South Dakota Municipalities – May 2025 by South Dakota Municipal League

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Communities implement nature-based solutions to address city priorities and support family well-being. ► p. 18

DAKOTA

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT

Carolynn Anderson Finance Officer, Wall

1st VICE PRESIDENT

Leland Treichel

President of the Board, Roscoe

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

Michelle DeNeui

Finance Officer, Spearfish TRUSTEES

Paullyn Carey

Finance Director, Huron

Lance Lehmann Councilmember, Rapid City

Dawn Murphy Finance Officer, Tea

Richard Thomason, Councilmember, Sioux Falls

Laurie Woodward

City Administrator/Finance Officer, Custer

PAST PRESIDENT

Harry Weller Mayor, Kadoka

DISTRICT CHAIRS

Dist. 1 | Mike Grosek Mayor, Webster

Dist. 2 | Jameson Berreth

City Administrator, Madison

Dist. 3 | Derick Wenck Mayor, Harrisburg

Dist. 4 | Shauna Meyerink, Finance Officer, Platte

Dist. 5 | Kristi Honeywell, City Administrator, Pierre

Dist. 6 | Rick Boschee Mayor, Bowdle

Dist. 7 | Gary Weismantel Mayor, Herreid

Dist. 8 | Brittany Smith

City Administrator, Philip

Dist. 9 | Misty Summers-Walton Finance Officer, Hot Springs

Dist. 10 | Gina Carpenter

Human Resources Officer, Belle Fourche

LEAGUE STAFF

Sara Rankin

Lori Butler

Jessica Carr

Emilie Miller Director of Marketing and Communications

Lisa Nold Director of Risk Sharing Services

Rob Peterson Director of Municipal Electric Services

Kristi Osterkamp

Jackie Lopour

Accountant

Assistant

Krista Kerns Member Accounts Manager

SD Public Assurance Alliance

Lynn Bren Executive Director

Kristina Peterson Deputy Director

Becky Brunsing Member Services Representative

Paytra Nichols Underwriter

MUNICIPALITIES

DIRECTOR’S NOTES

SARA RANKIN | SDML EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As we turn the page into spring and look ahead to the energy of summer, our member municipalities are preparing for a busy construction season, with local leaders gearing up for infrastructure improvements, park and recreation upgrades, and community development projects that will enhance quality of life for residents. The League is proud to support these efforts by providing resources, guidance, and training that help cities and towns operate more efficiently and effectively.

While our municipalities are busy with projects on the ground, our team at the League has been equally active behind the scenes, crafting guidance for the implementation of legislation passed during the 2025 Legislative Session. As always, we are committed to ensuring that local officials have the tools they need to understand and apply these changes at the local level. Whether it’s new open meeting requirements, elections updates, or municipal authority clarifications, we’re here to break it down and make it practical.

Training and education remain at the heart of our mission, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the upcoming Human Resource and Finance Officers’ Schools the week of June 10-13 in Pierre. These events are designed to equip municipal staff with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in their roles. Whether you’re a veteran city finance officer or just getting started in HR at the municipal level, these sessions offer invaluable insights, peer networking, and the latest best practices.

Our team is energized and ready to help your community succeed this year. From providing guideance and legislative support to hosting in-depth training and fostering connections across municipalities, the SDML remains your partner in progress.

Thank you for all you do for your community. Here’s to a productive and impactful spring and summer! ■

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

CAROLYNN ANDERSON | SDML PRESIDENT

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my elected officials for allowing me the time away from the office to attend all the district meetings. It was a wonderful experience and a great opportunity. I learned some interesting things about other cities, and met many residents who were obviously passionate about their communities.

May is here, which means so is spring and graduation. A new chapter is beginning for these graduates. In Wall, our economic development team gifts each member of the graduating class a mailbox with their name on it. The mailboxes are given to them on graduation day, along with a note from the director or mayor.

The note includes a wish and a hope. The wish is that they go out and experience the wide world outside the community they’ve spent the last 18 years learning and living in. The hope is that they return home one day to share that knowledge to help their community grow and prosper. And the mailbox welcomes them back with open arms, ready to install as soon as that happens.

Our youth is our future. They may be unsure young minds now, but soon they’ll become those passionate residents I met at district meetings.

May your city be lined with the mailboxes of returning graduates. ■

2025 SD LEGISLATIVE RECAP

SARA RANKIN | SDML EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lawmakers passed 212 bills during the 100th Session of the South Dakota Legislature. Following is a quick snapshot of the bills that will most affect our cities.

Moving forward, municipalities of the first and second class can now repurpose municipally owned park land by ordinance instead of requiring a public vote—provided the land is still used for a public purpose, such as a public safety building or maintenance facility. Thank you to the City of Brookings for bringing this legislation forward.

We also made great strides on our multi-year Title 9 project, an effort to rewrite and modernize the 59 chapters governing municipal government. This year, we successfully updated chapters 6-12, with a dedicated group of city attorneys, SDML board members, and others leading the charge. Work will soon begin on the 2026 bill.

Governing boards must now review the open meeting laws brochure annually in a public meeting and document it in their minutes.

The definition of an “official meeting” now includes any quorum discussion of public business via teleconference, email, instant messaging, social media, text messages, or virtual platforms—clarifying that email discussions can count toward a quorum.

The passage of HB 1218 now prohibits municipalities from imposing firearm regulations on their employees, officers or volunteers while within any municipal building, facility, or vehicle. We did work with the prime sponsor on a provision that would allow city owned facilities, whose employees are city employees (such as the Monument in Rapid City), to utilize metal detectors and security personnel in order to be able to continue to host events that require a firearm free facility. Additionally, a last-minute, unfriendly change added the repeal of state law that prohibited an individual from carrying a concealed pistol in any licensed on-sale malt beverage or

alcoholic beverage establishment that derives over one-half of its total income from the sale of malt or alcoholic beverages… this would include municipal bar or liquor store. The owner of the establishment, however, can post a sign prohibiting patrons from entering with a concealed weapon should they choose.

This year, legislation passed requiring the policy to allow for an individual to appeal to the governing body of the public library to determine whether any matter or material is obscene. This policy must be published on the official website of the municipality or annually in the cities legal newspaper.

Cities must now take reasonable steps to designate multioccupancy restrooms, changing rooms, and sleeping quarters for exclusive male or female use. If a city fails to enforce this, an individual encountering someone of the opposite sex in these spaces may take legal action. This does not apply to accidental entry or situations involving children under 10 or individuals requiring assistance.

Municipalities are now required to hold elections in either June or November and allows for combined city/school elections in odd years only. Filing and publication deadlines are also impacted and will be reflected on the 2026 Election Calendar provided by the Secretary of State’s Office.

Municipalities with a population of 1.000 or less are now able to offer three off-sale liquor licenses instead of two.

The 911 surcharge sunset has been repealed and $2 surcharge is now permanent, ensuring continued funding for emergency services in our communities. ■

SD MUNICIPAL LEAGUE HOLDS DISTRICT

MEETINGS, ELECTS NEW DISTRICT OFFICERS

The South Dakota Municipal League (SDML) recently completed their series of annual district meetings, which were held throughout the state in March and April.

“District meetings are an important aspect of the League,” said SDML Executive Director Sara Rankin. “They provide an opportunity for local leaders to come together - not just to share ideas, but to build the relationships that strengthen our communities across South Dakota.”

The centerpiece of each meeting was a summary of the outcome of the very busy 2025 Legislative Session, where Rankin outlined the impact new laws

will have specifically on South Dakota municipalities. Attendees also had access to additional resources and information, including the benefits of participating in the League’s risksharing pools.

Rankin said that appreciation also plays a big role in the meetings.

“This is a time where we are able to thank both city employees and elected offi cials as well as acknowledge the additional servitude of our district chairs and vice chairs,” she said. “That’s not a message that most public servants are used to hearing often, but it’s an important and heartfelt truth.”

The meetings were presided over by Carolynn Anderson, SDML President for 2025 and Finance Officer of Wall, who discussed opportunities for networking and connecting with fellow members.

Anderson also conducted the election of each district’s chair and vice chair for the upcoming year. The district chair acts as a contact for and represents their district as a member of the SDML Board of Directors. Duties began immediately after the election.

The elected officers are listed on the next page. For a recap of each meeting, including attendance and next year's host city, visit sdmunicipalleague.org/ news. ►

CASH MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR SOUTH DAKOTA’S PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

• Governed by local officials

• Fiduciary management with guiding principles of safety, liquidity and yield

• Maximum competitive yields by pooling funds

• Daily liquidity and fixed rate investment alternatives

• Over 230 participants

FUND FEATURES

• Provides Participants same day liquidity prior to 11:00 A.M. central time

• Flexibility to establish multiple accounts

• Separate accounting for each sub-account

• Direct wire of federal aid

• No wire or transaction fees

SDFIT FIXED RATE INVESTMENT PROGRAM (FRI)

• Competitively bid fixed rate investments to help maximize yield

• Local and national bank certificates of deposit

• Government securities

• Laddered investment solutions to fit cash flow and maturity profile

ONLINE PORTAL FOR PARTICIPANTS:

• View daily rate information

• Enter, view, and cancel transactions

• View confirmations, statements, accounts

• View balances

CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Toll-free phone access to experienced representatives who can assist with any inquiry

WEBSITE

Current net yield, reports and much more about SDFIT can be found at www.sdpfit.org

SDML Snapshots 2025 District Meetings

DISTRICT 1

Chair: Mike Grosek, Webster Mayor (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Terry Jaspers, Sisseton Mayor (re-elected)

DISTRICT 2

Chair: Jameson Berreth, Madison City Administrator (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Michael Schulte, Volga City Administrator (re-elected)

DISTRICT 3 File photo

Chair: Derick Wenck, Harrisburg Mayor (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Elaine Johnson, Beresford Finance Officer (re-elected)

DISTRICT 4

Chair: Shauna Meyerink, Platte Finance Officer (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Debbra Houseman, Wagner City Administrator

DISTRICT 5

Chair: Kristi Honeywell, Pierre City Administrator (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Linda Willman, Wessington Springs Finance Officer (re-elected)

DISTRICT 6

DISTRICT 7

Chair: Gary Weismantel, Herreid Mayor (re-elected)

DISTRICT 8

SD MUNICIPAL LEAGUE DISTRICT LEADERSHIP 2025-2026

Chair: Rick Boschee, Bowdle Mayor (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Frank Schwartz, Redfield Mayor

Vice Chair: Gene Cox, Mobridge Mayor (re-elected)

Chair: Brittany Smith, Philip City Administrator (re-elected)

Vice Chair: LaTasha Buchholz, Kadoka Finance Officer (re-elected)

DISTRICT 9

Chair: Misty Summers-Walton, Hot Springs Finance Officer (previous vice chair)

Vice Chair: Kristi Pritzkau, New Underwood Finance Officer

DISTRICT 10 Composite photo

Chair: Gina Carpenter, Belle Fourche Human Resources Officer (re-elected)

Vice Chair: Sharon Martinisko, Deadwood Council Member

District 6, Redﬁeld

District 4, Burke

District 8, Fort Pierre

FIVE YEARS SINCE THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

REFLECTIONS FROM THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES

CLARENCE E. ANTHONY | CEO & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES

Just over five years ago, as final preparations were coming together for the National League of Cities’ (NLC) annual Congressional City Conference, news stories began to air about an emerging viral infection that was starting to hospitalize residents in Asia. With an ocean separating our continents, those stories felt far removed from the local leaders joining us in Washington that week.

But shortly after the conference ended, the pandemic became a very apparent reality. We quickly decided to close our NLC offices and asked our staff to work from home for what I really thought

Reprinted from National League of Cities, www.nlc.org.

would be a week or two. We had no idea it would be two years before we returned to the office.

EMPTY STREETS

In the early days of the pandemic, it was striking to see the images of downtowns, once flush with people and commerce, quickly empty out. The sounds of daily life were replaced with the occasional emergency vehicle siren. Very quickly, America’s cities, towns, and villages were on the frontline of the COVID-19 crisis. Residents turned to their local leaders with questions on safety, treatment, and economic security.

It was an unprecedented and confusing time in modern America – but looking back, it was also a pivotal moment for NLC and cities, towns, and villages across our nation. Like everyone else, we were scared, but we recognized our responsibility to step up and help save our communities, making every effort to do everything we could to advocate for the resources city leaders needed to respond to the crisis.

Unlike so many other sectors in 2020, local governments didn’t have the luxury of being able to shut down and send everyone home. So together, in partnership with America’s local leaders,

we were wildly successful, utilizing one strong voice to advocate for and deliver legislation that would send relief funds directly to communities.

NLC IN ACTION

To do that, NLC made sure cities, towns, and villages were at the table from the very beginning. We worked with the first Trump Administration to deliver the CARES Act, which was a start for larger cities but didn’t extend necessary benefits to our country’s smaller communities. So, we pressed on through an unprecedented campaign to elevate city voices that made me truly proud to lead this organization – organizing communities to make phone calls, write letters and advocate on behalf of their residents. One year later, we did it: on March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law, which delivered a total of $65.1 billion directly to cities, towns and villages to help ensure a full recovery from the pandemic.

The communities we call home are drastically different than five years ago or how they would have looked without the transformative legislation we helped create. Local leaders responded creatively to sudden issues – piloting new programs and ideas, some of which are still in play today.

For example, local leaders in Providence, Rhode Island, recognized that vaccine hesitancy most heavily impacted its minority communities and worked hard to develop open channels of communication between community, faith, and health professionals to help answer questions and concerns, which helped build trust and confidence in many neighborhoods that the city is still benefitting from today.

Cities like Union City, Georgia, designed outdoor recreation classes to bring residents together, build a sense of community and overcome social isolation – programs that the city still uses today.

WHAT COMES NEXT

So, as local governments look ahead to the future, let’s remember what we accomplished together these last five years. Let’s draw upon the resilience we had to maintain for our residents and the spirit of innovation and determination that drove us to succeed. Because of the lessons we collectively learned during the pandemic, I have faith – now more than ever – that local leaders are prepared, ready, and resilient for any challenge that may come their way, and I’m so proud to be on this journey with all of you. ■

SDML MEMBER NEWS MEMBER ACCOUNT SPRING CLEANING

It’s spring cleaning for the South Dakota Municipal League, and members can help by logging in to their SDML member accounts and reviewing their information for accuracy.

“This clean-up request is part of our ongoing effort to ensure clear and timely communication with our members,” said SDML Member Accounts Manager Krista Kerns. “Keeping your profile current is essential, as this is the primary way the League shares important updates, legislative alerts, training opportunities, and other time-sensitive information to our members.”

The system includes both individual accounts for each city employee/ elected official as well as a master city account which can add, remove, and edit individual accounts. Access to the city account is assigned to an individual, which in many cases is the city’s Finance Officer.

“We encourage the holders of the city account to also log in and review the list of individual accounts periodically,” said Kerns. “From that master account, it’s simple to remove old accounts or send an email invite for new members to join.”

Visit the member account tutorials webpage at sdmunicipalleague. org/Account-Tutorials, or contact the League office at 605.224.8654 fif you need your login information or would like an over-the-phone walk-through. ■

BUDGET TRAINING

June 18, Rapid City | June 25, Sioux Falls 10 a.m.-2 p.m. local time

Provides elected officials and finance officers with the tools they need to create and maintain the annual municipal budget. Presented by Rod Fortin, Director of Local Government Assistance, Department of Legislative Audit.

TOPICS

• Budget and Appropriations: Who is responsible? Why is it important?

• Budget Resources: Where can I find help?

• Budget Timeline: When do I have to start and finish?

• Budget vs. Cash: What is the difference?

• Budget Preparation: Details | Adoption of Appropriation Ordinance | Reading, Passage, and Publication

• Budget Execution: Set-up in Accounting System | Maximum Authorization to Spend | Monitoring | Increasing | Year-end

• Future Budgets: Indicators | Flow | Reserves

REGISTRATION: $40, includes on-site lunch www.sdmunicipalleague.org/events

SDPAA NEWS

LYNN BREN | SDPAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

SDPAA Achieves AGRiP Recognition

The SDPAA is pleased to announce that they have once again obtained recognition from the Association of Governmental Risk Pools (AGRiP). This achievement was recognized during the recent AGRiP Governance Conference held in March in Las Vegas, Nev.

AGRiP recognition does not come easily, nor is it given lightly to just anyone. Those who seek AGRiP recognition must demonstrate high operational standards being upheld consistently and efficiently within the Pool organization.

AGRiP began as a collaboration between nearly one hundred Pools in 1998. The goal was to provide a safe space for Pools to come together to share trials, tribulations, and solutions to trends and issues facing public entities across the nation. AGRiP currently has a membership of over 200 Pools across the US, Canada, and Australia. AGRiP’s mission is to continue to foster an environment for its Members to be more effective, collaborative, and informed of trends, issues, and resources. AGRiP continues to be a capstone in promoting the best practices, education and advocacy for risk sharing pools.

AGRiP recognition is a self-audit process during which Pools compare their own internal policies, procedures and practices against advisory standards established as best practices by AGRiP’s Member Practices Committee. This committee is comprised of individuals from AGRiP member pools who have conducted research and are particularly interested in furthering the success of Pools through establishment of high standards and best practices for pooling organizations. There are 11 categories that are considered when looking to achieve recognition, which include overall governance,

financial solvency, operational and business practices, and member services. Only about one quarter of the AGRiP member pools have achieved recognition.

The audit process to achieve recognition involves an in-depth review of the standards which apply to each category - over 80 different standards across the 11 categories. As each standard is reviewed, the applicant must provide documentation of a policy, procedure, or practice which demonstrates compliance with the established best practices of AGRiP. During this process, Pools are emersed into an intense review of their own internal policies. While achieving recognition is the goal of the review, the opportunity to compare our existing policies to the best practices established by the AGRiP committee allows us to ensure that we are in fact supporting our Mission with the best of the best policies and practices in pooling.

Achieving AGRiP recognition is just one of the many ways the SDPAA Board of Directors is able to assure the Members that the Pool will be a healthy, stable resource for not only their property and liability coverages, but also for resources to assist with loss control, risk, and property management for years to come. The SDPAA is committed to maintaining this prominent level of accountability to its Members and their communities.

We are privileged to be able to be a partner to over 93% of the local governments across South Dakota. South Dakota local governments are why we do what we do. ■

Members of the SDPAA Board receive of plaque of recogniton from the Association of Governmental Risk Pools (AGRiP) in March. Representing the SDPAA Board are Adam Karst of Watertown, Paullyn Carey of Huron, Chair Mike Wiese of Brown County, and Jason LaFayette of Belle Fourche.

BUILDING OFFICIALS TO HOST TRAINING IN JUNE DO

The South Dakota Building Officials' Association (SDBOA) has announced the topic for their June training.

The training will examine basic concepts of the 2021 International Residential Code® (IRC®), which provide a basis for the correct utilization of the code. A clear understating the of the identified requirements allows the code user to apply the IRC in specific situation and helps to build an understanding of the intent of the code when asked to make a judgment on code compliance.

The course will also help the code user to correctly locate code requirements,

provide a basis for the correct use and application of the code, and begin to develop a procedure for applying the codes.

The training will be conducted by Patrick Parsley, International Codes Council instructor and long-time building official, serving in Fairmont, MN, and Hiawatha, IA.

The training will be held June 26-27 in Pierre, SD. Registration is free for SDBOA members; non-members are $95. Register online at www. sdmunicipalleague.org/events. ■

YOU HAVE CITY NEWS TO SHARE?

Let us know! Submit a short piece (250 words) about what's going on in your city, such as accomplishments, employee milestones, or facility openings. Include an image if possible.

Got a bigger story to tell? It might be a good ﬁt for a feature story! Submit your idea today.

Submit news and story ideas to: emilie@sdmunicipalleague.org

GUIDING YOUR COMMUNITY’S GROWTH

DANR ANNOUNCES NEARLY $140 MILLION FOR STATEWIDE

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) recently announced that the Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved $139,791,400 in loans and grants for drinking water, wastewater, and solid waste projects in South Dakota.

The $139,791,400 total consists of $121,686,200 in low-interest loans and $18,105,200 in grants to be administered by the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

“Safe and reliable water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure is essential for protecting our natural resources and building stronger communities for future generations,” said DANR

ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS

Secretary Hunter Roberts. “I want to thank the Board of Water and Natural Resources for approving the funding recommendations.”

Funds were awarded from DANR’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program, Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program, Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program, Water Environment Fund, and Solid Waste Management Program to the following:

Aberdeen received a $30,000,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to replace equipment and implement improvements to the treatment process, increasing the capacity of its wastewater treatment facility. The project previously received funding in

April 2022. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Alcester received a $2,230,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $1,260,000 in principal forgiveness to improve its water distribution system. The project will include replacing an aging water main and recoating and repairing the city’s water tower. The loan terms are 3.25% for 30 years.

Bison received a $370,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to complete improvements to its wastewater and storm sewer system. The project previously received funding in September 2022. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Seeing success from a PERSPECTIVE

“Financial plans are more than just about money. They’re really about education and providing you with the knowledge you need to make the best decisions for your community.”

Miranda Kleven, PE, AE2S Special Projects Engineer

Water Engineering and Beyond

Award-Winning Best Place to Work

Box Elder received a $12,344,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $2,000,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to begin Phase II of a multiphase sewer main project along Old Highway 14/16. The loan terms are 3.5% for 30 years.

Brown County received a $675,600 Solid Waste Management grant to help construct a fifth cell at the landfill.

Brown County also received a $213,700 Solid Waste Management grant to assist in purchasing a new landfill compactor.

Bryant received a $1,240,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to replace three blocks of the existing sanitary sewer main line and extend the sewer main an additional two blocks. The terms of the loan are 3.75% for 30 years.

Bryant also received a $1,575,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $1,035,000 in principal forgiveness to extend the water main an additional block while replacing three existing blocks. This project also includes making improvements to the water tower. The loan terms are 3.25% for 30 years.

Buffalo Gap received a $1,314,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $978,000 in principal forgiveness to complete phase two of replacing cast iron pipes and drinking water mains throughout town. The loan terms are 3.25% for 30 years.

Canton received a $1,946,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to make utility improvements on West Street and replace the existing water main line. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Canton also received a $1,827,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to make sanitary and storm sewer improvements, increasing capacity on West Street. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Columbia received a $3,714,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $2,863,000 in principal forgiveness to replace sewer mains and construct a new wastewater treatment lagoon system. A lift station and a force main will also be built to reroute sewage to the new system. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Dakota Mainstream Regional Water System received a $1,000,000 Water Environment Fund Appropriation grant to conduct a feasibility study. The study will determine the viability and costs to provide water and system interconnects throughout east central and southeastern South Dakota to assure water availability to meet current user needs and provide for future growth.

Dell Rapids received a $2,992,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $500,000 Consolidated Water

Facilities Construction Program grant to replace all vitrified clay sanitary sewer lines along Orleans Avenue. The project will also replace or reroute sanitary sewer lines along 5th and 6th Street. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Dell Rapids also received an additional $2,782,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to construct a lift station to extend sanitary sewer to a previously unserved area on the community’s western edge. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Dell Rapids also received a $1,158,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to replace outdated water main line along Orleans Avenue. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Fall River Water User District received a $3,240,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $1,390,000 in principal forgiveness to construct a new booster station, which will increase the flow capacity and allow simultaneous operation of the new pump station, South Madison Well, and the connection to Hot Springs. The loan terms are 3.5% for 30 years.

Garden City received a $488,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $187,000 in principal forgiveness to replace an existing lift station and improve the existing wastewater lagoon. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Gettysburg received a $2,964,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to clean and televise all wastewater lines in town. The city will also reshape and make improvements to its existing lagoon. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Grant-Roberts Rural Water System received a $8,300,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with 100 percent principal forgiveness to connect the town of Summit as a bulk water service customer. The town of Summit’s current water source has manganese above the recommended human health limits. Connecting the town to rural water is the most cost effective and best long-term solution to meet the town’s ongoing water needs.

Groton received a $4,587,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $2,000,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to replace a lift station, purchase a generator, construct a new force main, and add a new cell to the wastewater pond system. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Hecla received a $2,500,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $2,000,000 in principal forgiveness to reconstruct a portion of the sewer collection system. This funding is for the second of three phases. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Hill City received a $5,439,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan, a $2,000,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant, and a $82,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Water Quality grant to install new wastewater treatment equipment to increase capacity and to rehabilitate the existing wastewater treatment infrastructure and equipment. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Hill City also received a $3,520,000 Drinking Water Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $2,000,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to make drinking water system improvements. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Huron received a $192,500 Solid Waste Management grant to purchase a yard waste collection truck. This truck will also be used as a secondary recycling collection vehicle.

Java received a $2,600,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $2,000,000 in principal forgiveness to improve their sanitary sewer system. Additional enhancements include new generators and SCADA improvements. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Keystone received a $3,959,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $350,000 in principal forgiveness and a $1,650,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to increase the diameter of the sewer line running from the eastern side of town to the lift station. The loan terms are 3.5% for 30 years.

Mitchell received a $2,350,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to upgrade wastewater and stormwater facilities along East Fifth Avenue from Burr Street to Foster Street. The loan terms are 3.5% for 20 years.

Mitchell also received a $1,325,000 Drinking Water Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to upgrade water infrastructure along East Fifth Avenue from Burr Street to Foster Street. The loan terms are 3.25% for 30 years.

Mitchell also received a $241,500 Solid Waste Management grant to assist in purchasing a new tractor-scraper for the landfill.

Oacoma received a $1,657,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to improve its wastewater treatment facility and collection system. This funding is for the second of five phases, which address the downtown lift station. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Oak Mountain Country Estates HOA received a Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program loan for $143,000 and a $302,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to install meter pits and new meters at the curb stops. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Perkins County Rural Water System received a $5,800,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $4,640,000

in principal forgiveness to install a new elevated 300,000-gallon reservoir in the central part of the system and replace pipe to accommodate the increased system pressure. The loan terms are 4.5% for 30 years.

Platte received a $19,700 Solid Waste Management grant to purchase two recycling trailers. This will reduce solid waste volume at the source and increase recycling within the community, as it is not currently offered.

Roberts County received a $68,000 Solid Waste Management grant to purchase a new loader to move daily cover, recycling material, solid waste, and snow.

South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) received a $250,000 Solid Waste Management grant to allow DANR’s Inspection, Compliance, and

Remediation program to work with local entities to collect and dispose of PFAS foam or other PFAS products. Funds may also be available to regional landfills for waste tire clean-ups, or to school districts to remove old and potential chemical hazards or used for other solid waste cleanups or removals deemed necessary.

South Dakota Solid Waste Management Association received a $39,500 Solid Waste Management grant to support hosting the Solid Waste Association of North America’s Manager of Landfill Operations Certification course in Pierre, South Dakota.

Southern Missouri Recycling & Waste Management District received a $30,000 Solid Waste Management grant and a $120,000 Solid Waste Management loan to purchase a new loader. The loan terms are 3.5% for 20 years.

Southern Missouri Recycling & Waste Management District also received a $719,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $180,900 Solid Waste Management grant to complete the final closure of cell #3 in conjunction with the construction of cell #4 of the facility. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Two Bit Ranch Estates HOA received a $188,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program loan to refurbish its existing 20,000-gallon storage tank and install a new backup generator for its well booster station. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Veblen received a $1,300,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to improve its wastewater collection system. This funding is for phase one of three. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Vermillion received a $102,200 Solid Waste Management grant and a $409,100 Solid Waste Management loan to assist in the purchasing of a new bulldozer for operation at the city landfill. The loan terms are 3.25% for seven years.

Viewfield Rural Water Association received a $90,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program loan and a $120,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to install new water meters and a SCADA system. The loan terms are 3.5% for 20 years.

Water Investment in Northern South Dakota (WINS) received a $2,000,000 Water Environmental Fund Appropriation grant to provide up to 42.1 million gallons per day of treated drinking water to the northeast South Dakota region. The project is a collaboration between the city of Aberdeen, BDM Rural Water System, and WEB Water Development Association and consists of 148 miles

of pipeline and associated water treatment and storage infrastructure.

WEB Water Development Association received a $713,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to replace Pleasant Valley’s existing water system with new water lines and install new water meters, pits and valves. WEB Water will then serve Pleasant Valley as individual members.

Webster received a $1,129,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to reline the sanitary sewer system in their Industrial Park. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Wessington Springs received a $1,245,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan to improve their wastewater treatment system. These improvements include the drainage system around the ponds, reshaping and stabilizing pond berms, and replacing electrical and mechanical components of the lift station. The loan terms are 3.75% for 30 years.

Wessington Springs also received a $1,565,000 Drinking Water Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $1,259,000 in principal forgiveness to replace approximately 3,800 feet of asbestos cement and cast-iron pipe. This will complete the city’s ongoing transition to PVC pipe. The loan terms are 3.0% for 30 years.

White received a $1,105,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan and a $1,059,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to improve its wastewater collection system. This is phase two and will include wastewater collection line replacement primarily south of Main Street and west of Hooker Ave. The loan terms are 3.5% for 30 years.

White also received a $1,452,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan with $700,000 in principal forgiveness and a $665,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant to improve to its water distribution system. The loan terms are 3.5% for 30 years.

A Strong Public Finance Partner in South Dakota

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

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

Appropriations from the Water Environment Fund and Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program are funded in part by revenues from the Petroleum Release Compensation Tank Inspection Fee and the sale of lottery tickets. These appropriations provide funding for water, wastewater, and watershed projects. The Legislature annually appropriates dedicated water and waste funding for the Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program through the Governor’s Omnibus Water Funding Bill.

The Solid Waste Management Program provides loans and grants for solid waste disposal, recycling, and waste tire projects. The Legislature annually appropriates dedicated funding for the Solid Waste Management Program through the Omnibus Water Funding Bill.

The State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fund the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs, which provide lowinterest loans for wastewater, stormwater, water conservation, nonpoint source projects, and public drinking water system projects. The programs are funded through a combination of federal appropriations, loan repayments, and bonds.

The board approved the funding at their March 27 meeting in Pierre. ■

SDML EVENTS

JUNE

OFFICERS' SCHOOL, Pierre

TRAINING, Rapid City BUDGET TRAINING, Sioux Falls

STATE SURPLUS EQUIPMENT

Municipal road departments can purchase surplus heavy equipment at a discount through the State of South Dakota’s Property Management Division.

• City, county, township, and tribal governments get first opportunity to purchase equipment before offering it to the public.

• Equipment is SDDOT surplus and includes items such as mowers, plows, trailers, and more.

• Visit https://surplus.sd.gov for photos, details, and to make a purchase. Cities must register for verification. Once registration is approved, the site offers easy, online purchase options. The store is open year-round; check periodically for newly listed items.

• Upcoming Public Auctions:

○ May 14, Fort Pierre

○ July 10, Brookings

○ Sept. 8, Aberdeen

○ Sept. 9, Mitchell

○ Sept. 10, Fort Pierre ○ Sept. 17, Sturgis

Sign up for surplus alerts at https://boa.sd.gov/ central-services/property-management. More info: (605) 773-4935 or surplus.property@state.sd.us.

JULY

NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS SUPPORT

CHILDREN’S HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

AND VERA FEENY | NATIONAL LEAUGE OF CITIES

Many city leaders looking for ways to support children and families’ health and well-being are turning to naturebased solutions. These solutions are inspired by nature to address a number of city priorities from climate resilience to improving physical health to enhancing green space, tree canopy, and community development.

Examples of these solutions can range from turning an asphalt school playground into a green schoolyard that also serves as stormwater prevention. It can mean incorporating downed tree stumps, rocks, and a creek into a local park space. Another example includes an effort to provide physicians and families with tools to access public green spaces as a prescription for better health.

City leaders nationwide recognize that nature-based strategies are vital for improving children’s health and well-being. They understand that children’s mental and emotional wellbeing improves when they spend time in nature, that outdoor play not only enhances physical activity, reducing the risk of childhood obesity, but also fosters better concentration, selfregulation and stress reduction. This commitment is reflected in the more than 70 communities participating in the national network of Nature Everywhere Communities, a partnership between the National League of Cities (NLC), the Children & Nature Network and KABOOM!

Drawing from years of experience supporting cities in implementing nature-based solutions to improve children’s health, NLC is offering an NLCU course to share that knowledge and support even more cities. The course, Nature Everywhere Action Challenge, will meet weekly between

April and June 2025. It aims to help cities implement strategies to ensure children grow up with regular access to nature and green space. Along with faculty, tools and resources drawn from NLC, Children & Nature Network and KABOOM!, and examples from the 70+ cities already committed to the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, course participants will learn how to reduce “nature deficit disorder” and realize the promise of “more green, less screen.”

Part of the lessons from the course will include these five key steps to build coalitions that will support a city’s ability to integrate nature’s benefits into children’s daily lives:

BUILD A CROSSSECTOR TEAM

For real change at the systems level, coordinated efforts among municipal agencies, school districts and community-based organizations are essential. A cross-sector team serves as a bridge, facilitating shared goals, pooling resources and leveraging community knowledge. This is the first step for any community looking to join the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative.

CREATE A VISION FOR ACCESSING NATURE’S BENEFITS

A strong vision aligns community partners toward a common goal, setting the course for local childrenand-nature initiatives. Through public engagement, cities can define their purpose, core values and long-term aspirations. A clear vision statement serves as a “north star” that guides partners in their collaborative efforts.

ENGAGE THE COMMUNITY

Community engagement is crucial for understanding residents’ needs and securing buy-in. Involving youth, families and local organizations ensures that nature-based solutions are relevant and impactful. Hosting youth engagement events, for example, allows young voices to shape city plans and reinforces the commitment to their well-being.

CONDUCT A LANDSCAPE SCAN

A comprehensive scan of local policies, stakeholders, assets, and opportunities, often called a landscape scan, provides valuable insights into existing efforts and potential

MELANIE ROBINSON

collaborations. This process helps cities identify gaps, maximize resources and acknowledge past efforts, demonstrating a commitment to building upon previous successes rather than starting from scratch.

5 SECURE PLEDGES OF SUPPORT

Endorsements from local officials — such as mayors, city managers and superintendents — signal strong institutional commitment to nature’s role in child development. These pledges can help galvanize additional support, attract partnerships and legitimize the coalition’s mission. Official proclamations or resolutions can also serve as powerful tools for maintaining momentum.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP WITH NLC UNIVERSITY

Is your city ready to take action? If you’re interested in advancing efforts to improve children’s well-being through nature-based strategies, the NLC invites you to join the NLC University Nature Everywhere Action Challenge.

Participating cities will gain access to a wealth of resources, and become a Nature Everywhere Action Challenge Community. Benefits include:

• A National Peer Learning Network: Connect with nearly 70 communities committed to equitable access to nature, including access to The Trailhead, an online resource hub for nature connection leaders.

• City-Specific Equity Mapping: Receive expert support to develop an equity map identifying areas of disproportionate need.

• Tools and Resources: Leverage insights from nearly a decade of experience supporting cities in enhancing naturebased solutions for children.

• Promotional Materials: Gain national recognition as an Action Challenge Community with access to an official badge, a national map placement and press release templates.

With support from NLC University staff and a network of Nature Everywhere Communities, cities can maximize their impact in using nature to enhance children’s health and well-being.

The research is clear. The network is active. The learning community is ready. Now is the time to take action. ■

CITIES IMPLEMENT LANDSCAPE SCANS

As part of the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, city teams are conducting landscape scans — a comprehensive review of local policies, stakeholders, assets and opportunities. This process helps cities identify gaps, leverage existing resources and build on previous successes rather than starting from scratch. Several cities are already making significant progress:

PIMA COUNTY, AZ

The Pima County Children and Nature team aligned with the City of Tucson’s Office of Equity to develop the Children’s Equity Nature Index, identifying areas where children under five face the greatest barriers to outdoor access. They are now integrating nature exploration areas, featuring local materials and natural elements, into community spaces. The features include plenty of shade to address local climate considerations like excessive heat.

DUBUQUE, IA

Dubuque is tying early childhood nature connection efforts to its Climate Action Plan, which aims to expand the city’s tree canopy and mitigate urban heat. The city is collaborating with the Executive Director of Wanderwood Gardens, a 2.5-acre children’s garden opening in 2026, and the Dubuque Community School District to integrate nature elements into preschool programs.

LOUISVILLE, KY

In Louisville, KY, the Louisville Nature Everywhere team includes partners from Wilderness Louisville, Play Cousins Collective and the Natural Areas Division of Louisville Metro Parks, all working to advance play equity and improve accessibility. The team believes that policies promoting equitable access to outdoor spaces for youth will continue to empower them, not only as the next generation of environmental stewards. In an effort to increase nature access, the team is aligning efforts with the Mayor’s Thrive by 5 Universal Pre-K Initiative to integrate nature experiences into early childhood education.

TRI-COUNTY PLAY COLLABORATIVE, SC

This South Carolina partnership of 16 organizations is planning to embed nature play features and programs in high-need areas of Charleston, including housing communities. They are adding Math Talk trails to anchor sites across three counties, fostering playful math learning while creating safe, nature-rich play spaces. Each site will address areas of concern like shade, air quality and flood mitigation.

Successes like these hinge on engaging cross-sector partners and aligning efforts with local climate and equity plans. Collaborative efforts like these demonstrate the power of partnership in transforming early childhood outdoor environments. These initiatives are not only improving children’s well-being but also contributing to climate resilience and sustainability.

As communities across the nation strengthen their commitment to nature access for all children, they are fostering a future where all children can grow, play and thrive — while ensuring a more resilient planet for generations to come. ■

GARY: FROM BANK TO MEAT LOCKER

INFORMATION SOURCED FROM “BEST REQUESTS” BY JULIE DESLAURIERS

The State Bank of Gary was built in 1901. That same year, the meat processing plant in Gary, South Dakota, began at the north end of the same block. The bank closed in 1933 which created an opportunity for the butcher to buy the building and renovate it into a meat locker.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON

As one of 13 siblings, helping on the farm was a necessity. One of many responsibilities Rob Deslauriers had was cutting and grinding meat to ensure the family had food.

Rob’s plan after high school was to attend butcher school, but his father urged him to go directly into the workforce for the local butcher. In the winter of 1980, when Rob was 18 years old, he went to work for Walt Ochsendorf, who owned Walt’s Locker.

In 1981 Rob purchased the locker via contract for deed, borrowing money from two silent partners, in return splitting ownership of the business into thirds. The first few years provided many challenges, including the freezer compressor failing, costing the business significant time and money. Overcoming that, he continued and processed various types of meat including beef, pork, deer, chicken, and sheep.

Rob married Julie in 1983 and incorporated a catering business. Rob ran the locker with no input from the partners and paid off the note in 1995. He and Julie bought the shares, changing the name to Rob’s Locker and Catering. Rob and Julie had four children, all of whom contributed over the years, much like Rob himself had done on the farm. He instilled a strong work ethic in his kids and they enjoyed their work at the locker together. Rob had the support of not only his kids but also his siblings, Birdie and Craig, who helped two days a week to package the meat.

Jump ahead to 2025 – after 42 years of business success, Rob has decided it is time to hang up the knives and semi-retire. His oldest son, John, having learned to identify types and cuts of meat when he was young, will carry on the business with his dad’s guidance. John and his wife, Jessica, are excited to continue providing meat processing and offer ready-to-eat meats in the retail cooler. Rob will continue the catering business with the help of his children as they did when they were young.

Rob’s Locker is a quick stop on the way to Talking Waters Campground, or a grill out with family and friends to get your favorite meats.

This article honors the late Julie Deslauriers for her work on documenting history in her acclaimed cookbook, "Best Requests." The full story can be found at Rob’s Locker & Catering Facebook page. ■

Rob Deslauriers (left) and his son John (right) run ROB'S LOCKER AND CATERING, a cornerstone family business in Gary, SD, for over 42 years.

PROGRAM AIDS RURAL COMMUNITIES IN FINDING AND RETAINING ATTORNEYS

CAROLINE SRSTKA | UNIFIED JUDICIAL SYSTEM

The Rural Attorney Recruitment Program (RARP) was created in 2013 when former Chief Justice Gilbertson acknowledged that rural communities were facing a crisis regarding legal services. There were rural areas in South Dakota that did not have an attorney representation for 129 miles, forcing residents in those communities to drive long distances for legal representation.

“We face the very real possibility of whole sections of this state being without access to legal services,” said Retired Chief Justice David Gilbertson. “Large populated areas are becoming islands of justice in a rural sea of justice denied.”

Chief Justice Gilbertson and other bar leaders were instrumental in creating RARP, which was modeled off of South Dakota’s physician recruitment program. The program would contract the attorney with either a county or municipality, Unified Judicial System (UJS), and the State Bar for a period of five consecutive years.

The program requirements for participating municipalities is that the population must be less than 3,500. A participating county must have a population less than 10,000.

The participating attorney receives an annual installment equal to 90% of the tuition and fees charged from USD Law School in 2013, and this amount is paid out at the end of each service year over the five-year contract period. This amounts to $12,513.60 per year, with a total benefit of $62,568 for each attorney. UJS is responsible for 50% of that payment, the county/municipality is responsible for 35%, and the State Bar is responsible for the remaining 15%. The annual installment the county/municipality would be responsible for is $4,379.76 annual, totaling $21,898.80 over the five years.

In return, the participating attorney must be willing to reside in the county/municipality (unless the county/municipality agrees otherwise) and agree to practice full time as an attorney within that county/municipality for five consecutive years.

The program greatly benefits both the attorney and the community.

The attorney has an incentive to establish their practice and family in the community, while also providing nonlegal and pro bono services in support of the attorney’s new community.

The community has an incentive to send contracts to those rural attorneys that might otherwise to go higher-billing, “big city” attorneys, while keeping those dollars cycling within the community. Community partners and legal practitioners alike have noted that while a level of zealousness and competence can be found with all licensed attorneys, the local attorney will always have the local-informational advantage in providing legal services. The commitment is in the attorney’s best interest from a professional development standpoint, and the local government’s best interest from a quality-of-service standpoint. Also, many of our rural attorneys are nearing the age of retirement, so it is in those communities’ best interests to think about finding younger attorneys to come to your community.

Altogether, there have been 35 current and past participants under contract in the program, with 12 active attorneys practicing in rural communities. Out of the 18 attorneys that have completed the program, 14 have stayed in their communities to continue practicing.

For more information, contact RARP Program Director Caroline Srstka at Caroline.Srstka@ujs.state.sd.gov or (605) 774-2077. To learn more about the communities that have participated in the past, visit ujs.sd.gov. ■

APPLICATION PROCESS BEGINS FOR 2026 TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM

PIERRE, S.D. – Letters of intent are now being accepted for the Transportation Alternatives (TA) program through the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT).

TA is a program that uses federal transportation funds, designated by Congress, for specific activities that enhance the inter-modal transportation system and provide safe alternative transportation options. TA encompasses a variety of smaller-scale non-motorized transportation projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, recreational trails, safe routes to school projects, community improvements such as historic preservation and vegetation management, and environmental mitigation related to storm water and habitat connectivity.

Approximately $8 million is available through a competitive project selection process administered by the SDDOT Project Development Office. Projects may be limited to $600,000 depending on annual funding allowance. The minimum for infrastructure projects will be $50,000. There is no minimum for non-infrastructure projects. The minimum local match requirement is 18.05%.

A full description of the TA program is available online on the SDDOT Transportation Alternatives webpage at https://dot.sd.gov/programs-services/ programs/transportation-alternatives.

The submittal of a letter of intent form, found on the webpage, is a mandatory requirement to be eligible to submit

a full application for funding. The deadline to submit letter of intent forms is July 15, 2025. This will be the only call for Letters of Intent for the 2026 Fiscal Year.

Requests for additional information, site visits and/or meetings on potential projects should be directed to Logan Gran, Active Transportation Engineer, at 605-773-4912 or via email at Logan. Gran@state.sd.us.

Following the receipt of the letters of intent, on-site meetings with project sponsors will be scheduled prior to Aug. 15, 2025. The deadline for full applications is Oct. 1, 2025.

For mor information, visit https://dot. sd.gov. ■

H OMETOWN POWER

ROB PETERSON | SDML DIRECTOR OF MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SERVICES

Greetings!

I am pleased to report that the 31st Annual SDMEA Operations Conference and Technology Expo was once again a success! Despite last minute concerns about the weather and challenging road conditions, almost all communities, vendors, and presenters were able to make it to Watertown.

I want to personally acknowledge and thank the SDMEA Board of Directors, SDMEA Conference Committee, and all of our sponsors, vendors, and community members who make this event possible every year. Without them, none of this would be possible.

We look forward to the 32nd Annual SDMEA Operations Conference and Technology Expo next year! However, due to uncertainty created by the sale of the Ramkota in Watertown, we will be evaluating other locations for the conference, and we will keep everyone informed as we know more.

Moving forward into the summer, I am excited to begin another round of community tours. Please be on the lookout for a contact from me to set up a time to visit your community. I will also be sending out the Wage Survey, Comparison of Operations Survey, and updated Mutual Aid agreement.

Finally, the SDMEA Annual Golf Tournament will be held on June 3 at the Madison Country Club. Please get registered to join us! If you do not believe you are receiving the SDMEA emails, please reach out to me to confirm your contact information.

My best, Rob Peterson

SDML Snapshots

SDMEA Operations Conference and Technology Expo | April 2-3, Watertown, SD

SD CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFERS SCHOLARSHIP

The South Dakota Association of Code Enforcement (SoDACE) is now taking scholarship applications from members who wish to attend the American Association of Code Enforcement (AACE) Conference.

The annual conference brings together code enforcement officers from across the nation to learn about current trends, compare best practices, and learn skills to improve their effectiveness. This year’s AACE conference will be held Oct. 27-30 in St. Louis, Mo.

SoDACE will award one scholarship to the conference and will reimburse expenses related to conference registration, lodging, transportation,

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

Applicants must be a current member of the South Dakota Association of Code Enforcement and willing to share their experience with SoDACE membership at the annual spring meeting.

Apply online at www. sdmunicipalleague.org/ codeenforcement. Applications are due July 1.

Learn more about the AACE conference at https://www.aace1. org. ■

POST MEETING MINUTES TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE

Local governments have a free tool to help them disseminate information to their citizens.

The Local Government Boards and Commissions website, established in 2021 by the South Dakota Municipal League, the Counties' associations, and Associated School Boards of South Dakota, allows local governments to post agendas, minutes, and other meeting documents.

Municipalities can use the website to any extent that they wish; from simply posting a link to the city website for meeting information to using it as a primary website for posting all meeting information, meeting documents, and governing body information. The goal is to have all municipalities post, at a minimum, minutes for all council meetings.

Each municipality will need to create an account for the website, https:// sdlocalgov.appssd.sd.gov/cms/login.

aspx. The account will be electronically approved by SDML staff. Once you're notified of approval, you'll be able to update your account profile and begin updating and posting information.

Each South Dakota Local Government Board and/or Commission will have at least one person assigned admin privileges for the site. These privileges allow the user to post information about the board or commission they are affiliated with.

Information that can posted or edited includes:

• Meetings - Schedule, Agenda, Minutes, Other Pertinent Meeting Information

• Board/Commission Members

• Documents and Related Links

• Board Information

Once your city's account has been created on the site, email Jessica Carr at jessica@sdmunicipalleague.org for approval and to get started. ■

MAY 2-3

Ghost Investigation, Fort Sisseton Historic State Park, Lake City

Cinco de Mayo Falls Park Fiesta, Sioux Falls

MAY 16-17

Craft Beer Fest: Hops and Hogs, Deadwood

Opening Evening Lighting Ceremony, Mount Rushmore, Keystone

MAY 23-24

Summer Kickstart, Deadwood

Back When They Bucked, Deadwood

Outlaw Square Summer Concert Series, Deadwood

Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon, Deadwood 28 31

Lantern Tour, Fort Sisseton Historic State Park, Lake City

Frühlingsfest, Rapid City

MAY 31-JUNE 1

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 info@connectionseap.com Call today: 1.800.779.6125 www.connectionseap.com

RESOURCE ROUNDUP

Grants

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, SD Office of Emergency Management

Due: May 30

Available for local governments and certain privatenon-profit organizations to apply for hazard mitigation projects. Funding will first be prioritized in the areas declared a major disaster following the flooding event in SD from June 16 to July 8, 2024.

Learn more/apply: https://dps.sd.gov; Jim Poppen, 605-773-3231 or jim.poppen@state.sd.us

Agri-Business Grant, SD Dept. of Transportation

Due: July 15 and Oct. 15

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

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

Community Access Grant, SD Dept. of Transportation

Due: July 15

Open to towns less than 5,000 in population to fund the construction or reconstruction of major streets. 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: July 15 and Oct. 15

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

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

Transportation Alternatives Program, SD Dept. of Transportation

Due: July 15

Uses federal transportation funds designated by Congress for specific activities that enhance the inter-modal transporation system and provide safe alternative transportation options. Letters of intent are due July 15 and are required to be eligible to submit a full application in October.

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

Scholarships

Street Maintenance PWX Scholarship

Due: June 1

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

Learn more/apply: sdmunicipalleague.org/ StreetMaintenance

Code Enforcement AACE Conference Scholarship

Due: July 1

Provides funds for an association member to attend the American Association of Code Enforcement (AACE) Conference.

Learn more/apply: sdmunicipalleague.org/ CodeEnforcement

WEST NILE VIRUS PREVENTION GRANT DISCONTINUED

The SD Department of Health recently announced that the West Nile Virus Prevention Grant will no longer be offered. The grant provided funds to help control mosquito populations and prevent the spread of West Nile Virus in local communities.

The following message was sent to those who had applied for the grant in the last two years:

As I’m sure you are aware, the state’s budget for the upcoming state ﬁscal year (SFY) 2026 was very tight and reductions were necessary. In SFY 26, DOH will have a $3 million reduction to the tobacco tax dollars it receives.

Historically, $500,000 of these funds have been directed towards enhanced West Nile Virus activities used to fund the mosquito control grants. As a result of the budget reduction, DOH will not be able to fund mosquito control grants moving forward.

We wanted to inform you of this so that as you are reviewing your upcoming budget for mosquito control activities so you can plan accordingly.

Trainings

Energize Conference, South Dakota State University Extension Community Vitality

May 6-7, Platte

Registration: Early rate of $99 through April 1; $125 before April 18; $175 at the door. Discounts for groups of three or more.

Works to energize South Dakota’s rural communities to develop new ideas and take action to improve their own communities.

Learn more/register: https://extension.sdstate.edu/events

Code Enforcement Information and Training Conference

May 7-8, Fort Pierre

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

Due: May 1

Annual spring meeting where members learn about and discuss current topics in code enforcement. Includes announcement of Code Enforcement Officer of the Year recipient.