Last Friday, the Garretson Blue Dragon baseball team opened its season on the home field, taking on the Hanson Bulldogs. Though the team made some solid plays, it had a hard time getting into its groove and gave up the win to Hanson, ending the game 1-13.
Hanson opened the five-inning game with seven runs at the top of the first inning as Garretson's Cole Jessen worked the pitcher's mound. Jessen allowed six walks and struck out one. Left fielder Brecken Weir caught a sacrifice fly from Hanson's Hayden Schroeder, allowing the first score. Second baseman Tyler Erickson caught a pop out to end the inning.
Now in charge of the bat, Garretson saw Erickson receive a walk but followed that with three strikeouts to head into the second inning.
At the top of the second, the Blue Dragons worked to hold the Bulldogs back, though the opponents managed to squeak in another run on an error by Garretson. The Dragons finished the advance by one strikeout, a ground out to first baseman Dylan Wolf, and a solid fly catch by outfielder Noah Schotzko. At the bottom, the Bulldogs' Tyler Sanderson took out all three Dragon batters, though Schotzko nearly reached first on a dropped third strike.
The Dragons were looking to keep the top of the third short and sweet as Treyton Decker took to the pitcher’s mound. Jessen and shortstop Carter Siemonsma caught a pop out and ground out at the beginning of the inning, but a walk, dropped third strike, and two singles from the Bulldogs lengthened the inning. Hanson crossed home plate one more time to bring the score to 0-10.
In the bottom, Garretson's Cole Schleuter reached first on a dropped third strike but was tagged out on second base after Siemonsma hit a fielder's choice to third baseman C Popp. Erickson struck out but Ian Buettner was walked and Wolf was hit by a pitch, putting two on base. Unfortunately, they didn't get a chance to touch home plate as Decker struck out.
Hanson gathered three more points at the top of the fourth inning as Garretson continued to struggle to put players on base. Schotzko singled on a line drive to center field, but a pop out by Schleuter that was caught gave the Dragons their third out of the inning.
In the top of the fifth, Garretson was able to keep the Bulldogs from scoring any further as Weir stepped up to the pitcher's mound. He struck out one and allowed two hits. At the bottom of the fifth, Garretson's Erickson scored its only point on a single by Wolf, ending the game 1-13.
They played another game in Lennox on Wednesday (results not available at press time) and will be back on the home field this next Sunday, Monday, and Friday. Sunday, they'll take on Baltic at 2:00 p.m., Monday at 5:30 p.m. they'll face MVPCS, and on Friday will host Sioux Falls Christian at 5:30 p.m.
Since 2014, (10 years) the South Dakota Prairie Rose Grant Fund has been providing financial support to 501(c)3 organizations in Garretson, Brandon, and Dell Rapids. Last Wednesday, the board gathered the 2024 recipients together at the Garretson Fire Hall to disburse those funds.
"The funding is provided by Prairie Rose Wind LLC, a subsidiary of Enel Green Power North America," said Prairie Rose Board President Steven Munk. Since transmission lines come across the townships of Highland, Logan, Brandon and Edison, the grant funds are a way to give back to the people in those areas. There is a total of $40,000 that is set aside each year to be given out to non-profits and scholarships for college-bound high school students in those townships.
However, thanks to the way the board was set up, it allows those organizations who provide services to the people in the four townships to apply as well, Munk pointed out. This is why, even though Garretson is not a part of those townships, organizations located in town can be a recipient of those funds. In the past, they have been a large supporter of Blue Dragon Academy, the Garretson Volunteer Fire Department, Grow Garretson in hand with the Parks Advisory Committee and the Garretson Commercial Club, B-Squad Dog Rescue, and more.
This year was no exception, with four local organizations and two Garretson High School students receiving a large portion of the funds.
The Garretson Volunteer Fire Department received $3000 toward the purchase of seven pairs of boots. Spencer Jorgenson, who not only volunteers for the department but is employed with Enel Energy, and John "J.D." Shape were on hand to receive the check and speak about their organization.
Above: Prarie Rose Board Member Dale Zweep presented JD Shape and Spencer Jorgenson of the Garretson Fire Department a check for $3,000.00.
Said Shape, "NFPA standards require us to keep up equipment. It's usually every 10 years or once the boots are worn out, we have to replace those. Going through our list we have 26 department members, and seven of them are due for new boots this year. So that's going to be extremely helpful for us that way. Allow us to get those guys into current standard-met boots. That's one of the most important pieces of equipment during our entrance of buildings, construction, fires, and anything like that."
Then, the Garretson Childcare Association, which oversees Blue Dragon Academy, accepted grant funding in the amount of $12,000 to go toward commercial-grade playground equipment.
Blue Dragon Director Heidi Fink pointed out that much of their current equipment is not permanent or installed in the ground, and they are working toward upgrading it, starting with the toddler side. The grant will allow them to purchase one or two pieces of equipment and have it installed.
Prarie Rose Board Member Wayne Liester presents Kris Frerk and Heidi Fink of the Garretson Childcare Association $12,000. Prarie Rose Board MemberDale Zweep presented Jerry Scholl of the Blue Dragon Foundation $10,000.
Next, Jerry Scholl, representing the Blue Dragon Foundation, accepted $10,000 in grant funds for the baseball field.
"For the last 25 years our scoreboard has been failing and during games we have to mend it," Scholl said. The new board and controller will come from Daktronics, and placement began mid-week last week with new I-beams placed into the ground.
The Palisade Healthcare organization received $1400 toward the purchase of an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) machine.
The final Garretson recipients were GHS seniors Sage Solheim and Adair Hanisch, who each received $1000 scholarships to be applied their spring semester of their freshman year of college.
Other recipients were Brandon Valley Band Parents, Brandon Valley Hope Squad, Brandon Valley Fire Department, and Dell Rapids Fire Department.
“It is truly a pleasure for the Board to be able provide these funds to our communities for education, community enhancement and safety,” said Munk.
The South Dakota Prairie Rose Community Fund has been in existence since 2014 and has granted a total of $441,079 in community enhancement grants/scholarships. Funding is provided by Prairie Rose Wind LLC, owner of Prairie Rose Wind Farm, a subsidiary of Enel Green Power North America who has agreed to provide $40,000 per year for 20 years towards community grants and scholarships in the Townships of Highland, Logan, Brandon and Edison.
The Prairie Rose Board works diligently to disburse the grant funds and is comprised of Steve Howe, Angela Bly, Wayne Liester, Tom Elverson, Tom Brown, John Richard Weir, Dale Zweep, Mike Siemonsma and Steven Munk. More information can be found online at PrairieRoseSD.com.
Most of the money comes from employer tax fund controlled by governor
By: Joshua Haiar – SD Searchlight
Governor Kristi Noem’s administration has signed a contract amendment raising the maximum spending on workforce recruitment ads starring the governor to $9 million.
The contract is publicly viewable in the state’s online portal for financial documents, Open.SD.gov, which also shows the state has paid $8.5 million to the firm managing the campaign so far. The original contract from last year, prior to amendments, was for $5 million.
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is featured prominently in the "Freedom Works Here" ad campaign. (Photo: Screenshot)
The Freedom Works Here campaign showcases Noem stepping into various high-demand jobs and inviting applicants to fill openings in the state.
Launched last summer, the campaign entered its third round Monday with a new video ad featuring Noem as a homebuilder. The national campaign has further elevated the profile of Noem, who is under consideration as a running mate for presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.
Some lawmakers have criticized a lack of clear data demonstrating the workforce campaign’s effectiveness or lack thereof.
The governor’s Monday press release about the newest ad said, “Thousands and thousands of families have already moved to South Dakota, and thousands more are in the process of coming here.”
In response to questions Tuesday from South Dakota Searchlight about the ads’ effectiveness, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development responded by email. The office said the number of job openings in the state has dropped by 4,000 since the campaign began. The office also said 9,400 people who “worked directly through the Freedom Works Here process” have shown interest in moving to South Dakota, and another 2,400 have received individual assistance to begin the process of moving to the state.
“Anecdotally, we are hearing from even more folks who did not utilize the formal process but were spurred to move here by the ads,” the office said.
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development contracts with an Ohio firm, Strategic Media Placement, doing business as Go West Media, to run the campaign. Both entities are subsidiaries of The Strategy Group, whose CEO Ben Yoho managed Vivek Ramaswamy’s unsuccessful campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.
During a legislative hearing in January, a former Noem administration official testified that the Ohio firm seemed predestined for selection to carry out the campaign. State Sen. Lee Schoenbeck, R-Watertown, said during the hearing that the Ohio firm’s idea for the campaign was “clearly stolen” from a similar proposal submitted by Lawrence & Schiller, of Sioux Falls.
Most of the money for the workforce campaign comes from state government’s Future Fund, which is controlled by the governor.
South Dakota employers pay into the Future Fund when they submit payroll taxes for unemployment benefits. The Future Fund receives a fraction of an additional percent — which the state describes as an “investment fee” — on top of those payroll taxes.
According to the most recent data available from the state Department of Labor and Regulation, 28,261 employers paid $23 million into the Future Fund in 2022, which equated to an average of $814 per employer.
State law says the Future Fund must be used “for purposes related to research and economic development for the state.” Unlike other funds administered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Future Fund expenses don’t go through a board of citizen appointees for vetting or approval.
Responding to recent controversies about the fund, lawmakers passed and the governor signed a bill in March requiring biannual reporting to legislators about the governor’s use of the fund.
Rep. Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish was one of the bill’s sponsors.
“Many people wonder if this is a proper use of tax money,” Odenbach said Tuesday. “As the spending on this program grows so does the need for more vigorous oversight. I am hopeful that this session’s bill is just the beginning of reforms to Future Fund spending.”
Of the $8.5 million paid to Strategic Media Placement so far, $7.5 million has come from the Future Fund, and the rest has come from other state funds, according to Open.SD.gov.
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development spent an additional $130,000 from its marketing funds last year to wrap a NASCAR vehicle with a Freedom Works Here-themed design for two races.
South Dakota Searchlight is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. South Dakota Searchlight maintains editorial independence.
Parents have come forward with concerns about bullying, which has started a conversation about bullying in the school; we meet Siouxland Libraries' Sharon Hall; GHS Grand March showcased the junior and senior classes; Blue Dragon Baseball has started its season, and has a packed schedule this spring. Plus, 4th Street contractor locked in; football scoreboard replacement rejected, Prairie Rose Grants, and much, much more!
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Kathleen Louise, affectionately known as Kitty Donovan, passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, after a short and courageous battle with cancer at her home in Arizona City, AZ.
Kitty, a premature baby, weighing only 2 1/2 lbs., was born October 13, 1949, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Dennis and Gertrude (Vandersnick) Donovan. Her early years were spent on the family dairy farm near Garretson, SD. She attended a one room school until her eighth grade. Upon graduating from high school she entered nurse's training at the University of South Dakota. Kitty received the first annual Judy West Memorial Scholarship when she was a second year nursing student.
Kitty loved being a Registered Nurse. Her dedication, concern and loving care were recognized by her patients, and the doctors and nurses she worked with at Hoemako Hospital,now known as Banner Casa Grande Medical Center, Casa Grande Clinic, Hospice Compassus, and the offices of Dr. Learte and Dr. Sood.
As a nurse at Hoemako Hospital the following was written to the editor of the Casa Grande Dispatch by Donald and Violet Shepherd of Casa Grande, AZ concerning Kitty.
"I would like to express my appreciation and thanks to the nice people at Hoemako Hospital. I have had major surgery four times in the past couple of years, and each time the care and service has been better than the last. The nursing care is excellent and they care, they really care. For instance, one nurse, Kitty Donovan, although not on duty at the time, offered to be with my wife to lend moral support while I was in surgery. Kitty drove in from Arizona City to be with her. This operation was extensive and she didn't want my wife to be alone waiting for the outcome. I never heard of a nurse in Phoenix doing that have you?"
Cats were Kitty's passion and joy. She raised and adopted so many through the years. During her retirement, she volunteered at the Valley Animal Shelter caring for abandoned kittens. She was an avid Notre Dame football fan! Solving Suduko and crossword puzzles and reading were among her favorite pastimes.
Kitty's love of family was evident by all the times she nursed and cared for family members. Her memory will be cherished by her three siblings, Larry (Carol) Donovan, Arlington, SD; Mary (Alan) Engebretson, San Diego, CA, and Joe (Karen) Donovan, Cedar Rapids, IA., sister-in-law Jen Donovan; 22 nieces and nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews, a host of friends including her breakfast group at Alex's diner and her good friend, Vivian Denson who was also her health advocate during her last days.
Preceding her in death her were parents, her brothers, Jack and Buck Donovan; her older sisters, Lois and brother-in-law Stan Petersen, and Pat Heil and a niece Ginger Buehlman.
A Memorial Mass will be said April 18, 2024, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Casa Grande, AZ with enurnment at Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Valley Animal Shelter, Casa Grande, AZ.
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commission for April 2, 2024
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Building Committee
Minutes of the Town of Sherman for April 2, 2024
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
Notice to Creditors
FACT OF ADOPTION
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commission for April 2, 2024
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on April 2, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on March 26, 2024. 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 Karsky called the meeting to order.
MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Beninga, To Amend the Agenda by Removing #15-Consider a Motion to Authorize the Chair to Sign the Professional Legal Services Agreement for Drug and Alcohol Involuntary Commitments (Deferred from 03-26-24). 5 ayes.
MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to Approve the Amended Agenda. 5 ayes
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Bleyenberg, 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 March 26, 2024
Joint City of Sioux Falls/Minnehaha County Minutes from March 26, 2024
Bills to be Paid $752,519.62
3200 RUSSELL LLC Motels $815, 9TH STREET DESIGNS Store Inventory $140.73, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Lease-Rental Agreement $174.28, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Maintenance Contracts $358.89, A&B BUSINESS SOLUT Office Supplies $36.95, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Automotive/Small Equipment $1266.38, AIRWAY SERVICE INC Gas Oil & Diesel $108.55, ALL NATIONS INTERPRE Interpreters $4624.95, AMERICAN INK LLC Uniform Allowance $189.11, ANGEL, EDWARD P Attorney Fees $5030, ARCADIA PUBLISHING I Store Inventory $630.94, ASH LAW OFFICE PLLC Attorney Fees $198.25, ASH LAW OFFICE PLLC Child Defense Attorney $2482.27, AVERA HEALTH PLANS I Insurance-Other Costs $4305, AVERA MCKENNAN Physicians $4150, AXIS FORENSIC TOXICO Lab Costs $662, BALOUN LAW PC Attorney Fees $115.2, BALOUN LAW PC Child Defense Attorney $127.1, BAUER BUILT INC Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $397.99, BIRMINGHAM & CWACH L Attorney Fees $442.66, BOOT BARN INC Uniform Allowance $161.98, BOUNCE AROUND INFLAT MacArthur SJC Grant $702.99, BURNS, JASON Investigators Expenses $187.68, C & R SUPPLY INC Truck Repairs & Maintenance $155.11, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Lease Principal $4757.52, CENTURY BUSINESS PRO Maintenance Contracts $1405.54, CHAGOLLA, ALBERT Interpreters $158.3, CHARMTEX INC Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $8475.7, CHISAGO COUNTY SHERI Return Of Service $60, CINTAS CORPORATION Janitorial Chemical Supplies $357.26, CINTAS CORPORATION Uniform Allowance $64.92, COMPUTER FORENSIC RE Attorney Fees $7010, COMPUTER FORENSIC RE Professional Services $1290, CONSTELLATION Natural Gas $6982.86, COOMES, SUE Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $128, CORRECTIONAL MEDICAL Contract Services $387818.83, COUNTRY VIEW LLC Welfare Rent $605.67, CREATIVE PRODUCT SOU Other Supplies $1832.31, CYNTOM PROPERTIES AN Welfare Rent $800, DAKOTA FLUID POWER I Automotive/Small Equipment $75.89, DAKOTA FRESH LLC Store Inventory $122.08, DAKOTA TRAFFIC SERVI Sign Supply Inventory $500, DECASTRO LAW OFFICE Attorney Fees $11567.6, DINGES PARTNERS GROU Automotive/Small Equipment $190, EAST RIVER PSYCHOLOG Psych Evals $2500, EICH LAW OFFICE LLC Attorney Fees $287.5, ETTERMAN ENTERPRISES Small Tools & Shop Supplies $40.65, GBR INC Interpreters $30, GEOTEK ENGINEERING & Architects & Engineers $5350, GIRTON ADAMS Road Maint & Material $87.5, GLOBAL TEL LINK (GT Telephone $3.72, GLORY HOUSE APARTMEN Welfare Rent $500, GOEBEL PRINTING INC Printing/Forms $487.81, GOLDEN WEST Telephone $69.95, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Memberships $424, GREATER SIOUX FALLS Miscellaneous Expense $35, GRIESE LAW FIRM Attorney Fees $5382.5, GUNNER, ANDREA Court Reporters $58.5, GUZMAN, SANDRA V Interpreters $630, HOFER, JULIE Business Travel $166, I STATE TRUCK CENTER Truck Repairs & Maintenance $940.78, INTERSTATE ALL BATTE Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $325.9, INTERSTATE OFFICE PR Office Supplies $1393.15, JCL SOLUTIONS Inmate Supplies $1282.47, JCL SOLUTIONS Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $2400.2, JIMMY JOHNS #4355 MacArthur SJC Grant $152.78, JR DISTRIBUTION Parts Inventory $166.2, JRS ALTERATIONS Uniform Allowance $25, KAUFFMAN, DAVID W PH Psych Evals $5400, KENNEDY PIER & LOFTU Attorney Fees $322, LACEY RENTALS INC Lease-Rental Agreement $305, LEONARD, ROBERT A. Professional Services $3000, LEWIS & CLARK BEHAVI Bd Evaluations (Yankton) $1278, LOPEZ, REBECA Interpreters $175, LOVING, PHILIP Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $1989.2, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Evening Report Center $5080.12, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Shelter Care/Reception Center $83842.66, MARSH & MCLENNAN LLC Notary Exp $250, MCLEODS PRINTING & O Printing/Forms $8855.7, MEDSTAR PARAMEDIC IN Transportation $2880, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Contract Services $4236.4, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Natural Gas $4893.43, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Amounts Held For Others $272.78, MIDWESTERN MECHANICA Building Repairs & Maintenance $665.47, MURRAY PROPERTIES LL Welfare Rent $700, NAPA AUTO PARTS Parts Inventory $361.58, NAPA AUTO PARTS Small Tools & Shop Supplies $102.96, NAPA AUTO PARTS Truck Repairs & Maintenance $8.99, NORTHERN TRUCK EQUIP Automotive/Small Equipment $515.52, NORTHERN TRUCK EQUIP Parts Inventory $590.18, NOVAK Lease-Rental Agreement $75.59, OFFICE DEPOT INC Data Processing Supplies $408.26, OLD ORCHARD CAFE MacArthur SJC Grant $541.2, OLSON, MICHAEL Investigators Expenses $74.46, OREILLY AUTOMOTIVE S Automotive/Small Equipment $21.96, OSBORN, ROXANE R Court Reporters $612.5, P & K PEST CONTROL Building Repairs & Maintenance $210, PARAGON HEALTH & WEL Blood Withdrawal $3960, PASTPERFECT SOFTWARE Program Activities $1596, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $2000, PRAIRIE WYNN PROPERT Welfare Rent $736.84, PRICE, THOMAS L Professional Services $4800, PURPLE COMMUNICATION Interpreters $200, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Postage $285.86, QUALSETH, RYAN Investigators Expenses $65.79, RDO CONSTRUCTION EQU Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $161.64, RDO CONSTRUCTION EQU Parts Inventory $547.59, REEVES, MEGAN Court Reporters $3645.6, REKER, VICTORIA Business Travel $166, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Attorney Fees $4175.85, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Child Defense Attorney $2349, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Child Care Items $73.92, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Clinics - Auxiliary Services $80.88, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Office Supplies $119.9, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Professional Services $115.76, SCOTT MCGAHA Uniform Allowance $122.57, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Clinics - Auxiliary Services $13.2, SD PUBLIC ASSURANCE Comprehensive Gen Liability $237.89, SIOUX FALLS RUBBER S Notary Exp $24.45, SIOUX FALLS RUBBER S Office Supplies $64.85, SPARE TIME Uniform Allowance $300, STAN HOUSTON EQUIPME Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $1015, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $3785, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $772, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Architects & Engineers $465.91, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Automotive/Small Equipment $4, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Bridge Repair & Maintenance $1259.9, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Data Communications $220, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Notary Exp $150, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Telephone $819, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $719, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Board Of Prisoners-Meals $59876.41, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $676.25, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Inmate Supplies $243.45, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $1548.1, TALE A VISIONS Program Activities $1000, THE COUNSELING CAFE Psych Evals $1743.1, TOMACELLI'S TOO Jury Fees $149.39, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $2729.75, TRUGREEN LIMITED PAR Maintenance Contracts $382.11, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Automotive/Small Equipment $59.49, TYLER TECHNOLOGIES I Contract Services $53.67, TYLER TECHNOLOGIES I Software $800, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS I Welfare Rent $700, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS P Welfare Rent $259.45, TZADIK WOODLAKE Welfare Rent $700, US FOODS INC Other Supplies $71.46, US FOODS INC Professional Services $1913.14, VB FALLS PARK LIMITE Welfare Rent $638, VER BEEK, KELSEY Child Defense Attorney $2537.78, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Automotive/Small Equipment $3, VOGEL MOTORS LLC Uniform Allowance $57, WALMART STORES INC Pharmacies $52.93, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $20643.13, XIGENT SOLUTIONS LLC Maintenance Contracts $8453.55, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $100.
Routine Personnel Actions
Step Increases
1. Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder for the Auditor’s Office, at $29.38/hour (14/5) effective 4/2/2024.
2. Kyle Sexe, Deputy Director for the Equalization Office, at $3,492.00/biweekly (21/5) effective 4/15/2024.
3. Justin Hofer, Caseworker for the Human Services Office, at $35.82/hour (16/9) effective 3/31/2024.
4. Noah Bartscher, Corrections Systems Operator for the Jail, at $21.85/hour (10/2) effective 3/27/2024.
5. Jessica Bjorke, Corrections Systems Operator for the Jail, at $24.13/hour (10/5) effective 2/15/2024.
6. Gary Wollman, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $26.64/hour (14/2) effective 2/13/2024.
7. Stephen Willcox, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $27.98/hour (14/3) effective 1/21/2024.
8. Rachel Nelson, Paralegal for the Public Defender’s Office, at $29.38/hour (16/2) effective 3/27/2024.
9. Justin Cave, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff’s Office, at $34.09/hour (17/5) effective 4/2/2024.
10. Adam Eschen, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff’s Office, at $34.09/hour (17/5) effective 4/2/2024.
11. Matthew Larson, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff’s Office, at $34.09/hour (17/5) effective 4/2/2024.
12. Joshua Patterson, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff’s Office, at $34.09/hour (17/5) effective 4/2/2024.
13. Adam Zishka, Captain for the Sheriff’s Office, at $4,149.60/biweekly (23/4) effective 4/3/2024.
14. Ellen Boesel, Accountant for the Treasurer’s Office, at $32.45/hour (16/5) effective 4/2/2024.
15. Cynthia Jepsen, Assistant Treasurer for the Treasurer’s Office, at $3,492.00/biweekly (21/5) effective 4/2/2024.
To record significant employee anniversaries for April 2024: 5 years-Jenna Girard, Kyle Sexe; 10 years-Douglas Flora, James Gravett; 15 years-Jason Burns, Zachary Cegelske; 20 years-Joshua Anhalt, Dawn Lautwein.
To record volunteers in County Departments for March 2024. This list is on file at Human Resources.
Abatement Applications
Recommended for Approval by the Director of Equalization
Parcel-47266, Kevin Wiessner, 2023 Property Taxes, $944.54
PROCLAMATION
Upon the request of Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Issue a Proclamation Recognizing April 15-19, 2024 as Minnehaha County Work Zone Awareness Week. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
BRIEFING
Dustin Powers, City of Sioux Falls Planning & Development Services, provided a briefing on the Property Tax Reductions Programs available through the City of Sioux Falls. The City of Sioux Falls received this authority pursuant SDCL 10-6 and have adopted three programs. The first program is the downtown program, which was adopted in 1987 and is for commercial structures and over $50,000 of added valuation. The second program is the industrial program, which was also adopted in 1987 and is for industrial structures and over $300,000 of added valuation. The third program is the neighborhood program which was adopted in 2007 but will be repealed due State law change and was for neighborhood commercial and commercial residential. The presentation went on to highlight the proposed changes to the program, which include a review of SB 162 and the City objectives, as well as updates to the industrial and downtown programs. Finally, the presentation highlighted the various financial impacts for the current neighborhood program and the proposed affordable housing/midtown mixed-use program as well as the timeline for the changes.
BUDGET CARRYOVER
& SUPPLEMENTS
Susan Beaman, Finance and Budget Officer, was present for the scheduled budget hearing for the 2023 carryover supplements and other 2024 budget supplements.
Chair Karsky asked proponents and opponents on the topic. There were no proponents or opponents in attendance to speak on the topic.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to Approve Resolution MC 24-13 for 2024 Budget Supplements the General Fund in the Amount of $618,668.17 and to Special Revenue in the Amount of $7,129,178.65. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RESOLUTION MC24-13
FOR SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET
WHEREAS it is necessary to supplement the 2024 Annual Budget in order to carry on the indispensable functions of Minnehaha County; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of the proposed Supplemental Budget was duly considered by the Minnehaha County Commission on the 2nd day of April, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., in the Commission Meeting Room, pursuant to due notice; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Minnehaha County Commission that the following Supplemental Budget be, and the same is, hereby approved for the purpose of providing budget to conduct the indispensable functions of Government, to-wit:
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a request for the authorization to have the Chair sign the 2023 South Dakota Department of Transportation Joint Powers Agreement to provide pavement marking for county roads. In previous years, the SDDOT solicited bids on behalf of all counties to have our roadway pavement markings re-painted, which obligates our participation in 2023, but the process has changed starting in 2024. The estimated total cost of striping approximately 91.2 miles of roads in 2023 for Minnehaha County is $51,838.53 with the County's share of this total is $20,735.41. In addition, the state offered a recessed grooving and epoxy painting program in 2023 with funding from the SDDOT Roadway Safety Improvement Program and is 100% paid by that fund. Approximately 29 miles of roads were striped in 2023. The preliminary cost estimates are subject to minor changes to actual bid pricing and field measured quantities. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the 2023 South Dakota Department of Transportation Joint Powers Agreement to Provide for Pavement Marking of County Roads. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a request for authorization for the Chair to sign the 2024 South Dakota Department of Transportation Joint Powers Agreement to provide for pavement marking of county roads. The South Dakota Department of Transportation has $500,000 allocated for County Pavement Markings. Beginning this year, SDDOT will distribute funds based on paved road mileage directly to each county to administer their own striping project. The Highway Department produced and bid our own pavement striping project for us and 12 other counties called SD County Striping Project which was approved by the Commission in February 2024. Minnehaha County is expected to receive $23,085.76 of State Funding. MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the 2024 South Dakota Department of Transportation Joint Powers Agreement to Provide for Pavement Marking of County Roads. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
BRIDGE IMPROVEMENT GRANT AGREEMENTS
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Funding Agreement for the replacement of Structure 50-237-120. The Minnehaha County Highway Department was awarded a South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) for the replacement of structure 50-237-120. This is an 80/20 grant with the State where we fund 20% of the construction, 20% of construction engineering, and the State funds 80% for construction and 80% of construction engineering up to $679,700. The new structure will be a 4-cell box culvert and construction is anticipated in 2025. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bender, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Agreement for the Replacement of Structure 50-237-120.By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Funding Agreement for the replacement of Structure 50180-134. The Minnehaha County Highway Department was awarded a South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) for the replacement of structure 50-180-134. This is an 80/20 grant with the State where we fund 20% of construction, 20%of construction engineering, and the State funds 80% for construction and 80% of construction engineering up to $860,200. The new structure will be a 3-cell box culvert and construction is anticipated in 2025. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Agreement for the Replacement of Structure 50-180-134. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Agreement for the replacement of Structure 50-087-120. The Minnehaha County Highway Department was awarded a South Dakota Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) for the replacement of structure 50-087-120. This is an 80/20 grant with the State where we fund 20% of construction, 20% of construction engineering, and the State funds 80% for construction and 80% of construction engineering up to $1,299,600.00. The new structure will be a 6-cell box culvert and construction is anticipated in 2025. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to Authorize the Chair to Sign South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Agreement for the Replacement of Structure 50-087-120. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER AGREEMENT
Upon the request of Jamie Gravett, Juvenile Detention Center Director, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to Approve and Authorize the Chair to Sign an Amendment to the Agreement between Minnehaha County and Midwest Wellness Institute. 5 ayes.
PRESENTATIONS
Carey Deaver, Human Resources Director, provided the annual presentation on the Human Resources department. The 2023 goals that were achieved by the department include a continued focus on recruitment and retention; a new Employee Assistance Program through ComPsych which began on April 1, 2023; improved performance evaluation process; and the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The following 2024 goals where highlighted including a compensation and benefits study; review and organization of internal HR procedures; Munis upgrade; and new employee onboarding procedures while the challenges for 2024 include attracting and retaining qualified staff. The presentation went on to highlight the annual workforce review as well as various statistics for the department.
Monte Watembach, Information Technology Director, gave a briefing on the Minnehaha County Information Technology Department highlighting what the Information Technology Department does, completed projects, current projects, and future opportunities. The presentation also highlighted the differences between the older AS-400 applications and the new applications and the County dashboard.
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Beninga reported on the recent meeting of the Metro Communications Management Board.
Commissioner Karsky reported on an upcoming meeting of the Link.
MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to Enter into Executive Session for the Purpose of SDCL 10-3-14 conference in Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (3), (4), and (6). 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky declared the executive session concluded at 12:05 p.m.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to adjourn at 12:06 p.m. 5 ayes.
The Commission adjourned until 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the total approximate cost of $257.52 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-11-24-1tc
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Building Committee
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY BUILDING COMMITTEE CONVENED AT 7:30 AM on April 2, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on March 5, 2024. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, and Karsky; Auditor Anderson, Facilities Director Kriens, and Commission Administrative Officer Greco. Also present were Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, and Eric Bogue, Chief Civil Deputy State's Attorney.
MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Bender, to Approve the Meeting Minutes from March 5, 2024. 7 ayes.
Commissioner Kippley arrived at 7:36 a.m.
FACILITES ANNUAL PRESENTATION
Mark Kriens, Director of Facilities and Construction, presented the 2024 department presentation. The presentations detailed specific major projects that are currently being worked on by the Facilities Department as well as future projects that will be undertaken by the department.
SAFETY VILLAGE DONATION
Scott Wick, CEO of Sioux Empire Fair Association, presented a briefing on a proposed Safety Village building donation at the Fairgrounds. Safety Village of South Dakota is looking to donate its building on the Fairgrounds to Minnehaha County for use by the Sioux Empire Fair Association. The building is a Governor's House that was acquired by Safety Village of South Dakota through a grant and the value of the building at that time was $33,000. The authority and circumstances of the placement of the structure on the Fairgrounds in 2008 are unclear, as there are no Fairgrounds or Safety Village records of the placement, and since 2008, the County has not conducted maintenance on the facility. The Sioux Empire Fair Association has requested that the proposed donation be placed on the agenda for a future Commission Meeting. Based on the discussions held during the March 20 meeting of the Sioux Empire Fair Association Board of Directors, the building would be used as the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Main Administrative Office. If the donation was accepted by the County, the current Management Agreement states that the County would be responsible for repair expenses up to $5,000, planned maintenance of HVAC, and property insurance on the building, whereas the capital improvements would be determined annually through the budget process. Facilities Director Kriens has inspected the building and found that there is no significant structural or mechanical issues associated with it.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Continue the Discussion for the Fairgrounds Proposed Safety Village Building Donation until May 7th, 2024, meeting. 8 ayes.
IT DISASTER RECOVERY SITE
Monte Watembach, IT Director, presented a briefing for the consideration of proposed Disaster Recovery Location Options. The current location is the Fire Headquarters at 37th and Minnesota, where the backup 911 center has been up to this point. Now that Metro 911 has moved to the new Public Safety Center, the City of Sioux Falls does not intend for Fire Headquarters to be used for disaster recovery purposes moving forward. The presentation went on the highlight the various options being recommended for consideration as well as the pros and cons of each option.
MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Recommend the IT Disaster Recovery Site be Re-Located to the Public Safety Center. 8 ayes.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Kippley, to Adjourn at 8:38 a.m. 8 ayes.
APPROVED BY THE BUILDING COMMITTEE:
Dean Karsky
Building Committee Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the total approximate cost of $38.34 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-11-24-1tc
Minutes of the Town of Sherman for April 2, 2024
April 2, 2024
The Sherman Town Board met in regular session Tuesday April 2, 2024 @ 7:30pm
Members Present: Gerry Karpen, Dawn Williams, Darrin Trower and Cheryl Swenson
Others Present: Robin Berg, Larry Sutton Jr, Kara Duncan, Ellen Karpen.
Karpen called the meeting to order.
Routine Business:
Approval of the agenda- Motion by Williams to approve the agenda, 2nd by Trower-all ayes, motion carried.
Minutes of the March 5, 2023 meeting were read—Williams made a motion to approve the minutes with some discussion, 2nd by Trower—all Ayes, motion carried.
The Treasurer’s report was read—Williams made a motion to approve the Treasurers report as read, 2nd by Trower—all Ayes, motion carried
Claims Approved to be paid:
Minnehaha Community Water $60.00 water, Excel Energy $2887.72 for street lights, $45.42 for town hall lights, $29.34 for park lights, Garretson Gazette $20.13 for Feb. minutes, Palisades Propane $267.19 for propane.
Old Business:
1. Mowing Bids-received bids from 3, discussion was held, Williams made a motion to hold off on mowing bids until next month, 2nd by Trower—all ayes, motion carried.
2. Equalization meeting was cancelled for March 19th as there was no evaluation appeals filed.
New Business:
1. City cleanup days—cleanup days are set for May 10th 2024. Swenson will get ahold of landfill and Bolte’s to make sure we can get dumpster on that day.
2. Mike’s Malt Beverage License meeting will be held on May 7, 2024 @ 7:45.
3. There was a missed warrant that did not get on the June 2023 minutes, it was to Cheryl Swenson for $269.00 for Sherman’s portion of the dust control, Swenson will make corrections to the June 2023 minutes and Karpen will repost them on the website.
4. Berg wanted to know how much Sherman paid for dust control in 2023, Swenson submitted a copy of the check to Berg.
5. Printer—Berg wanted to know what was wrong with the printer at town hall, she was informed it no longer worked. Discussion was held on getting another one, decided really didn’t need one.
6. Williams stated that the lady that is going to help with grants was suppose to be here tonight but had the wrong date so she will come next month on May 7, 2024.
Williams made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Trower—all ayes. Next regular meeting will be May 7, 2024 @ 7:30pm. Cheryl Swenson Town Clerk
Published at the total approximate cost of $28.76 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-11-24-1tc
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In the Matter of the Estate of
BEATRICE LEE FOSTER, Deceased
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA ) :SS
COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA ) In the Matter of the Estate of
BEATRICE LEE FOSTER
Deceased.
IN CIRCUIT COURT SECOND
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Notice is given that on the March 13, 2024, the following person is administrating the Estate of Beatrice Lee Foster pursuant to SDCL § 29A-3-1201 et. seq.:
James Jacob Foster
909 S. Westmoor Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 1-609-651-1220
Creditors of the decedent must send notice of their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or their claims may be barred. Claims shall be sent to the above small estate administer with a copy to the attorney below.
Dated: 03.13.2024
_/s/ James Jacob Foster_________________ James Jacob Foster, as Administrator for Beatrice
Foster’s Estate
909 S. Westmoor Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 1-609-651-1220
ATTORNEY FOR JAMES FOSTER Lindsay M. Harris, JD
Harris Law & Co.
5019 S. Bur Oak Pl., Sioux Falls, SD 57108 605-777-1772
Published three times at the total approximate cost of $43.38 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-3tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 23-3054
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Akierateamadejollie
Khilala Kjergaard,
For a Change of Name to
Ainsworth Khilala Kjergaard
CIV: 23-3054
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Akierateamadejollie Khilala Kjergaard, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Akierateamadejollie Khilala Kjergaard to Ainsworth Khilala Kjergaard.
On the 28th day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Sabers 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 8th Day of March, 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.
4-4-24-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 23-3667
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Jesse Taylor Wells,
For a Change of Name to
Joselyn Taylor Wells
CIV: 23-3667
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Jesse Taylor Wells, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Jesse Taylor Wells to Joselyn Taylor Wells.
On the 7th day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Theeler 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 19th Day of March, 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.
4-4-24-4tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
CIV: 24-1366
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT
SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the Petition
of Madyson Lois-Jeanne
Hutchinson,
For a Change of Name to
Eivor Maverick Hutchinson
CIV: 24-1366
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Madyson Lois-Jeanne Hutchinson, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Madyson Lois-Jeanne Hutchinson to Eivor Maverick Hutchinson.
On the 21st day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Hanson 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 5th Day of April, 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.
4-11-24-4tc
FACT OF ADOPTION
An ordinance amending MC16-90 the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County.
The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance MC16-181-24 on March 26, 2024. Ordinance MC16-90, the 1990 Revised Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County was amended to add Long Term Lease or Rental within Article 12 (Additional Use Regulations).
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 $15.34 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-4-24-1tc
FACT OF ADOPTION
An ordinance amending the Revised Joint Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County and the City of Sioux Falls.
The Minnehaha County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance MC30-49-24 on March 26, 2024. This ordinance amended Ordinance MC30-02, the Revised Joint Zoning Ordinance for Minnehaha County and the City of Sioux Falls by amending Articles 15.07 Accessory Building and Uses, 15.16 Temporary Use, and Article 24.02 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 $17.25 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-4-24-1tc
Parents have come forward with concerns about bullying, which has started a conversation about bullying in the school; we meet Siouxland Libraries' Sharon Hall; GHS Grand March showcased the junior and senior classes; Blue Dragon Baseball has started its season, and has a packed schedule this spring. Plus, 4th Street contractor locked in; football scoreboard replacement rejected, Prairie Rose Grants, and much, much more!
What to expect now that the construction has started
Carrie Moritz, Gazette
Garretson-to-Sioux Falls or Brandon commuters will have some major road construction to deal with over the next two years. On Thursday, March 28, the Exit 406 reconstruction project officially began in earnest, though preliminary work has been happening since last summer.
Interstate 90’s Exit 406, known to locals as the Brandon exit, heads north to Garretson via Highway 11. In a $41.3 million dollar project, the interchange will be converted to a Diverging Diamond style over the next two years.
Harry Johnston (left) of SD DOT listens intently as many questions are asked. //Carrie Moritz, Gazette
For Garretson-to-Sioux Falls commuters, completion of the project will mean even easier interstate access. The road immediately to the north of the ramp will be widened to include a turning lane, and a longer acceleration lane will give drivers the ability to get up to speed prior to merging onto the interstate.
While the project will impact traffic in the short term, in the long-term, “it will help traffic flow,” said Area Engineer Harry Johnston of the SDDOT.
On Wednesday, March 27, project managers, engineers, designers, and more were on hand at the Brandon Golf Course to answer questions and explain maps at an open house information meeting. They were able to explain how the project would proceed both in 2024 and 2025.
The first step on March 28 was to set up construction corridors. Then, on Monday, April 1, the main contractor, T&R Construction, planned to move all traffic into the southern two lanes of I-90 and begin work on a temporary off-ramp for the westbound exit. Once that is completed, they will begin both the widening of I-90 westbound to accommodate the longer acceleration lane and widening the bridge over the interstate. At the same time, Xcel Energy will be relocating power lines along I-90.
“There will be a lot of moving parts at once,” said a representative of T&R. T&R is the contractor for the I-229/Benson exit as well, and is locally-owned. The T&R representative noted that he lives in Brandon and understood personally what impacts the construction will cause.
Getting through the next two years will likely be a bit hairy, as construction corridors will be erected, traffic will be diverted to other lanes, and cars will drive next to large equipment on one of the busiest thoroughfares in eastern Minnehaha County. At no time, though, should the exit be completely closed.
“We will be keeping lanes open to traffic at all times throughout the project,” Johnston said.
Traffic on the interstate will be head-to-head until this winter and again next summer, eliminating two lanes during the busiest months of the year. All travelers should expect to see some delays.
And at times in 2025, the eastbound and westbound ramps will be closed, though they’re hoping it won’t be for long.
The project will be completed in two phases, the first in 2024 and the second in 2025. This year includes widening the westbound lanes and the northern bridge over the railroad on I-90, along with construction of the eastern side of the diverging diamond. In 2025, work will begin on the eastbound ramps, the southern bridge over the railroad on I-90, the western side of the bridge over I-90, and Highway 11 from the farm approach just south of CHS down to Redwood Boulevard in Brandon.
Highway 11 construction will include the installation of a median, widening of the road north of the interchange, and of course, widening the bridge over I-90.
Stoplights are not currently planned for the interchange during the project, unless it is discovered that temporary ones are needed for traffic flow issues, according to Johnston. Permanent lights will be installed during construction, and will be turned on as the project approaches the finish line.
The Diverging Diamond is a newer traffic flow option, which is being installed at 41st/I-29 and Benson/I-229 in Sioux Falls as well. Rapid City has one at I-90/Lacrosse, and Fargo/Moorhead has one along I-94. According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), the Diverging Diamond reduces the chances of collision by nearly half, and accommodates more traffic than traditional interchanges. The accommodation of more traffic has been sorely needed as Brandon exploded in size over the past two decades, with Exit 406 becoming a major traffic point.
“There will be a learning curve,” Johnston pointed out, not just while the project is ongoing but once the diverging diamond is completed. “Something we discovered [that helps] in Rapid City is the installation of recessed symbols on the roadway that show folks if they’re in the correct lane. So if they see the symbol for I-90 in that lane, they know that’s the one to get onto the interstate.”
For his part, Johnston is excited to see the project come to this point. It’s been a long process in the planning and development stages, which has been around 8-10 years from conception to construction. He lives in Brandon, and knows how difficult traffic has been as the area has grown.
Other attendees seemed excited, if a bit apprehensive.
“It’s hard to be mad when our small town can get something like this,” said one open house attendee. She acknowledged that she knew Brandon had grown to over 11,000 people, but she still considered it to be a small town.
Many were questioning how businesses along Highway 11 would be impacted.
“I work for the quarry just north of Corson,” another attendee remarked. “We see this exit about 8 or 9 times a day, so we’ll be following the changes closely.”
The engineers and representatives answering questions did their best to put business owners at ease, explaining how they would attempt to ensure commuters and traffic to businesses would not be too heavily impacted during construction.
For Garretson-area drivers who are headed to Brandon along Highway 11, while some congestion is to be expected, Johnston doesn’t expect it to be much worse than it has been over the past several years.
That said, drivers do have options. From Garretson, westbound travelers who wish to completely avoid the construction can turn west on 258th Street (also known as the "Renner road") and access Sioux Falls via 478th Avenue/Veteran’s Parkway (the Eros road) or 476th Avenue/I-229. Eastbound travelers can use 486th Avenue, and to access Brandon itself without encountering the construction, travelers can use 484th Avenue (the "Beaver Valley road").
Project information can be found at https://dot.sd.gov/I90-Brandon. For text updates, text “I90Exit406” to 605-566-4041.
The 20th Annual Black Hills National AAU World Folkstyle Wrestling Championship was held March 29-30 in Spearfish, SD. This tournament hosts wrestlers from ages 6U to 50+ from over 17 states nationwide. With an average of over 600 wrestlers, this year exceeded expectations with over 1500 wrestlers participating.
Five young grapplers from the Garretson Youth Wrestling program competed in this tournament. Those five included Jack Frerk, Logan Bekaert, Landon Bekaert, Mitchell Christensen, and Miles Christensen.
These five kids represented the Garretson Youth Wrestling program with remarkable results earning 44th place out of 240 teams!
Landon Bekaert was 1st place in Tots 55. //photo by Dani BekaertLogan Bekaert was 1st place in Bantam 65. //photo by Dani BekaertMitchell Christensen was 1st place in Midgets 60. //photo by Stacy Albers-ChristensenMiles Christensen placing 4th in Midgets 70. //Stacy Albers-ChristensenJack Frerk //photo submitted
Next Tuesday, April 9 registered voters of Ward 2 will be headed to the polls to vote for their choice of city councilor. Voters can choose between incumbent Dave Bonte or newcomer Leslie Black. Polls will be open at the Legion building from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Ward 2 encompasses much of the eastern portion of Garretson. A ward map can be found at cityofgarretson.com under "City Council."
To learn more about each of the candidates, see the March 28, 2024 issue of the Gazette or head to GarretsonGazette.com to read the article.
All other open council and school board positions were filed without opposition, or did not see any petitions turned in and will have to be appointed.
SDPB hosting Dakota Life Community Conversation:
Next Tuesday, in Garretson on 4/9
SDPB staff and producers will host a community conversation at The Gulch, 516 N Main Ave, Garretson, SD on April 9th to collect stories for a future episode of Dakota Life Garretson. Community members are invited to stop by anytime between 2pm-4pm & 5pm-7pm local time to share their stories and learn more about Dakota Life.
Nathan Hofer, Director of Community Impact, says, “Community conversations are very exciting for us and for the communities. We get to join people in and around each town and share in their passion for their home as we prepare to share that passion with the rest of the state through our Dakota Life episodes.”
For over 25 years, Dakota Life, SDPB's magazine television show, has celebrated all of the stories that make South Dakota unique, one community at a time.
Now, with a new framework and a special emphasis on individual towns in each episode, community members are sharing their stories with SDPB staff and producers at community conversations. Stories are told all over the state, across the country, and around the globe on SDPB.
BDA: Week of Young Child
In this 2023 file photo, Blue Dragon Academy students enjoy their first meal in the new addition, which included more space for meals and an expanded kitchen. //Carrie Moritz, Gazette
The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration, sponsored by the National Association for Education of Young Children, the world’s largest early childhood education association.
The purpose of the week is to recognize the early childhood program and services that meet those needs and plan how we can better meet the needs of all the young children and families.
Week of the Young Child is April 6-12th. BDA has many fun activities planned for our kids and families including:
• Monday, Music Monday
• Tuesday, Tasty Tuesday
• Wednesday, Work Together Wednesday
• Thursday, Artsy Thursday
• Friday, Family Friday.
Splitrock Bowling:
The Splitrock Ladies bowled on March 26th, 2024, with the following results:
High Team Game & Series - Rock River Ag., LLC - 868 & 2494.
High Individual Game & Series - Pat Paulsen - 208 - which was 65 pins over her average & 500.
Cindy Hennings bowled a 192 which was 52 pins over her average.
