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Planning & Zoning Commission has hearing on and approves TIF District #5

The North Sioux City Planning and Zoning Commission met on February 12 to discuss development projects and business retention. Key topics included a workforce housing shortage and the Union Crossing Tax Increment Finance District #5, which received unanimous approval. Final plats and several building permits were approved, although procedural concerns arose regarding the VIP Gaming Lounge expansion. Continue reading Planning & Zoning Commission has hearing on and approves TIF District #5

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Change is ‘eminent’: Property-rights fight transforms this year’s SD Legislature

In South Dakota, opposition to a carbon dioxide pipeline led to significant political changes. Legislators who supported the contested pipeline legislation were ousted, and new leadership aimed to address landowners’ concerns. Voters rejected a related bill, highlighting growing grassroots mobilization focused on property rights and the potential misuse of eminent domain for pipeline projects. Continue reading Change is ‘eminent’: Property-rights fight transforms this year’s SD Legislature

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Company seeks to block lawsuit over death, citing arbitration agreement

A wrongful death lawsuit against Fonda Specialty Care nursing home, stemming from Marvin Jacobs’ suffocation, may be dismissed due to an arbitration agreement signed by his family. The nurse involved, Becky Sue Manning, faced criminal charges for neglect. State inspections revealed failure to clear Jacobs’ airway prior to his death in February 2023. Continue reading Company seeks to block lawsuit over death, citing arbitration agreement

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Trouble in ‘prepper’ paradise: Bunker residents raise financial, safety concerns at Igloo, SD site

The Vivos xPoint community in South Dakota, previously a military munitions depot, now faces significant issues, including multiple lawsuits, complaints to authorities, and a FBI inquiry. Many residents report unmet contractual obligations regarding amenities and security, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among those seeking a self-sustainable lifestyle. Continue reading Trouble in ‘prepper’ paradise: Bunker residents raise financial, safety concerns at Igloo, SD site

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Take comfort in knowing it’s not as bad as it smells

In Siouxland, living conditions have improved since the 90s, particularly regarding unpleasant odors. The community of Dakota Dunes offers tax advantages and a tight-knit environment with essential services. Changing local governance raises concerns about accountability. Amid these issues, the author reflects on the importance of immigrant workers in the local economy and critiques contemporary self-help trends. Continue reading Take comfort in knowing it’s not as bad as it smells

Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales

Smithfield will pay a $2 million penalty for child labor violations at its Minnesota plant, marking the state’s largest enforcement action. An investigation revealed that 11 minors worked hazardous jobs during late hours. The company denies knowingly hiring underage workers but has agreed to enhance compliance measures in response to the violations. Continue reading Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales

To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

The article discusses Watertown, South Dakota, and its connection to the Big Sioux River, emphasizing its historical significance and current political landscape. It critiques Governor Kristi Noem’s response to recent floods and handles local election dynamics, advocating for Democratic candidate Ray Ring while highlighting tensions within the city council regarding government structure changes. Continue reading To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

Warning signs found in new South Dakota economic data

The South Dakota economy shows strong recovery post-pandemic, yet indicators suggest potential slowdowns. Key concerns include falling farm incomes, lower sales tax collections, and a job market mismatch with 30,000 openings and 10,000 unemployed. Despite these challenges, experts don’t foresee immediate threats, anticipating continued growth under favorable policies. Continue reading Warning signs found in new South Dakota economic data

More than 50 Iowa nursing homes have agreed to repay taxpayers $13.9 million

More than 50 Iowa nursing homes owe nearly $14 million in unpaid fees related to Medicaid. Payment plans have been established for most, with debts expected to be cleared by September 2025. Major debtors include Accura Healthcare and Pacifica Health Services, both under scrutiny for financial violations affecting operations. Continue reading More than 50 Iowa nursing homes have agreed to repay taxpayers $13.9 million

THC seltzers quietly find a foothold in cannabis-cautious South Dakota

About a year ago, bar owner Justin Henrichsen started offering THC seltzers and cocktails at his four establishments in Rapid City, Spearfish and Sioux Falls.

Since then, he’s watched the libations’ popularity spike with each passing month, across age groups and demographics, sometimes outselling wine and on pace with craft beers.

What he hasn’t seen are problems. A year in, he can say something about cannabis drinkers he can’t say about beer drinkers. The drinks are a natural extension of the adult beverage business, he argues, no more difficult to fold safely into a bar’s daily operations than the higher-alcohol craft beers that began to take hold across the nation a few decades ago. Continue reading THC seltzers quietly find a foothold in cannabis-cautious South Dakota