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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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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
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In 2024, complaints about police misconduct in South Dakota rose by 24% over the previous year, with 142 complaints filed. Despite this, less than 1% of certified officers faced discipline. The state Law Enforcement Commission discussed reforming protocols for notifying victims about misconduct hearings, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. Continue reading Police commission: Complaints against cops rising, but fewer than 1% of SD officers disciplined
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The Iowa Department of Agriculture reported a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) at a commercial egg farm in Sioux County, prompting Governor Kim Reynolds to issue a disaster proclamation. This outbreak marks Iowa’s fourth detection of bird flu this year, necessitating enhanced monitoring and biosecurity measures for all poultry producers. Continue reading Highly pathogenic avian influenza detected in Sioux County
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A report by the Union of Concerned Scientists highlights the critical status of wetlands in the Upper Midwest, which provide annual flood protections valued at $23 billion. It advocates for inclusion in the upcoming Farm Bill to counteract damage from industrial agriculture and recent legal challenges, ensuring wetlands’ preservation and ongoing benefits. Continue reading Union of Concerned Scientists pushes for wetland protections in Farm Bill
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The article critiques three North Sioux City Councilors, Bob Davis, Lynn Hoffman, and Greg Meyer, for their dysfunction and inability to support a code of ethics. Their objections to the appointment of Andrew Devries highlight their hypocrisy regarding conflicts of interest. The article ends positively, noting the hiring of qualified city administrator Jeff Dooley. Continue reading North Sioux Council hypocrites’ high drama is looking ridiculous
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Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security Secretary, expressed concerns about South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s potential confirmation as head of the Department of Homeland Security. While her gubernatorial experience may aid her, she faces challenges in managing extensive agency responsibilities and navigating controversial immigration policies under Trump. Tensions between Noem and the White House are anticipated. Continue reading Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief
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A lawsuit in Sanborn, Iowa, alleges $4 million in damages due to water contamination linked to a negligent cleaning of the municipal water tower by Maguire Iron. The Minnesota dairy cooperative AMPI claims that toxic materials infiltrated its facility during water tower maintenance. Each party blames the others for the damages. Continue reading Legal battle escalates over $4 million worth of contaminated cheese
Kristi Noem’s loyalty to Donald Trump has led to her selection as Secretary of Homeland Security in his administration. With a significant departmental budget and responsibilities, Noem faces challenges, especially regarding potential staff purges favoring Trump loyalists. Her experience with border issues and Trump’s volatile hiring practices leaves her job security in question. Continue reading Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem
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
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