SDML Names Next Executive Director

The South Dakota Municipal League (SDML) has selected David Reiss of Pierre as the association's next executive director.

“We have a really good feeling about the health of the Municipal League and what David brings to the organization,” said SDML Past President Steve Allender when he made the offi cial announcement at the SDML Annual Conference in October. “David will work closely with [current director] Yvonne to ensure a smooth transition.”

Reiss will begin his duties Nov. 1, succeeding long-time executive director Yvonne Taylor who will retire at the end of 2022. During the transition period, Reiss will work closely with Taylor, the SDML executive board, and SDML staff to familiarize himself with the organization and its members.

Reiss attended the Annual SDML Conference in Watertown last month, which he says was a great

Redirect personal issues away from work and to helping resources.

• Legal • Financial • Substance Abuse Counseling • In-person Counseling ✓ Marriage & Family issues ✓ Anxiety & Depression ✓ Post-Traumatic Stress ✓ Mental Health Call today: 1.800.779.6125 info@connectionseap.com www.connectionseap.com way to get a crash-course in all things municipal.

“I am honored and excited to take on the executive director position at SDML,” said Reiss. “The SDML has a long, rooted history of supporting South Dakota municipalities and I look forward to working with the League and its staff to continue that critical advocacy role.”

The SDML executive director is responsible for all aspects of the operations of the League, and works with member municipalities to answer questions, develops the League budget and action plans for Board approval, works with other members of the staff in presenting workshops and training, serves as the principal lobbyist for the Municipal League, and oversees the production of League publications. The executive director also serves as the point of contact and secretary/ treasurer for each of the 10 affi liate associations of the League.

Reiss most recently worked as the executive director for the Central South Dakota Enhancement District. Prior to that role, he spent over six years as the senior policy analyst and director of programs at the South Dakota Department of Tribal Relations. Reiss’ experience includes working with counterparts addressing economic development, agriculture development, fi sheries

DAVID REISS, Pierre, will begin duties as SDML executive director Nov. 1, working alongside Yvonne Taylor until her retirement at the end of 2022.

and wildlife management, taxation, veteran issues, and lobbying in the state legislature. He also has previous experience serving as county equalization staff and as a legal clerk for the US Dept. of Interior.

Reiss grew up in Pierre, SD, and has earned several college degrees, the most recent being a Master of Science in Administration from the University of South Dakota.

Reiss and his wife Amanda have four young children and are active in local youth hockey and enjoy numerous outdoor activities including camping, hiking, and hunting. ■

DO YOU HAVE CITY NEWS TO SHARE?

Let us know! Email us a 250-word description of your city’s notable achievement –a project, initiative, award, or individual honor. Include an image if possible.

emilie@sdmunicipalleague.org