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North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

North Sioux City voters decided to shift from an aldermanic to a commission-style government, with 343 votes in favor and 238 against. This change will take effect in April 2025, requiring the election of five commissioners, including a mayor. Concerns remain about the operational details and costs of this transition. Continue reading North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

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It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10

North Sioux City voters face a crucial decision on December 10 regarding their city government structure. A petition proposes replacing the current aldermanic system with a five-commissioner model, but critics argue this could lead to uneven representation and fiscal uncertainty. Low voter turnout may benefit proponents of the change, raising concerns about informed decision-making. Continue reading It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10

Arrogant NSC city councilors, Lake Ass’n leaders need to apologize to community

The McCook Lake Association’s support of an alleged sexual abuser, Matt Vanderpool, and the lack of apology or accountability from community leaders, has created widespread dismay in North Sioux City. The association vigorously backed Vanderpool’s election bid, and their influence on city officials is raising concerns about the city’s future. Additionally, the involvement of certain city councilors in a government change effort has further heightened apprehension among residents. Continue reading Arrogant NSC city councilors, Lake Ass’n leaders need to apologize to community

What further Trump sins and crimes will SD’s highest elected officials excuse?

South Dakota Republicans, including Governor Noem, criticize the conviction of ex-President Trump, showing a departure from their party’s traditional values. They voice concerns about the trial’s fairness and its potential impact on Trump’s political future. Their response highlights a shift away from prioritizing moral principles and the rule of law. Continue reading What further Trump sins and crimes will SD’s highest elected officials excuse?

Prouty swamps Headid in sheriff’s race.

Jim Prouty secures 79% of the vote, defeating Rich Headid in the Republican primary for Union County Sheriff. With no Democratic primary, Prouty is poised to complete the late Sheriff Dan Limoges’ term. Prouty’s extensive experience and widespread support across precincts underscore his victory. Additionally, Sydney Davis, Chris Kassin, and William Shorma win GOP legislative primaries. Continue reading Prouty swamps Headid in sheriff’s race.

Results from Tuesday’s election

North Sioux City experienced what election officials called a higher-than-normal turnout for the four races for city council seats as 614 people cast their votes.

The higher voter turnout may have been at least partially due to the interest generated by the Union Square housing development as well as the proposed North Shore Drive bypass project. Another issue generating interest recently has been a proposed housing project by Mike Chicoine who lives outside the city, where he wants to build a canal for his housing development using water pumped from McCook Lake. Continue reading Results from Tuesday’s election

Hand counting vs. voting machines: Debate rages in South Dakota

Most of the county officials who administer elections in South Dakota don’t consider hand counting to be an effective or efficient method of tabulating votes.

That’s the result of a South Dakota News Watch survey that saw input from 49 of the state’s 66 county auditors. Auditors are elected officials who supervise county, state and federal elections as well as maintain financial records and other duties.

The hand count debate comes as South Dakota is viewed as a proving ground by election reformists who claim that recent elections across the county were marred by hacking or fraud, allegations repeatedly rejected by courts of law as well as Democratic and Republican election leaders. Continue reading Hand counting vs. voting machines: Debate rages in South Dakota

Secretary of State releases election integrity brochure, urges voters to trust officials

A new brochure from Secretary of State Monae Johnson aims to address common election integrity questions in advance of the 2024 election, according to a Tuesday news release.

The brochure, titled “A Guide to Secure Elections in South Dakota,” is designed to explain “different security measures South Dakota has put in place to protect our elections,” according to the release. Continue reading Secretary of State releases election integrity brochure, urges voters to trust officials