Tag: Gov. Kristi Noem

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

McCook Lake victims still ‘in the dark,’ waiting for FEMA help nearly seven weeks after flood

Gary Dickson

Victims of the June 23 flood in McCook Lake feel abandoned by government officials, with uncertainty about federal aid. The flood destroyed 40 homes and caused infrastructure damage. South Dakota’s disaster declaration process delayed FEMA assistance. State officials defended the assessment process and contractors, while some officials expressed confidence in aid approval. Continue reading McCook Lake victims still ‘in the dark,’ waiting for FEMA help nearly seven weeks after flood

PoliticsLeave a comment

Referred pipeline law puts company’s permit quest in limbo

Gary Dickson

The permit process and ballot referral highlight the emergence of carbon pipelines and landowner rights as political flashpoints in South Dakota. Summit Carbon Solutions seeks a permit for a network of carbon capture pipelines, and a citizen-led referral challenges a legislative package known as the “Landowner Bill of Rights.” The referendum will give voters a direct say in pipeline policy. Continue reading Referred pipeline law puts company’s permit quest in limbo

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

Commentary, GovernmentLeave a comment

Flood washes away Noem’s false veneer of leadership

Gary Dickson

Severe weather in southeast South Dakota exposed Governor Kristi Noem’s shortcomings as she left the state for a political conference and interview, neglecting to adequately warn people about the impending danger. Despite her lackluster crisis response and departure for a fundraiser, she defended her actions, leaving many to question her priorities and leadership. Continue reading Flood washes away Noem’s false veneer of leadership

Environment, Government, North Sioux CityLeave a comment

McCook Lake residents say their homes were sacrificed, and they want a new flood plan

Gary Dickson

Homeowners allege inadequate warnings, authorities defend communication in the face of record floodwaters at McCook Lake, South Dakota. State and local authorities executed a flood mitigation plan, but some residents claim insufficient warnings. Cleanup and future plans are now in question as the community grapples with the aftermath of the devastating flood. Continue reading McCook Lake residents say their homes were sacrificed, and they want a new flood plan

Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Noem signs Indian Child Welfare Council and other bills into law

Gary Dickson

South Dakota will soon have a council devoted to the welfare of Native American children.

Gov. Kristi Noem signed House Bill 1232 this week, which creates the Indian Child Welfare Advisory Council. It will bring together people from the Department of Social Services, South Dakota’s nine tribes, the Legislature, and the field of child welfare for annual conversations.

Following are summaries of some other bills Noem signed into law recently as she continues to consider measures passed by the Legislature. The 2024 legislative session ended Thursday, except for one day on March 25 to consider vetoes. Noem had not vetoed any bills as of Friday afternoon. Continue reading Noem signs Indian Child Welfare Council and other bills into law