 north to Interstate 90, excluding the area of the Sioux Falls City Limits surrounding Exit 402.

Precinct VP-06 - shall be bounded on the north by 262nd St/W Benson Rd from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to N La Mesa Dr; on the east by N La Mesa Dr and the western City Limits of Sioux Falls from 262nd St/W Benson Rd to 268th St/57th St; on the south by 268th St/57th St from Highway 139/City Limits of Sioux Falls to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the west by 466th Ave/Hwy 17 from 268th St/57th St to 262nd St/W Benson Rd.

            Precinct VP-07 - shall be bounded on the north by 258th St from 460th Ave to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the east by 466th Ave from 258th St to 262nd St; on the south by 262nd St from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 460th Ave; on the west by 460th Ave from 262nd St to 258th St.

Precinct VP-08 - shall be bounded on the north by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 454th Ave to 460th Ave; on the east by 460th Ave from 250th St/Hwy 114 to 253rd St; on the north by 253rd St from 460th Ave to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the east by 466thAve/Hwy 17 from 253rd St to 258th St/Hwy 130; on the south by 258thSt/Hwy 130 from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 460th Ave; on the east by 460th Ave from 258th St/Hwy 130 to 268th St; on the south by 268th St from 460th Ave to 454th Ave; on the west by 454th Ave from 268th St to 250th St/Hwy 114.

            Precinct VP-09 - shall be bounded on the north by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 478th Ave/Hwy 121 including the City Limits of Baltic; on the east by 478th Ave/Hwy 121 from 250th St/Hwy 114 to 256th St; on the south by 256th Ave from 478th Ave/Hwy 121 to 466th Ave/Hwy 17: on the west by 466th Ave/Hwy 17 from 256th Ave to 250th St/Hwy 114.

            Precinct VP-10 -  shall be bounded on the north by 244th St/Hwy 102 from 484th Ave/Hwy 109 to 488th Ave; on the east by 488th Ave from 244th St/Hwy 102 to 258th St/Hwy 130; on the south by 258th St/Hwy 130 from 488th Ave to 478th Ave/Hwy 121; on the west by 478th Ave/Hwy 121 from 258th St/Hwy 130 to 250th St/Hwy 114, then by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 478th Ave/Hwy 121 to 484th Ave, then by 484th Ave from 250th St/Hwy 114 to 244th St/Hwy 102.

            Precinct VP-11 - shall be bounded on the north by 244th St/Hwy 102 from 472nd Ave to 484th Ave/Hwy 109; on the east by 484th Ave/Hwy 109 from 244th St/Hwy 102 to 250th St/Hwy 114; on the south by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 484th Ave/Hwy 109 to 472nd Ave, excluding the City Limits of Baltic; on the west by 472nd Ave from 250th St/Hwy 114 to 244th St/Hwy 102. Excluding VP-21 City Limits of Dell Rapids.

            Precinct VP-13 - shall be bounded on the north by 244th St/Hwy 58 from 454th Ave to 472nd Ave; on the east by 472nd Ave from 244th St/Hwy 58 to 250th St/Hwy 114; on the south by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 472nd Ave to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the east by 466th Ave/Hwy 17 from 250th St/Hwy 114 to 253rd St; on the south by 253rd St from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 460th Ave; on the west by 460th Ave from 253rd St to 250th St/Hwy 114; on the south by 250th St/Hwy 114 from 460th Ave to 454th Ave; on the west by 454th Ave from 250TH St/Hwy 114 to 244th St/Hwy 58.

            Precinct VP-15 - shall be bounded on the north by 258th St/Hwy 130 from 478th Ave/Hwy 121 to Splitrock Blvd/482nd Ave/Hwy 11; on the east by 482nd Ave/Hwy 11/Splitrock Blvd from 258th St/Hwy 130 to E Aspen Blvd/262nd St; on the south by E Aspen Blvd/262nd St from Hwy 11/Splitrock Blvd to S Sioux Blvd; on the west by S Sioux Blvd from E Aspen Blvd/262nd St to Interstate 90, where S Sioux Blvd (extended) would intersect with Interstate 90, then west along Interstate 90 to Exit 402 (excluding property within Sioux Falls City Limits surrounding Exit 402, then north along 478th Ave/Hwy 121 to 258th St/Hwy 130.

            Precinct VP-16 - shall be bounded on the north by 256th St from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 472nd Ave; on the east by 472nd Ave and the northwestern City Limits of Sioux Falls from 256th St to 262nd St/W Benson Rd; on the south by 262nd St/W Benson Rd from western City Limits of Sioux Falls to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the west by 466th Ave/Hwy 17 from 262nd St/W Benson Rd to 256th St.

            Precinct VP-17 - shall be bounded on the north by 262nd St from 460th Ave to 466th Ave/Hwy 17; on the east by 466th Ave/Hwy 17 from 262nd St to 268th St; on the south by 268th St from 466th Ave/Hwy 17 to 460th Ave; on the west by 460th Ave from 268th St to 262nd St.

            Precinct VP-21 - shall include the City Limits of Dell Rapids.

Dated this 28th day of November, 2023.

MINNEHAHA COUNTY

Jean Bender, Chair

Attest: Leah Anderson, Auditor

Kym Christiansen, Deputy Auditor

ALCOHOL LICENSE

            Upon the request of Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Karsky, to approve a 2024 Retail (On-Off Sale) Wine and Cider License Renewal Application for MAS LLC d/b/a The Riviera by Roccos. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

APPOINTMENT  

            Upon the request of Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to appoint Commissioner Karsky as a Voting Director on the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners Board of Directors and approve Resolution MC 23-41. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.

RESOLUTION MC 23-41

APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY COMMISSIONER TO THE SOUTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

            WHEREAS, Minnehaha County is a member of the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners whose mission is to promote and improve county government in South Dakota; and

            WHEREAS, the bylaws of the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners provide for one person from each county with a population greater than 65,000, and that is otherwise in good standing with the Association, be elected by the board of county commissioners to be a Voting Director on the Association’s Board of Directors; and

            WHEREAS, Minnehaha County has a population greater than 65,000; and

            WHEREAS, Commissioner Dean Karsky currently serves as Past President of the Association’s Board of Directors; and

            WHEREAS, the bylaws of the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners allow for an Officer to simultaneously serve as a Voting Director; and

            NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners that Dean Karsky is appointed as a Voting Director of the Association’s Board of Directors for Minnehaha County. The appointed Voting Director shall hold such office until a successor is appointed.

Dated this 28th day of November, 2023

APPROVED BY THE BOARD:

Jean Bender

Chair

ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor

Kym Christiansen

Deputy Auditor

POLICY UPDATE

            Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented a request for approval for the revised limited public use policy. The Minnehaha County buildings exist to accommodate the business of the county government and the citizens of Minnehaha County. While Minnehaha County appreciates those citizens who wish to take an active role in government decisions at all levels, the County Buildings must accommodate many people every day without any unnecessary delay or inconvenience. Following a legal challenge, portions of the current limited Public Use Policy have been enjoined by the Court and have not been enforced following the Court's order. Following a review of the Court's order and the necessity to provide reasonable access to the Minnehaha County Administration Building including, without limitations, those with mobility disabilities, a revised Limited Use Policy has been drafted. The revised policy eliminates the previous 'designated area' and creates a 'non-interference zone' which includes the handicap accessible curb ramp at the west entrance of the Administration Building. MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve a Revised Limited Public Use Policy. 5 ayes.

COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS

            Commissioner Kippley reported on the recent meeting of the Public Defender's Advisory Council and Planning and Zoning Meeting.

            Commissioner Karsky reported on the recent legislative breakfast.

            MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Kippley, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (1), (3), (4),  and (6) at 10:35 a.m. 5 ayes.

            Chair Bender declared the executive session concluded at 11:10 a.m.

            MOTION by Karsky, seconded by Kippley, to adjourn at 11:11 a.m. 5 ayes.

            The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023.

APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:

Jean Bender

Chair

ATTEST:

Kym Christiansen

Commission Recorder

            Published at the total approximate cost of $547.62 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.     12-7-23-1tc

Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change

CIV: 23-3385

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS   COUNTY OF  MINNEHAHA) 

IN CIRCUIT COURT

SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

In the Matter of the Petition

of Katherina Laurina Allen-Taylor,

For a Change of Name to

Katherina Lauren Allen-Taylor

 CIV: 23-3385

            Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name  Change has been filed by Katherina Laurina Allen-Taylor, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Katherina Laurina Allen-Taylor to Katherina Lauren Allen-Taylor.

            On the 9th day of January, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Douglas E. Hoffman 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 27th Day of November, 2023 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.

11-30-23-4tc

FACT OF ADOPTION

            An ordinance amending the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County.

            The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance MC16-180-23 on November 28, 2023. This ordinance amended Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County by amending Article 12.07 – Accessory Buildings and Uses, Article 12.11 – Temporary Uses, and Article 26.00 – Definitions

            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 $16.61 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.     12-7-23-2tc

FACT OF ADOPTION

            An Ordinance adopting MC 31-6-19, the 2019 Ordinance for Ground Ambulance Licensing in Minnehaha County as amended.

            The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted a revision to the Ambulance Ordinance Area Map on November 28, 2023 which incorporates and adopts changes to the coverage areas related ground ambulances licensed in Minnehaha County, South Dakota, thereby repealing any other Resolutions, Rules and Regulations in conflict therewith.

            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 $16.61 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.     12-7-23-2tc

News for 12-7-23

Carrie Moritz
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News for 12-7-23
12-7-23 front page

The demolition of the "old steakhouse" on Main was completed, and after 133 years, it had a storied history; the City Council had a first look at the new Capital Improvement Plan and approved a conditional use permit for a dog grooming in-home business; Hometown Christmas is this Saturday with plenty of events and shopping opportunities; and the winter sports season began with a bang last week as two wrestlers placed fourth and the girls basketball team won, plus more!

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News for 12-7-2023 (e-edition)

Carrie Moritz
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News for 12-7-2023 (e-edition)

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The demolition of the "old steakhouse" on Main was completed, and after 133 years, it had a storied history; the City Council had a first look at the new Capital Improvement Plan and approved a conditional use permit for a dog grooming in-home business; Hometown Christmas is this Saturday with plenty of events and shopping opportunities; and the winter sports season began with a bang last week as two wrestlers placed fourth and the girls basketball team won, plus more!

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This Week's Spotlight Photos

female basketball player going for a layup with opponent staring in shock behind her
five middle school students and their teacher playing instruments
high school students singing
four wrestlers standing on a podium
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demolished building

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Demolition of the “old steakhouse”

Carrie Moritz
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Demolition of the “old steakhouse”
men on roof removing the fascia of building next door

Though there have been two weeks of delays, on Tuesday Nov. 28, Soukup Construction out of Sioux Falls started work on the demolition of the old steakhouse building. Work crews started with handtools from the roof of Rainbow Delight to work on the most delicate bits first before using any large equipment.

Click here to view videos of the demolition on Wednesday, November 29

Photos and more will be available in next week's issue!

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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.

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Minnehaha County Commission approves auditor’s plan for voting precinct adjustments

Carrie Moritz
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Minnehaha County Commission approves auditor’s plan for voting precinct adjustments

By Dave Baumeister

County Correspondent

            SIOUX FALLS – Commissioners praised a plan from county auditor Leah Anderson to “define and adjust election precinct boundaries” during this week’s Minnehaha County Commission meeting.

            The impetus for the auditor’s office to make a new precinct map came from the South Dakota State Legislature’s redistricting the legislative map after the 2020 Census.

            Anderson said her staff had been working on this plan for several months, and it not only involved legislative districts, but city of Sioux Falls precincts, various school districts, water districts and other considerations, as well.

            She explained that the general rule was to keep precincts under 2,500 voters, and of the 81 precincts in Minnehaha County, she said only “a couple” exceeded that number.

            Approximately 600 voters would make up the smallest precinct.

Anderson at podium
Minnehaha County Auditor Leah Anderson

            All in all, Anderson said 10 precincts would be added and four would be eliminated. A total of 37 precincts would see changes of some type.

            She added that one of her goals was to reduce the number of multi-legislative district precincts (those which included more than one legislative ballot).

            And while the auditor’s office wasn’t able to eliminate those entirely, she said they were able to reduce the total.

            Anderson also mentioned another goal, which was to have “greeters” at some of the precincts to help voters make sure they were in the correct location for voting.

            Commissioners voted unanimously to accept Anderson’s plan.

Split renewal vote

            Also, at this meeting, commissioners had to decide whether or not to renew a liquor license for the Safari Bar & Grill at the Renner Corner along Highway 115.

            While these matters usually move through quickly, there were many questions from the commission to bar co-owner Sandy Sorm, who seemed ill-equipped to answer some of them.

            The bar’s general manager, who, it seemed, handled more of the day-to-day operations, was not able to attend.

            The reason for the separate renewal vote on the Safari was due to a failed compliance check by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s office on Nov. 1.

            To complicate the matter, Commissioner Joe Kippley pointed out that this was the bar’s second alcohol sting failure in the past two years.

            Commission chair Jean Bender said “This is something we take very seriously…two violations in a relatively short period is very unusual. We haven’t seen that in the time I’ve been on the commission.”

            In a warning, Commissioner Dean Karsky said, “Your business is important to the people who live out in that area, and if you were to lose your liquor license it would have an impact on the people in that community, so I encourage you say ‘this is not acceptable’.”

            However, Karsky did make the motion to approve the renewal, and that vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Gerald Beninga voting “no.”

            The next commission meeting will be at 9 a.m. next Tuesday, Dec. 5, on the third floor of the Minnehaha County Administration Building.

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Get ready for Holiday Celebrations here in the Garretson area

Carrie Moritz
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Get ready for Holiday Celebrations here in the Garretson area

            The holiday season is off to a jump start in 2023! It began this past Saturday with Shop Small Saturday, but will continue throughout the month. Here's a taste of some of the happenings the Gazette knows of so far.

            This Friday, December 1, the annual First Bank & Trust Christmas Celebration will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Garretson at their location on 644 N Main. This event provides free entertainment for the entire community, with a model train set on display, the high school band performing at 12:00 p.m., and the high school choir performing at 2:30 p.m. Holiday treats will also be available for all who attend.

            On December 2, St. Rose of Lima is hosting its annual Christmas Tea. Social time begins at 1:00 p.m. with appetizers, treats, and hot drinks. At 1:30 p.m., the St. Rose Folk Group will perform. All ladies and girls are encouraged to dress in their tea time best and enjoy.

            Next week Saturday, December 9, Garretson will celebrate its annual Hometown Christmas event. Encouraging people to shop small, as well as gathering as a community, is the goal for each year.

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            On Monday, December 11, the Garretson Middle School and High School Band and Choir will have its Concert and Pie Social. The social will begin at 6:00 p.m. and the concert will start at 7:00 p.m. All proceeds for a freewill donation go toward supporting the music programming at the Garretson School District.

            At Hometown Christmas on the 9th, the Garretson Commercial Club is bringing in favorite events such as time with Santa and the Parade of Lights, and local organizations and businesses are going all out. The Legion will be holding its community breakfast on Saturday morning, and the Fire Department will be hosting a chili feed and bingo in the evening.

            In between, a vendor fair, kids crafts, a bake sale and silent auction will be available in the afternoon. The museum will be open, and the food pantry will be having an open house.

            Events will not be the only items on the list, as businesses will have reasons for you to head on in and patronize their shops. Palisades Art Gallery will be open and showcasing local youth talent with their coloring contest (get your submissions in before December 8!), Palisades Chiropractic is hosting Treatment for Tots, where a donation of a new toy valued $15 or more will earn patrons a free chiropractic adjustment, The Combine will hold an Ugly Sweater Contest, and The Gulch will belt out tunes with karaoke.

            Maddie Shepherd on Fundera by Nerdwallet pointed out that, "Small businesses generate $68 of local economic return for every $100 spent with them, over $9.3 billion would be directly returned to our economy if every US family spent just $10 a month at a local business, and small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to community causes."

            Garretson as a community has always been proud of its local businesses, and has had a strong showing over its history. While everyone reminisces about the businesses that have come and gone, the community still boasts of a locally-owned grocery store, two convenience store/gas stations, three restaurants, a chiropractor, a boutique, a coffee shop, and a bank, just to name a few. Local support has been the foundation block for success as a community.

            The annual Parade of Lights is a fun time, and will be held on Main Street at 6:00 p.m. on December 9. The event has been popular each year with both attendees and participants. Anyone is welcome to join the parade, with the only requirement being a decorated vehicle or float of some kind. Anyone who prefers to pre-register can do so at https://visitgarretsonsd.com/hometown-christmas, otherwise entrants can just show up around 5:30 p.m., according to organizer John Brinkman. Entrants will be lining up along 5th Street, to the east of Main.

            Plan to enjoy the events and shopping opportunities offered in Garretson in December, and continue to shop local for this holiday season. The Garretson Commercial Club thanks you for your support!

Shop Garretson First winners

            The Garretson Commercial Club and Garretson Food Center are hosting the Shop Garretson First Campaign, where every dollar spent gets a punch at local Commercial Club businesses. Full punch cards can then be turned in to Garretson Food Center, and winners are drawn each week for Garretson Gift Certificates. Drawings were held on November 19 and November 26, and the winners for $25 gift certificates are Pam Zendrian, Brenda Burch, Pete Williamson, Bev Howe, Ben Stenhoff, Laurie Bennett, Steve Peters, and Ruth Hoiland. Stay tuned and turn in your cards before Sunday for this week's drawing, where four more will be chosen! On Saturday, December 9 a final drawing will be held, where two lucky winners will receive $50 gift certificates.

            Thank you for Shopping Garretson First!

            -The Garretson Commercial Club

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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.

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Letter to the Editor: Help Train Students for the Workforce

Carrie Moritz
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0
Letter to the Editor: Help Train Students for the Workforce

            I am recruiting volunteers to conduct mock interviews for the students in my Employability class. The volunteer will play the role of interviewing students and then complete a feedback form. The goal is to help students build confidence and identify areas for improvement to prepare them for future job interviews.

            Mock interviews are a fun and engaging way to support our young people and help them prepare for future career success. With just two hours of your time, you can help Garretson High School seniors grow through a hands-on real-world experience.

            Mock interviews are scheduled for Tuesday, December 12" from 10:10-11:50. A sample job description and feedback form will be provided. You may use your own questions, or I will provide them upon request. If anyone from your business would be interested in participating, please email me at with your contact information. I welcome any questions and look forward to the opportunity to partner with you.

            Thank you for your consideration,

            -Darcy McGee, Business Teacher, Garretson School

‘Freedom Works’ campaign not enough to fill South Dakota jobs

Carrie Moritz
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‘Freedom Works’ campaign not enough to fill South Dakota jobs

Stu Whitney

South Dakota News Watch

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Bob Douglas, touted as a success story of Gov. Kristi Noem’s "Freedom Works Here” workforce recruitment campaign in South Dakota, confirmed a few things during a recent interview with News Watch.

The 66-year-old recreational vehicle salesman does enjoy freedom, it turns out. And he loves South Dakota. He plans to move to the Sioux Falls area once he sells his house in southern California, maybe as early as next spring. Douglas was referenced in a Sept. 21 press release from the governor’s office as having “recently moved to South Dakota.”

woman in work gear standing in front of fuse box
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is featured prominently in the "Freedom Works Here" ad campaign. (Photo: Screenshot)

As for being heralded by the governor’s staff as an example of Noem’s $6.5 million ad campaign drawing new residents to the Mount Rushmore State, well, that’s not exactly true either.

“I wasn’t really aware of the campaign,” said Douglas, whose experience in the RV industry led to him being hired by Parkston-based Trailmanor as a West Coast representative in 2022. He was then named the company’s national sales and marketing director in April 2023, several months before the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) launched the Freedom Works Here effort.

Douglas told News Watch that politics played a role in his decision to take the Trailmanor job. He called Noem a “rock star” and added that his community of Tehachapi, about 100 miles from Los Angeles, holds rallies supporting former President Donald Trump that he and his wife, Jennifer, attend.

“Once you get out into the valley and mountains and away from the big cities, you’ll find a whole lot of people that think the way that my wife and I think,” said Douglas.

Finding younger workers a challenge in South Dakota

For economic development corporations and businesses in South Dakota, many of which contributed $10,000 to help fund the Freedom Works Here campaign, Douglas’ story is an oversimplification of workforce recruitment.

Politically motivated individuals, many of them at or near retirement age, have helped boost South Dakota’s population by seeking more lenient tax structures or escaping what they perceived as heavy-handed COVID-era policies in Democratic-controlled states such as Minnesota, California and Colorado.

Net migration between July 1, 2021, and July 1, 2022, was one of the main reasons South Dakota ranked fifth in percentage of population growth (1.5%) among U.S. states during that span, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

For South Dakota businesses, however, skilled workers between the ages of 25 and 35 are the “sweet spot” they would like to attract as the state’s unemployment rate hovers at 1.9%, with about 20,000 open jobs. The process of trying to persuade younger workers to take a job in South Dakota is a painstaking process that goes beyond political platitudes, said Watertown Development Co. executive director Chris Clifton.

“I know when I was 25 to 35 years old, I was not going to fill out a form and make a conscious, life-changing decision after talking to somebody on the internet a few times,” said Clifton. “If you look at the content of 'Freedom Works Here,' I mean, you’re kind of celebrating motherhood, apple pie and Chevrolet, so to speak. For a lot of people it’s like, how can you be against it? But there’s a lot of decision-making that goes into the process.”

'We're in uncharted territory here'

Economic development corporations and some major employers were solicited for contributions by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development in August to help extend a national run of Noem’s TV and social media commercials. That helped fund a $1.5 million “phase two” of advertisements that GOED said will roll out soon.

The commercials so far have shown Noem acting as plumber, electrician, welder and dentist to illustrate the need for more workers in South Dakota. The governor’s office said that the ads have “been viewed over 800 million times," but GOED officials declined to share with News Watch the specific methodology or data used to arrive at that number.

"This is a combination of impressions – that is actual views – on both the TV ads and the digital ads," Sarah Ebeling, GOED's communications coordinator, wrote in an emailed response to requests for more information.

At a Nov. 13 meeting in Pierre, members of the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee pointed to the lack of hard data connecting new residents to the Freedom Works Here campaign, as opposed to those who made the decision for other reasons.

The legislative oversight is focused on more than $5 million in Future Fund dollars used to enlist the marketing and distribution services of Ohio-based Strategic Media Services and Tennessee-based Designsensory Inc. as part of the GOED initiative.

Economic development officials interviewed by News Watch said they are concerned about getting their money’s worth. As part of their investment, they received raw data of respondents who signed up or provided information through the Freedom Works Here website, a total of about 7,500 names and email addresses.

Noem's office and GOED claim that more than 1,800 applicants "are in the final stages" of moving to South Dakota. Ebeling told News Watch that number is based on how many people created an account on the South Dakota Works website through the Department of Labor and Regulation to explore employment options in the state. It's not clear how many will actually relocate.

"This campaign started June 21, 2023," Ebeling wrote in her response. "Five months is a fairly short turnaround time to pick up your life and move to a different state."

Economic development officials are sorting through data they received from GOED, trying to gauge which respondents to the Freedom Works Here campaign have serious interest in moving to South Dakota.

“We have not had anyone relocate yet, but I would qualify that to say that I didn’t expect it would happen this quickly,” said Michael Bokorny, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corp. “We’re in uncharted territory here. There’s not really a technical manual on how to do this. We’re kind of making it up as we go.”

Concerns raised about compiling Freedom Works Here data

Several development officials said more work could have been done by GOED and the Department of Labor to filter data on the front end, such as itemizing by preference of community or profession. They also expressed surprise that they were asked to contribute to a campaign that they weren’t consulted on ahead of time and didn’t know much about until it launched.

“Before I made my way through the data, I wanted to know exactly what the Department of Labor did or what filtration they used,” said Clifton. “I got a bunch of gobbledygook that basically said, ‘We can’t tell you what we did, but we did all we could do.’ I’m a little suspicious about that because I’ve been involved in a lot of marketing campaigns that were very specific about impressions. There's going to be a lot of heavy lifting on the back end to get this into a net result of who actually makes the move and takes a job.”

Elevate Rapid City, which supports economic development in the Black Hills region, encountered problems with names and contact information being duplicated in the data. There was also no record of who had already been contacted and what those conversations entailed, pointing to the competitive nature of different communities promoting their job prospects and quality of life.

More statewide coordination could have helped alleviate those problems, said Tom Johnson, Elevate Rapid City’s president and CEO.

“I’m guessing a lot of folks on this list have been contacted in one form or another by more than a dozen groups and businesses in South Dakota,” Johnson told News Watch. “I could see that becoming overwhelming. We’ve had numerous people on the list who have interpreted these contacts from all the communities as spam, which impacts the effectiveness of the outreach. It’s every community and business for themselves, with multiple entities who paid into the program trying to make the most of the names that were given.”

'We take them one at a time'

Each community took its own approach to curating the data and chasing down leads. Beyond the initial names and addresses, there is a significant amount of follow-up recruitment – what several officials called “handholding” – necessary to persuade someone to uproot their life and move to another state.

The Aberdeen Development Corp. contacted all 7,500 names on the list through email and social media, whittling the group down to about 140 who might be interested in moving to northeast South Dakota.

“I’m surprised we got 140 people interested,” Bokorny said. “I did not think we would get that because this is kind of a crap shoot, and there’s a lot of work still to do. We also had to further qualify those 140 names by asking ourselves, 'Are we a good fit for these people? Do they make sense for us as well?'”

Bokorny and his staff worked with partners such as the city of Aberdeen, Northern State University and the local YMCA to put together a package of $5,000 worth of incentives for prospective employees and families who choose to relocate to Aberdeen.

As of mid-November, Bokorny said three individuals had agreed to visit the area to see if moving there makes sense for them, including an optometrist from a “blue state” who reached out primarily for political reasons tied to what his kids were being taught in school.

“If we get one family out of all these efforts to relocate to Aberdeen, to me that’s a win,” Bokorny said. “I mean, we take them one at a time in our neck of the woods.”

Tim Reed serves as a Republican state senator from Brookings and CEO of the community’s economic development group. He said he and other local officials were taken back when GOED director Chris Schilken requested money to extend the national ad campaign.

“It was a surprise, and it had to be weighed out whether each of our organizations thought it was worth the money,” Reed said. “In the end my board said basically, ‘Let’s do it,’ but there was some caution to it.”

Upon receiving the data, Reed and his staff sent a mass email to all 7,500 names, directing them to a local job board to find more information about employment options in the Brookings area.

“We had very good open rates,” said Reed, referencing the percentage of people who opened the email rather than ignoring it. “And we know that some of those people have clicked through to our job board. But it’s going to take a while. No one is going to move here in 30 days, right? We know that they’ve gone on a website and said they’re interested, but that’s all we know. Where are they? Are they really ready to move? These are things we need to find out.”

Elevate Rapid City took a similar approach and has seen encouraging response rates. Johnson said that 79 people applied for openings on the Black Hills job board, 66 signed up as job seekers on the Elevate Rapid City website and 30 resumes have been added to the job bank. His staff has conducted seven face-to-face meetings over Zoom.

“We were encouraged (by state officials) to send out emails about our communities and, if able, do a direct mail afterwards, which would be incredibly cost prohibitive,” Johnson said. “Aside from that, the ball was mostly in our court to do what we felt was best for our community.”

As for how many people he expected to relocate to Rapid City for employment, Johnson said: “It’s anyone’s guess. There’s a saying that cash ain’t cash until you collect. The same thing is true here. It’s not going to be real until someone has been hired and relocated here and working for one of our great businesses.”

'I was looking for a change'

People like Bob Douglas, the RV salesman who plans to move to South Dakota from California, don’t need a lot of persuading. South Dakota was in their sights because of Noem’s doctrine of limited government, whether that means lower taxes or fewer restrictions during a public health emergency.

white-haired man with glasses standing in front of Mount Rushmore and smiling
Bob Douglas, shown during a visit to Mount Rushmore, plans to move to South Dakota after being hired by Parkston-based Trailmanor as national sales and marketing director for recreational vehicles. (Photo: Submitted)

South Dakota ranked third behind New Hampshire and Florida for policies impacting economic, social and personal freedoms in 2022, according to the Cato Institute, a Libertarian-leaning think tank, which factored COVID-19 responses into its formula.

Those principles resonated with Chad Armstrong, a 49-year-old U.S. Marine veteran and “hardcore conservative” who moved to Rapid City from Butte, Montana, in October with his wife, Natashja. Armstrong chose South Dakota over Missouri and Texas partly because of Noem's messaging as well as his connection to Bradley Cummings, a veterans employment representative with the Department of Labor.

“I was looking for a change in the way that states regulate themselves,” said Armstrong, who started in November as a substitute fourth-grade teacher at General Beadle Elementary in Rapid City. “I was looking for a place that isn’t under the government welfare system and a place where you can keep your money.”

Armstrong is considering pursuing an online doctorate degree from Liberty University in public policy and Chinese affairs, following up a master’s degree in cybersecurity from Southern New Hampshire University. He also said he might run for school board or sheriff.

Armstrong founded a nonprofit, the Forgotten Fifteen Foundation, with fellow Marines he served with during the 2006 Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War. The goal is to provide support for veterans who are struggling to make the transition from military to civilian life.

Noem’s office said in a press release that the nonprofit would be headquartered in South Dakota, but the organization listed no revenue or expenses on its 2022 disclosure form.

“My dream would be to build a Forgotten Fifteen compound and the front of it would look just like the entrance to Mount Rushmore,” said Armstrong.

Asked if it would be built in South Dakota, he said it was more likely to be built in the state where most of his fellow Marines currently reside.

“That would be California,” he said.

— This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org.

‘Kids look to adults:’  Responding to child trauma 50 years after Gitchie Manitou murders

Carrie Moritz
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0
‘Kids look to adults:’  Responding to child trauma 50 years after Gitchie Manitou murders

Jackie Hendry

For South Dakota News Watch

Editor's note: This is the third in a series of stories on children that Jackie Hendry, producer and host of South Dakota Public Broadcasting's "South Dakota Focus" will write for South Dakota News Watch. Each month, she will preview the show that will air the following week.

This piece contains discussions of violence, sexual assault and suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for 24-7 support.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Phil Hamman knew someone died. The rumors began over a November weekend in 1973. He was a sophomore at Sioux Falls Washington High School.

"We'd gotten some word in the neighborhood that some kids from our school had been killed, but we didn't know any details," Hamman remembered. "We thought maybe it was a car accident or something."

The following Monday, as he got ready for school, Hamman heard four names announced on the radio: 18-year-old Stewart Baade; his 14-year-old brother, Dana Baade; 17-year-old Roger Essem; and 15-year-old Mike Hadrath, Hamman's childhood best friend.

"I became physically sick. I went to the bathroom and almost threw up," Hamman said.

A portion of the Argus Leader front page is shown from Nov. 19, 1973.
A portion of the Argus Leader front page is shown from Nov. 19, 1973.

All four boys had been shot to death near their campsite in Gitchie Manitou State Preserve, just across the border into northwestern Iowa. A couple driving through the park found their bodies the next morning. At first, there was no suspect or motive.

Hamman went to school to find other students crying in the hallways. All, like him, were shocked and desperate to understand what happened.

"But the teachers were starting to get irritated," Hamman said. "They were yelling at kids. 'Don't talk about this! Just go to class. No more talking about this Gitchie Manitou thing!'"

Hamman said he and other students obeyed without much resistance. "It's not that the teachers were doing anything out of line. That was the philosophy in those days. You just be quiet."

Privately, though, friends talked among themselves about who could've done such a terrible thing and why. When the suspects – three brothers – were captured, new questions arose. Turns out, there had been a witness: a 13-year-old girl named Sandra Cheskey.

Sandra Cheskey: The Gitchie Girl

Cheskey met Essem at a drive-in movie theater earlier that summer, and they'd been smitten with each other ever since. He'd invited her to join him and his three friends for a campfire at Gitchie Manitou the night of Nov. 17, 1973.

Three men, later identified as brothers Allen Fryer, James Fryer and David Fryer, posed as law enforcement. They shot Essem to death before taking the rest hostage. Cheskey was separated from the others, raped and threatened to silence before one of the Fryers dropped her off at her home late at night.

The next day, as rumors began spreading in Hamman's neighborhood that some kids had been killed, Cheskey learned none of the boys made it home. She took her story to the authorities. Despite her fear and the officer's initial doubt to her story, Cheskey played a crucial role in finding the Fryer brothers. She served as the only witness in the subsequent trial that landed each brother with a life sentence.

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How to watch 'South Dakota Focus'

The next episode of "South Dakota Focus" airs on Thursday, Nov. 30, at 7 p.m. Central time / 6 p.m. Mountain time. It can be viewed on SDPB-TV 1, Facebook, YouTube and SD.net.

The episode includes:

  • How support for child victims has changed in schools and the court system since the 1973 Gitchie Manitou murders
  • How adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can influence a child's future, and how understanding that influence can help break cycles of trauma
  • Peer support for mental health makes a difference on the Lower Brule Indian Reservation
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