Tag: Politics

Economy, GovernmentLeave a comment
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Noem’s actions motivate state senator’s attempt to limit executive power

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Senator Chris Karr has introduced a legislative package to enhance oversight of state spending, addressing concerns over former Governor Kristi Noem’s administration bypassing legislative approval. The bills focus on requiring legislative consent for significant expenditures, long-term leases, and budget transfers, aiming to ensure accountability in government finances. Continue reading Noem’s actions motivate state senator’s attempt to limit executive power

Community, economic development, Government, North Sioux CityLeave a comment
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Planning & Zoning Commission has hearing on and approves TIF District #5

Gary Dickson

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

Government, Siouxland, South DakotaLeave a comment
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Jefferson City Council discusses insurance and departure of city attorney

Gary Dickson

The Jefferson City Council met on February 3, covering financial reports, personnel changes, and insurance updates. Key discussions involved a new city attorney candidate, property tax abatement, and plans for street repairs and upcoming elections. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m. Continue reading Jefferson City Council discusses insurance and departure of city attorney

Government, South Dakota2 Comments
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Ballard named to vacant county commission seat

Gary Dickson

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

Education, Government, Healthcare, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Little tracking, wide variability permeate the teams tasked with stopping school shootings

Gary Dickson

Iowa students rallied for gun regulation after a school shooting, reflecting rising concerns about school safety. Advocacy for threat assessment teams, aimed at identifying potential threats, has grown since tragedies in Florida. However, inconsistencies and potential biases in these teams’ operations raise concerns about fairness and the treatment of at-risk students. Continue reading Little tracking, wide variability permeate the teams tasked with stopping school shootings

Commentary, GovernmentLeave a comment
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Commandments bill continues the effort to convert schools into churches

Gary Dickson

South Dakota lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 51, which mandates displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools and incorporating them into the curriculum. Sponsored by Sen. John Carley, the bill reflects concerns about mixing religious displays with education. Critics argue it imposes unfunded mandates on schools, undermining secular education. Continue reading Commandments bill continues the effort to convert schools into churches

Government, Healthcare, JusticeLeave a comment
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Prison medical staff shortage worsens as security shortage eases

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Department of Corrections faces a significant nursing shortage, with vacancy rates of 53% for licensed practice nurses and 40% for registered nurses. Secretary Kellie Wasko attributes these issues to unsafe working conditions and challenges competing with the private sector amid a nationwide nursing shortage. Efforts are underway to improve staff conditions. Continue reading Prison medical staff shortage worsens as security shortage eases

Government, HealthLeave a comment
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Prevention groups fear consequences from Noem’s proposal to reduce funding for anti-tobacco efforts

Gary Dickson

An anti-smoking group warns that reducing South Dakota’s Tobacco Prevention and Reduction Trust Fund from $5 million to $2 million could significantly harm public health. The fund supports the QuitLine and prevention programs, which are crucial as tobacco tax revenues decline. Critics emphasize the importance of maintaining funding to combat rising nicotine use among youth. Continue reading Prevention groups fear consequences from Noem’s proposal to reduce funding for anti-tobacco efforts

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment
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State’s bill for 2024 flood response and recovery is $3.5 million, officials say

Gary Dickson

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