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The Tea Area School District Board has appointed Dr. Tonia Warzecha as Superintendent. With over a decade of leadership and prior experience in the district, she is dedicated to enhancing student success and fostering collaborations between schools and communities, emphasizing a student-first approach. Continue reading DV Superintendent headed to Tea Area School District
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On February 10, the Dakota Valley Board of Education approved updates to the Wellness Policy to promote student health through better nutrition and physical activity. The board discussed bullying prevention, staffing changes, and upgrades to school facilities. They also renewed administrator contracts and scheduled the next meeting for March 10. Continue reading Coach resignation, wellness policy changes and administrator contract renewals occupy DV school board
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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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The Union County Treasurer’s Office will be closed on February 14 for the installation of new motor vehicle software, reopening on February 18. Additionally, the Board of Commissioners appointed Robert Ballard as District 3 Commissioner amid personnel changes and discussed various issues, emphasizing transparency and compliance with open meeting laws. Continue reading Ballard named to vacant county commission seat
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In the wake of the June 2024 flooding in South Dakota, recovery costs are estimated at nearly $3.5 million. The state seeks $5 million from the legislature to cover expenses, with FEMA contributing $2.9 million toward community recovery efforts, highlighting ongoing disaster response challenges. Continue reading State’s bill for 2024 flood response and recovery is $3.5 million, officials say
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South Dakota faces potential lawsuits from McCook Lake property owners due to severe flood damage linked to state flood diversion efforts. Residents allege inadequate warning and communication about the risks as authorities diverted floodwaters, resulting in devastation. State officials defended their actions while acknowledging the gravity of the situation and ongoing legal concerns. Continue reading State receives notice of potential lawsuit over McCook Lake flood response
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Troy Cooke, 51, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl and two years for bestiality, with both sentences served concurrently. The judge cited Cooke’s lack of accountability and violation of trust. He is eligible for parole after seven years and must register as a sex offender. Continue reading Troy Cooke sentenced to prison Monday
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Troy Cooke, convicted of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, as well as bestiality, faces sentencing on Jan. 6. The former bounty hunter was convicted in a jury trial of a sexual contact charge and pleaded guilty to bestiality. Continue reading Troy Cooke, guilty of sexual contact with a child and bestiality, to be sentenced next week
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Matt Vanderpool has been charged with sexual offenses against a second victim. He also has had his bail reduced and is now living with his parents in Iowa. A motions hearing is set for Jan. 6. Continue reading Matt Vanderpool charged for similar offenses involving second victim
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Between November 22 and December 28, 2024, the Union County Sheriff’s Office reported various incidents, including traffic warnings, citations, arrests, and assistance to other agencies. Most activities involved enforcing traffic laws and responding to welfare checks, with significant operational time dedicated to the Alcester region. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 11/22 – 12/28/2024
The Siouxland Observer 