Pierre, South Dakota (March 25, 2024) — A South Dakota blizzard postponed Veto Day and a corresponding Referendum Rally organized by citizens who recognize that the controversial bill SB 201 must not become law.
A “Veto by the People” is the goal of the Referendum. Citizens are organizing across the state to carry petitions to each county. “This boils down to one theme: South Dakota is not for sale,” says Jim Eschenbaum, the chair of South Dakota Property Rights and Local Control Alliance. “This bill was cobbled together, poorly written and rife with consequences like the loss of local control.”
SDPRLCA understands all too well that as a grassroots organization, they are up against the taxpayer funding that Summit Carbon Solutions will use for a massive paid advertising campaign across the state. SDPRLCA will rely on the honest pursuit of truth by South Dakota journalists and regular citizens in getting the word out. When hundreds of millions of dollars funnel into a state like South Dakota, every person should ask themselves, who benefits? In the case of SB 201, a handful of out-of-state and foreign investors will make the lion’s share of the money, and South Dakotans will lose the local control that has been in place for 135 years.
Dissent and Protest of the passage of SB 201 were filed by members of both the House and Senate in early March. Clearly this bill is a violation of the South Dakota Constitution and tramples on one of our most fundamental rights as an American, that of owning private property.
Here are the reasons why SB 201 must not become law:
Violation of the South Dakota Constitution: SB 201 violates the constitutional mandate prohibiting the Legislature from enacting private or special laws that regulate county and township affairs. The bill's preemption of local land use, zoning, and building regulations undermines South Dakota's 135-year-old tradition of established local control.
South Dakota Constitution mandates, "No law shall cover more than one subject, which must be clearly stated in its title." The title of SB 201 encompasses three distinct and separate subjects, while the bill's content incorporates several additional topics not reflected in its title.
Erosion of Local Control: The bill changes current law by mandating that transmission facility regulations be subject to Public Utilities Commission (PUC) orders, stripping local communities of their decision-making powers.
Misleading "Landowner Bill of Rights": SB 201's so-called protections fail to address eminent domain abuse—the critical issue—by facilitating easier land acquisition and use by private pipeline companies at the expense of South Dakotans' inherent property rights. It should be referred to as a Landowners “Bill of Sale.”
Restrictions on Fees: The bill limits the ability of local government to impose fees, including those crucial for emergency response, effectively shifting the financial burden of potential pipeline incidents onto taxpayers.
Inadequate Protection for Citizens: SB 201, as passed, contains insufficient safeguards for citizens and property owners who would live in close proximity to the proposed pipeline. It totally fails to address the severe risk of possible catastrophic pipeline failures, which could endanger the lives and property of thousands of citizens.
Vague Terminology and PUC Handcuffing: Ambiguous language within the bill restricts the PUC's discretionary powers, compromises the commission's ability to make informed decisions for the citizens' welfare, and invites potential litigation.
Lack of Transparency: SB 201 obscures the significant risks posed by inexperienced companies, such as Summit Carbon Solutions, with limited experience in the CO2 pipeline industry. SB 201 fails to make "plume studies" publicly available. The lack of transparency in providing this information to local and county officials and emergency responders should raise serious concerns over public safety and, by Summit Carbon Solution's own admission, national security.
With the passage of SB 201, South Dakota became a state where profits trump property rights. The SDPRLCA stands firm in its conviction that South Dakotans deserve the right to decide on legislation that directly impacts their freedom, local control, and safety. The Alliance calls upon all South Dakotans and concerned organizations to join its efforts to challenge SB 201 and protect the state's constitutional and local governance integrity.
About SDPRLCA
The South Dakota Property Rights and Local Control Alliance is a grassroots coalition dedicated to defending South Dakota's constitutional rights and local governance from legislative overreach. Comprised of engaged citizens, property owners, and local leaders, SDPRLCA advocates for transparency, safety, and local autonomy across the state.
For more information, please contact:
Rick Bonander
605-940-7738
Citizen Volunteer
South Dakota Property Rights and Local Control Alliance
Right at 175 wrestlers, parents, grandparents, coaches, and family members packed into the Garretson Area Sportsman’s Club banquet room last Tuesday to say thanks to all for successful seasons both in high school and youth wrestling. After a great meal prepared in “hot dish from home” fashion, high school coach Brady Schleuter addressed the standing room only crowd to hand out awards first to those in the high school program. Coach Schleuter and assistants first handed out certificates of lettering to those young athletes who did what was expected through hard work every day in the wrestling room, but then went on to single out those who found it in their hearts to give even more to provide both outstanding performances and strong leadership to make many moments of this year special.
2024 Wrestling Award winners: (L to R) Carsten Roozeboom, Lucas Gonzalez, Tanner Baatz, Lucas Ludwig. All photos submitted by Oran Sorenson.
Teamwise, Coach Schlueter praised the almost universal positive attitude this year in the practice room. Second, Coach shared the fact that this year we won nine dual meet victories, some over long-time rivals such as B schools Howard and Sioux Valley and A opponents like Dell Rapids and Flandreau. All were also proud of our three state qualifiers who were Carsten Rozeboom, Caleb Westerbur, and Tanner Baatz. and the fact that many more of our kids were just one win away from State. As far as individual awards for boys, Carsten Rozeboom received the coaches award, most determined went to our foreign exchange student Lucas Gonzalez, freshman of the year to Tanner Baatz, and middle schooler of the year to Lucas Ludwig. On the girls’ side, Hannah Frewaldt received the coaches award, and the overall academic excellence award went to Adair Hanisch. A special highlight was when Coach Brady presented Lucas with an international singlet for him to wear in case he should enter international competition upon returning to Spain. Lucas Gonzales was a model foreign exchange student and entered the hearts of many people in his one short year here in Garretson. He will certainly be missed by all!
Head Coach Brady Schleuter presented an internationally-competitive singlet to foreign exchange student Lucas Gonzalez of Spain. With this singlet, he can compete in his home country if he desires.
Next Garretson youth wrestling president Sam Johnson addressed the room. Besides being proud of the fact that we had right at 50 youth involved in practices, Sam had praise for the organization of parents that raised money to help pay for entrance fees for kids to attend most tournaments free throughout the year. Both Johnson and Schleuter before him stressed to the young kids the importance of following through in the sport to in the future help our high school program rise to new levels of success. Also from the youth side, coaches Tyler Sorenson and Nolan Johnson next addressed the crowd. One of the highlights most often mentioned was the outstanding performances of all our youth in Watertown. Twenty-three of our youth accomplished the tall task of finishing in the top three in their weight class to qualify for the State AAU in Rapid. Of those twenty-three eleven would survive the long weekend of mat work to earn state medals. Coach Sorenson said the most satisfying thing to hear both in Watertown and Rapid was, “Boy, those Garretson kids really come ready to wrestle!” Another also said how proud they were of our youth and how well they behaved and acted with grace in victory as well as in defeat. The last thank you of the night went to the coaches for all their hard work and finally to all the parents for showing such support for their kids.
The 2024 Youth Wrestling coaches: (L to R) Sam Johnson, Aaron Christensen, Dan Bly, Nolan Johnson, Riley McManus, Dean Olson, Tyler Sorenson, Chase Tempel, Verne Miller, Willie Christensen. Not pictured: Nate Bekaert.Head Coach Brady Schleuter with Adair Hanisch.Head Coach Brady Schleuter with Hannah Frewaldt.
Garretson seventh grader Thor Zell, along with his teammates for the Brookings Rangers and Sioux Falls Jackalopes hockey teams, has seen success on the ice in recent months.
Thor Zell
On February 18th, the Brookings Rangers PeeWee A Hockey team entered the championship game of the state tournament for a rematch against Rapid City. Rapid City was the only team the Rangers fell to during regular season.
It was a high energy game and the Rangers came out on top ending the entire tournament 3-0. Zell saw success, with the support of his team, by scoring the 3rd and 5th goals of the championship game.
The game ended 5-2. Zell is credited with scoring the game-winning goal and was awarded the game puck by the officials.
More recently, Thor traveled to Denver, CO for the Denver Cup, along with the Sioux Falls Jackalopes.
The Jackalopes were 2-1 after regular play Saturday evening and headed into the championship game for a re-match against a team from Littleton, CO called The Hawks.
The Jackalopes fell to The Hawks Saturday evening, but came on the ice Sunday for a re-match. They were ready to battle.
The Jackalopes were able to pull out a win in overtime and the championship game ended 4-3.
The Splitrock Ladies bowled on March 19th, 2024, with the following results:
High Team Game - JSA Engineers/Land Surveyors – 854.
High Team Series - Alliance Comm – 2465.
High Individual Game - Jill Reindl – 174.
High Individual Series - Jan Fonder – 478.
Renee Nelson picked up the 2-7 split.
Connie Saathoff picked up the 5-6 split.
Cheryl Scholl picked up the 2-7 split.
Legion Aux Scholarships
The Garretson American Legion Auxiliary is awarding annually two (2) $300.00 scholarship applicable to all college, and technical school or post--high school training to assist Auxiliary or Legion members' child/step-child or grandchild/step-grandchild to secure an education beyond the high school level. Eligibility is the applicant must be a child or grandchild of an Auxiliary or Legion member of the Henry G. Fix Unit or Post. The applicant must not be under sixteen (16) years of age or over twenty-two (22) years of age. The applicant who has previously been awarded this scholarship is ineligible.
Please contact Kathy Evenson at 605 941-4699 for an application. The deadline for submission is April 1, 2024.
Garretson Commercial Club Meeting Minutes
March 13th, 2024, Regular Meeting at
Palisades Oil
Those in attendance: Luke Dreckman, Carrie Mortiz, Paetyn Dreckman, Laurie Bennett, Macie Coburn, and Tim Mallatt.
12:04 pm Luke Dreckman called the meeting to order.
12:06 pm Kris Johnson called into meeting via phone.
12:07 Megan Rollag arrived at meeting location.
Secretary’s Report - Laurie motioned to approve the February meeting minutes with a second by Carrie. All voting members were in favor.
Minutes prepared by John Brinkman who was not in attendance. Luke addressed the issue of missing meeting minutes and how to proceed whether the board attempt to recap based on previous agendas or give current Secretary a timeline to send prepared minutes.
Macie motioned to remove current board Secretary as Leslie Black with a second from Megan. Carrie motioned to appoint Paetyn Dreckman as acting Secretary with a second from Megan. Luke Dreckman removed himself as a voting member due to conflicts of interest.
The remaining voting members were all in favor. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report – Laurie motioned to approve the January report as there had not been a quorum at February’s meeting. Luke seconded Laurie’s motion and all voting members were in favor. Motion carried.
Carrie motioned to approve the treasurer’s report for February with a second from Laurie. All voting members in favor. Motion carried.
Old Business -
• Non-Profit Status – Luke gave an update from Mollie Blashko CPA with ELO. Stated she believes the Commercial Club may be filed as 501(c)6 rather than 501(c)3 and that is why grant application have been denied. Mollie recommends moving forward as 501(c)6 or create a subdivision of The Commercial Club as a 501(c)3 but this would require a separate board. This item will be tabled for further information.
• State Park Signage – Tim Mallatt brough final draft of sign for review. The board would like a 6 by 10 vinyl sign with intentions/ability to update for certain events. Tim offered to check with Brandon Lumber on price for sign backing, frame, and posts.
• Phonebook Progress – Carrie brought draft for opinions and edits. Includes a map within City limits and option to hold a photo submission contest for next year’s cover. Carrie would like edits back within a week or two.
• Collaborating with GED – Artfest-Independence Day Celebration – no update
• RASDak – Laurie got Kris Frerk on the phone (12:40pm) to discuss RASDak events. Frerk looking to form a committee to help plan events Saturday June 1st, 2024. Would like to see a bike parade with all riders followed by kids from Garretson riding their bikes down Main. The Legion and Annie’s will be open for breakfast. Riders will take off early Sunday morning and return 10:30am-2pm the following Friday. Kris also mentioned that she has pieces to be added to the Art Trail this year and hoping to have them placed by Memorial Day. Laurie offered to be on Kris’s committee for RASDak events along with Carrie. It was mentioned that Guy Johnson could be an option to represent both the school district and Commercial Club. Luke will reach out to him.
• 2024 Membership List – Kris Johnson mentioned missing dues for a few members that have given verbal confirmation, and she will be sending out toddler train dues this week or next.
• Business Questionnaire – Luke is working on collecting questionnaire’s he has handed out and emailed to members. He has about 15 back so far.
New Business –
• Jesse James Days – Garrick advised no more Silver Creek Mavericks as their group is starting to dissolve but he will look into finding another similar group to perform. Carrie mentioned Phil Baker has the Commercial Club as first dibs to perform that weekend. Megan has also reached out to Dakota Entertainment for a quote on bouncy houses. Leroy Austin is planning on having a street dance Saturday night. Paetyn said she would reach out to Angie Nussbaum to see if she would set up a car show again this year. The board discussed having a bean bag tournament again and would designate someone to investigate.
• Fundraiser – What and When? – Luke to email for ideas and suggestions.
• Purple Heart Business – Luke brought up Kingskull Metalworks, but they would need to become a member. Luke mentioned they have been in talks and the owner plans to be a member.
1:03 pm Megan left the meeting
Other Business
Toddler Train – Advertising Cost and billing – as mentioned previously, Kris would be working on sending out dues to advertise on the toddler train. There has been discussion on increasing the cost of advertising for next year and will be open to discussion in April’s meeting.
1:06 pm Laurie motioned to adjourn with a second from Macie. All voting members in favor. Motion carried.
Next Board meeting will take place April 10th at the Gulch. 11:30 meal with meeting to follow at 12:00pm.
It may seem illogical for John Thune to run for Senate Republican leader after he was booed by Republicans in his own state, but as Thune says, “these aren’t normal times.”
The booing happened in September. Former President Donald Trump headlined a South Dakota Republican Party fundraiser in a Rapid City arena packed with 7,000 people. Thune did not attend.
When Thune’s picture appeared on a video board, many in the crowd voiced their disapproval. He heard about it later from members of his Rapid City field office.
South Dakota Rep. Dusty Johnson, Sen. Mike Rounds and Sen. John Thune greet President Donald Trump in Sioux Falls in 2018. Photo: Argus Leader file photo
“They said, ‘There were a lot of people from other states. That wasn’t all South Dakotans,’” Thune recalled, laughing at the attempt to spare his ego. “Nevertheless, that’s a lot of Republicans booing.”
Thune eventually endorsed Trump, but not until last month, after it was clear the former president would once again be the party’s nominee. The endorsement came three days before Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell announced his plan to relinquish the title of Senate minority leader.
McConnell will step down in November, when Senate Republicans will elect his successor. Thune is currently the minority whip, which is the No. 2 Republican Senate position. He and the former whip, John Cornyn of Texas, are the leading candidates to succeed McConnell.
It’s a full circle moment for Thune. He won his Senate seat by beating then-Minority Leader Tom Daschle, a Democrat, in 2004.
Now 63 years old and serving his fourth Senate term after three House terms, Thune spoke recently with South Dakota Searchlight about his ambition to succeed McConnell, his thoughts on Trump, and more. Following are Searchlight’s questions and Thune’s answers, edited for length and clarity.
The last time you were up for reelection, you thought about not running. How do you go from that to seeking a leadership role that you might hold until you’re 82 years old, if you follow McConnell’s lead?
Well, I don’t expect to serve that long. I think Senator McConnell was more the exception than the rule in terms of his longevity, and he obviously got a lot done and leaves big shoes to fill.
But, honestly, as I thought about running for reelection, one of the things that kind of motivated me to do it was the idea that this possibility might come along.
What’s in it for South Dakota if you get the leadership job?
Everybody says, “You ran against Daschle and you made the argument that his leadership position was hurting the state.” And that was because at that time, the national party, the Democrat Party, was moving way left of where South Dakota was, and in many ways his leadership role got him significantly out of sync with people in South Dakota.
I think the majority of South Dakotans’ views on the big issues of the day sync up nicely with the Republican Party, and so I think it’s a chance to put South Dakota’s agenda on the national agenda and do things that are good for our state, and make sure that we have a voice in the major decisions that are made.
When was the last time you saw Tom Daschle?
I haven’t seen Tom in a good long time. I’m trying to remember when the last time would have been. Sometimes there are events in South Dakota where we may be at the same place, or even for that matter out here in Washington, but I typically haven’t had a chance to interact with him.
On the rare occasions when you have interacted, what’s that been like?
Well, as they say, time heals, right?
Does it really? That seems hard to believe, given how bitterly fought that race was.
I think the more time that passes, the less hard those memories are for people. But at one point we were obviously political adversaries. When you’re in politics, you take positions and have to articulate your views in a way that helps your team succeed.
He’s got the luxury now of having been out of politics for some time, and I think that gives you a different perspective. I was out of politics for a while after my first Senate race, too [a loss to then-Sen. Tim Johnson, a Democrat, in 2002]. But eventually you move on, and I sort of feel like that’s been true. I think that both of us realize that this, in a way, is a business, and when you’re in that business, there’s a certain set of rules you play by, but you’re still humans and still care about a lot of the same things, while you have different views on the issues. So I try and take that broader perspective, and I hope he does, too.
Twenty years ago you were a Republican hero for beating Daschle. Then, last year at a South Dakota rally for Trump that you did not attend, you were booed by an arena full of people. How do you process that?
The one thing that I keep in perspective is that I certainly haven’t changed my views. I have the same conservative, core values that I’ve had my entire time in public life and prior to it. I think that these days, politics sometimes revolves around personalities more so than it does the issues. But if you look at the core values — the things that I ran on and ran for — that’s still the same person I am. But I would say that obviously the party, in many ways, is a different party than it was back then.
What’s your place in today’s Republican Party?
Just bringing right-of-center, conservative, common sense to the big issues of the day, whether it’s how we deal with the border, how we deal with the economy, some of the cultural issues. I’m still about limited government, personal freedom coupled with individual responsibility, economic freedom, free markets, free enterprise, strong national defense. Those are the core Republican values that I hold dear and that I want to be able to advocate here in Washington.
Gov. Kristi Noem’s forthcoming book is titled “No Going Back.” The description from the publisher says she “explains how the country is not going back to the Republican Party of the 2000s. And that’s a good thing.” So it sounds like she’s saying the party should move on from people like you. How do you respond to that?
Things have changed. We’re more animated these days by the personality of Donald Trump, and that’s the reality we live with and deal with if you want to be involved in public life. That’s kind of where our voters are, and you have to listen to your voters.
But I also think there are some of these principles that to me are transcendent. And I think if you present your views and articulate the things you believe in, I still believe that you can do that with the strength of your convictions, and knowing that many times you’re going to disagree and disagree strongly with people on the other side of the aisle or the other side of the issue, but you can still do it in a way that is respectful and hopefully appeals to people’s hopes and aspirations rather than preying on their fears.
I’m guessing you probably know President Biden fairly well from his time in the Senate, and I wonder, would it be easier for you to work with him than Trump, at least on a personal level?
Everybody brings their own personality to this, but I would much rather have a President Trump — who I’m going to agree with on the issues probably 95% of the time, although there’ll be some differences — than a President Biden, whose positions on the issues and the direction he’s leading the country is very contrary to where I believe we ought to be headed.
I’ve conveyed that in conversations with former President Trump that if he’s successful — and I think he very well could be — and if we get the majority back in the Senate and I have a leadership role there, we want to hit the ground running and get to work for the American people.
And I think that if you come into this and you’re motivated by that more than anything else, you can put aside some of whatever the personality differences are that you have, and try to focus on the greater good.
Will Trump influence the leader race?
I don’t know the answer to that. Right now we have 49 Republican senators — hopefully after the election it’ll be a slightly higher number — and those are the people that ultimately are going to vote. It’s a secret ballot election. The former president’s views and influence are certainly felt here in the Senate like they are everywhere else. But at the end of the day, I think this is going to be about relationships and what people want to see in the future leader for the Senate.
Obviously, they’re going to want somebody who can work with the president, and I’ve had that conversation with a number of my colleagues and conveyed that directly to the former president that I believe that if he’s the next president, we want to do everything we can to make him successful on behalf of the American people.
Earlier you mentioned being out of politics after you lost a race in 2002. That could’ve been the end of your political career. What’s it been like to go from that to running for Republican Senate leader?
Sometimes there are things you can control in your life and things you can control in politics, and sometimes there are things you can’t. And I’ve been blessed to be on both sides — on the short side of an election from which I learned lessons, and on the winning side. I’m grateful to the good Lord for the lessons you learn in the good times and the bad times, and certainly I’d much rather win than lose. It was more fun in ’04 than it was in ’02, let’s put it that way.
But you learn lessons either way, and I think having lost an election, there’s a certain humility that comes with that. You’re very humbled by that, and I think that helped shape the way I approach work and life more generally, that you’re grateful for the opportunities but realize that they’re all temporary, and you want to make the most of what you’ve been given in the amount of time we have here.
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.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – As a former national security adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence and a woman who grew up in small-town South Dakota, Army Col. Andrea Thompson of Sioux Falls is uniquely positioned to serve on a new coalition that will put a Rushmore State focus on political and economic issues of global importance.
Farmers and ranchers across South Dakota, including Butte County sheep farmer John Erk, shown here in 2020, are always looking for ways to expand opportunities to sell their goods. (Bart Pfankuch / News Watch file photo)
Thompson will be one of about 75 thought leaders statewide who will serve on the new South Dakota advisory committee of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), a bipartisan national group that seeks to define and strengthen America's role in worldwide governmental, economic and diplomatic affairs.
The South Dakota state advisory committee of USGLC is the 33rd state chapter to advise the national group. It hopes to usher in new opportunities for the state and its leaders to expand knowledge and understanding of global affairs and the worldwide marketplace. The panel will also seek to provide South Dakota businesses and individuals with opportunities to expand into new international markets.
The new state chapter will launch during a global affairs conference in Sioux Falls on Wednesday, March 27. Speakers include U.S. Sen. John Thune, former South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard and Col. Thompson.
"This is really just another resource for our community leaders, our business leaders, our political leaders to gain insight on areas of the world that we might not now be familiar with," Thompson said.
Access to new opportunities
Thompson grew up in Pierre, attended the University of South Dakota and spent 28 years in the Army, serving tours as an intelligence officer in Iraq and Afghanistan. She then joined the U.S. State Department as national security adviser to the vice president and undersecretary of state for arms control and international security.
Thompson retired from the Army in 2016 and returned to South Dakota in November 2023 to become CEO of the Dakota State University Applied Research Corp., now under construction in northwest Sioux Falls.
Thompson, who serves on the national board of USGLC, said the new state committee will bring together leaders in industry, the nonprofit sector, education, agriculture, politics and the faith-based community to focus on two major objectives.
"It allows us to educate and inform the U.S. and international communities about what South Dakota brings to the economy and it gives us access to senior leaders and decision-makers that we may not normally have access to," Thompson told News Watch in an interview.
The committee will be co-chaired by Daugaard and Jim Abbott, former president of the University of South Dakota.
The South Dakota committee will create new lines of communication with leaders in a wide range of fields from other states, in Washington and across the world, Thompson said.
"I find that almost all of our problems can be solved with communication," she said. "I've told our soldiers, my government peers and business leaders that we're better together when we share ideas and when we share the lessons learned by others."
'We bring America together'
USGLC CEO Liz Schrayer told News Watch that the breadth of leadership within the national organization and on state committees provides a forum for greater understanding of the United States' role on the global stage and in expanding economic opportunities for all Americans.
The Washington Post once referred to the USGLC as the "Strange Bedfellows Coalition," a moniker that Schrayer shares with pride.
"We bring together America," she said. "Leaders who believe that America needs to be engaged in the world and who support that idea through our diplomacy and our development understand that it matters to America's economic security and our values."
Schrayer said the time is right to launch an advisory committee in South Dakota, where 1 in 5 jobs is related to trade, $12 billion in agricultural products are exported each year, and nearly 1,000 in-state businesses export more than $2.5 billion in goods and services a year.
"What matters globally, matters locally," she said. "South Dakotans believe and see and live the ideal that South Dakota matters to the world and that the world matters to South Dakota."
Creating new economic pathways
The new advisory committee will enable South Dakota leaders from all walks of life and commerce to develop a stronger understanding of world events and how crises around the world affect life and business in the state, Schrayer said.
The state committee will create new pathways for South Dakota leaders to share the state's story of success with governmental and industry leaders in the U.S. and around the world, she said.
"There's so much that South Dakota has to be proud of," Schrayer said, noting the state's role in helping to feed the world and having strong leaders in Congress.
Luke Lindberg, CEO of South Dakota Trade, a statewide business development group launched in 2023, said the new committee will help the state play a greater role in the international marketplace and in advising national leaders on global affairs.
"What happens overseas does impact our state's producers and manufacturers, our national security and our way of life," said Lindberg, who will also serve on the March 27 panel. "It's an exciting time to see more momentum of South Dakotans being willing to step forward and say that this stuff matters."
Bipartisanship an important element
Lindberg said the bipartisan nature of the USGLC in Washington and within the South Dakota committee is important to the continued success of the organization. The apolitical nature of the committee will allow members to focus on the big picture of maintaining strong American presence in global affairs and advocating for a strong international affairs budget within federal government.
Conflicts and upheaval on the global political stage do have an effect on South Dakotans and the state economy, Lindberg said. As examples, he noted that the state agricultural industry is affected by the war in Ukraine or from Chinese aggression toward Taiwan, and that airmen and women stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base might be called on at anytime to engage in U.S. military interests abroad.
"Our farmers have the propensity to ramp up production and deliver necessary foods around the world," he said. "And that's a good opportunity for us to demonstrate American leadership and make an impact back here in the heartland."
— This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org. Contact Bart Pfankuch at .
Editor's note: This is the seventh in a series of stories on children that Jackie Hendry, producer and host of South Dakota Public Broadcasting's"South Dakota Focus" will write for South Dakota News Watch. Each month, she previews the upcoming show.
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Just inside the Dahl Arts Center in downtown Rapid City, a large canvas features the painting of an outdoor basketball court behind a chain link fence and barbed wire. An eagle glides in the sky above a fuchsia building.
Flowers bloom in the foreground – each representing a girl serving time at the nearby Juvenile Services Center. They designed the mural, and their vision was brought to vibrant color by young people working to avoid a future behind bars through a juvenile diversion program.
Juveniles completing a diversion program painted this mural as part of the Just Us Mural Project (JUMP) in Pennington County. It's on display at the Dahl Arts Center in downtown Rapid City, S.D. (Photo: Krystal Schoenbauer / SDPB)
The Just Us Mural Project in Pennington County is one example of diversion programming at work. It offers young people an opportunity to avoid entering a justice system that is increasingly difficult to leave by making amends with the community while also giving them a chance to experiment with more productive outlets for their emotions.
Solving juvenile justice problems early
Not every child who runs afoul of the law belongs in the criminal justice system. Pennington County State's Attorney Lara Roetzel firmly believes this after more than 25 years as a prosecutor.
"Statistics have shown that once a kid goes into the criminal justice system, they usually don't get out of it," said Roetzel. She explained most young people who enter probation struggle to keep out of trouble because "kids are kids."
"What we found is that they're going to continue to have problems on probation – the same kinds of problems that all kids have," said Roetzel. "They're gonna break curfew. They're going to have trouble going to school, maybe. And once you're on probation, you stay on probation, and then they find themselves getting in more and more trouble."
To be clear, especially serious offenses – like violent crimes or other high level offenses – continue to land juveniles in the court system. However, some first-time offenses and petty crimes might make a young person eligible for diversion programming instead. These programs can include substance abuse counseling, Teen Court and mediation through the Center for Restorative Justice.
"One of the main factors we've identified in indicating a predilection later in life to go to prison is someone that's been in the juvenile system," said Roetzel. "It's so important that we identify kids who are at risk and try to solve problems early."
Lawmakers approve funding increase for juvenile diversion
Roetzel was one of the proponents of state legislation this year to increase the reimbursement rate for counties who make use of diversion programs.
Senate Bill 47 increased the state's reimbursement from $250 per child to $750. The bill was introduced at the request of the Department of Corrections, which has reimbursed counties for successful juvenile diversions for eight years. Kristi Bunkers, the director of juvenile services within the state DOC, told lawmakers more than 12,000 young people have avoided entering the formal justice system for alcohol, drug, tobacco or truancy offenses in that time.
"We know one of the greatest predictors of adult incarceration is juvenile incarceration," Bunkers told the House Judiciary Committee. "This bill aims to prioritize public funds for proven programs that reduce offending and support our next generation rather than putting them on a path towards the adult criminal justice system."
Lawmakers ultimately approved the increased reimbursement rate.
"When you look at how much money you would spend to incarcerate an adult in a prison, it doesn't even begin to compare," Roetzel said. "If we can do early intervention on a young person and that eventually leads to them not going to prison as an adult? I mean, it's just easy math."
In many cases, young people committing petty offenses or abusing drugs and alcohol require counseling to address the root cause of the behavior. But many families can't afford those services on their own. A shortage of local resources means some counseling services and substance abuse courses are only offered online, which can still be pricey.
"Well, I can't tell a kid, 'Alright, I want you to go through diversion, but I want you to take a class where you're going to learn how to make better choices, and it's going to cost you $600,'" said Roetzel. "They can't fail just because they didn't have the money to do it. ... State's attorneys need the financial resources to be able to help kids be successful."
Ripples of Daugaard-era juvenile justice reform
An emphasis on community-based diversion programming began in earnest during the Gov. Dennis Daugaard administration.
In 2011, South Dakota hadone of the highest rates of juvenile commitments in the country, in part because young people were put behind bars for low-level offenses. The passage of Senate Bill 73 in 2015 made diversion the default for many misdemeanors and established the financial incentive for counties. However, not all communities have the robust options that Pennington County had already established.
"I think it was very well intended and we've seen some positive effects from what was done with Senate Bill 73," said Attorney General Marty Jackley. "But again, there needed to be some additional funding that didn't come. Some of it's come now."
"The state saved so much money when it closed down the Custer boot camp," said Jackley. "Those dollars, instead of going back to the general fund, should have gone back to communities to use for diversion programs."
Instead, additional funding is coming years later through this year'sSenate Bill 47. Jackley said that's a good thing, although results may vary county by county.
According to itsrecently-released annual report, the Pennington County State's Attorney's Office saw 669 young people enter some type of diversion programming in 2023, with 582 (87%) successfully completing the program. Based on the state's previous reimbursement rate, that amounted to $145,500 back to Pennington County. At the recently-approved rate increase from Senate Bill 47, 582 successful juvenile diversions would mean $436,500 back to the county.
The increase is likely to make a significant difference in more populous counties with higher numbers of youth offenders. Of course, that impact is less impressive in smaller counties.
Jackley previously served as state's attorney for both Jones and Haakon counties – two rural areas that might see a handful of diversion-eligible cases a year.
"Rapid City has invested in a juvenile diversion program," said Jackley. "That's very significant. Some of our smaller counties simply don't have those resources, and so you have to treat those different cases differently."
Mural program had 'shockingly incredible outcomes'
Other diversion programs are supported by grant funding and community partnerships. In addition to more traditional diversion programs, Pennington County has also partnered with other organizations to offer Jujitsu training, skateboarding and art programs for youth working through diversion.
"People have a hard time understanding how successful they are because they think that we're rewarding young people for their poor behavior, and it's not true," said Kim Morsching, director of diversion for Pennington County. "It's a different way to reach each unique individual."
Late last year, the Pennington County State's Attorney's Office was one of five programs in the country to be awarded a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to support access to art programming for at-risk young people.
The mural of the basketball court is the third to be created since the grant program began and the first designed by members of the girls unit at the Juvenile Services Center. The two other mural designs feature a similar theme: the struggle between right and wrong or a good path and bad path.
By the end of the grant period, 17 murals will have been created with the input of around 300 young people. The process includes an art therapist to help participants work through emotions that may arise, and an artist-in-residence ensures each child has some input on the finished work.
The grant application came after the success of a previous mural program.
"We had incredible outcomes," Morsching said. "Shockingly incredible outcomes. Like, there were people who never got into trouble again. We never saw their names again."
She added that young people who had never thought of themselves as an artist were able to see themselves in a new light after the experience.
That's the level of success she and other partners hope to achieve with JUMP. TheDahl Arts Center has offered opportunities for the young people to stay involved with art by inviting them back for future murals and gifting them art supplies, Morsching said.
"It's like developing a lifetime sport. You're developing a lifelong passion," she said.
By definition, a successful diversion means a young person doesn't enter the criminal justice system. That can make juvenile diversion success stories difficult to quantify. In Morsching's own experience, she learns about success stories by running into parents or former juveniles years after the fact. It's often only then that she learns a particular program changed a young person's life.
Morsching believes its important to remember that kids who end up in her office are making decisions based on their own limited experience and still-developing brains. In other words, many are doing the best they can with what they have. Support, accountability and alternative outlets for their emotions can make all the difference in redirecting negative behaviors.
"Until they have a new tool, they're not going to use it," said Morsching. "And that's what diversion provides. We provide that new tool."
How to watch 'South Dakota Focus' on SDPB
The next episode ofSouth Dakota Focus airs on Thursday, March 28, at 8 p.m. Central time / 7 p.m. Mountain time. It can be viewed on SDPB-TV 1, Facebook, YouTube and SD.net
The episode includes:
A look at how policy approaches to juvenile justice have shifted in recent years
The story of Huron parents who struggled to find appropriate resources for their son
How creative diversion programs can help keep young people out of the justice system
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commission for March 19, 2024
CONSENT AGENDA
The following reports were received and placed on file in the Auditor's Office:
Routine Personnel Action
New Hires
Step Increases
Abatement Applications Recommended for Approval by the Director of Equalization
PRESENTATION
VEHICLE PURCHASE
GRANT APPLICATION
MUSEUM TRANSFER
UNAUDITED 2023 FINANCIAL RESULTS AND PUBLICATION OF ANNUAL REPORT
HEARING NOTICE
BID RESULTS
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
RURAL ACCESS INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING AGREEMENTS
ABATEMENTS
LIEN COMPROMISE
RESOLUTION MC24-12
OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Notice to Bidders
Minutes of the Garretson School Board for March 20, 2024
SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES
Notice of Hearing upon application for Special On-Sale Liquor Licenses
NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
City of Garretson Drinking Water Report / Water Quality
Water Source
Additional Information
Detected Contaminants
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commission for March 19, 2024
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on March 19, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on March 5, 2024. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, Karksy, 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 Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Approve the Agenda. 5 ayes
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Bender, 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 5, 2024
Bills to be Paid $5,011,236.62
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Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $288, HERITAGE FUNERAL HOM Burials $2000, HIGH POINT NETWORKS Maintenance Contracts $3934, HIGH POINT NETWORKS Subscriptions $649, HODGES BADGE COMPANY Office Supplies $2142.4, HOFFMAN, DUSTIN Welfare Rent $900, HOLIDAY INN HOTEL/CO Chemicals $551.94, HUMBOLDT FIRE & AMBU Transportation $480, HYDRO-CHEM SYSTEMS I Building Repairs & Maintenance $2638.8, HYVEE ACCOUNTS RECEI Miscellaneous Expense $23.96, I STATE TRUCK CENTER Truck Repairs & Maintenance $29.79, IN *SIOUX FALLS RUBB Notary Exp $45.75, IN *SIOUX FALLS RUBB Office Supplies $359, INTERSTATE OFFICE PR Office Supplies $3686.7, INTL PUBLIC MANAGEME Recruitment $1080, ISI LLC Interpreters $460, JASON MCCUBBIN Chemicals $86, JCL SOLUTIONS Inmate Supplies $1697.5, JCL SOLUTIONS Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $5034.44, JD'S HOUSE OF TROPHI Office Supplies $66.4, JIM BORK ENTERPRISES Printing/Forms $910, JUSTICE CLEARINGHOUS Education & Training $680.6, KARL CHEVROLET INC Automobiles $295675.2, KATTERHAGEN, MARK Bd Exp Fees (Yankton) $84, KAUFFMAN, DAVID W PH Psych Evals $2700, KENNEDY PIER & LOFTU Attorney Fees $816.5, KENNEDY, RENEE S Court Reporters $788.95, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT LLC Motor/Machine/Equipment Repair $1394.46, KNECHT, ANDREW J Attorney Fees $3864.9, KNECHT, ANDREW J Child Defense Attorney $495.1, KOCH HAZARD ARCHITEC Communication Equipment $712.5, KOLBECK LAW OFFICE L Child Defense Attorney $567.1, KRAUSE GENTLE Gas Oil & Diesel $98.24, KRAV MAGA WORLDWIDE Education & Training $2980, KWIK TRIP, INC Gas Oil & Diesel $47.63, L.G. EVERIST Sign Deposits $50, LAMBERTUS, T H JR Welfare Rent $300, LANGUAGELINE SOLUTIO Interpreters $252.66, LANGUAGELINE SOLUTIO Telephone $291.45, LARSON, VALERIE Bd Exp Fees (Yankton) $84, LEDD PROPERTIES LLC Welfare Rent $700, LEWIS DRUGS INC Child Care Food $20.46, LEWIS DRUGS INC Clinics - Auxiliary Services $1442.01, LEWIS DRUGS INC Miscellaneous Expense $213.9, LEWIS DRUGS INC Postage $28.05, LEWIS DRUGS INC Store Sales $4.13, LEXIPOL Education & Training $3302, LG EVERIST INC Road Maint & Material $707.71, LIFESCAPE Miscellaneous Expense $5000, LIPP, DELORES Business Travel $29.07, LISA CARLSON REPORTI Court Reporters $178.1, LOPEZ, REBECA Interpreters $400, LOVES TRAVEL STOPS & Gas Oil & Diesel $20.04, LOVING, PHILIP Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $6407.6, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Evening Report Center $2681.14, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SVCS Interpreters $130, MAC'S SIOUX FALLS, S Bridge Repair & Maintenance $17.97, MAC'S SIOUX FALLS, S Sign Supply Inventory $136.19, MAILCHIMP Advertising $60, MAJESTIC RIDGE LIMIT Welfare Rent $100, MARATHON PETRO100685 Gas Oil & Diesel $12.7, MARRIOTT JW WASH DC Business Travel $671.34, MARSH & MCLENNAN LLC Notary Exp $328.75, MATHIS, MIKE Business Travel $74, MATT DRAYTON Chemicals $86, MATT DRAYTON Education & Training $105, MATT DRAYTON Uniform Allowance $79.94, MAXIMUM PROMOTIONS Building Repairs & Maintenance $221, MCGOVERN, MIKE Uniform Allowance $135, MCKISSOCK Education & Training $1659.57, MCLEODS PRINTING & O Printing/Forms $465, MEDSTAR PARAMEDIC IN Transportation $3600, MEIERHENRY SARGENT L Child Defense Attorney $2058.5, MELLETTE COUNTY Board of Prisoners-Housing $284, MENARD INC Building Repairs & Maintenance $455.92, MENARD INC Engineering Supplies $62.98, MENARD INC Janitorial Chemical Supplies $30.53, MENARD INC JDC Maintenance $14.48, MENARD INC Program Activities $52.9, MENARD INC Sign Supply Inventory $62.98, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Lease-Rental Agreement $645, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Software $200, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Natural Gas $10803.21, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Data Communications $389.5, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Subscriptions $638.92, MIDSTATES UNIFORM & Miscellaneous Expense $813.95, MIDWAY SERVICE INC Gas Oil & Diesel $22516, MIDWEST ALARM COMPAN Maintenance Contracts $848.76, MINNEAPOLIS FORENSIC Expert Witness Fees & Expenses $6000, MINNEHAHA CNTY TREAS Automobiles $26.7, MINNEHAHA COMMUNITY Tea-Ellis Range $60, MONROE SYSTEMS FOR B Professional Services $63, MORGAN BOECKHOLT Taxable Meal Allowances $32, MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS I Homeland Security $20934.96, MYERS & BILLION LLP Attorney Fees $497.2, NAT ORG VICTIM ASSIS Education & Training $360, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Education & Training $145, NATIONAL COMMISSION Education & Training $299, NATIONAL FOAM Due To Other Governments $4998, NEW CENTURY PRESS Publishing Fees $894.32, NGUYEN, LAM Interpreters $50, NICHOLE CARPER Attorney Fees $5240.4, NOVAK Miscellaneous Expense $48.01, NOVAK Tea-Ellis Range $84.08, NOVAK Trash Removal $1089.42, NTLREST SERVSAFE Education & Training $15, O'REILLY 1534 Gas Oil & Diesel $9.74, OFFICE DEPOT INC Data Processing Supplies $268.75, OFFICE DEPOT INC Office Supplies $1374.52, OLSON OIL CO. Miscellaneous Expense $62.15, OREILLY AUTOMOTIVE S Automotive/Small Equipment $9.49, PALLUCK, ETHAN Taxable Meal Allowances $18, PATTY BIXENMAN Misc Revenue $300, PAYPAL INC Education & Training $60, PCS MOBILE Professional Services $18567.36, PENNINGTON COUNTY Extradition & Evidence $5404.9, PEOPLEFACTS Recruitment $100.1, PFEIFER IMPLEMENT CO Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $108.52, PHARMCHEM INC Testing Supplies $259.65, PHILLIPS 66 Gas Oil & Diesel $36.08, PHOENIX SUPPLY LLC Child Care Items $237.48, PHOENIX SUPPLY LLC Child Care Uniforms $135.12, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $2000, PRAIRIE WIND HUMBOLD Automotive/Small Equipment $50, PRECISION KIOSK TECH Testing Supplies $4050, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Postage $52424.65, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Printing/Forms $3058.2, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Publishing Fees $657.64, RELIANCE TELEPHONE I Telephone $7, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Attorney Fees $1753.35, REYNOLDS LAW LLC Child Defense Attorney $6712.1, RICHMOND COUNTY SHER Return Of Service $100, RINGING SHIELD,NICHO Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $1320, RISTY, MAXINE J Court Reporters $753.7, ROSEBUD SIOUX TRIBE Return Of Service $15, ROTOROOTER Building Repairs & Maintenance $250, RUNNING SUPPLY INC Automotive/Small Equipment $5.99, RUNNING SUPPLY INC Small Tools & Shop Supplies $29.95, SAFARILAND LLC Education & Training $450, SALEM, KARLA R Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $3135, SANFORD Lab Costs $159.88, SANFORD CLINIC Lab Costs $228, SANFORD CLINIC Miscellaneous Expense $60, SANFORD CLINIC Professional Services $1410, SANFORD CLINIC Recruitment $846, SANFORD HEALTH PLAN Insurance Admin Fee $3555, SD ASSOC OF COUNTY O Due To Other Governments $2918, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Psych Evals $600, SDN COMMUNICATIONS Data Communications $540, SDN COMMUNICATIONS Telephone $1900.8, SECURITY LABS LLC Maintenance Contracts $75, SENTRY SECURITY FAST Safety & Rescue Equipment $118, SHELL OIL 2911361710 Gas Oil & Diesel $63.06, SHERWIN WILLIAMS Building Repairs & Maintenance $33.44, SHRM HSG 888.241.839 Business Travel $327.55, SINCLAIR OIL CORPORA Gas Oil & Diesel $68, SIOUX EMPIRE SOCIETY Education & Training $626, SIOUX FALLS AIRPORT Business Travel $48, SIOUX FALLS AREA HUM Miscellaneous Expense $4500.33, SIOUX FALLS AUTO TRI Automotive/Small Equipment $275, SIOUX FALLS CITY Gas Oil & Diesel $14176.26, SIOUX FALLS CITY HIDTA Grant $173.28, SIOUX FALLS CITY Miscellaneous Expense $62814.33, SIOUX FALLS CITY Water - Sewer $855.76, SIOUX FALLS CITY Welfare Utilities $65.02, SIOUX FALLS HOUSING Welfare Rent $323, SIOUX FALLS MINISTRY Welfare Rent $3000, SIOUX FALLS RUBBER S Office Supplies $166.65, SIOUX VALLEY ENERGY Electricity $429.62, SIOUX VALLEY ENERGY Tea-Ellis Range $232.6, SOLARWINDS INC Maintenance Contracts $1889, SOUTH DAKOTA HOUSING Unearned Revenue $31555.84, SOUTH DAKOTA MAGAZIN Advertising $1650, SOUTHEASTERN BEHAVIO Crisis Intervention Program $4344.19, SOUTHEASTERN BEHAVIO Professional Services $2275, SP BORN PRIMITIVE JAG Grant 2023 $334.4, SP ELECTIONSOURCE Office Supplies $2048.81, SP KORE ESSENTIALS Uniform Allowance $140.9, SQ *JIM & RON'S SERV Professional Services $830, STAPLES Office Supplies $98.47, STAPLES Publishing Fees $19.99, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $7693, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $1715, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Blood/Chemical Analysis $19325, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Commitment - HSC $15086.39, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Commitment - Redfield $840, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Data Communications $220, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Due To Other Governments $3840224.48, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Extension Background Checks $20, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Fingerprint/Tax $261.25, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Misc Revenue $90.54, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Miscellaneous Expense $71, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Mug Shots $0.93, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Notary Exp $90, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Printing/Forms $1092, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Professional Services $432.5, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Property Search Fees $170.47, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Store Sales $127.1, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Telephone $790.16, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Witness Fees/Expenses $400, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $1405.99, STURDEVANTS AUTO PAR Parts Inventory $83.97, STURDEVANTS AUTO PAR Small Tools & Shop Supplies $58.88, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Board Of Prisoners-Meals $29249.46, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $1349.05, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Inmate Supplies $422.33, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $3024.35, SURAJ CHHETRI Taxable Meal Allowances $18, SURE TEST Professional Services $526.8, TAFOLLA, MIRANDA RAE Court Reporters $678.05, TARGETS ONLINE Ammunition $442.15, TARGETS ONLINE Other Supplies $200, TCN INC Telephone $66.99, THE DAKOTA SCOUT LLC Subscriptions $58.57, THE HOME DEPOT 4301 Building Repairs & Maintenance $95.94, THE PRICELINE GROUP Business Travel $199.82, THE UPS STORE 2125 Jail Repairs & Maintenance $35.84, THE UPS STORE 2125 Postage $15.1, THE WEBSTAURANT STOR Testing Supplies $318.15, THOMPSON, PAIGE Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $500, THOMSON REUTERS - WE Amounts Held For Others $829, THOMSON REUTERS - WE Legal Research $5279.3, THOMSON REUTERS - WE Subscriptions $288.11, THURMAN, CREIGHTON Attorney Fees $247.8, TOMACELLI'S TOO Jury Fees $139.16, TONER CARTRIDGES Office Supplies $109.95, TRANSOURCE TRUCK & E Parts Inventory $567.62, TRANSOURCE TRUCK & E Truck Repairs & Maintenance $2382.37, TRANSUNION RISK & AL Investigators Expenses $75, TRI STATE RENTAL CEN Postage $18.33, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $12753.75, TRITECH SOFTWARE Maintenance Contracts $7533.54, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Communication Equipment $7350, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Communication Equipment Repair $59.49, TYLER TECHNOLOGIES I Contract Services $375, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS I Welfare Rent $1538, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS P Welfare Rent $500, U.S. VENTURE HOLDING Small Tools & Shop Supplies $8.18, ULINE Kitchen/Cleaning Supplies $209.11, ULTIMATE HIGHWAY SOL Sign Supply Inventory $15605, UNITED 01642761 Business Travel $70, UNITED AIRLINES INC Business Travel $70, UNITED PARCEL SERVIC Postage $13.28, UNIVERSITY PARK LEGA Professional Services $1081.25, US FOODS INC Other Supplies $34.81, US FOODS INC Professional Services $2630.6, US POSTAL SERVICE Postage $1822.76, VAN STRATTON, WINER Expert Witness Fees & Expenses $4750, VANBUSKIRK CONSTRUCT Sign Deposits $50, VANDERRIGHT Welfare Rent $700, VER BEEK, KELSEY Child Defense Attorney $811.06, VERIZON CONNECT FLEE Professional Services $95.7, VERIZON WIRELESS Administrative Charges $46.52, VERIZON WIRELESS Data Processing Equipment $1384.5, VERIZON WIRELESS HIDTA Grant $83.86, VERIZON WIRELESS Tea-Ellis Range $40.01, VERIZON WIRELESS Telephone $6472.6, VERN EIDE MOTORCARS HIDTA Grant $1200, VITAL RECORDS Archive/Preservation Supplies $600, VITAL RECORDS Records Storage $3647.13, WALL LAKE SANITARY D Water - Sewer $90, WALMART STORES INC Automotive/Small Equipment $75.56, WALMART STORES INC Child Care Food $285.69, WALMART STORES INC Furniture & Office Equipment $108, WALMART STORES INC Inmate Supplies $46.76, WALMART STORES INC Office Supplies $17.78, WALMART STORES INC Other Supplies $294.66, WALMART STORES INC Pharmacies $24, WALMART STORES INC Program Activities $35.92, WEST POINTE LIMITED Welfare Rent $1384, WHEELCO Parts Inventory $144.68, WHITTIER APARTMENTS Welfare Rent $293, WINNER POLICE DEPART Extradition & Evidence $309.69, WWW.SUPERBRIGHTLEDS. Motor/Machine/Equipment Repair $54.24, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $2092.39, XCEL ENERGY Road Maint & Material $17.22, XCEL ENERGY INC Welfare Utilities $500, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $100, YMCA Welfare Rent $500, YOURMEMBERSHIP Recruitment $249, ZABEL STEEL Sign Supply Inventory $44.85, ZOOM VIDEO COMMUNICA Subscriptions $160.34, ZORO TOOLS INC Electrical Repairs & Maint $87.99, ZORO TOOLS INC Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $96.89, ZORO TOOLS INC Small Tools & Shop Supplies $423.99.
The following reports were received and placed on file in the Auditor's Office:
Building Permit Report for February 2024
Auditor's Account with the County Treasurer for February 2024
Register of Deeds Statement of Revenue Report for February 2024
Mobile Crisis Team Statistics Report for December 2023
Mobile Crisis Team Statistics Report for January & February 2024
Auditors Accounting Month End Reports for February 2024
Highway Monthly Construction Updates for March 2024
Routine Personnel Action
New Hires
1. Cleo Sorensen, Terrance Sorensen, and Richard Sprenger as seasonal Election Workers for the Auditor's Office at $17.00/hour effective 3/18/2024.
Step Increases
1. Justin Sieler, Air Guard Shift Supervisor for the Air Guard, at $41.55/hour (17/13) effective 3/7/2024.
2. Michael Awuol, Senior Accounting Technician for the Auditor's Office, at $25.98/hour (12/4) effective 3/24/2024.
3. Andrew Anderson, Groundskeeper for the Facilities Department, at $22.40/hour (9/4) effective 3/6/2024.
4. Steven Millage, Program Analyst II for the Information Technology Department, at $53.16/hour (21/13) effective 3/16/2024.
5. Joseph Santucci, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $26.64/hour (14/2) effective 2/13/2024.
6. Brodie Waysman, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $26.64/hour (14/2) effective 2/13/2024.
7. Kyle Johnson, Corporal for the Jail, at $34.09/hour (17/5) effective 3/10/2024.
8. Timothy Gustafson, Corporal for the Jail, at $37.63/hour (17/9) effective 2/18/2024.
9. Michael McGovern, Lieutenant for the Jail, at $4,149.60/biweekly (22/8) effective 2/27/2024.
10. Denisemoani Jackson, Legal Office Assistant for the Public Advocate's Office, at $26.64/hour (10/9) effective 2/21/2024.
11. Chad Boelhower, Senior Deputy Public Defender for the Public Defender’s Office, at $3,852.80/biweekly (22/5) effective 3/26/2024.
12. Tyrell Bertsch, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $33.25/hour (17/4) effective 2/22/2024.
13. Skyler Earley Stonearrow, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $34.93/hour (17/6) effective 2/25/2024.
Abatement Applications Recommended for Approval by the Director of Equalization
Parcel-40081, Sioux Falls School District, 2023 Property Taxes, $233.48
Parcel-54243, City of Sioux Falls, 2023 Property Taxes, $1,775.95
Jason Gearman, Director of Emergency Management, presented a briefing from Minnehaha County Emergency Management and Rural Fire and Ambulance Services. The purpose of the Office of Emergency Management is to provide workable plans to maintain the continuity of federal, state, and local governments during a time of disaster or extreme emergency. The Office of Emergency Management conducts hazard analysis and develops and updates plans for emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and hazard mitigation, as well as overseeing volunteer programs such as the Police reserve program, Rescue Squad, and Dive Team. Other Emergency Management services include grant management, coordinating with the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management disaster preparedness, damage assessment, resource allocation, communications, and weather service liaison.
Mike Harstad, Rural Fire Chiefs Association President, provided an update on Minnehaha County Rural Fire Departments.
VEHICLE PURCHASE
Upon the request of Jason Gearman, Director of Emergency Management, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to Authorize the Sheriff's Office Emergency Management Division to Purchase One Chevy Silverado through Iowa State Bid Holder, Karl Chevrolet, in Des Moines, Iowa with a Price of $49.279.20. 5 ayes.
GRANT APPLICATION
Upon the request of Daniel Haggar, Minnehaha County State's Attorney, MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Authorize the State's Attorney's Office to Apply for the SD Department of Public Safety-Victims' Services STOP-P Grant. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
PRESENTATION
Bill Hoskins, Museum Director, gave a briefing on the Siouxland Heritage Museum for 2023 highlighting the attendance in the following areas: The Old Courthouse Museum, Pettigrew Home and Museum, Irene Hall Museum Resources Center, and the Museum Outreach. In 2023, visitors came from 48 states and 27 foreign countries with the busiest days being Saturday, Friday, Thursday, and Sunday. Also, in 2023, the Museum Staff presented 633 programs on and off site to 32,007 people. All museum programs are back with Starlab being the last program to return following COVID. The outlook for 2024 is an increase in number of programs presented and people served. The presentation went on to highlight the van used by the Museum and the need for a potential replacement. The management of the artifact collection and the continued expansion in 2024 and 2025. Museum Director Hoskins highlighted that the museum can draw up to 4% of the average balance of the Endowment Fund, established in August of 1993, over the last twelve quarters. The fund has grown significantly in the last few years, resulting in greater support for museum operations. Finally, the Museum Director Hoskins and Museum Staff will continue to build our relationships and cooperative ventures to better serve the public. The educational programs, diverse exhibits, and outstanding customer service will encourage the public to keep coming back.
MUSEUM TRANSFER
Upon the request of Bill Hoskins, Museum Director, MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to Approve a Balance Transfer of $10,000 from the Museum Store Fund to the Museum Enterprise Fund in Accordance with the 2024 Budget. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
UNAUDITED 2023 FINANCIAL
RESULTS AND PUBLICATION OF ANNUAL REPORT
Susan Beaman, Finance and Budget Officer, gave a briefing on the unaudited 2023 Financial Results and publication of the unaudited Annual Report. As required by SDCL 7-10-04, the Auditor's Office has prepared the Annual Report which will be published in the newspapers by March 30th as well as on the County's website in our Finances section. Some of the key numbers for the report include: total revenue from all funds for 2023 was $175,834,597.29, which includes $51,631,420.85 in revenue related to the Juvenile Justice Center bond issue; total expenditures from all funds for 2023 were $113,437,670.34; and long-term debt outstanding at 12/31/2023 was $102,885,805.92. The County's General Fund unaudited operating results, report a strong 2023, including revenue exceeding budget by $4,180,715.76 with several key items including interest income and board of prisoner revenue, contributing to this favorable impact; expenses were under budget by $11,493,927.87 which includes a combination of personnel and department savings. General Fund transfers were under budget by $42,290, which was due to the lower than budgeted transfer to the 24/7 Sobriety Fund. Finance and Budget Officer Beaman went on to highlight the unaudited Financial Results for the Highway Fund Operating, which includes revenue exceeding budget by $1,376,293.20 with several key items including State grants and interest income, contributing to this favorable impact while expenses were under budget $4,363,898.33 which primarily due to the multi-year nature of highway projects. The Building Fund Operating results unaudited include revenues exceeding budget by $1,876,719.34, with several key items including interest income and intergovernmental revenue, contributing to this favorable impact while expenses were under budget by $4,694,462.33, which primarily is due to uncompleted projects and the signing of the exchange agreement with the City of Sioux Falls that eliminated the County's funding obligation for the new PSAP facility. The unaudited statement of cash flows shows a healthy cash position for the County from the reported funds.
HEARING NOTICE
Upon the request of Susan Beaman, Finance and Budget Officer, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Beninga, to Authorize the Auditor to Post Notice of Budget Hearing April 2, 2024 for Carryover and Other Budget Supplements. 5 ayes.
BID RESULTS
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, reported on the bid opening for a side dump trailer held on March 13, 2024. The County received only bid bond from the RDO and one bid from Diesel Machinery Inc (DMI) for $65,635.00. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Approve Bid Results and Award Recommendation for Side Dump Trailer and Authorize Chair to Sign Purchase Agreement with DMI, Inc. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a request for authorization for the Chair to sign a joint powers agreement between Minnehaha County, City of Brandon, City of Sioux Falls, and Split Rock Township for the reconstruction design of Maple and Park Streets. Minnehaha County along with the Cities of Brandon and Sioux Falls submitted applications for a Federal BUILD Grant in 2023 and a Federal RAISE Grant in 2021 but were unsuccessful. Following conversations with the Congressional delegation staff and subsequent meetings with Brandon, Sioux Falls, and Split Rock Township, a decision was made to prepare the project to be "bid ready." When the project is ready for construction, conversations with the Congressional delegation will occur for Congressional Discretionary Funding. The total fee for the professional Services Agreement with HDR is not to exceed $301,968.00 with Minnehaha County's portion is 44 2/3% of the actual cost of the project, not to exceed $134,889.11. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to Authorize the Chair to Sign a Joint Powers Agreement between Minnehaha County, City of Brandon, City of Sioux Falls and Split Rock Township for the Reconstruction Design of Maple and Park Streets. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RURAL ACCESS INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING AGREEMENTS
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a briefing on the award of Rural Access Infrastructure Funding. The Rural Access Infrastructure Program was enacted during the 2021 South Dakota Legislative session to assist with the replacement of large culverts and small bridges on township roads. Red Rock Township applied for and was awarded funding for an engineering study to replace one small structure for a project total of $15,000.00. Red Rock Township's share amount is $3,000 with the remaining $12,000.00 provided from the County through the State-funded Rural Access Infrastructure Fund. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the Township Rural Access Infrastructure Funding Agreement with Red Rock Township. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a briefing on the award of Rural Access Infrastructure Funding. The Rural Access Infrastructure Program was enacted during the 2021 South Dakota Legislative session to assist with the replacement of large culverts and small bridges on township roads. Mapleton Township applied for and was awarded funding to replace three large culverts for 2024 for a project total of $118,391.00. Mapleton Township's share is $23,678.00 with the remaining $94,713.00 provided from the County through the State-funded Rural Access Infrastructure Fund. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the Township Rural Access Infrastructure Funding Agreement with Mapleton Township. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a briefing on the award of Rural Access Infrastructure Funding. The Rural Access Infrastructure Program was enacted during the 2022 South Dakota Legislative session to assist with the replacement of large culverts and small bridges on township roads. Edison Township applied for and was awarded funding to replace two large culverts for 2024 for a project total of $28,710.00. Edison Township's share is $7,752.00 with the remaining $20,958.00 provided from the County through the State-funded Rural Access Infrastructure Fund. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Kippley, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the Township Rural Access Infrastructure Funding Agreement with Edison Township. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
Steve Groen, Highway Superintendent, presented a briefing on the award of Rural Access Infrastructure Funding. The Rural Access Infrastructure Program was enacted during the 2021 South Dakota Legislative session to assist with the replacement of large culverts and small bridges on township roads. Dell Rapids Township applied for and was awarded funding to replace one small structure for 2024 for a project total of $312,000.00. Dell Rapids Township's share is $62,400.00, with the remaining $249,600.00 provided from the County through the State funded Rural Access Infrastructure Fund. MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Beninga, to Authorize the Chair to Sign the Township Rural Access Infrastructure Funding Agreement with Dell Rapids Township. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
ABATEMENTS
Upon the request of Chris Lilla, Director of Equalization, MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to Approve the Denial of Abatement Application on Parcel-30361, 2022 Property Taxes, $529.30 for the Home not Being Owned or Occupied by the Veteran Applying, Prior to November 1, 2022. By roll call vote; 5 ayes.
Upon the request of Kris Swanson, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bender, to Rescind the Elderly Tax Freeze Abatement Previously Approved on February 27, 2024, for Parcel-27417, 2023 Property Taxes, $1,034.41. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
LIEN COMPROMISE
Melinda Storley, Commission Assistant, gave a briefing on the application for compromise of lien DPNO-23744 in the amount of $14,414.37, which represents legal fees and poor relief. The petitioner has offered to pay 50% of the balance or $7.038.14. MOTION by Bender, seconded by Kippley, to Release and Compromise of Lien DPNO-23744 in Full with Payment of $7,038.14 and Approve Resolution MC24-12. By roll call vote: 5 ayes.
RESOLUTION MC24-12
WHEREAS, a County Aid Lien in the amount of $14,076.27 purports to exist in favor of Minnehaha County and against DPNO-23744 as Lienee, and
WHEREAS, said lienee has filed an application with the County Auditor stating such facts as provided for by Law,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that after due consideration of the circumstances the Board of County Commissioners finds it advisable and proper to authorize the Chair of the County Board and the County Auditor to execute the following:
1. Compromise and release the lien in full with payment of $7,038.14 for Lien DPNO-23744
Dated at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, this 19th day of March, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Deputy Auditor
OPPORTUNITY FOR
PUBLIC COMMENT
Tyler Tordsen, Sioux Falls, provided an update on the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Bender reported on the recent meetings regarding the Juvenile Justice Center and Accessible Housing Board as well as upcoming meeting for the Safety and Justice Grant.
Commissioner Kippley reported on the improvements for the Courthouse and work on the Minnehaha County Comprehensive Plan updates and upcoming meetings for the County Board of Equalization.
Commissioner Bleyenberg reported on the recent Drug Court graduation ceremony.
MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Bleyenberg, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (1), (3), (4), and (6) at 10:35 a.m. 5 ayes.
Chair Karsky declared the executive session concluded at 11:55 a.m.
MOTION by Bender, seconded by Beninga, to adjourn at 11:56 a.m. 5 ayes.
The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the total approximate cost of $452.09 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
Published at the total approximate cost of $158.76 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
49 PRO 24-000071
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA ): SS
COUNTY OF
MINNEHAHA )
IN CIRCUIT COURT SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
In the Matter of the ESTATE OF
SHARON FLORENCE STOLL, Deceased.
Notice is given that on March 4, 2024, Tracey Richard Stoll, whose address is 201 E. Lotta St #4 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota was appointed as Personal Representative of the Estate of Sharon Florence Stoll.
Creditors of decedent must file their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or their claims may be barred.
Claims must be filed with the Personal Representative or may be filed with the clerk, and a copy of the claim mailed to the Personal Representative.
Tracey Richard Stoll 201 E. Lotta St #4 Sioux Falls, SD 57105 Personal Representative
Mary R. Ash
Ash Law Office, PLLC
5101 S. Nevada Ave., Suite #130 Sioux Falls, SD 57108
(605) 800-1071
Attorney for Personal Representative
Angelia M. Gries
Minnehaha County Clerk of Courts 425 North Dakota Ave
Sioux Falls SD 57104
(605) 367-5900
Published four times at the total approximate cost of $47.09 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-14-24-2tc
Notice to Bidders
Minnehaha County Highway Department requests formal bids for the following bundled rehabilitation project: “MC23-10 | Structure 50-197-100 Rehabilitation & Approach Grading” and “MC22-13 | Structure 50-330-026 Rehabilitation & Approach Grading”.
Structure 50-197-100 consists of the following Work but is not limited to: unclassified excavation, asphalt concrete removal, bridge rail removal, bridge railing construction, scarification of existing concrete deck, low slump dense concrete bridge deck overlay, construction of sleeper and approach slabs, installation of base course, asphalt concrete pavement, pavement marking paint, approach guardrail, erosion control, and traffic control.
Structure 50-330-026 consists of the following Work but is not limited to: unclassified excavation, asphalt concrete removal, scarification of existing concrete deck, construction of low slump dense concrete bridge deck overlay, bridge end barrier modification, approach guardrail, base course installation, asphalt concrete pavement, pavement marking paint, traffic control, and erosion control.
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, April 10, 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 9037623 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 57104. 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 $32.31 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
Notice to Bidders
Minnehaha County Highway Department requests formal proposals (bids) for “MC23-12 Gravel Pit Building,”
This contract consists of furnishing and installing a 40’x64’ metal pole barn at Minnehaha County’s Gravel Pit.
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, April 10, 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 8549033 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 $24.14 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
Minutes of the Garretson School Board for March 20, 2024
SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES
Special Meeting Garretson School District #49-4 6:00 p.m. March 20, 2024
Present: President Shannon Nordstrom, Vice President Andy Hulscher, Board Member Tana Clark, Board Member Wyatt Compton, Board Member Jodi Gloe & Superintendent Guy Johnson.
At 6:00 p.m., the Board convened in the Library at the Garretson School District for a special board meeting. All votes are unanimous, unless specifically noted in the minutes.
President Nordstrom led the Pledge of Allegiance and welcomed guests and visitors.
There were no comments made during the Open Forum portion of the meeting.
President Nordstrom called for any additions or corrections to the Board agenda. There were no additions or corrections presented.
Action 24-084: Motion by Compton, second by Gloe, to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried.
Action 24-085: Motion by Gloe, second by Hulscher, to approve the 2024-2025 negotiated Professional Agreement between the Garretson Teachers Association and the Garretson Board of Education. Motion carried.
Action 24-086: Motion by Gloe, second by Clark, to adjourn at 6:05 p.m. Motion carried.
Approved by the Garretson Board of Education this _____ day of _________, 2024.
Shannon Nordstrom,
Board President Jacob Schweitzer,
Business Manager
Published at the total approximate cost of $17.25 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION DETERMINATION FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT IN GARRETSON, SOUTH DAKOTA
City of Garretson C461063-05 C462063-04
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION DETERMINATION
FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT IN GARRETSON, SOUTH DAKOTA
Date: March 28, 2024
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has conducted a review of a proposal from the city of Garretson located in Minnehaha County that involves replacement of approximately 4,500 feet of water main, 3,200 feet of sanitary sewer, 1,200 feet of storm sewer along Fourth Street from Center Avenue to Oak Drive, and on Center Avenue, Canyon Avenue, Eastern Avenue, Sherman Avenue, and Oak Drive from Third Street to Fourth Street. The project will include grading, surfacing, and appurtenances necessary for the installation of these utilities.
The city of Garretson was awarded a $2,593,200 Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan at 3.25 percent for 30 years. The Clean Water SRF loan will be repaid with a wastewater surcharge of approximately $25.00 per customer per month. Current wastewater rates are $39.95 per customer per month for 5,000 gallons.
The city also received a $2,394,000 Drinking Water SRF loan at 3.0 percent for 30 years with 58.8% principal forgiveness not to exceed $1,264,000. Repayment of the loans will be from a water surcharge of approximately $10.00 per customer per month. Current water rates are $54.60 per customer per month for 5,000 gallons.
Listed below are the reasons for granting a categorical exclusion:
1. The project involves sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and new distribution lines within the developed portion of the community; and
2. No comments requiring mitigative action were received from the South Dakota Historical Society, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, United States Department of Interior, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Resource Conservation Service, or through the public participation process.
The proposed action does not involve any serious local objections nor does it meet any of the criteria for not granting a categorical exclusion as specified in Section 6.505(c) (i) through (iii) of 40 CFR Part 6, Subpart E.
The project area will not affect any archaeological or historic resources. In the event of an archaeological or historic resource being unearthed during construction, the immediate stoppage of work would be required by the contract specifications. The proposed improvements should have no adverse effects on plant life or wildlife. The proposed project will have no effect on prime or important farmland. No other environmentally sensitive issues have been identified in the planning of this project. Minor noise, air pollution, and soil erosion problems will occur during construction, but these will be only temporary in nature.
The review process did not indicate that significant environmental impacts would result from the proposed projects. Consequently, a preliminary decision not to prepare an EIS has been made. This action is taken on the basis of a careful review of the engineering report, environmental information documents, correspondence with responsible governmental agencies and other supporting data which are on file at the Division of Financial and Technical Assistance, Environmental Funding Program, DANR, Pierre, South Dakota, and are available for public scrutiny at the City Hall, Garretson, South Dakota.
Comments supporting or disagreeing with this decision may be submitted to for consideration by DANR after publication of the Categorical Exclusion Determination. After evaluating the comments received, DANR will make a final decision.
-Tina McFarling Administrator
Published at the total approximate cost of $44.02 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
Board of Equalization for the City of Garretson
City of Garretson March 20, 2024
The Board of Equalization for the City of Garretson, Minnehaha County, South Dakota convened on March 20, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., at the Garretson City Hall, with Mayor Greg Beaner presiding.
ROLL CALL: Greg Beaner, Greg Franka, Tom Godbey, Bill Hoskins, Dave Bonte, Bruce Brown, Jackie Rotert absent (All of Garretson City Council), & Andy Hulscher (Garretson Public School).
OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: Paetyn Dreckman, Carrie Mortiz, Brayden Beaner, Edith Karli, and Mark Pierret
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL:
A: Agenda – 03-20-2024 Equalization Meeting
Council member Franka made a motion to approve the Consent Calendar Agenda, Bonte 2nd, 6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent. Motion passed.
PARCEL 16653: Filed by property owner Edith Karli – requested the building value at $319,000.00, land value at $41,200.00, and total property value at $360,200.00. Minnehaha County Equalization assessed the property at $390,600.00 with land at $41,200.00 and building at $349,400.00 after reviewing the home with Karli late summer 2023. Karli advised council based on research, felt proper evaluation would be $360,200.00. Beaner asked if Karli made any updates to the home recently and Karli advised replaced flooring in basement and section of a wall due to water damage. Bonte motioned for land value at $41,200.00, building value at $319,000.00, for a total value of $360,200.00 with a second from Hoskins. 6 ayes (Hoskins, Brown, Godbey, Bonte, Franka, Hulscher) 0 nays, 1 absent. Motion passed.
PARCEL 16649: - Filed by property owner Mark Pierret – requested building value at $440,300.00, land value at $27,600.00, and total property value at $433,000.00 Minnehaha County of Equalization assessed the property at $472,200.00 with a land value of $27,600.00 and building value of $444,600.00. Pierret advised the council they purchased the property February 2023 for $433,000.00 and requested the assessment be lowered to the sale price. Brown motioned to approve assessment as requested with a second from Franka. 6 ayes (Hoskins, Brown, Godbey, Bonte, Franka, Hulscher) 0 nays, 1 absent. Motion passed.
6:38 pm Hoskins made a motion to adjourn the 2024 Equalization Board, Brown 2nd, 6 ayes (Hoskins, Brown, Godbey, Bonte, Franka, Hulscher), 0 nays, 1 absent. Equalization Board is adjourned for 2024.
Greg Beaner, Mayor
ATTEST
Paetyn Dreckman
Finance Officer
(Unapproved)
Published at the total approximate cost of $29.07 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
Special Meeting of the City of Garretson for March 20, 2024
City of Garretson
March 20th, 2024
The City Council of the City of Garretson, Minnehaha County, South Dakota met in special session on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, immediately following the 2024 equalization meeting at Garretson City Hall with Mayor Beaner presiding.
6:40 P.M. Mayor Beaner called the regular meeting to order.
ROLL CALL: Greg Beaner – Mayor
Greg Franka – Ward I
William Hoskins – Ward I
Dave Bonte – Ward II
Tom Godbey – Ward II
Jackie Rotert – Ward III - absent
Bruce Brown -- Ward III
OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: Paetyn Dreckman, Carrie Mortiz, Andy Hulscher, Brayden Beaner
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL:
A. Agenda –03-20-2024 Special Meeting
Council member Franka motioned to approve the meeting agenda and Brown seconded the motion. 5 ayes 0 nays 1 absent, motion passed.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: none
NEW BUSINESS:
• Approval of Election Workers – Dreckman presented the 2024 Municipal Election workers as Brad Farrell, Luke Dreckman, Ruth Sarar, and Rhonda Kirton. Council verified election date as April 9th and only Ward 2. Brown made a motion to approve election workers with a second from Franka. 5 ayes, 9 nays, 1 absent. Motion passed.
• Main Street Closure for Jesse James Street Dance – Dreckman advised Leroy Austin of The Sports Cabin requested closure of Main from 4th to just north of the Garretson Food Center for a street dance over the Saturday evening of Jesse James Days. Ausin was in attendance for the March regular meeting and presented details but the item was not on the agenda, so no motion was made. Bonte motioned to approve the street closure with a second from Brown. 5 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent. Motion passed.
6:43 PM Bonte motioned to move into executive session over discussions involving contracts and agreements. Franka seconded to motion and the council entered executive session and members of the public left the council chambers.
6:55 PM Godbey declared out of executive session.
6:56 Hoskins motioned to adjourn with a second from Bonte. 5 ayes, 0 nays 1 absent, motion passed.
Meeting Adjourned.
Greg Beaner, Mayor
ATTEST
Paetyn Dreckman
Finance Officer
(Unapproved)
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NOTICE OF HEARING UPON APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL ON-SALE LIQUOR LICENSES
Notice is hereby given that a hearing will be held in the Minnehaha County Commission Meeting Room, County Administration Building, 415 N. Dakota Ave., Sioux Falls, South Dakota on April 16, 2024, at or after 9:00 a.m., to consider applications for fourteen Special On – Sale Liquor Licenses.
APPLICANT: Red Rock Bar & Grill, Inc, 48181 SD-42, Brandon, SD 57005
At which time and place anyone interested may appear to file objections to the granting of the same.
Dated at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, this 19th day of March, 2024.
- Leah Anderson, County Auditor
Published at the total approximate cost of $15.62 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-1tc
NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION
MUNICIPALITY OF GARRETSON, SD
A Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, in Garretson, South Dakota. If the polls cannot be opened because of bad weather, the election may be postponed one week.
The election polls will be open from seven a.m. to seven p.m. central time on the day of the election.
At the election, the following offices will be filled:
WARD 2- (Two Year Term)
Candidates:
Leslie Black
David M. Bonte
Furthermore, the following are unopposed:
WARD 3- (Two Year Term): Jackie Rotert
MAYOR - (Two Year Term): Bruce Brown
The polling place of this municipality is as follows:
Garretson American Legion
504 Main Avenue
Garretson, SD 57030
Any voter who needs assistance, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may contact the municipal finance officer at (605) 594-6721 before the election for information on polling place accessibility for people with disabilities.
Paetyn Dreckman
Finance Officer
Published twice at the total approximate cost of $21.09 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 3-28-24-2tc
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
City of Garretson Drinking Water Report / Water Quality
City of Garretson
DRINKING WATER REPORT
WATER QUALITY
Last year, the City of Garretson monitored your drinking water for possible contaminants. This report is a snapshot of the quality of the water that we provided last year. Included are details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state standards. We are committed to providing you with information because informed customers are our best allies.
Water Source
We serve more than 1,228 customers an average of 101,000 gallons of water per day. Our water is groundwater that we purchase from another water system. The state has performed an assessment of our source water and they have determined that the relative susceptibility rating for the Garretson public water supply system is medium.
Additional Information
The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity.
Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
• Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.
• Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.
• Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by- products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems.
• Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally-occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.
For more information about your water and information on opportunities to participate in public meetings, call (605)594-6721 and ask for Paetyn Dreckman.
In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. FDA regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health.
Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno- compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants can be obtained by calling the Environment Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The City of Garretson public water supply system is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
Detected Contaminants
The attached table lists all the drinking water contaminants that we detected during the 2023 calendar year. The presence of these contaminants in the water does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. Unless otherwise noted, the data presented in this table is from testing done January 1 – December 31, 2023. The state requires us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary significantly from year to year. Some of the data, though representative of the water quality, is more than one year old.
On April 9, voters in Garretson's Ward 2 will have the option to vote for one of two candidates for city council; we have an update on SB201 known as the "Landowner Protection Bill"; we learn about Emergency Management at the county level; and wrestling had a year-end benefit last week. Plus, a look at juvenile services and trade in South Dakota.
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On April 9, voters in Garretson's Ward 2 will have the option to vote for one of two candidates for city council; we have an update on SB201 known as the "Landowner Protection Bill"; we learn about Emergency Management at the county level; and wrestling had a year-end benefit last week. Plus, a look at juvenile services and trade in South Dakota.
