South Dakota Municipalities - April 2023

AM ERICAN RE SCUE THE PLAN

CITIES CELEBRATE TWO YEARS OF ARPA

Cities build back stronger, using funds to invest in after-school programs, broadband enhancements, public spaces, water infrastructure, and more. ►p. 6

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SOUTH DAKOTA

Features

PRESIDENT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DISTRICT CHAIRS

Amy Leon City Manager, Yankton

1st VICE PRESIDENT Harry Weller Mayor, Kadoka

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

Carolynn Anderson Finance Offi  cer, Wall

TRUSTEES

Fay Bueno Finance Offi  cer, Sturgis

Alex Jensen Councilmember, Sioux Falls

Lance Lehmann Councilmember, Rapid City

Dawn Murphy

Finance Offi  cer, Tea

Leland Treichel

Mayor, Roscoe

PAST PRESIDENT

Steve Allender

Mayor, Rapid City

Dist. 1 | Mike Grosek Mayor, Webster

Dist. 2 | Paullyn Carey Finance Director, Huron Dist. 3 | Derick Wenck Mayor, Harrisburg

Dist. 4 | Chandra Phillips Finance Offi  cer, Winner Dist. 5 | Renae Phinney Board President, Ree Heights Dist. 6 | Rick Boschee Mayor, Bowdle

Dist. 7 | Gary Weismantel Mayor, Herreid

Dist. 8 | Brittany Smith City Administrator, Philip Dist. 9 | Laurie Woodward Finance Offi  cer, Custer Dist. 10 | Michelle DeNeui Finance Offi  cer, Spearfi sh

District Chairs for 2023-2024 are elected at the district meetings held in late March/early April and were unavailable at press time. They will be listed in the May issue.

LEAGUE STAFF

David Reiss  Executive Director

Sara Rankin  Director of Research and Training

Emilie Miller Director of Marketing and Communications

Lisa Nold  Director of Risk Sharing Services

Lori Butler  Director of Finance

Carla McGregor  Accounting Assistant

Chris Hill  Director of Municipal Electric Services Vacant  Offi  ce Manager

SD Public Assurance Alliance

David Pfeifl e  Executive Director

Lynn Bren  Deputy Director

Becky Brunsing Member Services Representative

Jerry Krambeck Member Services Representative

Kristina Peterson  Underwriter

Paytra Nichols  Underwriter

sdmunicipalleague.org | 1.800.658.3633 | Fax: 605.224.8655

Cover photos: Top left, clockwise: iStock.com/Kirkikis;  iStock.com/BackyardProduction; iStock.com/monkey businessimages; iStock.com/Maksim Safaniuk

SOUTH DAKOTA MUNICIPALITIES (ISSN 0300-6182, USPS 503-120) is the offi  cial publication of the South  Dakota Municipal League, published monthly at 208 Island  Drive, Ft. Pierre, South Dakota 57532, phone 605-2248654. This institution is an equal opportunity provider, and  employer. Periodical postage paid at Pierre, South Dakota,  and additional mailing offi  ces. Non-member subscriptions  are available for $30 annually. The opinions expressed  herein are not necessarily those of the South Dakota  Municipal League. Postmaster: Send address changes to  SOUTH DAKOTA MUNICIPALITIES, 208 Island Drive, Ft.  Pierre, South Dakota 57532. Please recycle this magazine.

DIRECTOR’S NOTES

DAVID REISS | SDML EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As this April edition of the magazine is being delivered, the Municipal League staff will just be wrapping up the 10 SDML District Meetings. With winter and legislative session behind us, the district meetings have been my first opportunity to engage with many of our community leaders locally as the new executive director of the League. That time spent with local municipal representatives has been invaluable.

As a lifelong South Dakotan, I have always appreciated the incredible sense of community pride that each South Dakota city displays, and it is a privilege for me to be able to travel our great state and hear from you about local priorities and why each South Dakota municipality is so special. And thank you to our host communities of Sisseton, Huron, Alcester, Geddes, Onida, Hecla, Akaska, Murdo, Hot Springs, and Faith for your warm hospitality and willingness to dedicate time and energy to planning these important Municipal League events.

District meeting conversations involve a retrospective look back at the prior South Dakota Legislative session and updating attendees about laws passed, bills that did not come to be, and how new laws impact municipal orders of business. But what is so exciting about district meetings is that so much of the discussion revolves around the future for cities in South Dakota, discussing needs and goals for communities and organizational development for the League. The League staff

and our affiliate pooling organizations are looking forward to exploring new opportunities to serve our local government members and their stakeholders. Those conversations really help us keep an eye on the future of the organization and for our members.

A critical part to the South Dakota Municipal League’s success is developing and representing policy goals that reflect the environment of municipal government operations in an everchanging world of rising costs and technological advancement. As the spring season advances, the Municipal League will be forming our annual policy committees to review current policy statements and to develop new policy goals based on new data, trends, and local concerns. I ask that you take time to review our policy statements and get involved in this critical organizational process so that the Municipal League advances policy goals for cities across South Dakota with future community needs always in the forefront of consideration.

April also brings a new round of municipal elections, so when spring turns towards summer, we will have new municipal leaders taking office. I encourage current SDML members to welcome new municipal leaders to our organization and share the Municipal League magazine with them so that valuable information about municipal processes is available to new leaders right away. It is exciting to see new ideas and new perspectives involved in local government and I look forward to getting new municipal leaders involved at the South Dakota Municipal League!

Please remember, we are always available as a resource for your communities. Contact us if you have municipal issues or questions at 1-800-6583633 or via email at david@sdmunicipalleague. org. ■

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

South Dakota currently has over a dozen hotel occupancy tax Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). In our state these types of BIDs are established by local ordinance and require hoteliers who are members of the BID to charge a tax per room per night. Those dollars can then be utilized for a number of things, including - but not limited to - physical improvements within the district itself and to fund projects and programs that support tourism and economic development.

In Yankton for example, our BID Board has helped to fund a number of projects that put more “heads in beds,” such as the Mount Marty University Field House, expansion of the National Field Archery indoor facility, and development of the Yankton Youth Soccer Association complex. They have also elected to support events such as a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics track meet and programming such as tourism grants for conferences and tournaments to come to the community. In Yankton, our BID has chosen to form and focus on the shoulder and winter season since that is a time when we see occupancy in our hotels dip.

The BID can borrow funds or commit future revenues for large ventures and projects as long as the Bid stays in place until all commitments are completed. Just as a BID can form, a BID can also dissolve itself and essentially exist on paper only until all debt is retired. Whether or not it forms and what it spends the dollars on (within the confines of state law) is all decided among the members of the board and approved by the local City Council or City Commission. (Can I get an Amen to local control?)

This year House Bill 1109 passed out of the legislature and was vetoed by Governor Noem. This was the bill that would have increased the maximum occupation tax on hotel rooms in BIDs. This bill would have raised the maximum

occupation tax from two dollars per room per night to four dollars per room per night or 4% of the rented room charge. The SDML supported this bill and lobbied aggressively for it.

As with many bills this session, there are a lot of opinions out there about the merits of HB 1109. Regardless of my opinion on the legislation, I want to recognize something about this type of bill. It is getting difficult to fund things in our communities. We have so many needs. Not to mention the wants. We are limited, however, in our state to a very few tools to fund anything outside of normal operations. A BID is one of them.

To me, this bill presented an attempt to get a little more creative with the tools we currently have without having to take it from somewhere else. A wise finance officer once told me: no matter how you carve up the slices, the pie is still the same size. (Thanks, Al.) This could have been a way to increase the preverbal pie for those communities who enjoy the benefits of a BID. Unless we are going to find ourselves in a position where all of the things we do and are asked to do as communities cost less, we have to find ways to fund the basics and the visions we have in our cities.

Maybe this bill will come back and maybe it won’t. Regardless, I challenge all of us in the years ahead to think creatively with our legislators. I think there are ways we can come to a consensus on modifying the tools we currently have in our toolbox to get us in an even stronger position when it comes to economic development. Let’s have these conversations. Hey, I’d even settle for a little ice cream or a slice of cheese on the pie. ■

AMY LEON | SDML PRESIDENT

Celebrating Two Years of the American Rescue Plan Act

March 11 marked the two-year anniversary of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the game-changing legislation for local communities in their recovery from the COVID19 pandemic and beyond.

Thanks to ARPA, $65.1 billion was put directly in the hands of local leaders to spend in ways they knew were best for their communities. City leaders have used their funds to both address the immediate crisis of the pandemic and truly transform their cities – setting up shelters to address homelessness, putting stakes in the ground on broadband expansion projects, funding afterschool programming for the communities’ kids, and much more.

In March of 2021, cities of all sizes across the country were in the midst of an unprecedented crisis. As we approached one full year of living with the COVID-19 pandemic, municipalities needed help keeping budgets afloat, maintaining critical services and helping residents impacted by the pandemic.

ways the local relief funds included in ARPA helped communities rebuild and recover.

As President of the National League of Cities, I have heard from many of my fellow local leaders about the incredible impacts these investments have had on residents’ lives as communities recover from the pandemic. Amid those stories, there is a resounding consensus – this historic legislation has been a lifeline for cities, towns and villages who saw their revenues and budgets decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic and all the challenges that came with it.

In part, the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program was so successful because it pointed funds directly to local governments. On the ground and closest to the people in their cities, local leaders know their residents’ unique needs and priorities better than anyone. Thanks to the flexibility of ARPA funding, communities were able to address these needs quickly and efficiently, guided strongly by community input.

Together with NLC, local leaders raised their voices loudly and clearly, asking for a federal partner as they worked hard to combat this crisis on the ground. And in March 2021, Congress and the Biden administration responded – and the American Rescue Plan Act became a reality.

As we recognize the two-year anniversary of the passage of this unprecedented legislation, we have an opportunity to look back at the transformative

Federal relief to local governments has proven to be the right policy at the right time and has made an enormous difference for municipalities and our entire nation.

USING ARPA FUNDS IN TACOMA, WA

This historic legislation provided $65.1 billion in direct aid to every city, town, or village across the country – including my city of Tacoma, WA. As

Reprinted from CitiesSpeak.org, the official blog of the National League of Cities.

WadeMachin

VICTORIA WOODARDS | PRESIDENT, NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES

mayor of Tacoma, I knew that prioritizing  these funds to boost our affordable  housing and homelessness programs  was one of many critically important  investments we  could make for our  community with  these funds. Direct  access to ARPA  dollars allowed  us to make huge  investments in  our residents  that we wouldn’t  have been able to  support otherwise.

To help address  our local  homelessness  crisis, we were  able to partner with  neighboring jurisdictions and use our  funds to purchase an old hotel property,  which we rehabilitated into a temporary

shelter over the course of the pandemic  and will soon transition to permanent  supportive housing. This building –  funded directly by our ARPA resources  – will provide at least  120 individuals with  immediate supportive  housing that will help  transition them from  homelessness.

In Tacoma – one of  the fastest-growing  regions of the country  – we already had our  Affordable Housing  Action Plan in place to  help us preserve our  housing stock, build  more missing middle  housing, and support  residents staying in  their homes. This inflow of support  provided by ARPA allowed us to fund  and implement these already-proven

strategies in our community and  jumpstart our impact more quickly, for  the residents who needed it most.

ARPA INVESTMENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Tacoma is far from the only community  that benefi tted from ARPA relief funds.  Across the country, from small cities in  the Northwest to rural communities in  the Southeast, these investments have  helped meet residents’ needs and built  more thriving communities along the  way. For example:

• Housing: Virginia Beach, VA  allocated $3.7 million in SLFRF  to establish 65 emergency  housing vouchers, in addition to  the 35 vouchers provided by the  Department of Housing and Urban  Development (HUD).

• Workforce: San Jose, CA allocated  nearly $3.8 million in SLFRF  to provide adults living in highpoverty and high-unemployment

Local leaders are building their cities back stronger with these funds, changing the lives of their residents along the way.

- Clarence E. Anthony, National League of Cities CEO and Executive Director

“We know your goals are bigger than just the project at hand. We’re invested in your overall best interest.”

Dustin Dale, PE, AE2S Engineer

TWO YEARS OF ARPA (CONT)

neighborhoods with access to  comprehensive job training for work  in public parks.

• Youth and Family Support:  Colorado Springs, CO allocated  $652,000 to support afterschool and summertime out-ofschool programs for underserved  populations.

• Water Infrastructure: Lake Oswego,  OR allocated $1.4 million of their  ARPA funds to improve street  drainage on Lakeview Boulevard.  The city allocated another $2 million  to support power generation at the  city’s water system. By funding the  Lakeview project through SLFRF,  the city will cushion its stormwater  fund, which is the most underresourced city fund according to  city staff.

These are just a handful of the ways  communities have allocated their  dollars to meet the unique needs of  their cities. You can learn more about  how cities and counties are using these  funds in our Local Government ARPA  Investment Tracker found at www.nlc. org/resource.

WHAT’S NEXT?

If your community has not yet obligated  all of your SLFRF funds, there is no time  to waste. An expense for every SLFRF  dollar must be obligated by Dec. 31,  2024.

Remember, these dollars are meant to  be transformative, and this one-time  transfer of resources from the federal  government to local governments  cannot go unused. As local leaders,  this is our opportunity to show Congress  how responsibly and effectively we

COMMUNITY Invested in Your

can use these resources to transform  America’s communities. This is your  last chance to maximize these funds  for your community, so if you have  not already, make a plan to use these  resources today.

Not sure where to start? Visit the  Department of the Treasury’s SelfService Resources at www.treasury.gov  as a fi rst stop. Municipalities needing  further assistance from Treasury for  SLFRF program-related questions can  email SLFRF@treasury.gov or call  (844) 529-9527. ■

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Upcoming SLFRF Reporting Deadline: NLC's Five Tips for Small Governments

Reprinted from CitiesSpeak.org, the offi  cial blog of the National League of Cities.

Last month we reached the second  anniversary of the passage of the  American Rescue Plan Act, which  funded the State and Local Fiscal Relief  Fund and provided a historic direct  federal Investment to every one of the  nation’s local governments.

In addition to considering how to use  any unallocated funds and celebrating  the investments of these dollars, local  governments should start preparations  to comply with the reporting  requirements tied to these funds.

At the end of April, all local governments  will have to fi le a Project & Expenditure  report to comply with the receipt of their  ARPA funds. Of these government  units, more than 26,000 reports  are expected to be made by NonEntitlement Units of Local Government  (NEUs), which are what the U.S.  Department of the Treasury considers  smaller governments.

This deadline may seem daunting  for smaller government operations or  new staff not familiar with the reporting  process. Here are the top fi ve tips from  NLC to help you navigate the process.

CHECK WHETHER YOUR CITY OR TOWN TOOK THE STANDARD ALLOWANCE IN APRIL 2022

The standard allowance option allows  a city to take up to $10 million, not to  exceed the total size of the grant, in  lost revenue and use those funds for  government services. It provides the  most streamlined reporting and is the  most fl exible expenditure category.

In 2022, the guidance said that cities  had to make a one-time, irrevocable  decision to take the standard

allowance. However, subsequent  guidance modifi ed this by saying a city  could choose the standard allowance  on their next fi ling—which for most cities  is April 2023.

As this is the most fl exible expenditure  category, it is recommended that  your city consider electing to take the  standard allowance in 2023 if you did  not in 2022.

LOG IN EARLY

Thousands of cities waited  until the last minute to fi le their  Project & Expenditure reports before  the last April reporting deadline,  which caused a significant delay in  troubleshooting any filing questions  and access to the portal. The Treasury  help centers were fl ooded with calls and  emails from city offi  cials and staff trying  to get into the portal. For any number  of reasons, many cities had trouble  accessing the portal.

One of the challenges cities might face  this year is if the people designated in the  system as having access to Treasury’s  portal are no longer be employed with  your city. Ensure you have a designated  staff to complete the report and they  have proper access to the system, well  in advance of the deadline.

USE TREASURY’S RESOURCES

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has resources that can assist  local governments learning how to  fi le their Project & Expenditure report.  From compliance manuals to YouTube  videos, Treasury has tried to make it as  easy as possible for cities to comply.

The fi rst resource smaller governments  can go to learn more about fi ling their

report is one of the U.S. Treasury’s  YouTube videos which has been  specifi cally tailored for NEUs (search  for WEBINAR: State & Local Fiscal  Recovery Fund: Compliance &  Reporting Guidance).

The video is 42 minutes long, but if you  start early, this will be 42 minutes well  spent to save you time later.

USE LOGIN.GOV

If you are new to the filing  process or only did it last year, you might forget where to start.

Login.gov is the website where cities  can go to access Treasury’s reporting  portal. They offer a helpful step-by-step  guide to help elected offi  cials and city  staff create credentials for Login.gov.

USE THE HELP DESKS IF YOU GET STUCK

In October, Treasury ran out of  funding to staff the help desks for the  SLFRF program, leaving cities to fi gure  it out on their own. NLC fought hard to  get money for the help desks added to  the end of the year spending package,  which successfully passed Congress  and was signed by President Biden.

Now, the help desks are once again  operational and ready to help city  staff and elected offi  cials fi le their April  reports. If you need to reach a person at  the Treasury help desk, you can email  SLFRF@treasury.gov or call (844) 5299527. ■

Find

MICHAEL GLEESON | NLC STAFF

EPA Announces $11.39 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Upgrades in South Dakota

PIERRE, S.D. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $11.39 million to the state of South Dakota from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure through this year’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF).

The funding will support South Dakota communities in upgrading essential water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies. Nearly half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans helping underserved communities across America invest in water infrastructure, while creating good-paying jobs. The announcement builds on previous funding provided for South Dakota communities for water and wastewater treatment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $8.7 million for the CWSRF and $459,000 to address emerging contaminants.

“Clean rivers, lakes, and streams are vital to South Dakota’s people and economy,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will complete much-needed water and wastewater projects and create jobs in communities across the state.”

The $2.4 billion recently announced is the second wave of funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to invest in America. In May 2022, EPA announced the initial allotment of $1.9 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to states, Tribes, and territories through the CWSRF. That money is supporting hundreds of critical water infrastructure projects around the country.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes over $50 billion available for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY2022 and FY2026. EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within

its implementation. This investment in water infrastructure is creating jobs while addressing key challenges, including climate change and emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment.

In addition to the announcement, the 2023 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund allocations and program updates are forthcoming, pending the release of the seventh Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment. EPA anticipates releasing the information in the coming weeks.

The CWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. Visit www.epa. gov/cwsrf for more information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and a breakdown of EPA CWSRF funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. ■

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Upcoming SDML EVENTS

April 3-5 4 5 6

April 3-5 Watertown, SD

BUILDING OFFICIALS ICC  TRAINING, Rapid City

DISTRICT 1 MEETING Sisseton (rescheduled from March 14)

DISTRICT 3 MEETING Alcester (rescheduled from March 16)

BUILDING OFFICIALS ICC  TRAINING, Sioux Falls

POLICE CHIEFS'/SHERIFFS'  SPRING CONFERENCE,  Deadwood

STREET MAINTENANCE  SPRING MEETING, Yankton

LAW ENFORCEMENT  LIABILITY RISK  MANAGEMENT  CONFERENCE, Deadwood

CODE ENFORCEMENT  INFORMATION AND  TRAINING CONFERENCE,  Fort Pierre

Cities Ask Congress to Act on Rail Safety

Railroads are part of America’s communities. Railroad tracks run through towns and villages of every size, moving goods from farms to factories to ports and bringing passengers across the country. However, transportation comes with risks, and the question every local official and member of Congress is asking after the disaster derailment in East Palestine, OH, is how we can make it safer.

National Response Center, state officials, and local officials within 24 hours of a derailment with hazardous materials onboard. NLC is glad to see these discussions and has encouraged Congress to act on several possible solutions that make rail safer. In early March, we sent a letter to Congress with our recommendations.

Cities agree with the Senators that no family in America should be forced to flee their home because hazardous materials have spilled or caught fire in their community. Americans expect Congress to assess the safety of railroads carrying hazardous materials as trains travel through their communities based on what we know today, but also as more information becomes available from the NTSB’s factual findings, they and USDOT can follow up on that too.

iStock.com/DSCimage

There are several proven ways to make rail movement in the U.S. safer by using technology, enforcing standards and best practices, and assessing risks. The National League of Cities continues to support action by Congress to give the U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to take actions to improve rail safety in the U.S. While the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes important rail safety programs, like the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program, there is room for targeted policies that have been in discussion in the halls of Congress for some time.

CONGRESS INTRODUCING LEGISLATION AND HEARINGS

A group of bipartisan Senators came together last month to respond with the Railway Safety Act of 2023. This legislation includes several proposals to prevent derailments like we saw in East Palestine and make our rail network safer for communities and railroad workers. Additionally, members in the House introduced a safety bill to expand the list of hazardous substances and require rail carriers to report to the

The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hosted a full committee hearing March 9 on addressing the environmental and public health threats from the train derailment and chemical release in East Palestine, Ohio. We expect additional Congressional hearings on train safety this year. Visit www.nlc.org for updates.

HOW CITIES CAN TAKE ACTION ON RAIL SAFETY

The safe and efficient movement of people and goods must be the prime objective of transportation policy at all levels of government, but local governments find most rail safety improvements questions boomerang back to Congress as the only recourse. However, with 140,000 miles of track in the U.S. crossing directly through many of the nation’s 19,000 cities, towns and villages, local officials continue to look for actions they can take now to improve rail safety in their communities.

First, local officials can ensure all eligible local first responders’ have applied to use the “AskRail” phone app at askrail.us to provide better information as they arrive on the scene of a rail incident.

The AskRail app, launched in 2014, is a collaborative effort among the emergency response community and all North American Class I railroads. The app provides more than 25,000 first responders from all 50 states and eight Canadian provinces

Reprinted from CitiesSpeak.org, the official blog of the National League of Cities.

KOHLER | NLC STAFF

with immediate access to accurate, timely data about what type of hazardous materials a railcar is carrying so they can make an informed decision about how to respond to a rail emergency.

Next, assess your rail risks as a community. How many derailments and blocked crossings have happened in or near your community? Consider asking your city team and even residents to use the Federal Railroad Administration’s Blocked Rail Crossing tool, found at www.fra.dot.gov/blockedcrossings, to report issues with trains in your community. If the crossings and infrastructure are an issue, consider what federal rail grants may be helpful to your community or if your state or metropolitan planning organization (MPO) might be a good partner to help with upgrades especially along an entire corridor. ■

SD Housing Infrastructure Financing Program drafts Available for Review

The South Dakota Housing Development Authority has released its draft Housing Infrastructure Financing Program (HIFP) allocation plan and draft HIFP administrative rules for public review and comment.

The Housing Infrastructure Financing Program is a result of a historic investment in housing infrastructure development by the 2023 State Legislature dedicating $200 million in grant and revolving loan funds for infrastructure investment across South Dakota.

The South Dakota Municipal League encourages members to review and comment on the draft allocation plan and administrative rule proposals, which can be found online at www.sdhousing.org/develop-housing/ infrastructure-financing.

League staff is available via email at info@sdmunicipalleague.org or at 1.800.658.3633 for member questions related to this important new State program. ■

Federal Funds Available to Advance Reliable Clean Energy in Rural and Remote Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. The BidenHarris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), recently announced $300 million for projects that increase energy affordability and promote climate resilience and $15 million for a prize competition to help rural communities build the capacity needed for clean energy development and deployment.

These two new funding opportunities are a critical component of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Lawfunded Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) program, which aims to improve the resilience, reliability, and affordability of energy systems in communities across the country with 10,000 or fewer people.

The opportunities will help deliver local community-driven energy projects in rural and remote communities and reflect the President’s unwavering commitment to ensuring no community is left behind in the nation’s historic transition to a clean energy future.

“Access to a reliable and affordable energy supply is critical to building safer, climate resilient communities and key to addressing the unique energy challenges faced by remote regions,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to new investments from President Biden’s clean energy and climate agenda, DOE is doubling down on its efforts to ensure every American—especially those in rural and remote areas—can unlock the

public health and cost-saving benefits that come with the transition to a clean energy future.”

Nearly one in six Americans live in a rural or remote community. Due to low population density and isolation from larger electric systems, these communities face higher energy costs and poor electrical reliability. The ERA program, which is managed by DOE’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, will leverage DOE’s expertise and experience in resilient energy solutions to modernize electric generation facilities, address disproportionately high electricity costs, and support new economic opportunities in these communities.

Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas

A $300 million funding opportunity will award projects that increase energy affordability and promote climate resilience with an anticipated federal cost share ranging from $5 to $100 million per project. The funding is flexible to meet various project types with $5 to $10 million for a single site demonstration project and up to $100 million for a single or multi-site demonstration project that benefits multiple communities. DOE seeks to provide equal opportunity to qualified applicants and enable potential replication in rural and remote communities across the nation. The funding is organized into nine geographical regions to reflect regional diversity in energy consumption and access, varying weather patterns, and climate impacts. Applicants will be required to submit Community Benefits Plans to ensure benefits spread equitably across affected communities.

The Energizing Rural Communities Prize

DOE also is launching the Energizing Rural Communities Prize to support capacity building to remove two of the biggest barriers to improving energy systems in rural or remote areas: developing necessary partnerships and securing financing. Through $15 million in funding, this prize competition will help build partnerships by connecting communities to government funding and a network of partners that can help implement clean energy projects. The prize will help selectees develop plans to access capital and/or develop community ownership models.

At the Alaska Federation of Natives’ Alaska Day Convention in March, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy David M. Turk highlighted how these important new investments will help improve energy capacity and resilience in rural communities while also lowering energy costs and reducing harmful environmental pollution.

Read the full funding opportunity announcement for the ERA program at https://oced-exchange.energy.gov. Concept papers are due by April 14, and full applications are due by June 28.

Read more about the Energizing Rural Communities Prize at www.herox.com/rural-energy. Full applications are due by May 24. Read more about the ERA program at www.energy. gov/oced. ■

MURDO

KRYSTI BARNES | MURDO FINANCE OFFICER

ASHLEY GEIGLE | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Murdo is at the crossroads of I-90 and Highway 83. The city was incorporated in 1906 and is known as the “Magic City.” The name came about because when lot sales were held, buildings were moved in immediately and Murdo appeared overnight like magic.

Originally, Murdo was an agricultural community. Agriculture thrives today alongside strong tourism. Some attractions include the world-famous Pioneer Auto Museum established in 1954, Dolloff Antiques, and 1880 Town.

One mile from city limits is the North Dam area where you can fish, boat, golf on the 9-hole Murdo Golf Course, or sharpen your skills at the shooting range. Travelers and locals both enjoy the city park for picnicking, walking on the park dam trail, and enjoying the playground equipment. Improvements are always underway at the park with help from Jones County Turner Youth Foundation. Summer finds an active swimming pool and the neighboring basketball/tennis court. There are also many activities on Sports Street at the baseball field, rodeo arena, and Jones County Sportsman’s Club.

June and July are active in Murdo with a 5k Run, Wagon Train, Murdo Ranch Rodeo and Gumbo Ridge Bronc Ride, kids rodeo playdays, and the Meghan Newsam Community Celebration, which hosts golf fun, soap box derby, kid’s activities, and a concert series.

Murdo has multiple motels and restaurants, grocery store, auto supply store, lumberyard, coffee shop, fuel stations,

and much more. Murdo’s Main Street is the proud home of the offices of West Central Electric Coop, West River Lyman/Jones Rural Water, and a branch of Goldenwest Telecommunications.

The Jones County school district is the home of the Coyotes and rated in the top 20% of schools in South Dakota. Murdo hosts the longest-running high school basketball tournament, the Jones County Invitational Tournament, spanning 55 years, which is held at the Harold Thune Auditorium, on the Jerald Applebee court. It’s not unusual to catch Senator John Thune visiting his hometown during the tournament on the court he grew up playing on.

The Volunteer Emergency Services are top notch and very active. They are not only excellent but host great community functions.

Our community has progressive ideas to grow and sustain. In 2022, the Murdo Area Chamber of Commerce, Jones County Community Foundation, Murdo Development Corporation, and City Council worked together to create an Economic Development Director position and hired Ashley Geigle to help expand those ideas!

Murdo welcomes visitors and those looking for a small-town pace of life with room to grow. Make sure to keep the “MAGIC CITY” on your radar! ■

MURDO RANCH RODEO AND GUMBO RIDGE BRONC RIDE. Photo by Barbara Hockenbary Photography.

MURDO'S LONG-STANDING PIONEER AUTO MUSEUM features over 275 classic cars, tractors, and motorcycles, plus a gift shop and diner. Photo by Pioneer Auto Museum.

Festivals and activities fill the summer months.

Photo by Barbara Hockenbary Photography.

SD Dept. of TRANSPORTATION Opens Three ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANTs for 2023

The South Dakota Department of  Transportation recently opened several  economic development grant programs  for the year.

The grants serve to foster economic  development and enhance community  access in South Dakota.

The program has three categorical  purposes:

INDUSTRIAL PARK GRANTS

Open to any local unit of government for  the development of new or expanded  access for new industry located within  industrial parks. Applications are due  April 15, July 15, or October 15.

AGRI-BUSINESS GRANTS

Open to any local unit of government for  the development of new or expanded  agri-business industries. Applications  are due April 15, July 15, or October 15.

COMMUNITY ACCESS GRANTS

Open to towns less than 5,000 in  population for the construction or  reconstruction of major streets in each  town such as Main Street, the road to  the elevator, schools, hospitals, etc.  Applications are due July 15.

These programs provide for 80% of the  construction costs of the project, not  including engineering or utility work.

Grant size is limited to $600,000 for  Community Access and Agri-Business  Grants and $500,000 for Industrial Park  Grants.

All grants will be based on the criteria  developed by the Department of  Transportation. The expenditure  authority for the program will be  determined by the Transportation  Commission. All grants must be  approved by the Transportation  Commission and may be used to  construct or reconstruct roads and  streets in the community.

For more information and to apply, visit  dot.sd.gov. ■

Hometown Power

CHRIS HILL | SDML DIRECTOR OF MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SERVICES

Session is over! This year it did feel like legislative session  went by more quickly than in previous years. Which is good,  but the travel for me is not over yet.

The month of March kept me busy by traveling to district  meetings and prepping for our annual SDMEA Conference  in Watertown. Next month I will be doing a recap on those  events, but for April, I wanted to discuss the events that the  SDMEA hosted in Pierre for our legislators and upcoming  SDMEA events.

On March 1, the SDMEA hosted a joint Public Power event  with Heartland Energy and Missouri River Energy Services.  Having a dinner that late in the session is always welcomed,  however, this is the second year in a row that we managed  to schedule our dinner on the same night as the Senate  Republican Dinner. Despite having poor timing, this year our  event hosted 82 attendees, including 70 legislators. We also  had representatives from the SDMEA Board of Directors,  Heartland Energy, and Missouri River Energy services.

It was a great event with a lot of potential and we hope for  more involvement each year. Thank you to all our legislators  that attended.

The next day, March 2, the SDMEA hosted a lunch at the  Capitol with grab-and-go lunches in the Speaker’s and  President’s lobbies. This was a great opportunity for us to visit  with the legislators on back-to-back days and for them to get  to learn more about our association from our board members.  I was a little hesitant to have both events on consecutive  days, but I do think that it turned out to be a positive for us  this year. We will have to see if we continue to try something  like this going forward.

Speaking of going forward, we have a lot of great events  coming up. First up will be the annual SDMEA Golf  Tournament. The golf tournament will be held in Madison at  the Madison Country Club on June 13 at 9 a.m. Please save  the date and get it on your calendar to attend. We have also  set the date for our Sporting Clay Event: Sept. 8 beginning  at 9 a.m. The proceeds from this event go to our scholarship  at Mitchell Technical College.

Please be looking in your emails for ways to register for  our events. They are great opportunities for our SDMEA  member municipalities to network and visit with all of our  great associate members as well! ■

1. Rep. Mike Weisgram, Dist. 24, and SDMEA Director of  Electrical Services Chris Hill at the SDMEA Legislative Lunch.

2. SDMEA Board Member Jerry Jongeling, Dist. 8 Sen. Casey  Crabtree, Dis. 6 Sen. Herman Otten, and Kelly Dybdahl from  Heartland Energy at the Public Power Dinner.

3. Chris Hill and Sen. Randy Diebert, Dist. 31, at the Public  Power Dinner.

4.  SDMEA Board President Russell Halgerson speaks at the  Public Power Dinner.

5. Chris Hill and Dist. 21 Rep. Marty Overweg at the SDMEA  Legislative Lunch.

Dave Pfeifle Departs SDPAA Team, Takes Role with Sioux Falls

Dave Pfeifl e has announced his resignation from the South  Dakota Public Assurance Alliance (SDPPAA), where he  served as Executive Director for the past fi ve and a half  years.

“SDPAA’s internal team is a fantastic group of individuals,  both professionally and personally,” said Pfeifl e. “The SDPAA  team has achieved the rare combination of high performance  with high integrity in serving the local governments of South  Dakota. They will continue to serve at an optimum level.”

Pfeifl e accepted a position as the city attorney for the City  of Sioux Falls, a role he has held in the past.

Pfeifl e’s last day is April 2. He refl ects on his departure  in this month’s  SDPAA News column on page 30 of this  publication. SDPAA Deputy Director Lynn Bren will serve  as acting executive director pending further Board action. ■

Street Maintenance Association Offers Scholarships to National Conference

The South Dakota Municipal Street Maintenance Association (SDMSMA) is now taking scholarship applications from members who wish to attend the annual American Public Works Association's Public Works Expo (PWX).

“PWX provides a first-class multi-modal learning experience for professionals across the entire spectrum of public works,” said SDMSMA President Dale Tech. “The Municipal Street Maintenance Association is proud to be able to assist towns who might not have the resources to attend so they can bring their new knowledge back and apply it in our South Dakota communities.”

This year’s PWX conference will be held Aug. 27-30 in San Diego, Calf.

Expo organizers says participants should come prepared to see, hear, touch, and discuss in a variety of traditional and interactive sessions, seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Attendees can also spend time on North America's largest exhibit floor for public works equipment and services where they can kick tires, talk about technology, or get the scoop on new products. PWX draws more than 5,000 public works professionals from North America and beyond each year.

SDMSMA will award up to three scholarships. The association will reimburse expenses related to

conference registration, lodging, transportation, and meals not included in a conference package. The scholarship winner must keep all receipts and submit them for reimbursement.

Applicants must be a current member of the South Dakota Municipal Street Maintenance Association and willing to share their experience with SDMSMA membership at the annual spring meeting.

Apply online at www.sdmunicipalleague. org/streetmaintenance. Applications are due June 1.

Learn more about the PWX at https:// pwx.apwa.net. ■

National Poll: Local Parks and Recreation Programs are leading providers of Inclusive Activities

Nearly four in five U.S. adults agree it is important that youth sports providers offer all children and young adults opportunities to learn about and play sports, regardless of their skill or ability to pay, according to the latest National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Park Pulse poll.

Park and recreation professionals and the local park and recreation agencies they support are leading providers of sports opportunities for all. According to NRPA’s Youth Sports at Park and Recreation Agencies report, onethird of park and recreation agencies offer adaptive or inclusive sports activities so people of all abilities may participate. Additionally, two in three agencies offer reduced or discounted fees for lower-income residents.

KEY FINDINGS

• 78% of U.S. adults believe it is important that youth sports providers offer all children and young adults opportunities to learn about and play sports, regardless of their skill or ability to pay.

• Nearly three in five U.S. adults believe it is very or extremely important that youth sports providers offer all children and young adults opportunities to learn about and play sports, regardless of their skill or ability to pay.

• Parents (64%) are much more likely to think it is very or extremely important for kids to be offered these opportunities, regardless of their skill or ability to pay than those without children in the household (56%).

“Equity is at the heart of access in youth sports,” said Kevin Roth, NRPA vice president of research, evaluation and technology. “Park and recreation professionals and their agencies are major providers of both organized and unorganized sports program facilities across the nation, helping to address disparities in who has access to sports.”

Interactive charts with the survey results can be found on the association's website, www.nrpa.org. The charts let you view responses sorted by several characteristic types, including education, gender, income, and region.

The NRPA conducts a poll with each month of 1,000 U.S. residents focused on park and recreation issues to help tell the park and recreation story. To learn more about NRPA’s Park Pulse and see results from previous polls, visit www.nrpa.org. ■

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for Interstate 29 Corridor Study

YANKTON, S.D. - The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the City of North Sioux City, community of Dakota Dunes, Union County, and the Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO), is seeking community input on a multi-phased Interstate 29 Corridor Study, beginning with a visioning survey.

The study will examine the I-29 Corridor through the northwest portion of the Sioux City metro and aims to establish a long-term transportation plan that both modernizes the I-29 corridor while maintaining its versatility.

“We need public input to help craft the corridor vision and to shape the study process to efficiently provide a safe and effective transportation system,” said Steve Gramm, Planning Squad Leader, SDDOT.

The goal of the visioning survey is to gather input to help shape a cohesive plan and the vision for the I-29 Corridor. Please visit https://i29corridorsd.com/ to take the survey by Monday, May 1, 2023.

Public and stakeholder engagement will be a key part of each study phase. Details about public meetings, to be held in-person and virtually, will be shared later this spring on the forthcoming study website. The public will have an opportunity to submit written comments both at the meetings and online.

The study will be conducted in four phases. Public and stakeholder engagement will be a key part of each phase. The primary goal for the study is to determine a corridor vision that addresses aging infrastructure, as well as traffic and safety impacts as the I-29 Corridor continues to experience growth. The target is to complete the study in spring 2024, with the intent to program construction projects from 2030 to 2040 and beyond. ■

Unique Trail Bridges Create Tourism Draw

SNYDER & ASSOCIATES

The rapid and continual expansion of multi-use trails across  the United States has opened a new world of recreation and  exercise options. Along with the trails, pedestrian bridges  have experienced a comparable increase in the construction  of unique, iconic, and picturesque structures to complete  trail connections. Spanning rivers, lakes, roadways, and  valleys, these bridges are no longer simply utilitarian pieces  of infrastructure that connect point A to point B. Instead, the  bridge often becomes its own destination.

Many of these bridges have been designed by engineers  to be both functional and visually appealing, with features  such as arches, curves, and different colors and textures.  Some bridges are also built with artistic elements such as  sculptures, ornaments, and lighting, adding to the overall  aesthetic appeal. The Trestle-to-Trestle Bridge in Johnston, IA  is a prime example. This bridge has quickly become a major  draw, not only for nearby residents in search of recreational  opportunities but also for tourists who are drawn to the  intricate light displays that illuminate the structure at night.

Railroad bridges along abandoned stretches of track have  also become incredibly popular as the Rail-Trail concept  has taken off. Giving these structures a second life as a trail  bridge can greatly reduce expenses for the owner community  when compared to building a new structure. The High Trestle  Trail Bridge between Woodward and Madrid, IA highlights the  impact of reusing a railroad bridge on a massive scale. This  2,530-foot-long, 130-foot-tall bridge over the Des Moines  River was constructed on nearly two dozen existing concrete  piers from a former railroad bridge. This structure not only  draws recreational trail users but also has become a magnet  for railroad and train buffs who enjoy viewing the repurposed  structure.

Some trail bridges draw visitors because they’re visually  attractive, and they provide access to equally stunning  scenery. The Mark C. Ackelson Trail Bridge in Easter Lake  Park checks both of those boxes. It seemed unlikely at fi rst,  but this pedestrian bridge has become a tourist attraction in  its own right. People visiting the park make it a point to stroll  across the bridge and catch the one-of-a-kind views over the  restored wetlands. The entire span is well-lit and features  several viewing outcrops along the way for people who need  to rest periodically on the journey, take in the breathtaking  landscape, or simply want to sit and watch other pedestrians  go by.

Reprinted from Snyder & Associates Newsletter

IMPROVED ACCESS, ECONOMIC BOOST & INCREASED RECREATION

In providing connections across once-impassable spaces,  bridges and trestles can address environmental and equitable  access concerns in areas where people otherwise would  need motorized transportation. At the same time, they can  be critical in linking together larger networks of trails, which  serve as major tourism draws and economic engines.

The construction of trail bridges creates jobs for the local  community and increases economic activity by boosting  local businesses. And as part of hiking and biking trails, they  can provide access to parks, nature preserves, and other  recreational areas. When strategically positioned, they’re  often used as backdrops or gathering places for community  events and festivals, providing a unique and memorable  experience for participants. ■

RECENT TRAIL BRIDGE PROJECTS

Trestle-to-Trestle Bridge

Beaver Creek, Johnston, IA

In the spring of 2019, the Trestle-to-Trestle Trail  Bridge over Beaver Creek, Johnston, IA, was severely  damaged by an ice dam and collapsed. The former  trail bridge was originally a 316-foot-long timber and  steel railroad bridge that had been repurposed for trail  use. When the ice dam caused its collapse, designers  knew they needed to create a replacement that could  withstand greater threats from fl ooding and debris.  The Snyder & Associates team along with structural  subsidiary, Shuck-Britson, were able to create a  replacement bridge that far surpassed the structural  stability of its damaged predecessor.

The fi nal design for the new bridge is a much more  solid structure that incorporates modern aesthetics

with practical design applications. A customized LED  lighting system is incorporated into the design and is  unique to a structure of this type. It not only illuminates  the bridge deck and approaching trail path but also  the underside of the bridge. The lighting system can  be programmed to change colors in a near-unlimited  pattern, sequence, or timeframe, creating a one-ofkind visual attraction for trail users and vehicle traffi  c  on nearby Interstate 80.

2,526-foot-long span to accommodate the increased  hydraulic pressures created by the Saylorville Dam  and Reservoir project just 15 miles downstream. When  the railroad went bankrupt a few short years later,  the bridge sat largely unused for several decades.  When the idea for the trail bridge was introduced,  the massive concrete bridge piers had barely been  “broken in” and could easily provide the solid footing  needed for the trail bridge. The resulting structure is a  major draw for not only recreational trail users but also  railroad tourists who travel to the site to experience  this grand reuse of a rail structure.

High Trestle Trail Bridge Des Moines River, Madrid, IA

The focal point of the High Trestle Trail is the  impressively long bridge over the Des Moines River  valley between Madrid and Woodward, IA. Constructed  on existing concrete piers from a former railroad  bridge, the Snyder & Associates team coordinated  with public artist David Dahlquist on the design of  the bridge.

While the original steel girder railroad bridge was  built at the location in 1913, it was replaced by the  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1973 with a new

Mark C. Ackelson Trail Bridge

Easter Lake, Des Moines, IA

As part of the Easter Lake, Des Moines, IA, restoration  project, a separate but coordinated component of the  plan was the creation of a trail project to encompass  the lake and connect with other area attractions.  Named in honor of the former Iowa Natural Heritage  Foundation president Mark C. Ackelson, the trail  project was designed by the Snyder & Associates  team and included a signature trail bridge.

The stunning Ackelson Trail Bridge is located at the  west end of the trail and serves as an impressive  focal point with overlooks at each pier. The tranquil  environment and magnificent views draw nearby  residents, as well as regional visitors to experience  this one-of-a-kind trail bridge and surrounding park.

Around the world, bridges have long served as  the hallmarks, gateways, and centerpieces of  communities, providing connectivity that has a  major impact on active transportation, tourism, and  economic development. They can be an important  part of community development and can even help  to revitalize local economies.

Above all, pedestrian trail bridges can be more than  just functional structures, they can be destination  locations that attract tourists, create jobs, and provide  recreational opportunities. ■

Leading a successful and thriving community in our constantly changing world is no small task. Take advantage of our free online resources to help your community address these challenges.

Scan to learn more or visit snyder-associates.com

SD Dept. of Revenue outlines Limits on Property Taxes for Local Governments

SD DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

State law limits the amount of property  taxes that local governments (counties,  cities, townships, fi re districts, etc.) can  collect from their property owners. Local  governments are limited to the amount  of property taxes they collected last  year, plus an increase for infl ation based  upon the consumer price index (but not  more than 3%), and for new construction  within the taxing jurisdiction.

Last Year’s Taxes × (CPI + Growth %) = Increase of Tax Call

The State Economist from the South  Dakota Bureau of Finance and

Management calculates the consumer  price index (CPI) annually using federal  statistics from the US Department of  Labor. It is reported to the Department  of Revenue, who forwards it to the  counties by February of each year. CPI  is available to all taxing entities and is  the same for all taxing entities.

Pay 2024 CPI = 3.0% State statutes allow for counties, fi re  districts, and cities to store any unused  CPI factors from the previous three  years. The Department of Revenue  keeps track of the CPI usage and  provides that information upon request.

Market increases in the value of the  property within the taxing district  automatically decrease the property  tax rates to ensure that the caps are  not exceeded. An example to illustrate  how the property tax limitation works:

• Last year, the total property  valuation within a city was $100  million and the city property tax  budget was $300,000. To collect  that amount, a levy of $3.00/$1,000  of value was calculated by the  county auditor.

• This year, the CPI was set at 3%.  The city saw a valuation increase  of 1% due to new construction in

a new subdivision. Also, the  county assessor increased  values based upon market  indications. The new value of  the city is $110 million.

• Under the property tax  limitation, the city can increase  the $300,000 it received from  property taxes last year by 4%  (3% for CPI + 1% for growth) for  a total of $312,000.

• To prevent the city from going  over the cap, the tax rate  calculated based on the $110  million of value within the  district automatically lowers to  $2.84/$1,000 of value.

Prior to the property tax limitations  being implemented, property taxes  had increased at a rate of about  6% annually. The property tax caps  used today have signifi cantly slowed  this increase. If the historical rate of  property tax growth had continued  unchecked, property owners would  be paying over $2.7 billion in  property taxes. Instead, property  owners are paying just over $1.5  billion of property taxes. ■

EVERY SATURDAY BLACK HILLS FARMERS  MARKET Rapid City

CULTURAL EXPO Rapid City

CAMPING RESERVATIONS  OPEN FOR FOURTH OF  JULY WEEKEND Statewide South Dakota  State Parks

MARCH 31-APRIL 1 JACKRABBIT STAMPEDE  RODEO Brookings

MARCH 31-APRIL 2 PBR: UNLEASH THE  BEAST - PREMIER  BANKCARD INVITATIONAL Sioux Falls

APRIL 9-12 SIOUX EMPIRE  SPORTSMEN'S SHOW Sioux Falls

TRACK HIKE WITH THE  LITTLES The Outdoor Campus,  Sioux Falls,

APRIL 14-15

FORKS, CORKS AND  KEGS FOOD, WINE AND  BEER FESTIVAL Deadwood

MUSEUM AFTER DARK Brookings

APRIL 21-22

JUNKIN' MARKET DAYS Sioux Falls

RIVERRAT RUN Yankton

PARTY FOR THE PLANET Sioux Falls

EARTH DAY Oakwood Lakes State  Park, Bruce

ANGOSTURA IRONMAN Anogstura Recreation Area,  Hot Springs

GOOD EARTH DAY Good Earth State Park,  Sioux Falls

FLY FISHING (FAMILY) The Outdoor Campus,  Sioux Falls

Recent Directory Updates

For the 2022-2023 Directory of South Dakota Municipal Officials

The list below refl ects updates to the directory received since the  list included in last month's South Dakota Municipalities magazine.

Updates are listed each month in the magazine, or go online to  sdmunicipalleague.org for a comprehensive updates list for the  2022-2023 edition.

Risk-sharing news

TRACIE EVERSON | SAFETY BENEFITS, INC.

Law Enforcement and Corrections Training

Providing our communities with law enforcement and corrections services has never been more challenging. Officers are asked to make the right decision at the right time every time. Unfortunately, time to think a situation through is a luxury that most emergency events don’t offer. That is why being prepared for events involving liability risk is so important. Up-to-date policies and programs and ongoing training are essential. Fortunately, Members of the South Dakota Public Assurance Alliance (SDPAA) have such tools available to them at no cost.

SDPAA, through Safety Benefits, Inc. (SBI), partners with the Legal and Liability Risk Management Institute (LLRMI) to provide Members with a variety of risk management support services for law enforcement and corrections departments. As an added incentive, by taking certain actions to reduce risk SDPAA Members may earn credits to reduce the cost of law enforcement liability coverage.

LEGAL & LIABILITY RISK MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE (LLRMI)

LLRMI is a network of risk management professionals dedicated to enhancing professionalism and effectiveness while reducing liability risk for law enforcement and corrections agencies. Liability risks are reduced through training, policy and procedure implementation, and legal support. LLRMI has developed model policies and procedures and online training for law enforcement and corrections departments.

Available to SDPAA Members POLICIES & PROCEDURES AGREEMENT

Entering into the Law Enforcement Policies and Procedures Agreement with SDPAA is the first step toward earning

a law enforcement credit. Through the agreement agencies commit to: adopting, implementing, and training on written policies and procedures on 12 high risk critical tasks identified by LLRMI. Members also agree to incorporate policy updates as they are provided by LLRMI and allow SBI to inspect written policies and procedures, and training records during loss control surveys.

Policies focused on the 12 high critical tasks are as follows:

1. Response to Resistance (Use of Force)

2. Duty to Intervene

3. Vehicle Pursuit & Emergency Vehicle Operation

4. Stop, Arrest & Search of Persons

5. Transportation & Restraint of Prisoners

6. Domestic Violence Misconduct & Domestic Violence Investigations

7. Off-Duty Actions

8. Sexual Harassment, Sexual Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct

9. Hiring Practices

10. Internal Affairs

11. Dealing with Persons of Diminished Capacity

12. Property & Evidence

Available to SDPAA Members

MODEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

LLRMI currently has 89 road policies and 87 jail policies available online to Members of the SDPAA. South Dakota law and case law are considered in each policy. These documents are updated by LLRMI whenever revisions are prompted by court cases or changes in the law. A general review is conducted of these policies every three years.

A key component in policy implementation is training on the

and Support

policies that a department has in place. Fortunately, LLRMI has training available for each of the policies they provide. Law Enforcement Training (LET) recognizes this training towards officer recertification hours.

Available to SDPAA Members

ONLINE TRAINING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT

LLRMI offers e-learning for law enforcement and corrections agencies. Once enrolled, users can log in anytime, anywhere on a desktop, laptop, smart phone, or tablet. The learning library contains over 200 courses and quizzes, with options to customize training. Program administrators/supervisors can assign courses to staff, monitor progress and view course results. User support is available 24/7.

Available to SDPAA and/or SDML Workers’ Compensation Fund Members JAIL TRAINING PROGRAM

Corrections employees face a unique set of challenges that require attention and training. Frequently, Member jails report that they don’t have sufficient staffing to allow employees to be gone for the length of time training demands. In 2021, the SDPAA and SDML WCF worked with SBI to create a jail training program that provides in-person training on-site at the location of the jail or corrections facility. Members are encouraged to work with Matthew Petersen of the SBI team to schedule this training.

SBI LAW ENFORCEMENT/ CORRECTIONS EXPERTISE

SBI loss control surveys and training sessions for law enforcement and corrections are led by Jeff Lanning and Matthew Petersen. Because of their backgrounds, both Jeff and Matthew can appreciate and empathize with most any law enforcement or corrections issue a

local public entity may experience in South Dakota.

As SBI’s main contact to LLRMI, Jeff guides SDPAA law enforcement members in this area to ensure they understand the services available to them through LLRMI. Jeff works closely with the leaders at LLRMI to get member questions answered and to distribute updated information from LLRMI as it becomes available.

Matthew is SBI’s contact for the jail training program. In addition to his background as a SD Highway Patrol, Matthew’s professional experience as a corrections officer makes him uniquely qualified to provide this training. Matthew works with jails to help them identify their greatest areas of safety and liability risk and then develops a training program to best address those areas.

LLRMI NATIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE MAY 1-3 IN SOUTH DAKOTA

LLRMI is bringing their national training event to Deadwood, SD, in May of 2023! The conference is titled Shaping and Influencing Law Enforcement Liability and Risk Management and is a great opportunity for:

• Law enforcement and corrections personnel wanting to further professionalize the way their services are delivered.

• Law enforcement and corrections personnel concerned about controlling increasing losses in their budgets due to significant cost increases for coverage.

• Law enforcement, corrections, and loss control personnel who seek proactive solutions to reduce liability losses.

• Claims adjusters trying to get a handle on law enforcement/

corrections case evaluations in an ever-changing environment.

Topics featured at this event will include agency liability/individual liability, the defining principles of loss control and risk management in law enforcement/ corrections, the nuts and bolts of law enforcement and corrections liability, digital evidence, managing public information and social media, and more.

Go to www.LLRMI.com or www.safetybenefits.com for more information and to register for the LLRMI Law Enforcement Liability Risk Management Conference scheduled for May 1-3, 2023, in Deadwood. SBI hopes to see you there!

Questions about the services discussed in this article can be directed to Safety Benefits, Inc. at 605.334.9567 or 1.888.313.0839. ■

Resource Roundup

Awards

Submit through each affiliate’s webpage, sdmunicipalleague.org/affiliateorganizations

Finance Officer of the Year

Due: May 1

Recognizes a member of the SD Governmental Finance Officers' Association who has made significant contributions to their municipality as a finance officer and to their community as citizen. Award presented at the association’s annual Finance Officers’ School.

Grants

Recreational Trails Program Grant, SD Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks

Due: April 7

Provides partial reimbursement for approved trail projects including the construction of new public trails, rehabilitation of existing public trails, development of trail-related facilities, and educational programs that relate to recreational trails.

Learn more/apply: www.gfp.sd.gov/partnerships; Grants Coordinator Randy Kittle at 605.773.5490 or randy.kittle@state.sd.us

Environmental Justice Governmentto-Government (EJG2G) Program, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Due: April 10

Provides funding to support government activities that lead to measurable environmental or public health impacts in communities disproportionately burdened by environmental harms. Local governments that partner with a community-based nonprofit organization are eligible.

Learn more at www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice; apply at www.grants.gov

Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) Program, U.S. Dept. of Energy

Due: Concept papers due April 14; full applications due June 28

A $300 million funding opportunity towards projects that increase energy affordability and promote climate

resilience with an anticipated federal cost share ranging from $5 to $100 million per project.

Learn more/apply: https://oced-exchange.energy.gov

Agri-Business Grant, SD Dept. of Transportation

Due: April 15, July 15, and Oct. 15

Open to any local unit of government for the development of new or expanded agri-business industries. Provides for 80% of the construction costs. Grant size is limited to $600,000.

Learn more/apply: www.dot.sd.gov

Industrial Park Grant, SD Department of Transportation

Due: April 15, July 15, and Oct. 15

Open to any local unit of government for the development of new or expanded access for new industry located within industrial parks. Provides for 80% of the construction costs. Grant size is limited to $500,000.

Learn more/apply: www.dot.sd.gov

Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant, SD Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks

Due: April 28

Provides up to 50 percent reimbursement for approved outdoor recreation projects that seek at least $10,000 in grant assistance. Grants are awarded for development or renovation of public outdoor recreation facilities or the acquisition of park land.

Learn more/apply: www.gfp.sd.gov/partnerships; Grants Coordinator Randy Kittle at 605.773.5490 or randy.kittle@state.sd.us

The Energizing Rural Communities Prize, U.S. Dept. of Energy

Due: May 24

A $15 million cash prize pool for projects that support the development of partnership plans or innovative financing strategies for energy improvement projects. Learn more/apply: https://www.herox.com/rural-energy

Small Community Planning Grant Program, SD Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Due: Ongoing, awarded at any time on a first-come, first-served basis

Provides funds to hire an engineering consultant to develop a project specific engineering report. Open to systems serving a population of 2,500 or fewer. A community may receive up to $8,000 for a water engineering study and up to $10,000 for a wastewater related study.

Learn more/apply: www.danr.sd.gov

Scholarships

Apply through each affiliate’s webpage, sdmunicipalleague.org/affiliateorganizations

City Management Training Scholarship

Due: May 1

Provides funds for an association member to attend a  professional development training of their choice.

Building Officials ICC Code Hearings Scholarship

Due: June 1

Provides funds for two association members to attend  an in- or out-of-state ICC Code Hearing of their choice.

Street Maintenance PWX Scholarship

Due: June 1

Provides funds for three association members to attend  the American Public Works Association's Public Works  Expo (PWX) in San Diego, CA, in August.

Trainings

Register at sdmunicipalleague.org/events

Police Chiefs’/Sheriffs Association Spring Conference

April 11-13, Deadwood

Registration: $115 - full conference

Annual joint meeting of the SD Sheriffs' Association  and the SD Police Chiefs' Association where  members gather to learn about and discuss recent  topics in law enforcement. Includes training tracts  for law enforcement, corrections, and administrative  personnel. Features Keynote Speaker Gordon  Graham, a 33-year veteran of law enforcement as  well as a risk management expert and a practicing  attorney.

Street Maintenance Spring Meeting

April 26-27, Yankton

Registration: Free - SDMSMA member; $65  non-member

Code Enforcement Information and Training Conference

May 10-11, Pierre

Registration: $50 - SoDACE member; $90  Non-member

Human Resource School

June 6-7, Pierre

Registration: $50 - SDGHRA member; $100  Non-member

Finance Officers' School

Registration: $75 - SDGFOA member; $100  Non-member Trusted.

> Project Funding & Financing Guidance

> Streets > Sewer > Drainage > Water

> Airports > GIS > Electrical Power

Four locations including Sioux Falls, SD 605-339-4157 dgr.com

June 7-9, Pierre

LIBRARIES ARE A

For every $1 spent on libraries, residents receive an average ROI of ≈ $4.60 on the programs and services they use.

library.sd.gov

SDPAA News

DAVE PFEIFLE | SDPAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Allure of Public Service

The South Dakota Public Assurance Alliance (SDPAA) has been serving local governments in South Dakota for 36 years. The SDPAA provides far more Member benefits than liability and property coverages by including Member-focused trainings, loss control and property surveys, as well as free legal guidance through its hotlines on employment practices, government practices, and election law.

Throughout its rich history the SDPAA has been led by a Board of Directors comprised of local public servants with the vision and fortitude to navigate through any rough waters on behalf of their fellow local governments in South Dakota. I witnessed the value of the SDPAA’s uniquely tailored services while serving three SDPAA Members as their in-house attorney and while serving as SDPAA panel counsel. My admiration of the SDPAA and its outstanding leadership team led me to join the SDPAA’s internal team in Nov. 2017.

The motivation for any of us to engage in local public service stems from a sense of duty to serve our

community for the greater good. My local government recently asked me to serve again as its full-time city attorney. I was torn between my duty to SDPAA Members as a whole and my sense of duty to my community and to my local government, which is a charter Member of the SDPAA. In weighing my decision, the most reassuring factor was that the SDPAA’s internal team is a fantastic group of individuals, both professionally and personally. Lynn, Kris, Paytra, Jerry, and Becky have achieved the rare combination of high performance with high integrity in serving the local governments of South Dakota. They will continue to serve at an optimum level, whether I remain with them or not.

Another factor in my decision was the alarmingly rapid rate of resignations and retirements in our local government ranks. Dozens of unfilled local government legal positions across South Dakota are overburdening the remaining legal teams, if any, or depriving more rural local governments of vital legal resources altogether. I know from experience my local government would have difficulty in finding a city attorney.

President John F. Kennedy once said the highest form of appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them. The SDPAA Board and internal team live by the sincere words of appreciation for your service which are often expressed in this column. To fill one looming local vacancy, I have decided to rejoin your ranks as a local public official. I am dutybound to become part of the solution to the state-wide shortage of public sector lawyers. I will miss working with you and my friends and colleagues at the SDPAA! However, this is not a good-bye as I will remain active in our associations. I am happy to lend an empathetic ear to any fellow public servant. Our shared passion for local government service will make our paths cross many times.

My 28 years of involvement with the SDPAA has confirmed the SDPAA is the best option for your local government. If you have any questions or would like your public entity to explore becoming a Member of the SDPAA, then please contact the SDPAA at 800-6583633 option 2 or by email at sdpaa@ sdmunicipalleague.org. ■

WASHINGTON REPORT

SENATOR MIKE ROUNDS

A Major Victory for American Consumers and Producers

South Dakota and American cattle producers raise the best beef in the world. Many families specifically seek out these high-quality products when choosing what beef to buy at the grocery store. However, some families may not realize that not all meat labeled “Product of USA” is actually beef from cattle raised within the United States. Current federal regulations include a loophole that allows beef from livestock born, raised and slaughtered in foreign countries to be labeled “Product of USA” as long as the beef undergoes additional processing at a plant in the United States.

This is wrong. Consumers deserve transparency when they’re purchasing beef. When South Dakota families purchase beef labeled “Product of USA” they should know with certainty that it is coming from one of our topquality producers.

For years, we’ve called on the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take action to stop foreign beef from receiving the “Product of USA” label. I’ve met with the Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, submitted multiple comments to USDA on this issue and introduced bipartisan bills since 2019 to fix this label through legislation.

We received good news this month. The USDA has announced a new rule proposing that the “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” labels can only be applied to meat, poultry and egg products that are born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. This is major victory for American consumers and producers. Our work is finally starting to pay off.

With this announcement, integrity has been restored to the “Product of USA” label. Once this proposed rule is finalized, American consumers will no longer be misled by a “Product of USA” label that is allowed to be applied to foreign products. American cattle ranchers will no longer be disadvantaged in the marketplace against lower quality foreign beef that falsely bears the “Product of USA” label. The USDA’s ruling is a major step in the right direction, and I applaud Secretary Vilsack for taking the necessary actions to fix this label. While this is a voluntary label, it provides ranchers an opportunity to market their high-quality products to consumers in the grocery store.

While I acknowledge the magnitude of this ruling, there is still more work to be done. We need to address meat packer concentration and Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef in order to restore transparency and fairness to the cattle market. I remain committed to fighting for American ranchers and consumers. ■

South Dakota Receives Disaster Approval for Winter Storm

PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota has received a Presidential Disaster Declaration that allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help South Dakota local governments in 16 counties statewide recover from infrastructure damage sustained as a result of the severe winter storms that occurred this past December.

On Feb. 9, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2023-03, which declared a disaster in the impacted counties.

Public infrastructure damage assistance will be provided to the counties of Bennett, Brookings, Clark, Day, Deuel, Hamlin, Jackson, Jones, Kingsbury, Mellette, Oglala Lakota, Potter, Roberts, Stanley, Todd, and Tripp. Federal resources will also help with the impacts of the storm

for state, tribal, and local governments.

An estimated $2,413,949 in qualifying costs were incurred during the December storms in those counties listed.

In December, much of South Dakota experienced hazardous travel conditions, road closures, damage to power infrastructure, and unexpected costs for snow removal. ■

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Accounting Assistant - South Dakota Municipal League, Fort Pierre, SD. Maintains accounts payable and receivable, record  revenue, make deposits, process payments, and reconcile  accounts for the SDML and other organizations. Assists the  Director of Finance in all aspects of fi nancial administration, and  other tasks as assigned. Prefer two-year degree in business  administration, accounting, or related fi eld, and two years of  accounting experience or an equivalent combination of both.  Should have profi cient knowledge of computers and software  with preference for Quickbooks, Word, and Excel. Salary range  $45,000 to $55,000 depending on qualifi cations and experience  with full benefi ts. See full description and application information  at www.sdmunicipalleague.org. Closes April 14.

Apprentice Lineman - City of Wessington Springs, SD. Must  have line worker certifi cation or willing to obtain. Job duties also  include meter reading and helping other City Departments as  needed. Applicants will be required to obtain a CDL and will  be subject to DOT testing. Excellent benefi t package. To apply  submit a cover letter, resume, work history, and three work  related references to Linda Willman, Finance Offi  cer. Electronic:  wessprsd@venturecomm.net or mail to City Hall PO Box 443,  Wessington Springs, SD 57382. For questions, please call 605539-1691. Open until fi lled. EOE.

Chief Financial Officer - City of Brookings, SD. Ideal candidate  for this position is an inspiring, innovative and visionary leader  with an approachable management style, strategic mindset, and  genuine interest in seeking to understand; someone who asks,  advises and partners with an emphasis on relationship building,  trust, and teamwork. Should have strong fi nancial management  abilities in budget development and implementation, revenue  and expenditure forecasting, long-term capital improvement  fi nancing, debt management, cash investments and economic  development fi nancing options. Salary range: $106,221$143,711, dependent upon experience and qualifi cations.  Excellent benefi ts package and enrollment in the South Dakota  Retirement System. See full description and apply online at www. governmentresource.com and click on “Open Recruitments.”  Closes April 16.

City Clerk - City of Alliance, NE. Coordinate the offi  cial records  for the City including Ordinances and Resolutions, legal notices  and publications, contracts, City Council minutes, and all other  documents adopted by the City Council. Attends City Council  and various committee meetings, and prepares agendas and  meeting packets in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act  and local policy to ensure that all actions are properly executed,  recorded, and archived. Responds to a wide variety of inquiries  on a daily basis. Serves as Clerk of Elections and performs other  related duties as required. $29.59 - $33.17 hourly, DOE, EEO.  Learn more and apply at www.cityofalliance.net. Open until fi lled.

City Planner - City of Pierre, SD. Performs professional planning functions for the city, recommends measures affecting land use, community facilities, zoning ordinances, and master plans. Knowledge of principles and practices of planning, zoning, land use, surveying, inspection, and flood plain management beneficial. Must possess good computer skills, excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills, have the ability to be fair, persuasive, empathetic, calm and maintain professional composure when dealing with difficult and stressful situations. Comprehensive benefit package. Wage offer based upon education and experience. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Learn more and apply: Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 1253, Pierre SD (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Communications Officer - City of Pierre, SD. Work as part of a team operating the Central South Dakota Communications Center, the 911-Emergency Dispatch Center for central South Dakota. Receive calls for assistance from the public, documenting and dispatching appropriate public safety personnel for those calls. Receive, process and send radio communications for various law enforcement agencies, emergency medical services, and local fire departments. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Apply: Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 125, Pierre, SD 57501, Phone (605) 773-7429 or www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Deputy Fire Chief - City of Spearfish, SD. Assists the fire chief in planning, organizing, and directing the activities and personnel of the fire department by participating in the development and monitoring of departmental operations, budgeting, training, equipment maintenance, Standard Operating Procedures, writes and conducts employee performance appraisals, and furthering the department’s mission and goals. Salary range: $71,136.00 - $108,243.20 plus benefits. Learn more and apply at www. cityofspearfish.com. Open until filled. EOE.

Deputy Police Officer - City of Tyndall, SD. Responsible for performing routine and professional law enforcement work in a variety of police department activities and to maintain law and order in the City of Tyndall, while under the direct supervision of the Chief of Police and the Mayor. Must meet certain eligibility requirements. Fulltime position, salary DOE, benefit package. Submit resume, request application by calling 605-589-3481; by mail at PO Box 29, Tyndall, SD 57066; or by email at tyndalsd@ heartlandpower.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Deputy Public Works Director/General Maintenance - City of Eureka, SD. Experience preferred in heavy machinery operation and knowledge of all city departments and functions in all departments. Must possess or obtain a CDL within 6 months. CDL training paid by city if three-year commitment signed. Must have or ability to get mosquito and herbicide spraying certifications within two years. Must also have or ability to get water and sewer certifications by the state of South Dakota within two years. Appropriate character and behavior traits for public relations. Pay based upon experience. Contact the City Office at 605-2842441 or the City Shop at 605-284-2348 for more information. Apply at the City of Eureka, PO Box 655, Eureka, SD 57437. Open until filled. EOE.

Director of Public Works/Utilities - City of Fairmont, MN. Coordinates, plans, and provides direction to all Public Works,

Public Utilities, Engineering, and Airport functions of the City consistent with City policy, federal and state regulations, and objectives developed and/or approved by the City Council and/ or the Public Utilities Commission. This is a highly responsible position requiring good judgement and ability to act independently.

Salary Range: $113,651 to $143,852; Hiring Range: $113,651 to $126,214. View the position profile and apply at https://www. ddahumanresources.com/active-searches. Open until filled.

Engineering Technician - City of Watertown, SD. Provides technical support to the Lake Kampeska Watershed Project District (LKWPD). This includes: coordination of shore stabilization, lake quality testing, lake monitoring, and other projects as assigned. Provides other technical related duties to achieve the objectives of the Engineering Division, including surveying, operating computer aided drafting (CAD), and geographic information systems (GIS); producing plans and specifications for projects; administering projects, conducting research and gathering data; providing information regarding projects; and observing and inspecting construction to ensure compliance. Learn more and apply at www.watertownsd.us/Jobs.aspx. Open until filled. EOE.

Finance Officer - City of Parkston, SD. Candidates must have at least two years college or vocational school and two years of job experience, or an equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the desired knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must be bondable; have a valid driver’s license. Excellent benefit package. Salary DOE. Interested applicants can obtain an application and full job description at

CLASSIFIEDS

the Parkston Finance Offi  ce at 207 W. Main St. or by calling 605928-3321 during regular business hours. Applications are also  available on the city’s website: www.cityofparkston.org, click on  Job Openings. Open until fi lled. EOE.

HR Manager - City of Huron, SD. Responsible for all personnel  and employment related functions of the City; advises and  assists the Commission, Department Heads, and supervisors on  employment matters including recruitment, interviewing, hiring,  orientation of new employees, transfers, discipline, layoffs/ recalls, promotions, discharges/terminations, assignments,  grievances, EEOC complaints, and citizen complaints; maintains  the Personnel and Medical fi les of all employees and insures  such fi les are accurate, up-to-date, and secure; responsible  for confi dential notifi cation and scheduling of pre-employment  and post-employment testing/examinations, the Drug & Alcohol  Testing Program, including DOT required tests. Wages: $2,982  bi-weekly. See full description and apply at www.huronsd.gov.  Closes May 1.

Maintenance - City of Waubay, SD. Applications are being  accepted for a full- or part-time city maintenance worker. Duties  to include snow removal, repair and maintenance of streets,  parks and cemetery. Monitoring maintenance and record  keeping of water and sewer systems. Must be able to operate  heavy equipment. Must hold a valid SD driver's license with  CDL endorsement or must obtain within 90 days of employment.

State water and sewer certifi cations, and pesticide license must  be obtained within one year of employment. Salary DOE. Open  until fi lled. EOE.

Operations and Maintenance Technician – Missouri River Energy Services, Brayton, IA. Responsible for operating,  maintaining, and repairing the Exira Station to ensure it sustains  the highest level of operating status. Operates the plant and  associated equipment for energy production. Performs the  duties of a power plant operator, and power plant maintenance  technician. Evaluates and performs the testing, troubleshooting,  repair, and maintenance associated with the gas turbine control  system, BOP control system, electrical, and mechanical systems  and facilities. Assists with installing equipment modifi cations and  improvements. Non-exempt position; reports to the Exira Station  Plant Manager. Salary: 73k-100k. Learn more an apply online  via: https://careers.mrenergy.com/job. Open until fi lled.

Operations Engineering Manager – City of Rapid City, SD. Serves as a technical specialist in the planning, operation,  improvement and maintenance activities for public facilities,  systems, and programs through the application of advanced  Engineering principles, in support of the Water, Water  Reclamation, and Solid Waste Divisions. Minimum requirements  include: Bachelor’s degree from four-year college or university  in Engineering and eight years’ experience in administration,  design and construction relating to the principles and practices

A Strong Public Finance Partner in South Dakota

D.A. Davidson & Co. is committed to strengthening the infrastructure and enriching the lives of people in our communities throughout South Dakota and across the nation.

Our public finance bankers average over 20 years of experience in conventional fixed-rate debt financing, variable-rate bonds, creditenhanced structures and non-rated bonds.

of Engineering as applied to municipal public works. Must  possess a South Dakota Professional Engineer (PE) license or  ability to obtain within 90 days from date of hire. Starting salary  is $8,036.94 monthly plus benefi ts. Full description and apply at  www.governmentjobs.com/careers/rapidcity.

Patrol Officer - City of Pierre, SD. Performs law enforcement  & public safety duties as necessary to maintain law & order  in the City of Pierre. Must be at least 21 years of age, have a  high school diploma or GED, & pass the police entry level  examinations including a background investigation. Prior  experience in law enforcement is desirable. Certifi ed offi  cer  preferred. Wage: $23.75 minimum plus comprehensive benefi t  package. Up to $3,000 hiring bonus. Apply: Human Resources  Offi  ce, City of Pierre, Box 1253, Pierre, SD 57501, (605)7737429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until fi lled. EOE.

Police Officer - City of Spearfish, SD. Enforce local, state, and  federal laws, prevent and suppress crime and accidents, and  promote public safety through community policing principles.  Responsible for the investigation of criminal cases as assigned.  Requirements: Knowledge and level of competency commonly  associated with completion of specialized training in the fi eld of  work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high  school education; possession of or ability to readily obtain South  Dakota Law Enforcement Certifi cation. Full-time position. Starting  wage range: $26.72 - $32.55 per hour, competitive benefi t  package. Full description and apply at www.cityofspearfi sh.com.  Open until fi lled. EOE.

CLASSIFIEDS

Recreation and Intramural Coordinator - City of Madison, SD. Responsible for developing, coordinating, and administering  recreation programs, events, and leagues for members or  all ages. Participate in preparation, administration of the  recreation and intramural budget, assess fee structures for  programs, implement changes to programs, submit budget  recommendations and monitors expenditures. Work with Dakota  State University for intramural programs as well as prepare  monthly reports and updates to the Park and Community  Center Boards in conjunction with the Director. Work with and  build relationships with youth associations, oversee and direct  recreation and intramural staff, conduct meetings and trainings  as needed, and ensures clean and safe facility. Learn more and  apply at www.cityofmadisonsd.com/Jobs. Open until fi lled EOE.

Street Mechanic - City of Pierre, SD. Responsible for  the mechanical repair and maintenance of department  vehicles, trucks, and equipment. Work consists of diagnosing,  troubleshooting, and performing preventive maintenance on  vehicles and equipment. Welding and inventory management  experience benefi cial. Must have possession of or ability to obtain  a Class A CDL with air brakes and tanker endorsements and be  able to work in inclement weather conditions. Comprehensive  benefi t package. Wage offer will be based upon actual education  and experience. Up to $3,000 hiring bonus. Apply: City of Pierre  Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501,  (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until fi lled. EOE.

CLASSIFIEDS

Traveling Code Enforcement Officer - Code Enforcement Specialists. Code Enforcement Specialists, a rapidly growing  independent company specializing in code enforcement for  small and medium sized communities, is looking for an individual  willing to do some travel and perform code enforcement  services. Excellent pay and hours are fl exible. Experience is  not necessary, but a background in law enforcement would be  helpful. On-the-job training is provided. Please inquire at (605)  208-0786 for details.

Water Maintenance Technician - City of Pierre, SD. Responsible for the installation repair and maintenance of all  water and sewer mains. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: State of  SD Board of Operator Certifi cation in water distribution within  18 months of employment. Must have or be able to obtain a  Class B CDL with Tanker Endorsement. Skill in the installation,  maintenance, & repair of water & sewer lines & mains would be  benefi cial. Apply: City of Pierre Human Resources Director, P.O.  Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre. org. Comprehensive benefi t package. Wage offer based upon  actual education and experience. Up to $3,000 hiring bonus.  Open until fi lled. EOE.

2019 Bobcat S770 T-4 Skid-steer - City of Waubay, SD. 585 hours. No attachments. $55,000. The City reserves the right to  reject any and all offers.

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Find full descriptions, links to applications, more listings, or place  an ad online:

SDmunicipalleague.org/classifieds

APRIL

7.050) A municipality may combine its election with a school district election and hold this election on the school election date (third Tuesday in June) or on the first Tuesday in June, or in conjunction with the June primary. (SDCL 9-13-1.1; 9-13-37; 9-13-6)

Second Tuesday in April – The consolidated board of equalization meets and completes equalization in no more than three weeks. (SDCL 10-11-66 through 10-11-76; See Hdbk., sec. 12.120)

Election Day must be established by January 14 of the election year. (SDCL 9-13-1)

Within seven days following the election – Election returns are to be canvassed. (SDCL 9-13-24; See Hdbk., sec. 7.600)

Three weeks from Election Day

At least one day before the election – The Finance Officer must deliver the precinct registration lists to the local election officials. (SDCL 12-424; See Hdbk., sec. 7.170)

Second Tuesday of April –Annual elections for the officers of a municipality are required to be held. (SDCL 9-13-1; See Hdbk., sec.

Within two days after the election is declared – The finance officer must notify all persons elected to office. The officials elected to office then have ten days after the first meeting of the month next succeeding the election to qualify for the office by filing an oath or affirmation of office. (SDCL 9-13-28) If the governing body chooses an election day other than the second Tuesday of April, as provided in SDCL 9-13, that

– If a municipality has passed an ordinance requiring a secondary election and no candidate in a race involving three or more candidates receives a majority of the votes cast, a secondary election shall be held three weeks from the date of the first election. Provisions for tie votes in the first election are also provided for. The person receiving the highest number of votes at the secondary election is elected. (SDCL 9-1326.1; See Hdbk., sec. 7.600)

June elections – Follow the Municipal Election Calendar for all election deadlines. ■

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

First meeting in May – The  fi nancial offi  cer is  required to make  an annual report  to the governing  body no later than  the first regular  meeting of May  each year. The  report must include  the receipts,  expenses, and fi nancial condition of the municipality, including  the amount of funds in the treasury at the time of making  the report and where and in what amounts such funds are  deposited or invested. The report shall be published in the  offi  cial newspaper within thirty days after the report is made  to the governing body or on completion of the annual audit.

By the last day of May each year, the fi nance offi  cer shall fi le  a copy of the report with the Department of Legislative Audit.  (SDCL 9-22-21; See Hdbk., sec. 12.080)

No later than May 1 – The liquor tax reversion must be made.  (SDCL 35-5-22; See Hdbk., sec. 11.600)

May 1 – Special assessment installments which are payable  under either the Plan One or Plan Two options become  delinquent. (SDCL 9-43-109; See Hdbk., sec. 12.160)

First meeting following election – Except as otherwise  provided, every officer of the municipality will begin to  discharge the duties of the offi  ce as soon as the offi  cer has  qualifi ed by fi ling an oath or affi  rmation of offi  ce. The oath  must be fi led within ten days after the fi rst meeting of the  month following the election or appointment. (SDCL 9-14-5;  See Hdbk., sec. 5.115)

First meeting following election – Appointed municipal  offi  cials are usually appointed. The appointment may be  annual, or for an interval determined by the governing body.  (SDCL 9-14-3)

First meeting following election – In municipalities having  the mayor and common council form of government, the  council must elect a president and vice-president for the  ensuing year. (SDCL 9-8-7; See Hdbk., sec. 2.520)

First meeting following election – In municipalities governed  by a mayor and four commissioners, the board must designate  by a majority vote, the following commissioners: Public  Safety, Public Works, Utilities, and Finance and Revenue.  Commissioners are assigned areas of responsibility under  the law. (SDCL 9-9-18 to 9-9-24; See Hdbk., sec. 2.590)

First meeting following election – In municipalities governed  by a mayor and two commissioners, the board shall by a  resolution adopted by a majority, assign and apportion  between the members, all duties that are not assigned to  the mayor. (SDCL 9-9-27; See Hdbk., sec. 2.595)

First meeting following election – In those municipalities  employing a city manager and under the commissioner form  of government, at the fi rst regular meeting in the month  following the annual election, the commissioners must elect  one of their members to serve as mayor for a term of one  year. (SDCL 9-10-6; See Hdbk., sec. 2.615)

By May 15 – The secretary of revenue shall apportion the  money in the local government highway and bridge fund.  (SDCL 32-11-35; See Hdbk., sec. 12.255(6))

Tax levy – The governing body of the municipality may impose  an excess tax levy with an affi  rmative two-thirds vote of the  governing body on or before July fi fteenth of the year prior to  the year the taxes are payable. The decision to increase taxes  must be published within 10 days of the decision (certain  publication size restrictions apply) and may be referred upon a  petition signed by at least fi ve percent of the registered voters  in the municipality and fi led within twenty days of publication  of the decision. The referendum election shall be held on or  before October fi rst preceding the year the taxes are payable.  (SDCL 10-13-36; See Hdbk., sec. 12.170)

Last Monday of May – Memorial Day – State holiday (SDCL  1-5-1)

June elections – Follow the Municipal Election Calendar for  all election deadlines. ■