Milbank honored as Community of the Year

SIOUX FALLS, SD – The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) celebrated economic growth and success during its annual conference in late April where Governor Kristi Noem announced Milbank as Community of the Year.

The Community of the Year award honors a community that has made strides in economic development, community enhancement, job creation, and quality of life.

Milbank is striving to create an environment of economic development success. The community has experienced multi-million-dollar growth from Valley Queen Cheese and Koch Center Senior Living. To accommodate future development, the community is in the planning stages of expanding their industrial park. Housing development is also a priority with three housing developments in the works with opportunities for both single and multifamily housing.

In addition, two individuals who have excelled in economic development over their careers were recognized with the Excellence in Economic Development award.

Jesse Fonkert, President and CEO of Sioux Metro Growth Alliance (SMGA), the largest regional economic development organization in the state, was honored as the first recipient. Fonkert led efforts to rebrand the former Lincoln and Minnehaha County Economic Development organizations into SMGA, with the intention of expanding the organization’s footprint. He firmly believes that a regional approach to economic development enables all communities to achieve success.

Steve Watson, development strategist with ISG, was also honored. Watson has been serving South Dakotans for the past 18 years with his work in economic development. Watson provides growth and mentorship to communities and has worked to build strong partnerships with communities and state officials. Watson is leading the Infrastructure First Project for the state, developing a statewide infrastructure plan, identifying 18 high impact economic development sites, along with completing a capital improvement plan for eight communities. ■