WHY IS IT SO HARD TO FILL PUBLIC SAFETY WORKFORCE JOBS?
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PRESIDENT
Amy Leon
City Manager, Yankton
1st VICE PRESIDENT
Harry Weller
Mayor, Kadoka
2nd VICE PRESIDENT
Carolynn Anderson
Finance Officer, Wall
TRUSTEES
Fay Bueno
Finance Officer, Sturgis
David Barranco
Councilmember, Sioux Falls
Lance Lehmann
Councilmember, Rapid City
Dawn Murphy
Finance Officer, Tea
Leland Treichel
Mayor, Roscoe
PAST PRESIDENT
Debbra Houseman City Administrator, Wagner
DISTRICT CHAIRS
Dist. 1 | Mike Grosek
Mayor, Webster
Dist. 2 | Paullyn Carey Finance Director, Huron
Dist. 3 | Derick Wenck Mayor, Harrisburg
Dist. 4 | Chandra Phillips Finance Officer, 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 Officer, Custer
Dist. 10 | Michelle DeNeui Finance Officer, Spearfish
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
Jackie Lopour Accounting Assistant
Rob Peterson Director of Municipal Electric Services
Mindy Sargent Office Manager
SD Public Assurance Alliance
Lynn Bren Executive Director
Kristina Peterson Deputy Director
Becky Brunsing Member Services Representative
Jerry Krambeck Member Services Representative
Paytra Nichols Underwriter sdmunicipalleague.org | 1.800.658.3633
SOUTH DAKOTA MUNICIPALITIES (ISSN 0300-6182, USPS 503-120) is the official 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 offices. Non-member subscriptions are available for $30 annually. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the South Dakota Municipal League.
DAVID REISS | SDML EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
With the month of October upon us, I hope this edition of the magazine finds you as you are preparing to attend or that you are en route to join the SDML team in Rapid City for the annual conference. We have been working with the City of Rapid City staff and this year’s event is full of fun and exciting activities for attendees to enjoy. Thank you so much to Mayor Salamun and his staff for putting together such a memorable conference. We have great speakers, excellent entertainment, and several opportunities to experience memorable offerings for conference attendees in and around downtown Rapid City.
As we transition from summer and into the fall season, it is hard not to think of the coming winter weather and the upcoming 2024 South Dakota Legislative Session. The SDML Statement of Policy is the document that League staff and lobbyists reference to guide their representation of municipal interests during the legislative session and throughout the remainder of the year. As part of our annual conference, the Municipal League membership adopts its Statement of Policy. Through the work of four policy committees and dedicated municipal representative volunteers serving on those committees, the League develops its positions on new and longstanding policy issues that face cities across the state. Each of the policy committees meet during the annual conference
on Oct. 4 at 4 p.m. to finalize their policy updates. I encourage anyone with an interest in a policy area to attend the meetings as they are open to all members.
Last year I was introduced to the Municipal League membership at the 2022 Annual Conference and had the chance to meet with many of you in Watertown. In my first year as an employee of the League, I have been afforded many opportunities to build relationships with Municipal League members across the state and support your work in providing vital services to South Dakota citizens through municipal government.
If you are a longtime Municipal League member, I encourage you to connect with new attending municipal representatives and advocate for engagement in Municipal League works and support them in their municipal career journey just as many have supported mine. Our network and our strength as an organization and as South Dakota cities comes from our unified voice and through supportive relationships.
The Municipal League staff and I are excited to see all of you in Rapid City for the SDML Annual Conference and hope you have a great time sharing, learning, and enjoying the beautiful Black Hills!
Please remember, we are always available to you as a resource for your communities and I urge you to contact us if you have municipal issues or questions at 1-800-658-3633 or via email at david@sdmunicipalleague.org. ■
Some of our bigger communities have full-time, paid firefighters. Most of us in South Dakota, however, operate with either a hybrid or a fully volunteer fire department. While I think Yankton is special, I know it is not unique. Many of our volunteer firefighters are the same people who volunteer for everything else in our communities. I think at times the fact that they are there, and always have been there for us, makes us a bit complacent about the monumental service they provide. Ask any spouse or child of a volunteer firefighter, and they will tell you that not only is this work about community service, but it is also about sacrifice.
The fact that fire service is dangerous is alone worthy of praise and recognition. We forget, however, when the page goes out these folks have their family time, holidays, and sleep disrupted. In small and large towns across the state, our firefighters are helping and saving their neighbors, friends, and sometimes their own families. The fraternity of our “fire families” runs deep. In Yankton we have a few families who have several generations of firefighters on our roster.
I bring this up because I encourage you as a community leader to recognize and support your volunteer and rural fire departments every way you can. Sing their praises to your citizens as often as possible. While they are volunteers, they can receive a nominal call pay. I’d encourage you look into that if your city is able too.
Their organization also needs funds to operate. Providing trucks and fire equipment is just the start. Budget allocations for training dollars and maintenance of their facilities is also part of that support. As humble as these folks usually are, it is our responsibility to evaluate how we support our volunteers
and understand that the costs they incur go up and your city’s contribution cannot be forgotten in the budget process.
Dollars alone are just part of the answer. Most of our fire departments have raffles or fundraising events that are important to promote and be present for. In my hometown, our fire department held an annual Fireman’s Dance. My parents made it a point to attend every year. Because, as my father reminded my sister and I: “It wasn’t you two knuckleheads that showed up when the Clinton Liquor Store burned down.” Admittedly, however, the firefighters did know how to throw a party, too! If you can’t get to the pancake feed or buy a ticket for the meat raffle, consider a donation to your volunteer department. They will put it to good use.
Make sure you communicate other resources to your fire departments too. In March, the South Dakota State Legislature passed HB 1127 which appropriated $5 million in grants to support volunteer fire departments. If your department has not already looked into the fund, encourage them to contact the Department of Public Safety for the details. The grant is open to any department whose membership is at least 70% unpaid volunteers. Grants can be used for personal protective equipment, breathing apparatuses, and other gear.
As brave and tough as firefighters are, it certainly can take a toll on mental health. If your fire department doesn’t have a chaplain, you may want to visit with your chief about implementing such a program. If your community is a member of the SDML’s Workers Compensation Fund, you have access to free and confidential counseling for firefighters and their families (as well as other public safety agencies). For
more information and to connect your department with this resource, visit sdmlwcfund.com.
In addition, your Employee Assistance Programs may be willing to add your volunteer firefighters to the full-time employees benefit program for a nominal fee. Let’s face it, if one of our local heroes benefits from these services, it is worth the call.
If you do nothing else, contact a firefighter in your community and thank them. It matters to our communities that this legacy of volunteerism continues in our state.
On an unrelated note, this is my last article as the president of the SDML. I have had a lot of fun writing about the things that are important to me in public service. Thank you for trusting me as president this year. I was honored to have served you in this role. You are doing the hard work and making our communities better and stronger on a daily basis. Don’t let negativity get you down or stop you from doing what is right for your community. I look forward to continuing to see you at future SDML events and in Yankton of course! ■
Rob Peterson, Sioux Falls, has been named the new director of electric services for the South Dakota Municipal Electric Association (SDMEA).
Peterson joins the SDMEA with nearly a decade of experience in Government Affairs and Advocacy, including lobbying the state legislature, managing political campaigns, and consulting. He also served as Public Policy and Outreach Manager for the State Treasurer’s office, and most recently ran his own government affairs consulting and management business.
“Public power is a critical component to the long-term goals of our member communities,” said Peterson. “I’m honored to be a part of this team, and I look forward serving our membership as they continue to provide the leastcost, most reliable power to their communities.”
A proud, life-long South Dakotan, Peterson grew up in Sioux Falls, attended Washington High School, and graduated from the University of South Dakota with degrees in History and Political Science. Upon graduation, he moved to Pierre, where he lived for nearly three years, to begin his career in advocacy. In 2019, Peterson moved back to his hometown of Sioux Falls, where he currently resides.
Outside of work, Peterson enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, golf, and St. Louis Cardinals baseball.
As the Director of Electric Services, Peterson works with the municipally owned and operated electric systems that are association members. That work includes the legislative process, public education, safety awareness, information exchange, promotion of utility operational efficiencies, research,
inter-organizational cooperation, and publications. He started his duties early last month.
Peterson will be stationed in Sioux Falls but plans frequent visits to the South Dakota Municipal League office in Fort Pierre, as well as to member municipalities. He is best reached via email at Robert@sdmunicipalleague. org, or by phone at (605) 759-8456.
Peterson fills the position previously held by Chris Hill, who resigned in July.
For the 2023-24 Directory of South Dakota Municipal Officials
The list below reflects updates to the directory since its printing. Updates are listed each month in the magazine, or visit sdmunicipalleague.org for a comprehensive updates list for this edition.
United States Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg visited South Dakota last month to tour areas where federal funding is being used to enhance transportation in the state. Highlights of the trip included stops in Chamberlain and Salem.
Buttigieg visited Chamberlain on Sept. 11 to see progress on a new terminal for the Chamberlain Municipal Airport, which received $855,000 of federal grant money. Buttigieg praised the airport’s progress and said he wanted to drive home the point of what funding can do, especially in small towns.
The next day Buttigieg gathered with leaders of the trucking industry at a rest area near Salem along Interstate 90 where they discussed needed upgrades for safe rest stops as well as needed improvements to roads and bridges across I-90.
An infrastructure grant from the federal government awarded in 2021 provided $61.6 million to improve the interstate, which includes the west-bound rest area near Salem. The rest stop features 11 new semi-truck parking spaces as well as a sheltered picnic area and bathrooms. Buttigieg said additional parking spots allow truckers to avoid dangerous alternatives, such as parking on the shoulder of busy roadways.
Over the two-day visit, Buttigieg visited with various groups, as well as state and local leaders, including South Dakota Municipal League’s Executive Director David Reiss. The pair discussed electronic and autonomous vehicle use in South Dakota and the concerns of municipalities about being able to address critical electronic vehicle charging concerns in rural parts of the state. ■
“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
Reprinted from National League of Cities, www.nlc.org
The number of available jobs in municipal government is growing and yet local governments continue to have difficulty filling these positions. Some municipalities struggle to retain municipal public safety employees and others struggle to secure qualified applicants to fill empty positions. Retention is a unique problem in the law enforcement field for multiple reasons such as early retirements and workload strain. Overall, while there is a relatively strong understanding of the reasons why public servants are leaving the workforce, there is limited evidence on why these positions are hard to fill.
The National League of Cities (NLC) and others have suggested that a reimagination of the public safety workforce – one that is inclusive of non-traditional careers to better align skills with the work required – may address some of these challenges with recruitment and retention. Here we examine three common explanations as to why these positions are hard to
fill and provide an analysis to explore whether they may also be influencing recruitment efforts in the public safety workforce.
A common refrain is that this issue is due to competition with the private sector workforce. Employers seeking traditional public safety skills draw from
the same pool of candidates as military, security, construction, transportation, and public policy fields. However, as shown below, with an expanded set of skills via a reimagined job description, public safety careers have additional industries from which they can draw employees; alternatively, it has additional areas of competition from which to recruit and retain employees.
However, a new and more expansive vision of the hiring process and benefits could ensure that the public safety workforce is competitive with other industries. The reimagination of the public safety workforce not only expands the field from which municipalities can recruit, it also addresses some of the concerns over the representation of women in the field.
Other analyses of the traditional public safety workforce have highlighted issues such as the degree and certification requirements, residency requirements for city employees and the decrease in perceived value of pension and other benefits as factors that hamper the ability to recruit new officers.
NLC's analysis of LinkedIn data from 2023 suggests the applicant pool for several public safety positions could be increased by reimagining the workforce to be inclusive of non-traditional careers to better align skills with the work required.
Municipalities coast to coast are diverse places, yet many public safety departments do not reflect this diversity.
NLC is committed to supporting cities, towns and villages as they navigate new and innovate ways to reimagine the public safety workforce. Visit NLC.org for the following resources and publications to help you learn more about related work:
• Reimagining Public Safety: A Toolkit for Cities and Towns
• Reimagining Public Safety Taskforce
• Mayoral Network on Community Safety and Violence Prevention Summary Report
• How Can Cities Advance Public Safety? How Local Governments are Building Alternative Public Safety Models
In fact, the NLC Workforce Analysis reports “Black or African American people make up 13.6 percent of the U.S. population but only nine percent of the nation’s police force. Hispanic or Latino/a people only make up 11 percent of the country’s police despite making up 18.9 percent of the population.” Likewise, women make up 49 percent of the population yet only 14 percent of public safety roles in municipal government. The public safety workforce has come under great scrutiny over the last decade for practices and policies that are not responsive to the citizens they serve. These factors lead to health and wellness strains on the public safety workforce which are impacting retention and may also be influencing recruitment success.
By growing the workforce to include new people with different skills and talents municipalities we can address these concerns. Our analysis shows that Police, Fire, and EMS need targeted recruitment and an expansion of the components of the public safety workforce to achieve better gender equity. Currently, women make up less than half of the public safety workforce. In fire and police jobs they make up fewer than 20 percent. However, in a representative workforce, they would account for more than 70 percent of these roles. Importantly, this expansion would also have the potential to encourage more gender equity in representation of men in the roles such as crisis intervention and mental health.
To create a reimagined public safety workforce, we must take into account careers inclusive of (but not limited to) those in crisis response and intervention, mental health care/ response, and case management. As noted above, these jobs significantly change the demographics of the public safety workforce but they also allow us to better match skills with the needs of the community to ensure public safety for all. There are overlaps in the skills needed for these positions, however, there are unique skills that our public safety workforce is currently asked to do that do not fall into the skill base upon which they are hired. Specifically, only EMS includes healthcare and emergency medicine, and other skills fall under job titles for the reimagined category that are not present anywhere in other public safety workforce titles.
In sum, the challenge of meeting our nation’s public safety needs demands a willingness to reimagine our public safety workforce. The integration of core components of the current day-to-day work of public safety into explicit jobs such as crisis intervention and mental health provides a great opportunity to diversity the workforce in terms of skills, qualifications, and representativeness. This expansion will also allow for an expansion of the potential talent pool.
This analysis examined the status of the law enforcement job market in three ways. First, the authors identified key job titles that exist in the four realms of public safety identified above. We used these titles to examine the skills identified on LinkedIn associated with these jobs separately.
LinkedIn Talent Insights is not fully representative of the entire US Labor Market; however, it is still a very robust dataset. LinkedIn Talent Insights data shows 142+ million USA-based engaged quality members actively utilizing LinkedIn. Talent Insights highlights the top companies employing this talent across the US, top schools producing this talent, top skills & job titles, etc. Across the US, over 5.3+ million full-time job posts are on LinkedIn that can be observed through LinkedIn Talent Insights. These data also include substantial gaps in salary data disallowing the inclusion of that variable in this analysis.
See the original article “Why Is It So Hard to Fill Public Safety Workforce Jobs?” on NLC.org for a full list of article sources. ■
As the calendar turns to October, communities across the country will be celebrating National Public Power Week. Running Oct. 2-8, National Public Power Week is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the municipal utilities, in particular the people who keep them up and running, that provide the reliable, affordable energy necessary to keep the lights on in their communities.
In South Dakota, public power is a tradition that dates back over 100 years. Currently, 35 communities are served by municipal electric utilities.
Municipal utilities not only serve the community – they are the community. Public power utilities are communityowned, meaning the people of the
community are included in making key decisions about our energy future.
There are many reasons why 35 communities across South Dakota continue to own and operate their electric utility.
For starters, we are committed to building for the future to ensure reliable, affordable, and customerfocused service to our community for many years to come. That means we’re working hand-in-hand with customers and community leaders to make sure our utility reflects the long-term goals and needs of our member communities. Knowing our communities and their needs helps us keep homes, schools, businesses, and public places powered year-round.
More than 2,000 utilities across the country are powered by a community-owned, not-for-profit public power utility. During Public Power Week, we celebrate the benefits of living in a public power community including:
•
Low rates
•
High reliability
•
•
Dedicated, local service Community focus
• Economic development
• Local decision-making
Other benefits of community ownership include:
• Local control and regulation
• Local employment
• Operating in the public interest
• Integrated utility systems
And more.
As not-for-profit public power utilities, our loyalty is to our customers – not stockholders. We work hard to ensure that our electric rates continue to be stable and affordable. We take pride in being locally owned and contributing to the growth of our communities.
Thank you for your support of public power – an American tradition that works. ■
01 ENDS
BLACK HILLS FARMERS MARKET, Rapid City
BLACK HILLS FARMERS MARKET, Rapid City
FALLS PARK FARMER'S MARKET, Sioux Falls
THROUGH OCT 21 MARKET AT THE MERIDIAN, Yankton
PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, Canton
FALL VOLKSMARCH, Crazy Horse
SEPT 29-OCT 1
SIOUXPERCON, Sioux Falls
SEPT 29-OCT 1
BLACK HILLS FILM FESTIVAL, Hill City
OCT 6-7
OKTOBERFEST, Deadwood
OCT 6-7
PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS OF THE ADAMS HOUSE, Deadwood
OCT 6-8
BLACK HILLS POW WOW, Rapid City
FESTIFALL & CANDLELIGHT WALK, Newton Hills State Park, Canton
PRAIRIE VILLAGE HOBO MARLIN PUMPKIN TRAIN, Madison
OCT 7-8
14 19
HORSE RACES, Fort Pierre
OCT 7-8
PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, Canton NATIVE AMERICAN DAY, Crazy Horse
NATIVE AMERICAN DAY PARADE, Sioux Falls
BREW WALK, Aberdeen
DROPKICK MURPHYS, Brookings
OCT 13-14
WILD WEST SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL, Deadwood
OCT 13-14
PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS OF THE ADAMS HOUSE, Deadwood
OCT 13-15
THE HAUNTING OF KEYSTONE, Keystone
OCT 14-15
PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, Canton
20
OCT 20-21
KELOLAND LIVING ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW, Sioux Falls
OCT 20-21
PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS OF THE ADAMS HOUSE, Deadwood
OCT 20-22
THE HAUNTING OF KEYSTONE, Keystone
SPOOKY SCIENCE, Sioux Falls
OCT 21-JAN 31, 2024
PHEASANT HUNTING SEASON, Pierre
GOBLIN WALK, Viborg
OCT 27-28
DEADWEIRD, Deadwood
OCT 27-29
ZOOBOO, Sioux Falls
OCT 27-29
THE HAUNTING OF KEYSTONE, Keystone
HARVEST HALLOWEEN, Yankton
11 sdmunicipalleague.org | 1.800.658.3633
Reporting an injury that occurs at work seems like it should be an easy process. It really is easy, but there are a few key things that must be done to ensure that the injury is reported properly.
In the unfortunate event that a work-related injury should occur, there are two very important South Dakota Workers’ Compensation Laws that apply: SDCL 62-7-10 requires, “An employee…must notify the employer of the occurrence of the injury…no later than 3 business days after the occurrence."
Also, SDCL 62-6-2 requires, “An employer…who has knowledge of an injury that requires medical treatment other than minor first aid… shall file a written report with…the employer’s insurer (SDML Work Comp Fund or claims administrator, Claims Associates) …The report shall be filed within 7 calendar days, not counting Sundays and legal holidays, after the employer has knowledge of the injury…The report shall be made on a form approved by the Department of Labor. Any employer who fails to file a report as required by this section…is subject to an administrative fine of $100…”
When an employee reports an injury that occurs at work, it is best to sit down with the injured worker and complete the South Dakota Employer’s First Report of Injury. This form is available online at www.claimsassoc.com, www.sdmlwcfund. com, or the South Dakota Department of Labor website.
First, have the injured employee fully complete the Employee/ Injury/Treatment section of the form. The employees’ signature is NOT required. If the employee is incapacitated, you can complete the form on behalf of the employee. After the Employee section is complete this will fulfill the injured worker’s obligation to provide notice to you within 3 business days of the incident.
Next, on the same First Report of Injury form you should complete the Employer/Employment Information section, which includes providing the employee’s status, such as FullTime, Seasonal, or Volunteer, the employee’s hours, wages and occupation, etc. In this section, please write in the Class Code and Department that the injured employee works in (i.e. 5506 Street Department, 7720 Police Department, etc.). Also include supervisor’s name and phone number. If you have questions about this part, be sure to call Insurance Benefits, Inc. for assistance.
When the First Report of Injury is complete, the SDML Work Comp Fund recommends having the employee sign a Medical Authorization. This may help to expedite the gathering of medical records and bills from the treating physician/facility. This form is also available at www.claimsassoc.com or www. sdmlwcfund.com. Fax, mail or E-mail both forms to Claims Associates within 7 calendar days of receiving notification of the incident, not including Sundays and holidays. For example, if an employee is injured on Friday September 1st, (the Friday before Labor Day) and completes their section of the First Report of Injury, then you must complete the First Report of Injury and submit it to Claims Associates no later than Monday September 11th. You are required to keep a copy of the First Report of Injury on file for at least 4 years from the date of injury per SDCL 62-6-1.
As the employer, please be aware that SDCL 62-4-43 allows the injured employee to make the initial selection of their medical practitioner. If the employee desires to change their
Since 1913, HR Green has provided solutions that build communities and improve lives.
choice of medical practitioner, the employee must obtain approval in writing from the SDML Work Comp Fund’s claims administrator, Claims Associates, Inc.
A common question is what to do when an employee is injured, but does not seek medical treatment?
Remember, SDCL 62-6-2 says “An employer…who has knowledge of an injury that requires medical treatment other than minor first aid… shall file a written report with…the employer’s insurer.” If the injury is something like a pop, crack, strain or sprain, then the SDML Work Comp Fund recommends submitting a First Report of Injury, especially if the employee makes a point to talk to you about the incident. If no medical treatment is sought by the employee, simply check the “No Treatment” box on the First Report of Injury. This ensures that the injury is properly reported and documented in the event that the employee seeks medical treatment at a later date. This is also the perfect opportunity to call the Nurse Injury Triage Hotline at 877-899-9112. A nurse will triage the injury and assist the employee with questions about their injury. This is a FREE service to our members.
Reporting an injury that occurs at work does not affect your experience modifier if there is no medical treatment, so there is no penalty for reporting an incident. If you need assistance or guidance about reporting an injury that occurs at work, feel free to contact the Administrator for the SDML Workers’ Compensation Fund at 800-233-9073 or email info@ sdmlwcfund.com. ■
1 2 3 4
Have the injured worker complete a First Report of Injury and a Medical Authorization. Both forms are available at www.sdmlwcfund.com or www.claimsassoc.com. This must be done within three business days of the incident. The sooner the better.
Have the employee call the Nurse Injury Triage Hotline at 877-899-9112.
Calls are answered M-F between 8am-5pm CDT. If you call after hours please leave a message and a nurse will contact you on the next business day.
Within seven calendar days of being notified, complete the Employer/Employment Information section of the First Report of Injury. Email, fax, or mail both forms to: Claims Associates, Inc. PO Box 1898 Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1898
Fax: 605-333-9835
Email: claims@claimsassoc.com
Keep a copy of the First Report of Injury on file for four years per SDCL 62-6-1.
Information also available at www.sdmlwcfund.com.
continued
South Dakota Municipalities filed the following statement of ownership Sept. 1, 2023.
3
SDML BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, Rapid City
SDML ANNUAL CONFERENCE, Rapid City
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES CITY SUMMIT, Atlanta, GA
SDML BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, Pierre
Arnie Schott
Long-time Mayor, City of McLaughlin
Aug. 23, 1933-Aug. 17, 2023
Arnold “Arnie” Ralph Schott passed away Aug. 17 in Aberdeen, SD, at the age of 89. He was the husband of Bonnie Kay Schott (Rau). They shared a wonderful 64 years of marriage together.
Arnie was born Aug. 23, 1933, to Jacob and Lydia (Moser) Schott in rural McLaughlin. Arnie attended McLaughlin Public School and farmed with his father for seven years. Afterwards, he attended welding school in Colorado. He served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1962 and was a Battalion Motor Sergeant during his duty in Korea. After returning from military duty overseas, Arnie worked as a hired hand for Leo Rau and at Farmer Union Oil as a mechanic. In 1972, he opened Arnie’s Repair in McLaughlin, SD.
Arnie was a proud member of Family Worship Center in Mobridge, SD. He served as the President of RC&D for four years and on the McLaughlin City Council Board for many years. In 2008, Arnie was elected mayor of McLaughlin and held that position for 10 years. On top of all this public service, he also served as the Corson County Coroner for 30 years.
Arnold’s greatest joys were working on vehicles or on the farm. He was known for his love of John Deere tractors, collecting pens, and pranking/joking around with his loved ones. Ask anyone who knew Arnie: they have a good story to tell.
The funeral service was held at Family Worship Center in Mobridge on Aug. 21. The online guestbook can be signed at www.keslingfuneralhome.net. ■
Ever since I was a young child, I was intrigued with bridges. Bridges are meant to provide passage over obstacles such as water, roads, railroads, and valleys. Provide a quicker way to travel from point A to point B.
Another perspective: bridges connect people, communities, economies, and can even improve the health and wellbeing of the adventurists taking alternative modes of transportation. Every chance I get, I’m outdoors. I love taking walks, bike rides, and going to parks with my kids. Whenever there’s an approaching pedestrian bridge on a trail, I get just as excited as my kids do to walk, run, or bike over it. If there is water under the approaching bridge, our delight is exponentially heightened at the potential of seeing an animal swimming in the murky waters below.
I’m a business developer for a civilfocused engineering team in South Dakota called IMEG. More broadly, IMEG is a full-service engineering firm with 75 offices spread across the nation and 2,200 team members. I’m proud to work with such a talented team of professionals. The broad expertise, continued training, people-centric culture, and passion of this team is what makes IMEG a great firm. Our clients are our lifeblood. Being part of a civil engineering team has led to me look at bridges through a different lens.
I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge from our talented engineers, surveyors, designers, and our clients. Naturally, I pass along all the interesting tidbits I’ve learned over the years to my husband and kids. Recently, my six-year-old son has been fascinated with all things that have a motor. I showed him a picture that I took of a snooper truck at a job site where our engineers were inspecting a bridge over a stream.
He, of course, listened because he wanted to know how this vehicle worked as he hadn’t seen one before. I explained that our engineers need to thoroughly inspect bridges to keep the traveling public safe. That entails visually examining, documenting, and making determinations with routine bridge inspections. The purpose of these routine inspections is to determine the physical and functional condition of a bridge on a regularly scheduled basis.
I am happy to report to the traveling public, rest assured, you are in good hands with the amount of detail that goes into these routine inspections. During the inspection, special tools are used for cleaning, probing, sounding, measuring, and visual aids.
On occasion, destructive tests are conducted to evaluate specific areas or materials of concern or to help identify rehabilitative work that has previously been completed. Type, location, accessibility, and condition of a bridge are some of the factors that determine what methods of inspection practices are used. When problems are detected, or during the inspection of critical areas, nondestructive evaluation methods and other advanced technologies are used.
I lost my six-year-old’s attention at this point, so I had to bring it back to the snooper truck. I explained that to access the underside of the bridge deck on some of the superstructures inspected, our engineers use this vehicle that has a boom lift to get under the bridge. A scissor lift is also used in some cases. The scissor lift has all kinds of fun buttons and levers, but more importantly, it’s a great tool for our engineers to perform their inspections thoroughly and efficiently.
Necessity leads to many of the world’s inventions and with the unfortunate event of bridge collapses across the world, I’m grateful for this invention. The National Bridge Inspection Standards
(NBIS) were created in response to the 1967 collapse of the Silver Bridge over the Ohio River which killed 46 people. At the time of that collapse, the exact number of highway bridges in the United States wasn’t known. A systematic bridge inspection program monitoring the conditions of existing bridges wasn’t a thing back then.
It is enlightening to know how far we’ve come in the last 55 years. In the Federal-aid Highway Act of 1968, Congress directed the Secretary of Transportation in cooperation with state highway officials, to establish NBIS for the proper safety inspection of bridges, and a program to train employees involved in bridge inspection to carry out the program. As a result, the NBIS regulation was developed, a bridge inspector’s training manual was prepared, and a comprehensive training course was developed to provide specialized training. The NBIS requires safety inspections at least once every 24 months for highway bridges exceeding 20 feet in total length located on public roads. Many bridges are inspected more frequently.
If a bridge is classified as “structurally deficient,” this doesn’t mean that it is unsafe for use by the public. Classification as “structurally deficient” just means the bridge is not capable of safely carrying its originally designed load, however, is safe to remain open, but with a lower capacity restriction put in place. If a bridge is ever determined unsafe, it is closed to public use immediately.
IMEG’s hard-working bridge engineers are just finishing up inspecting 370 bridges across the state of South Dakota. In 2022, that number was 890. I enjoy hearing about their outdoor adventures at the end of every summer. There have been numerous stories of rattlesnakes too close for comfort, bird attacks, lunch break naps on the snooper lift, and snapping turtle encounters while the engineers are on the inflatable float tubes inspecting bridges with waterways.
When I told my six-year-old that engineers even get to use boats, drones, chains, and ATVs on occasion,
his eyes lit up, a smile formed, and he responded with “cool.” I now wonder if I have been inadvertently shaping my son’s future with these discussions. Maybe I will be the mother of a future engineer.
Next time you meet an engineer, please remember to thank them for what they do. There are a lot of engineer jokes out there that, you must admit, are pretty funny. I have a sales and marketing background and possess the opposite skill sets and personality traits than most engineers, so I am grateful and thankful for the work they do. They are innovative, problem solvers, inventors, designers, and builders. They truly care about making the world a better and safer place for you and me. ■
Courtney Jutting is a business developer at IMEG, a full-service engineering firm specializing in the built environment, building optimization, infrastructure, planning, and construction engineeringrelated services. Visit www.imegcorp. com to learn more.
The Secretary of State's office, Associated School Boards of South Dakota, and the South Dakota Municipal League are co-sponsoring a series of workshops covering all aspects of elections - from notices to the final canvass - including question-and-answer sessions.
Six webinar workshops are scheduled to assist election officers in conducting municipal or school elections. Identical sessions will be held in both the morning and afternoon of each day. New finance officers and business managers are encouraged to attend all six webinars.
Webinar 1: Thurs, Dec. 7, 2023
9:30-10:15 a.m. CST / 2:30- 3:15 p.m. CST
• Election Types and Date (don’t forget to set your election date)
• Combining elections vs. holding elections on the same day
• Election Calendar (appoint your election boards sooner rather than later)
• Precinct and Election Boards
• Public Notices
• We will walk through our website and the Legislative Research Council’s site if time allows
Webinar 2: Thurs, Dec. 14, 2023
9:30-10:40 a.m. CST / 2:30-3:40 p.m. CST
• Candidate Eligibility Requirements
• Petitions - Forms, Deadlines, Signature Requirements (change for cities) and Counting Signatures (walk through the petition checklist). New petition challenge law.
• What if no one files?
• Financial Interest Statements (these must be filed every year for applicable cities and schools)
• Vacancies - What Creates a Vacancy and How to Fill It
• Campaign Finance (for applicable cities and schools)Who is Required to File, Restrictions, Disclaimers and Forms
A groundbreaking, an award, an individual honor? Let us know!
emilie@sdmunicipalleague.org
• Free to participants
• Series of six webinars; register for whichever ones you like
• Morning and afternoon sessions offered of each webinar
Webinar 3: Mon, March 11, 2024
9:30-10:10 a.m. CST / 2:30-3:10 p.m. CST
• Ballot Preparation
• Who Can Vote - Voter Registration and Residency
Webinar 4: Wed, March 13, 2024
9:30-10:30 a.m. CST / 2:30-3:30 p.m. CST
• Absentee Voting - Application, Voting In-Person or by Mail, UOCAVA Voters (we will walk through our handout)
Webinar 5: Thurs, March 21, 2024
9:30- 11 a.m. CST / 2:30-4 p.m. CST
• Election Worker Training - you may use this to train your election workers
• We will walk through the Precinct Manual as a guide on “What to do on Election Day.”
Webinar 6: Thurs, March 28, 2024
9:30-10 a.m. CDT / 2:30-3 p.m. CDT
• What to ask your county auditor for (Voter registration list, schools make sure to ask for all the counties your district covers etc.)
• What should you, as the person in charge of the election, do on Election Day?
• Counting, Canvassing and Recounting - Provisional Ballots, Duties of Canvassers and Recount Process
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded funding for fifty local bridge projects totaling approximately $74.3 million at their regularly scheduled August meeting in Pierre.
“Safe and efficient access to destinations such as schools, hospitals, farms and ranchlands are critical to our way of life in South Dakota,” said Secretary Joel Jundt. “With over 80,000 miles of roadway and 5,700 bridges across our state, sound and timely investments like those made by the South Dakota Transportation Commission this week ensure all communities have an opportunity to thrive today and into the future.”
Overall, 268 applications were considered. Awards were divided into four categories: permanent bridge removal, local bridges on their federal aid routes, local bridges not
on their federal aid routes, and bridge improvement preliminary engineering grants.
Six applications for permanent bridge removals were received and were approved to be added to the 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan for approximately $1 million. Project recipients are: Faulk County, Hand County (3), Lake County, and Lincoln County.
Twenty-one applications for bridge rehabilitation/replacement on federal aid routes were received and eight were approved to be added to the 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan for approximately $26.3 million. Project recipients are: Beadle County, Codington County (2), Douglas County, Miner County, Perkins County, Roberts County, and Yankton County.
One hundred and ninety applications
for bridge rehabilitation/replacement on non-federal aid routes were received and 13 were approved to be added to the 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan for approximately $45.5 million. Project recipients are: City of Egan, Grant County, Hand County (2), Jackson County, Jones County, Lincoln County, Moody County, Roberts County (2), Spink County, and Turner County (2).
Fifty-one applications for bridge improvement grant (BIG) preliminary engineering survey and hydraulic studies were received and 23 were approved to be added by addendum to the 2023-2026 Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan for approximately $1.5 million. Project recipients are: Charles Mix County (3), Day County, Grant County (2), Hand County (11), Lyman County, McCook County, Roberts County (2), Tripp County, and Union County. ■
The Capital City is nestled on the Missouri River, and you’ll find lots of new activity happening here.
In fact, much of it is happening right along our riverfront.
The city just built a new water treatment system; it started producing potable water in late 2022. The treatment facility, located along the waterfront in Steamboat Park, pulls surface water from the Missouri River, treats it, and then distributes it to our customers throughout the community. The project is the biggest City investment in history, and it is well worth it. The community asked for a treatment facility, the city commission listened, and the product is great!
Also, along our waterfront, a new Missouri River Bridge is under construction. Although that’s a South Dakota Dept. of Transportation project, it will provide a new welcome mat to Pierre with new landscaping, plaza, and public space along the river.
That bridge will also connect our walking trail system to Fort Pierre’s trails and the state trail system to the west and east. All told, there’s more than 50 miles of maintained trails connected throughout the systems. They stretch from the Oahe Dam to the Farm Island Recreation Area located about ten miles east of Pierre. If you follow
the trails through Pierre’s downtown area and state capital campus, you’ll find life-size bronze statues of all of South Dakota’s former governors – the nation’s only Trail of Governors.
We’re also in the process of building a new outdoor swimming complex in one of our riverfront parks. Once complete, it will include a recreational pool, a multipurpose pool, a lazy river, a raft slide, a speed slide, a zipline, and
water features for kids of all ages. It’ll be heated too! We anticipate the pool will be open for the 2024 swimming season.
Pierre’s two largest parks flank the Missouri River. Combined with our other seven parks they create 100 acres of green space. Within them, you’ll find tennis courts, sports fields, a beach volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a new skate park, playgrounds,
boat docks, a campground, and an 18-hole golf course. We also have a community orchard, a butterfly garden, a community room, fishing pods, a new dog park, pickleball courts, and a new corn hole court. Plus, we have a collegiate-level summer baseball team -the Oahe Zap!
Although it’s not happening on our waterfront, we are also extremely excited about a mixed-use development along Sioux Avenue in our commercial corridor. A new apartment complex, hotel, office building, and retail space are being built there. The hotel is expected to be open in 2024.
The Capital City of Pierre has been proactive for the last six years, positioning the city for continued growth. Our recent investments will serve the community well into the future.
If you haven’t explored Pierre in a while, it’s time to come back. We have what you’re looking for! ■
Local governments are tasked with providing many of the basic needs of their local communities. Access to emergency services, parks and recreation, courts and public works services are some, but certainly not all, of the services that are provided through local governments. All these services are made possible by thoughtful, caring, and dedicated public servants. How these public servantsnot just the elected/appointed ones but also those who are employed by our local governments - engage with the local citizens they are tasked to serve determines what the culture is for your organization.
By its very definition, organizational culture is the values and beliefs of your organization which then determine how the members of your organization will respond to demands placed upon them while they carry out their assigned roles and duties. For your organization to be successful, it is imperative that you have, and continue to foster, a healthy cultural organization.
We noted above that the organizational culture is the value and beliefs of your organization which then impact, or guide how those within your organization respond or act while carrying out their various tasks throughout each day. If your organization places a strong emphasis on teamwork and integrity, then at every opportunity, decisions will be made which focus on the team and service first. This will reflect positively in your community, as the community will see a united workforce that is goal oriented and committed to making their community the best it can be. People will notice and will likely be drawn to your team. Strong teams are attractive to those looking to make a change.
Organizational culture starts with your leadership team. If your leadership team exudes a strong
sense of transparency, accountability, teamwork… then that is the culture that will be expected by the other members of your team.
If, however, your leadership team is home by 4:30 p.m. on Friday when the workday ends at 5 p.m., you can expect the rest of the team to exhibit the same behavior. Organizations can rise and fall on a good or poor leader. Regardless of where you may be on the organizational chart, you can always be a positive leader for your team. Beyond the internal team, the culture of your organization will be reflected outwardly to the communities you serve. If they see a team that works together, cares about each other and those they serve, the community will come to trust and support your teams, not because they must, but because they want to! The way you, and your team, act and react to your various tasks and activities will speak louder than the written policies and procedures themselves. I hope that these are one in the same!
A positive organizational culture is imperative to the success of your organization in providing service to your community. If you have a positive culture within your local government, you’re more likely to see a positive culture within your community. A major consideration to keep in mind when looking at what makes up a positive organizational culture is to consider the ethical decisions that your teams may be facing each day.
Consider how you are reinforcing ethical decision making. Are you encouraging collaboration and teamwork? What directions are you offering which encourage teams to work together, rather than posting employees against each other? Are you encouraging integrity in all things? How are you showing your teams that you trust that they can complete the tasks assigned to them? How are you recognizing accountability and performance goals being achieved? Teams which are provided with positive reinforcement, the tools they need to get their jobs done, and the freedom, flexibility, and encouragement to be innovative in job completion (when appropriate of course!) are more likely to create an organization that is able to offer improved services to their citizens, and in turn, the citizens
within a community will demonstrate increased satisfaction!
I’ve said it before, just a couple paragraphs ago in fact, but it’s worth repeating: Those in leadership roles will make or break your organization. Effective leaders will set the tone for what your organization is to become or continue to be.
If you have a leader who is service first, community first, then those on their team will also be service and community first. On the other hand, if you have a leader who is controlling, and inspires doubt and concern, you will have a team that is defensive and constantly looking for ways to escape accountability.
Effective leaders are those who include all members of their team. You will want your leaders to foster and inspire a culture of transparency, fairness, and innovation. If you ask your favorite search engine to list some of the greatest leaders of all time, you’ll be reading a list that includes Gandi, Abe Lincoln, MLK Jr., and Winston Churchill, among others. Each of these people was great at something, they inspired those around them to join their cause. That is what you want a leader to do… to inspire their team to join their “cause.” And today, that cause may be as simple as getting all the fences checked after a storm or ensuring that the road signs are put up after a flood.
If your organization doesn’t already foster a positive culture, changing the current culture can be a challenge, and may seem even impossible. We all know that change can be hard, but in the end, creating an environment that has a strong organizational culture which encourages positive workplace practices will be worth the time and effort. An organization with a positive culture can lead to a more efficient, effective and citizen focused organization.
When you have a citizen focused organization, you will find that your communities will be receptive to your communications about future projects and ventures, whether it’s building a new administration building, or adding a new development to your local community.
I encourage each one of you reading this article to take a moment and look around at your organizational culture. What message are you sending as a leader within your team? Does your team find you accountable and transparent? Do you encourage accountability and transparency in others? Do you value feedback and provide constructive feedback to others? Consider how you as an employee, an elected official, or a citizen can encourage and change your organizational culture for the better. Let’s be the change that our communities need, expect, and deserve…. remembering of course that this could be no change at all! ■
Agri-Business
Due: 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: https://dot.sd.gov
Industrial Park Grant, SD Dept. of Transportation
Due: 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: https://dot.sd.gov Trusted. Professional. Solutions.
> Project Funding & Financing Guidance
> Streets > Sewer > Drainage > Water
> Airports > GIS > Electrical Power
SDML Annual Conference
Oct. 3-6, Rapid City
Registration: $125 members; $225 Non-members; more registration options
Gathers municipal employees and elected officials from across the state to network, learn new tips and trends, share best practices, and discover new products from exhibitors. Inspired by the Great Outdoors, this year's conference features tips on how to survive - and thrive - in municipal government.
Learn more/register: www.sdmunicipalleague.org/ conference
South Dakota GeoSpatial Conference, SD State University
Oct. 18-19, Oacoma and Virtual
Registration: $25 Virtual; $50 In-person
Due: Oct. 18
Learn about projects and programs involving the latest advances in geospatial technologies especially Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). Identify opportunities for collaboration and find out how geospatial technologies can be used to enhance K-12 and higher education classroom activities. Learn more/register: http://sdgisconference.org
City Summit, National League of Cities
Nov. 16-18, Atlanta, GA
The largest educational and networking event for city officials in the United States, it brings together thousands of city leaders, corporate partners, and city staff for four days of educational seminars, policymaking, and networking activities. Held annually by the National League of Cities.
Learn more/register: https://citysummit.nlc.org
Election Training
Six sessions in Dec. and March, online webinars
Registration: Free
Due: One week prior to workshop
Multiple sessions assist officials in conducting municipal or school elections. Topics for each webinar available to view online. New finance officers and business managers are encouraged to attend all webinars. Sponsored by the Secretary of State's office, Associated School Boards of South Dakota, and the South Dakota Municipal League.
Four locations including Sioux Falls, SD 605-339-4157 dgr.com
Training Dates: Webinar 1: Dec. 7, Webinar 2: Dec. 14, Webinar 3: March 11, Webinar 4: March 13, Webinar 5: March 21, Webinar 6: March 28
Learn more/register: www.sdmunicipalleague.org/ events ■
Artificial Intelligence is changing the world as we know it. As lawmakers, it is important that we hear from those on the cutting edge of this technology so we can make better-informed public policy. In the Senate, I help lead our bipartisan AI working group. Last month, on Sept. 13, we hosted a highlevel discussion regarding how Congress should approach the opportunities and risks posed by AI. The all-day closed forum was truly a special and unique gathering of the leading minds and practitioners in AI, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Bill Gates.
While AI has been around in various forms for years, recent advances in the most cutting-edge models have shown us just how capable the technology has become. Thanks to these advancements, you would have a hard time determining whether this column was created using AI (to be clear, it was not) and soon the same might be said for any photo or video that you encounter online. The trust that forms the foundation of society can be felt shifting under our feet as we begin to wonder if seeing is truly believing.
We know that AI is leading to significant changes across our society, our economy and our military. Exactly how and when, and what role Congress should play, is a matter of debate. In the face of such dramatic change, I believe we should move forward by adopting key principles that are important to all Americans and continue to apply them to AI, or any other disruption that follows.
Congress should help shepherd the development of American AI: artificial intelligence that is embodied with the key principles to promote confidence and trust (like privacy and transparency), while continuing to be a birthplace for new innovation in this field.
And while the technology is important, our greatest treasure are the people that choose to call this country home. Not long ago, most of the big tech companies were startups, and many of them are run by people who chose to make America home.
The magnitude of the technological shift we find ourselves in with AI has led to many calls to undertake a new Manhattan-like project. Ask yourself, would we have had a Manhattan project if our country had not allowed Albert Einstein and other scientists to call America home? Where would the American AI industry be today without the individuals present in this room who have pioneered recent breakthroughs or who have come to this country to build an AI company?
America won World War II thanks to the sacrifices made by millions of brave men and women, but that success was far from assured. Technology played a major role in securing that success, and the future of the free world.
Artificial Intelligence will be one of the main tools of the modern warfighter, and America needs to lead in AI to make sure that our warriors have every advantage. We never want our men and women in uniform to be in a fair fight, we always want them to have the upper hand. AI is going to be a part of that advantage.
This endeavor will require us to adapt, and while the allure of simple solutions to complex problems are powerful, we must keep those key principles at the forefront of our decision-making. This is a country that believes in freedom, quality of life, and the rule of law. We are driven to build a more secure and prosperous future for our children.
Winston Churchill famously observed that Americans will always do the right thing, only after they have tried everything else. We can prove him wrong and show that when it comes to AI, America can get it right from the start. ■
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Accountant II - Heartland Energy, Madison, SD. Perform general accounting duties relating to all functions of Heartland Energy, collaborating with others within the organization. Responsible for accurately performing accounting transactions, reports, and financial statements in accordance with accounting standards. This includes developing and tracking budgets, the preparation of customer billings, monthly reports, preparation of audit work papers and associated reports, and economic development loan documents and reports. The ideal candidate will reside in the Madison community, be a team-oriented self-starter with precise attention to detail and have a solid and reliable work ethic. Starting Base Pay: $33/hr. or commensurate based on qualifications and experience. Competitive benefits package. Apply at https:// heartlandenergy.com/employment. Open until filled. EOE.
Assistant Public Works Director - City of Box Elder, SD. The City of Box Elder Public Works Department is made up of six divisions: Engineering, Streets, Parks, Water, Sanitary Sewer and Fleet & Vehicle Maintenance. The Assistant Public Works Director is responsible for assisting the Public Works Director in planning, directing, and overseeing the city's public works programs, activities, and staff. Salary: Starting at $90,300+ DOQ. For a full job description and to apply, visit Prothman at https://www. prothman.com/. For questions, call 206-368-0050. Closes Oct. 15, 2023. Applications will be reviewed as submitted. Position is open until filled.
Baler/Heavy Equipment Operator – City of Pierre, SD. Operates equipment at the baling facility, material recovery site and landfill to bale and dispose of solid waste. Hours involve varying shifts during the week and work on some weekends and holidays. Must possess or have the ability to obtain a SD Class A CDL with air brakes and tanker endorsements. Experience with operating a front-end loader, compactor, scarab, dozer and scraper and driving a semi tractor and trailer desirable. Wage offer will be based upon actual education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO A $3,000 HIRING BONUS! Apply: City of Pierre Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, Phone (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre.gov. Open until filled. EOE.
Certified Police Officer - City of Flandreau, SD. The City of Flandreau is seeking applicants for a Certified Police Officer Opening. The full-time position has a hiring range of $23.33 to $25.92 hourly, depending on experience. The position also includes a full benefits package including individual health, dental, vision, and life insurance, and South Dakota Retirement. Applicants can find a job description and application at www.cityofflandreau.com under the "Employment" tab. Please submit both a resume and completed application to Police Chief Zach Weber at zweber@ flandreaupd.org. Open until filled.
City Manager - City of Mound, MN. Acts as the chief executive officer for the City Council, responsible for coordinating the administration of all City departments in developing and implementing programs,
policies, and directives. Salary: $114,835 to $142,200. View the full position profile at https://www.ddahumanresources.com/ active-searches. Please direct questions to Pat Melvin at pat@ daviddrown.com or 612-920-3320 x116. Closes Oct. 11.
Communications Officer – City of Pierre, SD. Works 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, document and dispatch appropriate public safety personnel for those calls. Receiving, processing, and sending radio communications for various Law Enforcement Agencies, Emergency Medical Services, and local Fire Departments. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Comprehensive benefit package. Apply to Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 125, Pierre, SD 57501, Phone (605) 7737429 or www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.
Communications Officer - City of Spearfish, SD. Responsible for performing emergency and non-emergency communications functions. Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Apply at www. cityofspearfish.com. Starting wage $20.87 plus $2 per hour rotating shift stipend; comprehensive benefits. $4,000 sign-on bonus. Open until filled. EOE.
Communications Operator – Dispatcher - City of Brookings, SD. Looking for a career where every second counts and every call matters? The City of Brookings is looking for someone to join our team as a Communications Operator - Dispatcher to answer 911 calls and dispatch first responders. 2023 Pay Range $18.33 - $24.80 (January 2024 Wage Increase) Excellent Benefits Including: Vacation and Sick Leave; SDRS; Health, Dental and Vision Insurance and more. To learn more or to apply: https://www. cityofbrookings-sd.gov/careers. Closes Oct. 4.
Current Planning Manager – City of Rapid City, SD. Help manage the current planning processes to include but not limited to the review of rezoning, conditional use permits, planned development applications, subdivision plats, vacation of rights-ofways and easements, building permit applications for applicable planning ordinances and regulations. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to communicate effectively and develop partnerships and strong working relationships with departments within the city, elected and appointed officials, and the public. Should be able to think critically, deal with conflict effectively, and use problem-solving skills to provide excellent customer service. Starting salary is $98,556.70 -$132,451.98 yearly depending on experience. Comprehensive benefits. Learn more and apply at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/rapidcity. Open until filled.
Deputy Finance Officer - City of Oacoma, SD. This position will assist the Finance Officer in a trainee role to become eligible for future appointment to the Finance Officer position. The trainee position requires a bondable employee with experience in accounting and office or administrative work. Experience with QuickBooks and Microsoft applications is highly desirable. The starting wage for this position depends upon qualifications and experience but will not be less than $20.00 per hour plus excellent
benefits. Application forms are available at www.oacomasd.com/ miscellaneous. Call (605) 734-4455 for more details. Open until filled.
District Manager - Dakota Dunes, SD. (pop. roughly 4,000) Dakota Dunes South Dakota is seeking a candidate to fill the District Manager (city manager) position, a position that has not been open for 23 years. This is a wonderful opportunity to become a part of our very successful Missouri River community. The District Manager position will be responsible for the planning, construction, operation, repair maintenance, and replacement of the district's water, sewer streets, storm drainage, park facilities and systems. (See the job description for a full list of duties). Apply and learn more at https://dakotadunes.com/local-government/jobs. Closes Oct. 15. EOE.
Electric Operations Director - City of Melrose, MN. Responsible for the operation, construction, and maintenance of the City's electrical distribution system and supervises Electric Department staff. Position works on-call and responds to emergencies and/or repairs as needed. Maximum Base Pay: $104,520. Average On Call Pay: Additional $6,000/year. (Salary will increase by 3% on 1/1/24). Apply at https://daviddrown.hiringplatform.com. Contact Gary Weiers at gary@daviddrown.com or 612-920-3320 x109 with questions. Closes Oct. 5.
Engineering Technician I - City of Brookings, SD. Under the direct supervision of the Assistant City Engineer and the general supervision of the City Engineer, is responsible for performing simple technical tasks associated with implementing the City's Stormwater Management programs, assisting with the implementation of the City's Sidewalk Assessment program, and inspection of infrastructure construction projects throughout the City. Wage: $22.28 - $30.14. For full job description and to apply: https://www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/careers. Open until filled.
Engineering Technician II - City of Brookings, SD. Under the direct supervision of the Assistant City Engineer and the general supervision of the City Engineer, is responsible for assisting with the administration of the City's Stormwater Management programs, managing the City's Sidewalk Assessment program, and inspection of infrastructure construction projects throughout the City. The Engineering Technician II classification differs from the Engineering Technician I in that the former requires complete knowledge and comprehension of tasks and assignments, is given increased responsibility and latitude of judgement, and has developed broad skills that are useful to the development of projects. Wage: $24.57 - $33.23. Full job description and apply at https://www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/careers. Open until filled.
Executive Director - Arrowhead Library System, MN. Responsible for establishing and directing the program of library
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services for the Arrowhead Library System, both a regional public library system and a multicounty, multitype library cooperative, and providing services to member libraries and other participating agencies. Promotion and development of standards, and determination of policies are vital elements of the work. Program policy and guidance are received from the Arrowhead Library System Governing Board with wide latitude being given in direction of professional activities. Salary: $110,469 to $132,496. View the full position profile at https://www.ddahumanresources.com/activesearches. Closes Oct. 4.
Inter Department Operator - City of Custer, SD. Primary purpose of position is to assist in the operation, maintenance and repair of the city's water system, wastewater system, streets, parks and public buildings. Must possess a valid driver's license and reside within 15 miles of the city of Custer. Starting wage DOE and certifications. Full description and applications available at www.custer.govoffice. com. An application must be completed, and resumes may be included with the application, but are not accepted in lieu of an application. Open until filled. EOE.
Journey Lineworker - Missouri River Energy Services (MRES), Lakefield, MN. Responsible for operating and maintaining the municipal electric utility distribution systems in a safe and efficient manner. You will play an active role in the operation, construction, reconstruction, maintenance and repair with the City of Lakefield’s
electrical distribution systems and associated equipment and as the customer energy needs continue to evolve, so too will your roll. We provide competitive wages, a comprehensive/low cost benefit package, and an outstanding work environment that promotes a long-lasting career. For consideration, please apply on our website: https://careers.mrenergy.com/job/Lakefield-Journey-LineworkerMN/1073766100. Open until filled. EOE.
Librarian - City of Sioux Falls, SD. Oversees and sets the vision for adult programming and services for the library system, and coordinates programming across Siouxland Libraries branches. Uses hospitality to perform in-depth library service involving extensive public contact, while leading a team at the Downtown Library. If you possess effective leadership skills and have the passion for coaching and developing a team through goal setting, regular feedback, and fostering positive working relationships, you may be a good fit. Hiring range DOQ: $2,588.00 - $2,857.60 biweekly. Apply online at http://www.siouxfalls.org/careers. Closes Oct. 6.
Library Associate I - City of Rapid City, SD. Help provide excellent customer service to the patrons of the Public Library. Will focus on customer service, communication, and problem-solving while working to meet a wide array of library challenges. Ideal candidate will possess a high level of customer service with an emphasis on communication skills, and be able to think critically and solve problems on their own. Should be able to work collaboratively as well as independently on assigned projects, exercise judgment regarding library policies and procedures, and be able to deal with conflict in an effective manner. Starting hourly wage is $19.10 plus benefits. Learn more at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ rapidcity. Open until filled.
Library Associate II - Training - City of Rapid City, SD. Helps develop and implement staff training and evaluate training needs within the library. Works with the public and staff on a daily basis as they work to bring training to staff on library services and tasks. Ideal candidate will possess enthusiasm and aptitude for training groups and individuals, work collaboratively as well as independently on assigned projects, exercise judgment regarding library policies and procedures, and be able to deal with conflict in an effective manner. Starting hourly wage is $19.99 up to $ 21.68 plus benefits. Learn more at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ rapidcity. Open until filled.
Operations Management Engineer – City of Rapid City, SD. The Department of Public Works is seeking an experienced Operations Management Engineer to serve 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. The ideal candidate will possess the effective communication, mathematical, reasoning, computer and administrative skills needed to perform necessary duties with a strong work ethic that centers on good teamwork and concerns for safety. Starting salary is $101,513.41 annually with a $5,000.00 sign-on bonus. Competitive benefits. Learn more at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/rapidcity. Open until filled.
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. Certified officer preferred. Comprehensive benefit package. Up to $3,000 hiring bonus. Apply: Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 1253, Pierre, SD 57501, (605)773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.
Patrol Sergeant - City of Vermillion, SD. Under direction of a Police Chief and Patrol Lieutenant, the Patrol Sergeant supervises Police Officers; performs assignments as directed; and, in the absence of the Police Chief and Patrol Lieutenant, assumes command of the Police Department. This is a public service position that requires unusual hours, rotating shifts, and working under inclement weather conditions and stressful situations. It is required of this position to supervise police officers, and other employees as directed. The position receives general or direct supervision from the Lieutenants and Police Chief. Learn more at https://www. vermillion.us/Jobs.aspx or contact Jack Baustian at 605-677-7050 or jackb@cityofvermillion.com. Open until filled.
Planning Director/Building Inspector - City of North Sioux City, SD. Responsible for setting the agenda for the Planning Commission and acts as the liaison between the Planning Commission and the City Council. A bachelor's degree in urban planning or a related field is desired but will consider applicants with a significant history of relevant work experience. Salary is commensurate with similar positions depending on qualifications. Excellent benefits package. Full description at www.northsiouxcity-
sd.gov. Submit cover letter and resume to the City Administrator by email to eric.christensen@northsiouxcity-sd.gov or by mail to The City of North Sioux City, Attn: Eric Christensen, 504 River Drive, North Sioux City SD 57049. Open until filled. EOE.
Police Officer (full-time) – City of Avon, SD. Operations of the police department, recorded keeping activities, and patrolling the community to maintain public order. Requirements: High School diploma or GED, Valid SD driver's license with acceptable driving recorded, must exercise independent judgment and use discretion during daily patrol activities, must not have criminal convictions that resulted incarcerations, must be available to work all shifts, Prefer Certified. State certification as a law enforcement officer must be completed within one year of hire date. Wage dependent on experience. Full benefits. To apply, send resume to the City of Avon, PO Box 207, Avon, SD 57315. Questions: call 605-286-3694 or email cityavon@gwtc.net. Open until filled.
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 field 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 Certification. Full-time position. Starting
wage range: $28.72 - $34.55 per hour, competitive benefit package. Full description and apply at www.cityofspearfish.com. Open until filled. EOE.
Police Officer (Entry Level/Lateral Entry) - City of Vermillion, SD. Duties include performing varied assignments in motorized patrol, traffic control and enforcement, accident investigation, preliminary and follow-up investigation at crime scenes, and assisting in public safety education programs. To learn more about the police officer position and to complete an application, please visit the City of Vermillion's job page: https://www.vermillion.us/ Jobs.aspx or if you have questions about the position please call/ email Jack Baustian at 605-677-7050 or jackb@cityofvermillion. com. Open until filled.
Public Works Maintenance – City of Philip, SD. Assist in all phases of maintaining the city streets, water distribution and wastewater system. Assist with the maintenance of public buildings and open spaces including the airport, rubble site and swimming pool. Knowledge and experience with all types of equipment is desired. Must hold a valid SD driver’s license. State water and wastewater certifications, and pesticide license must be obtained within two years of employment. Full time position. Wage DOE with an excellent benefit package. For more information, contact City Administrator Brittany Smith at 605-859-2175 or cityadmin@ philipsd.us Job description and applications at https://www.philipsd. us. Open until filled. EOE.
Senior Water Plant/System Specialist – City of Pierre, SD. Responsible for leading and participating in specialized technical work at the municipal water treatment plant, distribution system, and related facilities of the raw and potable water system. This is a lead position responsible for leading other Water Plant/System Technicians in the operation of water systems, including water sampling, testing, treatment, repair, maintenance and operation of pumps, wells, motors, and installation of maintenance and repair of water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Wage offer will be based upon actual education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO A $3,000 HIRING BONUS! Apply to Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 1253, Pierre, SD 57501, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.
Sewer Collection Maintenance Technician – City of Pierre, SD. Provides services in the water and wastewater departments by repairing and maintaining sanitary and storm sewer mains. A CCTV van including computer applications to video and inspect sanitary and storm sewer lines. You’ll operate a Vactor truck to clean sewer lines, storm lines, lift stations, and multiple structures located around the city. Performs smoke testing, bypass pumping and flow monitoring. Wage offer based upon actual education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Apply to City of Pierre Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, (605) 773-7429, www. cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.
accordance with applicable standards under general supervision. Operate and monitor water treatment plants and storage reservoirs in response to water system demands. Operate and control motors, pumps, and valves to regulate raw water flow through treatment process, pump finished water into distribution system. Wage Range: Dependent Upon Certification Level - $19.18-$34.17/hour. Learn more at https://www.brookingsutilities.com/employment. Closes Oct. 6.
Water/Sewer Department Head - City of Wessington Springs, SD. Class B commercial driver’s license required or obtained within 60 days. Subject to drug and alcohol testing. Desired qualifications are Class I Water Distribution, Class I Wastewater Collection, Class I Wastewater Treatment, and Class II Water Treatment certificates or obtained within one year. Will help street and electric departments as needed. Excellent benefit package including SD Retirement, health, vision & dental insurance, AFLAC, and PTO. Salary dependent on experience and qualifications. Applications available at cityofwessingtonsprings.com or 605-539-1691. Applications & resume due Oct. 20 at City Hall by 4 p.m. EOE.
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 flexible. 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.
Utility Locator – City of Pierre, SD. This position is responsible for locating underground utilities. This position is also responsible for maintaining and testing water meters and for installing water nodes as part of the Cities AMI System. Prior use of electronic and manual detection equipment to identify the location of water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer utilities; skill in reading and interpreting maps; and knowledge of South Dakota One Call policies and procedures beneficial. Wage offer will be based upon actual education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package.
UP TO A $3,000 HIRING BONUS! Apply: Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 1253, Pierre, SD 57501, Phone (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.
Wastewater Superintendent – City of Watertown, SD. Responsible for the administrative oversight, visioning, leadership, planning, coordinating and control of the Wastewater Division; to ensure essential services are provided to maintain the public infrastructure to provide for public safety, health and welfare. Pay Range: $87,131.20 - $114,940.80. For a complete Job Description go to: www.watertownsd.us. Are you looking for a career in an environment that values people, leadership, and development? Come work for the City of Watertown! https://youtu. be/6kePkmzpszM. Watertown is a city of 22,700 and the county seat of Codington County. Unique community events. Whether your interests lie in shopping, golfing, fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying the outdoors along beautiful Lake Kampeska. Watertown has something for everyone! Closes Oct. 5.
Water Plant Operator - Brookings Municipal Utilities, Brookings, SD. Operates and maintains water treatment plants and associated equipment to provide safe drinking water in
Water Superintendent – City of Pierre, SD. Seeking an individual knowledgeable about water treatment and distribution who will be responsible for managing a state-of-the-art treatment plant. Position is responsible for managing the operations and maintenance of the city’s water treatment plant and maintenance of the distribution system including fiscal operations and administration. Plans, directs, and supervises the operations and maintenance of the water distribution and treatment system. Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal drinking water regulations. Comprehensive benefit package. Wage offer based upon actual education and experience. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Apply: Laurie Gronlund, HR Director, City of Pierre, PO Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, (605)773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE. ■
Find full descriptions, links to applications, more listings, or place an ad online:
CLASSIFIEDS POLICY: $50 per submission. SDML members receive classified ads for free as part of their membership. Includes a listing on the SDML classifieds webpage and in the next issue of the SD Municipalities magazine if received by the 10th of the month preceding the publication date. Submissions may be subject to editing. ■
On or before October 1 – The tax levies for the ensuing year must be certified to the county auditor. (SDCL 10-12-7; See Hdbk. Sec. 12.066)
In October – The State Department of Revenue mails out liquor license application forms to all licensees to be completed and submitted to the local authorities for initial action at the first regular meeting of the governing
body in November. (NOTE: This is an administrative determination so no statutory citation is possible.)
Second Monday of October – Native Americans’ Day – State holiday (SDCL 1-5-1)
By October 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))
No later than November 1 – The special assessment roll for all assessments payable under the Plan One option must be delivered to the county auditor. (SDCL 9-43-105; See Hdbk., sec. 12.160)
No later than November 1 – Delinquent special assessment installments which are payable under the Plan Two option must be certified to the county auditor.
(SDCL 9-43-106; See Hdbk., sec. 12.160)
No later than second Tuesday in November – Governing boards wishing to consolidate boards of equalization must approve a resolution outlining consolidated board membership no later than the second Tuesday in November. (SDCL 10-11-66; See Hdbk., sec. 12.120)
Boundary changes – Municipalities must notify the Department of Revenue of any resolution or amendment enacted which changes the boundaries of the municipality. Notification shall be in written form, shall contain a copy of the resolution or amendment, and may be sent by electronic means or registered mail. Municipalities shall also provide any changes and additions to streets and addresses. (SDCL 10-52-13; See Hdbk., sec. 14.172) ■
Expertise Snapshot
Capital Improvement Plans
Feasibility Studies
Grants + Funding Support
Hydraulic System Modeling + Analysis
Industrial Wastewater Inflow + Infiltration Studies
Master Planning + Facility Plans
Permitting
Sanitary Sewer + Wastewater Collection
Site Selection + Surveying
User Rate Studies
Wastewater Treatment
Water Treatment
Water Reuse
No later than November 1 – The liquor tax reversion must be made. (SDCL 35-5-22; See Hdbk., sec. 11.600)
No later than November 1 – The special assessment roll for all assessments payable under the Plan One option must be delivered to the county auditor. (SDCL 9-43-105; See Hdbk., sec. 12.160)
No later than November 1 – Delinquent special assessment installments which are payable under the Plan Two option must be certified to the county auditor. (SDCL 9-43-106; See Hdbk., sec. 12.160)
November 1 – All property subject to taxation shall be listed and assessed annually, but the value of such property is to be determined according to its value on the first day of November preceding the assessment. (SDCL 10-6-105; See Hdbk., sec. 12.105)
First Tuesday after the first Monday in November – The general election is held each even numbered year. (SDCL 12-2-2)
November 11 – Veterans’ Day – State holiday (SDCL 1-5-1)
No later than second Tuesday in November – Governing boards wishing to consolidate boards of equalization must approve a resolution outlining consolidated board membership. (SDCL 10-11-66; See Hdbk., sec. 12.120)
Fourth Thursday of November –Thanksgiving Day – State holiday (SDCL 1-5-1)
Boundary changes – Municipalities must notify the Department of Revenue of any resolution or amendment enacted which changes the boundaries of the municipality. Notification shall be in written form, shall contain a copy of the resolution or amendment, and may be sent by electronic means or registered mail. Municipalities shall also provide any changes and additions to streets and addresses. (SDCL 10-52-13; See Hdbk., sec. 14.172) ■
