The giving spirit is high in Garretson, and Garretson High School students are no exception; First Bank & Trust Garretson Branch President Rod Wolforth is retiring after several decades in the banking industry; and catch a play performance this Sunday as the Garretson High School One Act takes the stage at 3:00 p.m. Plus, the legislative session for 2024 has begun, and your voice is important!
You can receive your newspaper through email!
The Garretson Gazette sends a weekly email letting you know when this week's issue is available, along with a run-down of each week's articles. Please ensure you enter our email address () into your "safe emails" list and subscribe to our email newsletter using the form below. Thanks!
Plenty of stories were covered by the Gazette in 2023, and it would be impossible to summarize them all. However, we have attempted to highlight the biggest parts of the year and look forward to what 2024 brings us!
While 2024 has jumped in on the snow by dumping approximately 9 inches this past Monday into Tuesday morning, 2023 took the cake when it came to the white stuff, dumping two feet on Garretson to open the year. The area ultimately got over 65 inches for the 2022-2023 season, sending snow budgets over the line. While the total fell at number eight on the top ten list for recorded snowfall, it didn't match up to 1968-69's record snowfall of 94.7 inches, 1961-62's 79.8 inches, or 2017's 70.4 inches. It was, however, a big difference from 2021-22's paltry 19.9 inches. Local students were able to take advantage of it, with snow and sledding parties held. As of mid-March, school had been called off due to snow nine times, extending the school year another week.
Carbon pipelines were a constant story throughout 2023 as property owners fought against two projects that were slated to come through Minnehaha County. Both purported to reduce ethanol companies' carbon footprint by transporting, under pressure, the plants' produced carbon dioxide to Illinois and North Dakota to be buried underground. One, Navigator CO2 Ventures, would have passed within two miles of Garretson and just south of Palisades State Park, alarming residents who were concerned about possible leaks and subsequent quality of life and property damage. The other company, Summit Carbon Solutions, began taking eminent domain and court actions despite the lack of a permit.
Brian Jorde, at right, and Ryan Cwach, attorneys for opponent landowners, participate in a Public Utilities Commission hearing July 25, 2023, in Fort Pierre on the permit application for the proposed Heartland Greenway carbon dioxide pipeline. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)
After the 2023 legislative session, where lawmakers made no progress on regulating pipeline installation and insisted that anyone against the pipelines was against ethanol, county governments began taking individual action, including Minnehaha County. After weighing different options, one that would have put a 1-year moratorium on pipeline projects and was ultimately rejected, the Minnehaha County Commission voted to implement a 330-foot setback requirement from dwellings, businesses, or churches. This, according to the three commissioners who voted for the 330-foot requirement instead of a 750-foot requirement, protected landowners while still allowing for the pipelines. However, thanks to a coalition of people across the state, both pipeline permit applications were ultimately rejected by the Public Utilities Commission. This caused the company that would have passed near Garretson, Navigator CO2 Ventures, to pull its project from consideration. The story will likely continue to impact South Dakotans in the future as the other company, Summit Carbon Solutions, continues to work towards getting the pipeline project greenlit.
Local and State taxes were another big conversation piece in 2023 as the legislature fought to reduce the tax burden on residents and tax opt outs were passed by both the County Commission and the Garretson School Board. While the legislature ultimately rejected a measure to eliminate grocery taxes in favor of a 0.3% reduction in the state sales tax, from 4.5% to 4.2%, both opt out measures passed. The tax opt out for the school was the second one passed in three years, as the first had been voided after issues with following state law at the ballot box were found. A public vote on the school opt out passed 344-277 (55% in favor), giving the school and residents five more years to increase the school population and to fight for changes in the funding formula at the legislative level. The commission passed its tax increase in the form of bonds to help fund the construction of a new juvenile justice facility, which is estimated to cost around $50 million. Tax burdens haven't been helped by the significant increase in property assessment values, which have doubled in town since 2017, and the Gazette reported on the increase.
Gossip (Rebekah Roth) tortures Dallas (Brooklyn Trudeau) with her words and lures the other students into participating in the act. Pictured (L to R): Anna Ebbing, Eliza Potter, Wyatt Potter, Rebekah Roth, Jade Bertotti, Brooklyn Trudeau, Whisper Apple, Madison Waltman.
In recognition of the hard work the staff and students put forward in the Garretson School District, the Gazette highlighted several of the in-class activities and accomplishments experienced by students during the school year. Wax museums, celebrating 100 days of school, school plays, and science fairs were just a few of those activities, and students did well in reading, writing, and arithmetic. Retiring teacher Bev Howe was named 2023 Teacher of the Year while the REACH program gave the support students needed, and the Wednesday afternoon program reduced the number of D's by 75%. However, the state grade said the district still has plenty of room to improve, despite other standardized testing showing that students are being well-prepared and educated, an issue the Gazette looked into in-depth.
Article continues below
Enjoy this free article! The Gazette is proud to present the local news of Garretson, South Dakota, giving its subscribers news of interest, school coverage, and local/statewide government coverage. Your support of the Gazette and its advertisers ensures this coverage will continue into the future. Consider getting your subscription today! E-edition subscribers get access to their issues sooner than anyone else, both on this site and in your email inbox.
However, in early April the state Department of Education passed a controversial set of standards for Social Studies, which were heavily panned by educators due to lack of educator input, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of quality curriculum. This replaced a set of standards that were rejected in 2021, which had been set with educators but were panned due to a lack of substantial Native history. The newest standards did not appear to improve on that criticism.
In other school news, the Garretson School District received three new electric buses near the beginning of the school year, and so far, they have been well-received. While students were busy learning about safety before, after, and during school, unfortunately, one high school student found themselves in trouble after weapons were found in their vehicle, resulting in an arrest and expulsion for the rest of the year.
Big construction plans were on the docket for 2023, as the athletic complex, the 5th Street bridge, Dows Street, Blue Dragon Academy, and the golf course/state park road all finished large projects. The football field and track at the athletic complex were completely overhauled over the summer in a $2 million dollar project, giving athletes a new, safer turf to compete on. The old turf had gone years past its expected use date and replacement was overdue. The 5th Street bridge project meant a historical arch bridge was saved and prolonged its useful lifespan another fifty years, with new joints and decking ensuring its safety. Dows Street had an additional length added to the water main, connecting two separate water mains between the Hose It! car wash and Nordstrom's PTLA Storage, creating needed redundancy in the system. Blue Dragon Academy finished construction on its expansion, increasing from 6,900 square feet to 9,700 square feet and allowing a larger school-age program along with an expanded kitchen and eating area. The road leading to River Ridge Golf Course and to Palisades State Park was reconstructed during the summer, thanks to funding that had been received in 2022. This was highly needed, as the road had fallen into severe disrepair; however, the state had been reluctant to fund the reconstruction as the entrance to Palisades State Park will be moving in 2024. The road is projected to last at least 25 years before replacement will be required. At that time, it will be fully the responsibility of the township unless something changes.
In city government news, the city purchased the pool from the Garretson Community Pool Association in the spring. This allowed the city to administrate the pool during the summer months while the pool board wrapped up its functions.
At the end of 2022, the city had purchased a 15-acre parcel of land south of Garretson, originally for the intent of building a new city hall and community center. However, after further discussion in early 2023 it was decided to hold off on the community center due to costs and to rebuild city hall in its current spot instead of moving it out of the business district. After meeting with the architects to discuss the building plans, no further public movement was made on city hall by the end of the year. Instead, the city opted to work on plans to ready the purchased land for development and housing.
After two years working together for insurance and licensing purposes, the city and the American Legion opted to part ways on the fireworks display due to differing and unresolved expectations. The Legion will continue with other July 4th celebratory plans, and the city will continue with the display. The Legion will no longer provide fundraising for the fireworks, something it had done for many years.
During the summer, a downtown building that was one of the first built in Garretson was discovered to be unsafe for residents after facade began falling off the south side. Upon entering the building, the city inspector and outside engineers asked for the building to be condemned due to several structural issues. The building had been under a contract for deed, complicating the process, but ultimately the deed-holder opted to have the building torn down with the city in charge of the logistics. The building was removed at the end of November after two weeks of delays. While some discussion was held in public meeting regarding having the city purchase the lot, as of the end of 2023, the land was still privately held.
In sports, the Garretson Girls' Basketball team did well in the 2022-23 season, taking third at the Big East Conference and making it to the SoDak 16 for the first time. While they ultimately fell to #4-seeded Red Cloud, the #13-seeded Lady Dragons made a comeback play for the ages, ratcheting 11 points in the last two minutes of the game and missing the win by only six points. GHS sent five athletes to state in wrestling, with Jaden Richter placing fourth overall in his weight class. Six athletes went to state in golf, and several athletes went to state in track. The baseball season was fun, with athletes in 12U, 14U, and 16U along with the amateur league Blue Jays. None of the teams advanced far into postseason play, and thanks to a technicality and miscommunication, the Blue Jays ended their season abruptly due to a disqualification in the district playoffs.
Bryn Swatek goes in for a kill against Elaina Rhode of Colman-Egan in the annual Dig Pink game on Friday, October 20. At the Dig Pink game, $774 was raised for cancer research and awareness.
When fall sports began, football and soccer had trouble getting their footing. Despite a winning first game, the soccer team was unable to snag another win during the season. Football had similar luck, only winning their final home game of the season. Volleyball and Cross Country fared better, though cross country mostly competed in junior varsity until the end of the season, when three athletes moved up into varsity. Though they were unable to reproduce the results of the prior two years of volleyball, the team still performed well, winning 16 games out of 26.
In November, the Gazette broke the news that Garretson would be a launch point for the Ride Across South Dakota, a large biking event that takes place every year. RASDAK is expected to bring approximately 250-300 cyclists into town in June of 2024.
2023 was quite a year, and it will be interesting to see what 2024 brings us. Here's to a positive and successful year for all of our readers, and we thank you for your support!
Is there interest in starting a Lions Club in Garretson? That’s the question being posed by Dennis Olson of the Brandon area Lions Club.
Lions Club logo courtesy of Lions Club International.
“I’ve been a member of the Lions for forty-five years,” Olson said. “I came to Brandon in 1986 as the city finance officer. The Lions Club in Brandon started back in 1964, before the town even became incorporated. You’ll have seen many of the projects we’ve done or had a hand in over the years. McHardy Park, our veterans park, these are just some of the many local projects we’ve had a hand in helping out over the years.”
Olson said that about fifteen years ago, they tried to start a Lions Club in Garretson, but it failed to launch.
“But talking with our district supervisor out of Sioux Falls, there is another option, which is starting a branch club,” he said. “You need twenty members to start a new Lions club, but with a branch club, you only need five members. We already operate club activities in Garretson, and most recently doing eye and hearing tests at the Garretson School, I was told we did tests for 250 students. Several people, some school staff and some community members and business people expressed an interest in the Lions Club. All we need is five new dues-paying members and we can get the Garretson Branch Club going. They would have their own meetings, handle their own finances and do everything a club does, we would just partner on bigger fundraising and community projects together, which would honestly be a good thing for both communities. For the purposes of membership totals and fundraising totals, both clubs would simply be counted together. There have already been ideas proposed by Garretson community members to me that would make great projects for the Garretson Lions Branch Club or for both groups to coordinate with in community partnership. I like the idea of neighbors looking out for each other and working to help improve our communities where we can.”
Lions Club members provide free eye exams to youth as part of their goodwill opportunties. //Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
With this in mind, the Brandon Area Lions Club plans to meet at the Brandon Pizza Ranch on Thursday, Jan. 18th at 6:30 p.m. and will set an agenda for a meeting in Garretson. They plan to host a community meeting in Garretson for the purposes of forming the Garretson Area Lions Branch Club on Monday, Jan. 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post #23 dugout and are inviting any interested community members who are passionate about serving their community to attend and join the Lions, to form the core membership of a new branch club.
“There are many good projects we could do together, and there is a lot of potential here that we should be capitalizing on,” he said. “I’m extremely proud of my 45 years in the Lions, and have seen it make a real difference for the lives of my friends and neighbors. I want that legacy to continue and for Garretson to be a more direct part of that. We will still maintain the things that we do, but I know we can do more and I think we have a lot to offer each other.”
This past Monday night, the Garretson City Council met in regular session. Since the weather was not great, the meeting was kept short and simple, with the council deciding whether tent camping should be limited to 4 nights in Split Rock Park or left at 5 nights, setting up a special meeting for the 4th Street project, and noting that Garretson's maintenance supervisor/utilities superintendent, Ryan Nussbaum, is vacating his position as of Friday, January 12.
Ryan Nussbaum (right) helps install the new Split Rock Park metal sign with Jordan Doane (left) and Zach Uhl (not pictured, behind sign) in November 2020. Nussbaum will be heading back to Valley Springs' Maintenance Department after two years with the City of Garretson. //archive photo by Carrie Moritz, Gazette
A special meeting was scheduled for Monday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the 4th Street construction project with engineers. The public is invited and encouraged to come in order to learn about the project, and how it will proceed.
City Maintenance Supervisor and Utilities Superintendent Ryan Nussbaum has been working at the Garretson City Maintenance Department since 2020, and before that, he was the maintenance supervisor in Valley Springs. Last week, Nussbaum tendered his resignation to return to Valley Springs as of January 15. He had taken the reins, along with Jordan Doane, from his father Craig Nussbaum in early 2022 when the elder Nussbaum retired. While the city works to hire another utilities supervisor, Doane has been learning portions of R. Nussbaum's responsibilities to ensure there are as few lapses as possible.
Parks were a large piece of the meeting, as Garretson Park Board member Colleen Collier announced there will be a meeting on January 21 at 8:00 a.m. at the Sports Cabin to set up priorities and budget for 2024. She asked the council if they were allowed to ask Champion Tree Services if they were willing to continue their work in 2024. It was revealed in the meeting that they had been asked to leave by councilor Tom Godbey this past summer due to the removal of trees he deemed unnecessary to remove.
"I don't know if we burned that bridge or not," Collier said, reiterating that the company had successfully been cleaning up the granite cliffs in Devil's Gulch for the past five years without incident, and were one of only two companies the park board had found that were licensed to even be able to do that sort of work. Councilor Godbey noted that he just wanted some communication, and a heads up on what was going to be cut down. He stated he was just a tree hugger, and found it amazing that trees could grow in cliffs.
WANT TO SEE MORE?
More article below - Read with a mailed subscription or full on-line subscription!
Your financial support of this locally-owned, locally-run newspaper and its advertisers ensures we can continue bringing you great content. Thank you for your support!
MAIL SUBSCRIBERS: Register to receive full access to archives, past issues, extra photos, and more. (Allow up to 3 business days for full activation.) On a recurring subscription? You likely already have an account!
Already have an account? Log In:
UPDATE 1/11/24: Mayor Greg Beaner's name was incorrect in the printed edition. This has been fixed.
Above, we have a name for the missing student on the top left for Week 7. It is Lois Johanson. Also pictured are Larry Erickson, Kay Flanagan, Ron Richeal, Roger Hartman, and Earl DeBates.
Below is the week 8 and final entry of the guessing game! We’re going way back once again, many of whom we still have here today! A talented group, including an artist and a writer.
Splitrock Bowling:
The Splitrock Ladies started the New Year bowling on January 2, 2024, with the following results:
High Team Game & Series - Jesse James - 902 & 2541.
High Individual Game - Bonnie Kramer – 202.
High Individual Series - Holly Mulder – 520.
Cheryl Scholl picked up the 2-7 split twice.
Barb Risty picked up the 7-9 split.
Ann Behrend picked up the 3-10 split twice and the 7-9 split.
Don’t pay any attention to disingenuous advertising.
Killing the carbon pipeline will HURT EVERY South Dakotan. That’s the ad that’s running in my newspaper, sure. Space that has been bought and paid for. That’s not to say I support it in any way.
Let me turn that statement on its head for a sec though, killing the carbon pipeline will keep South Dakotans safe, as opposed to killing them in a Carbon Dioxide leak.
We’ve reported a bunch about this issue, but the fundamental facts haven’t changed. First, a leak of these proposed pipelines could kill South Dakotans as well as poisoning the surrounding farmland and poisoning the surrounding water supply.
Then let’s talk about landowners’ rights. The reason the carbon pipeline companies are proposing easements instead of just buying the land in question is because they don’t want to get their hands dirty. If there is a leak, then they don’t actually own said land and so aren’t liable for damages. They’re paying a one-time payment for perpetual use of your land. When these companies no longer exist, who has that easement document and what can they do with it?
The people who own these carbon capture companies are some of the wealthiest people in the world and include foreign interests. They simply do not care about your health and safety and they certainly don’t give two figs about your family farm and property rights. They’re looking to score a quick couple billion in tax credits and aren’t really interested in sharing any of that sweet cash with anyone who actually lives and works here.
Eminent domain is being used for private gain here, these companies taking advantage of South Dakotas laws to bully their way through our legal system and state infrastructure, including such tactics as filing condemnation procedures and attempting land foreclosures on those farmers who won’t play ball. Dirty tactics doesn’t begin to describe it. If you want my opinion, if you own land in the state, you should call your local legislators and tell them support the movement to make reforms at the state level.
SD Ethanol has signed onto these pipeline projects for the tax benefit, and that’s the tacit argument they’re making here, that it’ll hurt farm prices and ethanol production if the pipeline doesn’t get built. That argument doesn’t really hold water.
In recent interviews, the carbon people said the quiet part out loud, that they’re worried about the dawn of electric vehicles affecting the price of gas, and perhaps they’re right to be worried. Worried somebody is going to challenge their monopoly on a product everyone uses. As if economic diversity and good old-fashioned American ingenuity and business competition were a bad thing. But even with EV making great strides, it’ll be a while yet before electric cars are in every home.
Ethanol, by its very nature, allows us to do more with less gasoline and as more and more cars are able to use ethanol fuels, demand for it will go up, not down. And if these pipelines get built, will the average South Dakotan see the price of ethanol go down because of it? I sincerely doubt that, since gas prices are based on what the market will bear, rather than how much it costs to make.
The South Dakota PUC unanimously rejected these proposals this past summer, but rather than adapt and try to play by the rules our county commissioners across the land are trying to set for them, these companies have not fundamentally changed their outlook. My opinion is that South Dakotans should let these people know that if they want to do business in our state, they need to play by our rules and do things our way. They need to abide by restrictions set by our county commissioners and this session, our legislature should close loopholes in the law that have let them bully SD farmers into submission. The landowners should have final say on what is done on their property, and our laws should protect the people and their rights.
So, these ads you’re seeing are disingenuous in the extreme. They’re banking on the fact that there is a sucker born every minute, don’t buy it. It’s garbage.
So yeah, killing these carbon pipelines might just benefit all South Dakotans, by you know, keeping their lives and livelihoods safe.
On Saturday, the Jesse James Wrestling Invitational made a splash as thirteen other schools joined Garretson in the daylong event. Garretson had twelve male brackets and three female brackets filled with fourteen athletes, four of whom medaled. Danika Juhl and Adair Hanisch placed first in their brackets, Hannah Frewaldt placed third, and Brock Bonte placed fourth.
Adair Hanisch looks to grapple her opponent. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
Head Coach Brady Schlueter pointed out that the 14 teams provided some tough competition.
In the 106 weight bracket, Lucas Ludwig won his first round and third round, but fell in his second and fourth. In the 138 weight bracket, Levi Top won his second round but was unsuccessful in overcoming his opponents in rounds one and three. In 150, Carsten Roozeboom wrestled hard in five matches, taking the win in his first, third, and fourth match, but taking the loss in the definitive consolation semi. In the 157 bracket, Lucas Gonzalez received a bye in his first round and lost his second, but took down his opponents in rounds 3 and 4.
He wrestled fellow GHS teammate Brock Bonte in the fifth round and consolation semi, with Bonte taking the win. Bonte took his first and second matches of the day, lost the semifinal match, and came back in the consolation semi. Unfortunately, Beresford-Alcester-Hudson's Jensen Christensen won by decision over Bonte in the third-place match.
"Brock wrestled well on the day, I expected him to come out with a top four finish when I first saw the brackets," said Coach Schleuter. "He's come a long way so far and I expect him to keep getting better as the season wraps up."
Carsten Roozeboom in a winning match at the Jesse James Invitational on Saturday. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
Schleuter was proud of Gonzalez, as well. "Foreign exchange student Lucas Gonzalez came away with two victories and was one win away from placing! He is our all-world team member; I was so proud of him. He tweaked his ankle last Saturday in Webster and wasn't sure if he was going to be ready for today. I'm proud how he toughed it out and competed today."
In the 165 bracket, Cole Schleuter took down his opponents in rounds one, three, and four, ultimately losing in the consolation semi. In the 175 bracket, Caleb Westerbur came out on top in the quarterfinal after receiving a bye in his first round, but was unable to overcome his opponents in his last two matches.
On the mat for the females, Coach Schleuter was proud of his athletes.
"120lb champion Danika Juhl and 126lb champion Adair Hanisch came out today and took care of business," he said. "I was proud of them on the way they competed today it's been fun to watch them wrestle so far this season."
Juhl battled it out against Elle Rock of Luverne in two matches, coming out victorious in both. Hanisch took on Morgan McTigue of Luverne and did the same. Frewaldt won against Julia Hoogland of Luverne, but was unable to beat Reese Olson of Beresford.
The Dragons head back out on to the mats today, January 11 in Chester, and on Saturday, January 13 at Tri-Valley. They'll be back on the home mats on Tuesday, January 23 in a triangular with Parkston and Sioux Falls Lincoln.
Adair Hanisch in a winning match on Saturday at the Jesse James Invitational. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
Garretson Girls basketball had a couple games last week, heading to Dell Rapids and Sioux Falls on Tuesday and Friday.
Ava Ockenga guards her opponent. //Carrie Moritz, Gazette
"The first after Winter Break was at Dell Rapids St. Mary," said Head Coach Matt Schrank. "We had a ton of opportunities early on, but just couldn’t get the ball to fall into the hoop. We were down after the first quarter 5-8.
"We had a little offensive success early in the 2nd quarter, but still trailed at halftime 16-15. We came out in the 2nd half ready to take over the game. We outscored the home team 20-3 in the 3rd and controlled the rest of the way.
"We won the game 46-35 to move to 5-2."
Sydney Olson led the team with 14 points, Adi Fink had 10 and Kylie Christensen had 9. Tayler Benson, Jordyn Williams, and Olson each had 3 steals. Olson had 8 rebounds as well, and Christensen had 3 blocks respectively.
Continued Schrank, "On Friday, January 5th we traveled to Sioux Falls Christian for the 2nd straight year. The Lady Chargers are receiving votes as a top 5 team in Class A. We jumped on them right away and led after the first quarter.
"After the first quarter we would find it hard to score. At the end of the 2nd quarter, we had a 3-pointer get wiped off the score board because of a foul and SFC went on a 7-0 run to take a 6 point lead into halftime.
"The 2nd half was more of the same. The offensive side of the ball was a struggle and even though we made plenty of stops, we couldn’t cut the deficit enough. We ended up losing 45-34."
After a weeklong break, the team will be back on the court on Friday, hosting Colman-Egan in a double header. Varsity will start at 6:15 p.m.
Last week, the GHS Boys Basketball team hosted the first two of three days in the Big East Tournament, taking on Sioux Valley, Parker, and Beresford.
#30 Carter Siemonsma attempts a layup around a Cossacks player while #33 Treyton Decker looks on. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
On Thursday, January 4, the Dragons faced the Cossacks, who are 8-0 on the season. They ultimately took the win over Flandreau on Saturday at the tournament. Garretson fell to the team 25-66 in the first round.
Ian Buettner shoots from the corner. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
In the second round against Parker on Friday, the Dragons fared better, nearly snatching the win. Parker ultimately prevailed, hitting the hoop for three more points and ending with 46 points to Garretson's 43.
On Saturday, the team headed to Baltic for the third round against Beresford, and the two teams battled it out in the high-scoring game. Beresford was able to snag the lead and keep it, winning 55-76.
The team will be back on the home court this Friday, January 12 in a double-header against Colman-Egan, with the boys' varsity game beginning at 8:00 p.m.
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for Jan. 2, 2024
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on January 2, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on December 26, 2023. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, Karsky, and Kippley. Also present were Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, and Eric Bogue, Chief Civil Deputy State's Attorney.
Chair Bender called the meeting to order.
MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to approve the agenda. 5 ayes
ELECTION OF 2024 CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
2023 Commission Chair Bender called for nominations for the 2024 Commission Chairperson. MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to nominate Dean Karsky as Commission Chairperson for 2024. Roll Call Vote to elect Dean Karsky as the 2024 Commission Chairperson. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky called for nominations for the 2024 Commission Vice-Chairperson. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to nominate Gerald Beninga as Commission Vice-Chairperson for 2024. Roll Cal Vote to elect Gerald Beninga as the 2024 Commission Vice-Chairperson. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
DESIGNATION OF
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPERS
Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, was present to report on the proposals received from the Argus Leader, Brandon Valley Journal, Garretson Gazette, and Minnehaha Messenger for designation as official county newspapers. The proposal from the Argus Leader includes a rate of $0.26 per line. The proposals from the Brandon Valley Journal, Garretson Gazette, and Minnehaha Messenger each included a rate of $0.32 per line for meeting minutes and $0.35 per line for other notices. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to designate the Argus Leader, the Brandon Valley Journal, the Garretson Gazette, and the Minnehaha Messenger as official newspapers for Minnehaha County in 2024. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT APPOINTMENT
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented a recommendation to appoint Steve Groen as Minnehaha County Highway Superintendent for 2024-2025. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve the appointment of Steve Groen as Minnehaha County Highway Superintendent for 2024-2025. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RECORD OF NON-ELECTED DEPARTMENT HEADS
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented the list of non-elected Department Heads, as of January 1, 2024.
Tom Greco-Commission Office
Chris Lilla-Equalization
Mark Kriens-Facilities
Steve Groen-Highway
Carey Jo Deaver-Human Services
Kari Benz-Human Services
Monte Watembach-Information Technology
Jamie Gravett-Juvenile Detention Center
Bill Hoskins-Museum
Scott Anderson-Planning & Zoning/Parks
Juile Hofer-Public Advocate
Traci Smith-Public Defender
CORONER APPOINTMENT
Upon the request of Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to authorize the appointment of Dr. Kenneth S. Snell as Minnehaha County Coroner for 2024. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RESOLUTION MC24-01
AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY CORONER
WHEREAS, the Legislature of the State of South Dakota adopted SDCL § 7-7-1.4 which established that the board of county commissioners in a county may appoint, by resolution, a coroner who shall serve at the pleasure of the board; and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners previously appointed Dr. Kenneth S. Snell, a duly qualified medical pathologist, to perform the duties of the Minnehaha County Coroner and to serve in the capacity of Medical Examiner for a one-year term in 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners wish to re-appoint Dr. Snell in 2024 to satisfy the intent of the statutes for Coroner; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners herby appoint Dr. Kenneth S. Snell as Coroner for Minnehaha County for a one-year term beginning on January 1, 2024 and ending on December 31, 2024.
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Commission Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
COMMISSIONER SALARY
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, gave a briefing on the determination of the 2024 salary for Minnehaha County Commissioners. To accommodate the payroll system, a salary $34,465.60 for the non-chair Commissioners and $35,984.00 for the Chair would be a divisible number for the 26 pay periods in 2024. This would be an increase of 5% for the Commissioners. Public comment was received from Rick Weible. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to elect a salary and approve Resolution MC 24-02. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Resolution MC24-02
A RESOLUTION TO ELECT SALARY, RATHER THAN PER DIEM METHOD OF PAYMENT TO COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, AND SET THE 2024 ANNUAL SALARY AT $34,465.60 EXCEPT FOR THE SALARY OF THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WHICH WILL BE SET AT $35,984.00
WHEREAS, during the first regular business meeting of 2024 the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners, the Board considered and approved the following action regarding Commission salaries;
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, pursuant to SDCL 7-7-5 the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners set the following salaries for Commissioners:
• The 2024 annual salaries for the four part-time non-chair Commissioners will be $34,465.60;
• The 2024 annual salary for the part-time Chairperson of the Board of Commission will be $35,984.00.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Dean Karsky
CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to approve the consent agenda. By roll call vote: 5 ayes. The consent agenda includes the following items:
Commission Meeting Minutes for December 26, 2023
Bills to be Paid $1,606,890.90
3200 RUSSELL LLC Motels $180, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Lease-Rental Agreement $372.88, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Maintenance Contracts $302.36, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Office Supplies $129.63, AIRGAS USA LLC Small Tools & Shop Supplies $120, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Automotive/Small Equipment $987.66, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Gas Oil & Diesel $205.36, ALL NATIONS INTERPRE Interpreters $199.8, ALL STAR INVESTIGATI Professional Services $650, ALPHAGRAPHICS Printing/Forms $319.58, AMBUSH LLC Uniform Allowance $156.75, AMERICAN INK LLC Special Projects $179.31, AMERICAN INK LLC Uniform Allowance $250.26, ANGEL, EDWARD P Attorney Fees $1029.9, ANNETTE KRENKE Sign Deposits $50, ASH LAW OFFICE PLLC Child Defense Attorney $1440.65, AVERA HEALTH PLANS I Insurance Admin Fee $6420.16, AVERA MCKENNAN Hospitals $2530.69, AVERA MCKENNAN Professional Services $76.34, BLACKBURN & STEVENS Attorney Fees $2103.4, BOB BARKER COMPANY I Inmate Supplies $196.42, CBS PROPERTIES LLC Welfare Rent $500, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Lease Principal $719.04, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Maintenance Contracts $552.87, CIOX HEALTH LLC Clinics - Auxiliary Services $28.5, CIVIL DESIGN INC Architects & Engineers $16851.25, CONSTELLATION Natural Gas $4991.12, CREEKSTONE FALLS Welfare Rent $5357.87, D&R WELDING Truck Repairs & Maintenance $850, DAN GRAPEVINE Uniform Allowance $46.16, DEMATTEO LAW FIRM PR Attorney Fees $1112.8, DEMATTEO LAW FIRM PR Child Defense Attorney $3015.9, DINGES PARTNERS GROU Safety & Rescue Equipment $1422.95, DUST TEX SERVICE INC Janitorial Chemical Supplies $217.5, EICH LAW OFFICE LLC Child Defense Attorney $406.6, ENGLISH LAW Attorney Fees $6300, ETTERMAN ENTERPRISES Small Tools & Shop Supplies $138.02, FIRST DAKOTA NATIONA Lease Interest $780.33, FIRST DAKOTA NATIONA Lease Principal $3075.42, FLEETPRIDE INC Truck Repairs & Maintenance $565.29, GALLS PARENT HOLDING Uniform Allowance $379.1, GBR INC Interpreters $120, GEORGE, MICHAEL Welfare Rent $2550, GLOBAL TEL LINK (GT Telephone $7.21, GOEBEL PRINTING INC Printing/Forms $6521.62, GOURLEY PROPERTIES I Welfare Rent $1585, GRAHAM TIRE CO NORTH Automotive/Small Equipment $639.12, GRAINGER Automotive/Small Equipment $7.3, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Memberships $55, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Miscellaneous Expense $210, GUARDRAIL ENTERPRISE Road Maint & Material $2754, HEARTLAND FUNERAL HO Burials $6500, HERITAGE FUNERAL HOM Burials $3500, HOUSTON ENGINEERING Architects & Engineers $29049.15, HUB INTERNATIONAL GR Hazard Insurance (Bldgs) $382275, HYVEE ACCOUNTS RECEI Program Activities $144.4, I STATE TRUCK CENTER Truck Repairs & Maintenance $65.89, INNOVATIVE OFFICE SO Office Supplies $147.5, INTEGRATED TECHNOLOG Building Repairs & Maintenance $343.9, INTERSTATE OFFICE PR Office Supplies $354.95, JCL SOLUTIONS Inmate Supplies $1697.5, JCL SOLUTIONS Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $3734.78, JSA CONSULT ENGINEER Architects & Engineers $4577.5, JVR COUNSELING Psych Evals $2000, KNECHT, ANDREW J Attorney Fees $3691.5, KOCH HAZARD ARCHITEC Communication Equipment $1995, KOLBECK LAW OFFICE L Attorney Fees $2805.1, KRUSE LAW OFFICE Attorney Fees $3118, LEWIS DRUGS INC Pharmacies $564.96, LIGHTNING TOWING Professional Services $370, LOCKWOOD & ZAHRBOCK Child Defense Attorney $709.2, LOPEZ, REBECA Interpreters $75, LUTHER, JEFF Medical Director $2750, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Evening Report Center $930.68, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Interpreters $65, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Shelter Care/Reception Center $83772.29, LUX NORTH Welfare Rent $1029.34, LYNN, JACKSON, SHULT Attorney Fees $36415.99, MCKESSON MEDICAL SUR Clinics - Auxiliary Services $400.93, MEDSTAR PARAMEDIC IN Transportation $4000, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Attorney Fees $40, METRO COMMUNICATIONS Clinics - Auxiliary Services $2790, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Natural Gas $2829.28, MIDSTATES UNIFORM & Uniform Allowance $213.96, MIDWEST UNDERGROUND Heavy Equipment $33828.96, NICHOLE CARPER Attorney Fees $1665, NORTH RIDGE APARTMEN Welfare Rent $700, NORTHEAST INVESTMENT Welfare Rent $1600, NYBERGS ACE HARDWARE Program Activities $19.93, OLSON OIL CO. Miscellaneous Expense $43.75, PENNING, LESLIE A Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $480, PHOENIX SUPPLY LLC Inmate Supplies $1425.44, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $6664.5, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOC Professional Services $3200, PURPLE COMMUNICATION Interpreters $260, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Postage $132.24, RELIANCE TELEPHONE I Telephone $1, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Attorney Fees $2667.3, RISK ANALYSIS & MANA Insurance Admin Fee $2866.5, ROEMEN'S AUTOMOTIVE Gas Oil & Diesel $86.91, ROTOROOTER Building Repairs & Maintenance $295, SAFE HOME LTD PTNRSH Rent Subsidies $10845, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Child Care Items $33.76, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Clinics - Auxiliary Services $140.8, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Memberships $50.04, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Miscellaneous Expense $115.04, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Office Supplies $71.91, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Other Supplies $112.68, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Professional Services $-6.26, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Safe Home Donations $91.29, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Supplemental Food $215.08, SANFORD Other Medical Services $116.48, SANFORD CLINIC Contract Services $29367.28, SCHAUNAMAN, KURT Uniform Allowance $237.11, SD ASSOC COUNTY HIGH Memberships $350, SD ASSOC OF COUNTY C Memberships $33471, SD BUILDING OFFICIAL Memberships $50, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Psych Evals $600, SDML WORKERS COMPENS Workers Compensation $564016, SECOG Miscellaneous Expense $26903, SIOUX EMPIRE FAIR AS Miscellaneous Expense $12500, SIOUX FALLS CITY Lease-Rental Agreement $43421.71, SIOUXLAND ORAL Clinics - Auxiliary Services $2149.42, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $3848, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $593, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Extension Background Checks $50, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Miscellaneous Expense $425.11, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Notary Exp $30, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Printing/Forms $90.35, STEWART TITLE COMPAN Attorney Fees (Repaid) $85.05, STREICHERS INC JAG Grant 2023 $16448.09, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $78, SUMMIT FIRE PROTECTI Safety & Rescue Equipment $65.02, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Board Of Prisoners-Meals $59446.37, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $1605.69, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Inmate Supplies $545.91, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $3707.41, SWEATMAN PROPERTIES Welfare Rent $600, TIRES TIRES TIRES IN Gas Oil & Diesel $51.99, TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS IN Architects & Engineers $993.46, TRC 41ST Welfare Rent $1150, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $3132.5, TSCHETTER & ADAMS LA Attorney Fees $1039.33, TSCHETTER & ADAMS LA Child Defense Attorney $311.21, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Safety & Rescue Equipment $1660.99, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS I Welfare Rent $943, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS P Welfare Rent $4090.79, UNIVERSITY PARK LEGA Professional Services $1268.75, US FOODS INC Professional Services $742.94, VB FALLS TERRACE Welfare Rent $800, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Automotive/Small Equipment $6, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Gas Oil & Diesel $161, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $57963.24, XCEL ENERGY INC Welfare Utilities $751.91, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $100, YMCA Welfare Rent $700.
December 2023
Commission Salaries
COMMISSION Salaries $35,830.85
AUDITOR Salaries $58,002.78
TREASURER Salaries $99,767.57
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Salaries $87,694.52
STATES ATTORNEY Salaries $452,558.63
PUBLIC DEFENDER Salaries $268,059.12
PUBLIC ADVOCATE Salaries $82,463.21
FACILITIES Salaries $59,747.91
EQUALIZATION Salaries $116,388.81
REGISTER OF DEEDS Salaries $49,327.89
HUMAN RESOURCES Salaries $37,734.43
SHERIFF Salaries $1,367,945.91
JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER Salaries $196,195.81
HIGHWAY Salaries $153,321.38
HUMAN SERVICES Salaries $154,563.20
MUSEUM Salaries $90,652.58
PLANNING Salaries $43,996.26
EXTENSION Salaries $3,497.60
The following reports were received and placed on file in the Auditor's Office:
Coroners Report - September 2023
Coroners Report - October 2023
Coroners Report - November 2023
Routine Personnel Actions
New Hires
1. David Aaron, variable hour Civil Process Server for the Sheriff's Office, at $22.00/hour effective 12/12/2023.
2. Aaron Jorgensen and Daniel Stewart, Correctional Officers for the Jail, at $25.37/hour (14/1) effective 1/8/2024.
3. Bert Bucher, Deputy Public Defender for the Public Defender's Office, at $3,492.00/biweekly (22/2) effective 1/8/2024.
Promotions
1. Brett Johnson, Supportive Services Manager to Community Services Engagement Manager for Human Services, at $44.72/hour (18/14) effective 1/6/2024.
Step Increases
1. Scott Berg, Highway Maintenance Team Member for the Highway Department, at $32.45/hour (12/13) effective 1/4/2024.
2. Joy West, Safe Home Manager for Safe Home, at $3,086.40/biweekly (20/6) effective 12/11/2023.
3. Moises Membreno, Juvenile Correctional Officer I for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $24.16/hour (13/2) effective 12/12/2023.
4. Sara Sackmann, Paralegal for the Public Defender's Office, at $36.70/hour (16/10) effective 1/2/2024.
5. Traci Smith, Public Defender for the Public Defender's Office, at $6,969.60/biweekly (26/13) effective 12/27/2023.
Variable Hour Pay Increases
1. To increase the hourly rate of pay effective 12/23/2023 for the following individuals in variable hour positions:
Regan Richardson, Clerical Worker for Facilities, at $19.70/hour.
Daniel Breci, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $23.00/hour.
Tyricia Davis, Juvenile Correctional Worker for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $22.00/hour.
To record significant employee anniversaries for January 2024: 5 years-Morgan Boeckholt, Robert Mason, William Mattocks, Jason Gearman, Christopher Lilla, Brianna Palomaki; 10 years-Ellen Boesel, Leah Bouw, Robert Harrison, Lyndee Kamrath, Michael Larson; 20 year-Patricia Hughes, Mark Kadi, Michelle Thomas, Ryan Mickelson.
To record volunteers in County Departments for January 2023. This list is on file at Human Resources.
Notices and Requests
Authorize the Auditor's Office to Publish a Notice to Bidders for Radio Tower Equipment Structures
JUVENILE JUSTICE CENTER
GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE
Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrative Officer, presented a request for authorization for the Chair to sign the Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for the Juvenile Justice Center. Henry Carlson has prepared a Guaranteed Maximum Prince (GMP) for the Juvenile Justice Center based on the design development in conjunction with Architecure Inc and HDR. A briefing was provided to the Building Committee on December 19 where direction was given to proceed with the approval of the GMP. The total construction cost is proposed at $42,590,000. The total GMP is $50,000,000 which includes both construction and owner contingencies, professional fees, and furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The project is separated in two phases: Phase one is from April 2024 to August 2025 and phase 2 is from August 2025 to November 2026. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to authorize the Chair to sign the Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment for the Juvenile Justice Center. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
EQUIPMENT PURCHASE
Upon the request of Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to authorize the Highway Department to purchase a Bobcat T770 track skid loader utilizing the NASPO State of South Dakota Contract 17286 for a total of $80,362.76. 5 ayes.
Upon the request of Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to authorize the Highway Department to purchase a semi-tractor truck using the Sourcewell Contract for a total cost of $181,450.15. 5 ayes.
RESOLUTIONS
Upon the request of Leah Anderson, Auditor, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve Resolution MC 24-03 to Establish Rates of Pay for Election Workers and Rental rates for Polling Locations for the 2024 Election Cycle. By roll call vote: 4 ayes with Commissioner Beninga abstaining. Public comment was received from Rick Weible.
RESOLUTION MC24-03
TO ESTABLISH RATES OF PAY FOR ELECTION WORKERS AND RENTAL RATE FOR POLLING LOCATIONS
WHEREAS, it may be necessary to appoint election officials in 2024; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to SDCL 12-15-11, the fee paid to election officials shall be established annually by the Board of County Commissioners at its January meeting; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners that for the year 2024, election officials shall be paid as follows:
Precinct Superintendent $250.00 per day
Precinct Deputy $200.00 per day
Absentee Precinct Superintendent $18.00 per hour
Absentee Board, Absentee Assistants, Resolution Board $16.00 per hour and Counting Center Assistants
Precinct setup (Paid to Supt. & Deputy) $15.00 per session
Precinct tear down (Paid to Supt. & Deputy) $15.00 per session
Election School attendance paid to all attendees. $25.00 flat rate
Usage of Personal Cell phone at Precinct (One Individual) $10.00 flat rate
Mileage reimbursement for delivering pollbooks and ballot boxes SDCL 12-15-11
Post-Election Audit Board (Training & Conducting Audit) $18.00 per hour
(ARSD 05:02:23:15)
Rate of rent for polling locations. $200 flat rate
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
Upon the request of Leah Anderson, Auditor, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to approve Resolution MC 24-04 Establishing Record of 2024 Minnehaha County Designated Polling Places. By roll call vote: 5 ayes. Public comment was received from Penny BayBridge.
RESOLUTION MC24-04
ESTABLISH RECORD OF 2024 MINNEHAHA COUNTY DESIGNATED POLLING PLACES
WHEREAS, pursuant to SDCL § 12-12-1 and § 12-14-1 the County Auditor shall give notice of all designated polling places prior to any election he or she is charged with conducting, and
WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office intends to make a record of all designated polling places in the County for 2024 elections, now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY the Minnehaha County Commission that the following locations will serve as polling places in 2024:
Precinct Polling Place Address
1-4 Center for Active Generations (Main Campus) 2300 W 46th St
1-5 Center for Active Generations (Main Campus) 2300 W 46th St
1-6 Sunnycrest United Methodist Church 4801 W 41st St
1-9 Peace Lutheran Church 5509 W 41st St
1-10 Sioux Falls First Church 6300 W 41st St
1-17 Sioux Falls First Church 6300 W 41st St
1-19 Calvary Chapel Sioux Falls 1605 W 51st St
2-1 Calvary Chapel Sioux Falls 1605 W 51st St
2-2 Southern Hills United Methodist Church 3400 E 49th St
2-3 Morningside Community Center 2400 S Bahnson Ave
2-6 Westminster Presbyterian Church 3801 E 26th St
2-8 Embrace Church 2800 E 57th St
2-9 Embrace Church 2800 E 57th St
2-14 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 5500 E 57th St
2-17 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 5500 E 57th St
2-18 Eastside Baptist Church 6101 E 49th St
3-1 First Presbyterian Church 2300 S West Ave
3-5 SD Military Heritage Alliance Inc 1600 W Russell St
3-9 Saint Michael’s Catholic Church 1600 S Marion Rd
3-10 Good News Church 1800 S Valley View Rd
3-11 Church at the Gate 6820 W 26th St
3-12 Career & Technical Education Academy 4700 W Career Cir
3-13 Kuehn Park Community Center 2801 S Valley View Rd
3-14 George McGovern Middle School 6221 W Maple St
3-15 Connection Church 201 S Marion Rd
3-16 Memorial Middle School 1401 S Sertoma Ave
3-17 Memorial Middle School 1401 S Sertoma Ave
3-18 George McGovern Middle School 6221 W Maple St
3-19 Prairie West Library 7630 W 26th St
3-20 McCrossan Visitor Center 47135 260th St
4-2 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1600 E 12th St
4-3 East Side Lutheran Church (Barn) 1300 E 10th St
4-4 Wesley United Methodist Church 1700 E 6th St
4-5 The Word of Life Pentecostal Church 3513 N 10th Ave
4-6 Faith Lutheran Church 601 N Cliff Ave
4-7 Kenny Anderson Community Center 3701 E 3rd St
4-8 Saint Lambert’s Catholic Church 1000 S Bahnson Ave
4-9 Grace Lutheran Church 3300 E 18th St
4-10 Center for Active Generations (East) 5500 E Active Generations Pl
4-11 Wild Flower Presbyterian Church 4800 E 6th St
4-12 Hilltop United Methodist Church 1312 S Bahnson Ave
4-13 Grace Lutheran Church 3300 E 18th St
4-15 Lord of Life Lutheran Church 2600 S Sycamore Ave
4-16 The Word of Life Pentecostal Church 3513 N 10th Ave
4-17 Ben Reifel Middle School 6700 E 41st St
4-18 Ben Reifel Middle School 6700 E 41st St
4-19 Kenny Anderson Community Center 3701 E 3rd St
5-1 First Lutheran Church 327 S Dakota Ave
5-2 First Lutheran Church 327 S Dakota Ave
5-3 Zion Lutheran Church 1400 S Duluth Ave
5-4 Dakota Abilities 1116 S 4th Ave
5-6 Hope Lutheran Church 1700 S Cliff Ave
5-7 All Souls Church 2222 S Cliff Ave
5-8 Instructional Planning Center 201 E 38th St
5-9 Our Savior's Lutheran Church 909 W 33rd St
5-10 First Presbyterian Church 2300 S West Ave
5-12 Instructional Planning Center 201 E 38th St
5-15 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
5-16 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
5-18 Faith Family Church 127 N Spring Ave
5-19 St Mark's Lutheran Church 2001 S Elmwood Ave
5-20 Oyate Community Center 2421 W 15th St
5-21 Trinity Baptist Church 2400 W 18th St
5-22 SD Military Heritage Alliance Inc 1600 W Russell St
5-23 Sioux Falls Main Library 200 N Dakota Ave
VP-1 Valley Springs American Legion Club 615 Broadway Ave (Valley Springs)
VP-2 Split Rock Fire Station 7201 E Arrowhead Pkwy
VP-3 Brandon Municipal Golf Course 2100 E Aspen Blvd (Brandon)
VP-4 Mapleton Township Hall 47419 258th St (Renner)
VP-5 Brandon City Hall - Council Chambers 308 S Main Ave (Brandon)
VP-6 Risen Hope Baptist Church 8545 W 26th St
VP-7 Hartford Senior Center (next to City Hall) 119 N Main Ave (Hartford)
VP-8 Humboldt Community Center 118 S Main St (Humboldt)
VP-9 Baltic Elementary Gymnasium 500 3rd St (Baltic)
VP-10 American Legion 504 N Main Ave (Garretson)
VP-11 Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids 701 N Orleans Ave (Dell Rapids)
VP-13 Taopi Community Hall 102 E 3rd St (Colton)
VP-15 Brandon Fire Station 401 N Sioux Blvd (Brandon)
VP-16 Crooks Community Center 701 S West Ave (Crooks)
VP-17 Wall Lake Township Hall 26452 463rd Ave (Hartford)
VP-21 Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids 701 N Orleans Ave (Dell Rapids)
Dated this 2nd day of January, 2024
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
Penny BayBridge, Sioux Falls, SD, spoke about election concerns.
Rick Weible, Elkton, SD, spoke about election concerns.
Jennifer Foss, Sioux Falls, SD, spoke about election concerns.
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Bender spoke a recent meeting regarding amendments to the Joint Housing Board.
MOTION by Jean Bender, seconded by Joe Kippley, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (1), (3), (4), and (6) at 10:00 a.m. 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky declared the executive session concluded at 10:45 a.m.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to adjourn at 10:46 a.m. 5 ayes.
The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the total approximate cost of $300.65 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
FACT OF ADOPTION
An ordinance amending Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County.
The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance 16-181-23 on December 26, 2023. This ordinance amended Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County by rezoning the properties legally described as: The W772.8’ N411.9’ S½ Government Lot 2 SW¼ (Ex. H-3) Section 7 T102N-R49W, Minnehaha County, SD., from the A-1 Agricultural District to the C Commercial District and amending the official zoning map referred to in Article 2.03 to include the properties within the C Commercial Zoning District.
The entire ordinance is on file in the office of the County Auditor and available for inspection during regular business hours.
-Leah Anderson, County Auditor
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $22.36 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-4-24-2tc
Minutes of the Town of Sherman
January 2, 2024
The Sherman Town Board met in regular session Tuesday January 2, 2024 @ 7:30pm
Members Present: Gerry Karpen, Dawn Williams, and Cheryl Swenson
Absent: Darrin Trower
Others Present: Ellen Karpen, Larry Sutton, Sgt Munkvold, Deputy Patterson, Deputy Sullivan, Ryan Townsend, Lee Ellis and Kara Duncan
Karpen called the meeting to order.
Routine Business:
Approval of the agenda- Motion by Williams to approve the agenda, 2nd by Karpen-all ayes, motion carried.
Minutes of the December 5, 2023 meeting were read—Williams made a motion to approve the minutes, 2nd by Karpen—all Ayes, motion carried.
The Treasurer’s report was read—Williams made a motion to approve the Treasurers report as read, 2nd by Karpen—all Ayes, motion carried
Claims Approved to be paid:
Minnehaha Community Water $50.00 water, Excel Energy $288.40 for street lights, $57.62 for town hall lights, $29.44 for park lights, Garretson Gazette $22.37 for Nov. minutes, Lowe Sand & Gravel $630.00 for 3 loads of gravel, Palisades Propane $202.75 for propane, Broken JN Farms, LLC $665.00 for 2x spraying for mosquitos, SECOG $222.00 for annual dues.
Old Business:
None
New Business:
1. Ryan Townsend—260 Summer Ave—discussion was held on said property.
2. Set salaries for the year—tabled until next month
3. Appoint Town Clerk, Treasurer, Paper and City Attorney-Karpen made a motion to keep the same as last year, Cheryl Swenson Town clerk and Treasurer, Paper is Garretson Gazette, and city attorney Dean Hammer, 2nd by Williams—all ayes motion carried.
4. Trower’s 3 year term will be up this year.
5. Earliest date to file petitions is Jan. 26, 2024. If anyone is interested in being on the town board, you can get a petition from Swenson. Need at least 3 names on your petition.
Williams made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Karpen—all ayes. Next regular meeting will be February 6, 2024 @ 7:30pm. Cheryl Swenson Town Clerk
Published at the total approximate cost of $25.24 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-000005
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry,
For a Change of Name to
Jayson Ryder Lamar Elsberry
CIV: 24-000005
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Anastacia Evelyn Marie Elsberry to Jayson Ryder Lamar Elsberry.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Cathy Arant, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-8
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Erica Rebecca Jones,
For a Change of Name to
Erica Rebecca Alden
CIV: 24-8
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Erica Rebecca Jones, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Erica Rebecca Jones to Erica Rebecca Alden.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-9
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Casey Daniel Nelson,
For a Change of Name to
Casey Daniel Alden
CIV: 24-9
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Casey Daniel Nelson, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Casey Daniel Nelson to Casey Daniel Alden.
On the 20th day of Febuary, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Houman Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.
Dated this 2nd Day of January, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by,
Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court
Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.
1-11-23-4tc
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Minnehaha County, SD, requests formal bids for Radio Tower Equipment Structures.
Sealed bids will be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, no later than 10:15 a.m. on January 24, 2024. Bids will be publicly opened and read at the Commission Training Room, 3rd Floor of the Minnehaha County Administration Building at 10:30am.
Specifications and proposal forms that must be used are available at Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, located at 415 N. Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Facilities Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the county.
A pre-bid meeting will be held on _____January 16_______, 2024, at _1:00__ p.m. in the Commission Training Room, 3rd Floor of the Minnehaha County Administration Building.
Published at the total approximate cost of $13.85 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
NOTICE OF VACANCY
MUNICIPALITY OF GARRETSON
The following offices will become vacant due to the expiration of the present term or due to the resignation of office of the elective officer:
Mayor, 2 year term
City Council -Ward 1- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 1- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 2- 2 year term
City Council -Ward 3- 2 year term
Circulation of nominating petitions may begin on January 26th 2024 and petitions may be filed in the office of the finance officer located at 705 N Main Avenue Garretson SD 57030 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., central; time not later than the 23rd day of February, 2024, or mailed by registered mail not later than the 23rd day of February, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. central time. Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $18.53 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-2tc
NOTICE OF VACANCIES ON SCHOOL BOARD
GARRETSON SCHOOL
DISTRICT
NO. 49-4
The following school board positions will become vacant due to the expiration of the present term of office.
Two at-large positions for a term of three (3) years:
Incumbent: Jodi Gloe
Incumbent: Andy Hulscher
Circulation of nominating petitions may begin on January 26th and petitions may be filed in the office of the business manager located at 505 2nd St., Garretson, SD 57030, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. central time, not later than February 23rd, at 5:00 p.m., or mailed by registered mail not later than February 23rd, at 5:00 p.m.
Jacob Schweitzer
Business Manager
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $17.25 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice to Bidders
Minnehaha County Highway Department requests bids for “Gravel Crushing”.
This project consists of crushing 13,661 cubic yards of gravel and 6,530 cubic yards of asphalt millings. These aggregates are located at the County's gravel pit, 26265 467th Ave, Hartford, SD.
Online bids shall be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, not later than 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Bids shall be publicly opened and read at the Auditor’s Office at 10:30am.
For this project, bids will be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy. Sealed paper copies to be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Bidding information can be downloaded at www.questcdn.com. Reference QuestCDN project number 8914454 for a non-refundable charge of $15.00. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or for assistance in membership registration, downloading digital project information and vBid online bid submittal. Project bid documents must be downloaded from QuestCDN which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to vBid online bidding for the submittal of your bid.
For sealed paper bids, specifications and proposal forms that must be used are also available at Minnehaha County Highway Department located at 2124 E 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Highway Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the County.
Published at the total approximate cost of $23.79 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Notice to Bidders
MC24-01 Micro-Surfacing and Crack Seal
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project consists of crack sealing and micro-surfacing approximately 22.58 miles of 2-lane highway and milling and micro-surfacing approximately 2.36 miles of 2-lane highway in Minnehaha County. Alternate 1 includes an additional 10.07 miles of crack sealing and micro-surfacing and Alternate 2 could include another 4.04 miles of crack sealing and micro-surfacing. Work consists of routing and sealing existing cracks, micro-surfacing the existing asphalt surfacing, grinding rumble strips, fog sealing the rumble strips, and new striping.
Online bids shall be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, not later than 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Bids shall be publicly opened and read at the Auditor’s Office at 10:30am.
For this project, bids will be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy. Sealed paper copies to be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Bidding information can be downloaded at www.questcdn.com. Reference QuestCDN project number 8913359 for a non-refundable charge of $22.00. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or for assistance in membership registration, downloading digital project information and vBid online bid submittal. Project bid documents must be downloaded from QuestCDN which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to vBid online bidding for the submittal of your bid.
For sealed paper bids, specifications and proposal forms that must be used are also available at Minnehaha County Highway Department located at 2124 E 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Highway Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the County.
Published at the total approximate cost of $26.48 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc
Town of Sherman Notice of Vacancy
One three year term on the Sherman Town Board.
Earliest day to begin petition circulation is Jan. 26, 2024. Deadline
For filing nominating petitions if Feb. 23, 2024 at 5:00 pm. Petitions
May be obtained and must be returned to the Town Clerk.
Cheryl Swenson, Town Clerk
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $10.22 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 1-11-24-1tc