Tag: Dakota Dunes

Government, TransportationLeave a comment

Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Recipients Announced by Transportation Commission

Gary Dickson

Union County in South Dakota has received grants for four bridge projects as part of the Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) program. The grants, totaling approximately $1.8 million, aim to enhance critical transportation assets. Each year, $15 million is made available for BIG projects, and to date, $165 million in funds have been awarded. Continue reading Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Recipients Announced by Transportation Commission

Economy, North Sioux City, South Dakota1 Comment

Realtors Foundation providing $250,000 for flood relief to SE South Dakota

Gary Dickson

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Relief Foundation is providing a substantial $250,000 in aid to support communities in southeastern South Dakota affected by recent flooding from June 16 to July 8. The areas impacted have been officially designated as … Continue reading Realtors Foundation providing $250,000 for flood relief to SE South Dakota

Crime, GovernmentLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Incident/Activity Report: 8/11 – 8/17

Gary Dickson

The Union County Sheriff’s Office was involved in various incidents and activities between August 11 and August 17, 2024, including burglary, horse-related issues, transportation of inmates, arrests, assists, and traffic violations. A total of 60 records were reported, with a wide range of law enforcement engagements. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Incident/Activity Report: 8/11 – 8/17

Crime, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

Gary Dickson

The first-ever Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log is now shared with readers. The publisher and editor of the Siouxland Observer is grateful for Sheriff Prouty making the information available. While more detail is desired, its availability marks progress towards transparency. The hope is for similar transparency from the North Sioux City Police. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

Economy, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

‘We have nothing’: Flood victims say government failures continue after botched flood warning

Gary Dickson

Residents in McCook Lake, South Dakota were caught off guard by a devastating flood on June 23, 2024, despite inadequate warning from authorities. The flood caused extensive damage, and relief efforts have been disorganized, leaving residents uncertain about the future. Many lack flood insurance and are waiting for potential FEMA assistance. Continue reading ‘We have nothing’: Flood victims say government failures continue after botched flood warning

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Gary Dickson

Victims, scientists, and researchers in South Dakota call for recognition of climate and land use changes following a devastating flood. The outdated flood mitigation plan led to destructive consequences in McCook Lake, highlighting the need for updated plans and infrastructure to address the increasing frequency and severity of floods. Urban development and changing river flows are contributing factors, requiring updated zoning laws and design standards to mitigate future flood hazards. Continue reading McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Community, SiouxlandLeave a comment

MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Gary Dickson

Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) has awarded $71,650 in emergency grants to six local non-profit organizations to assist flood victims in the Siouxland area. The grants aim to address immediate necessities such as food, temporary housing, essential supplies, clean up, and emergency repairs. In addition, MRHD has modified its Impact Match Grant program to support flood-related projects. Continue reading MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Government, Health2 Comments

Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

Gary Dickson

State and city food inspectors in Iowa and South Dakota have found various food safety violations in local restaurants and stores in recent weeks. Violations include insufficient refrigeration, improper food cooling, handling food with bare hands, and dirty facilities. The public is reminded that these reports are only a snapshot in time and that violations are often corrected on the spot. For more details, visit the respective state departments’ websites. Continue reading Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County has new disaster notification system

Gary Dickson

The Union County in South Dakota has introduced a new disaster alert system called Hyper-Reach, allowing citizens to receive immediate notifications for various hazards and weather conditions. Through this system, alerts will be sent via landline, cell phone, email, and TTY, keeping the community informed 24/7 about potential emergencies and weather events. Continue reading Union County has new disaster notification system