Tag: Union County SD

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

Crime, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

Gary Dickson

The first-ever Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log is now shared with readers. The publisher and editor of the Siouxland Observer is grateful for Sheriff Prouty making the information available. While more detail is desired, its availability marks progress towards transparency. The hope is for similar transparency from the North Sioux City Police. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

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

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Gary Dickson

Victims, scientists, and researchers in South Dakota call for recognition of climate and land use changes following a devastating flood. The outdated flood mitigation plan led to destructive consequences in McCook Lake, highlighting the need for updated plans and infrastructure to address the increasing frequency and severity of floods. Urban development and changing river flows are contributing factors, requiring updated zoning laws and design standards to mitigate future flood hazards. Continue reading McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Community, SiouxlandLeave a comment

MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Gary Dickson

Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) has awarded $71,650 in emergency grants to six local non-profit organizations to assist flood victims in the Siouxland area. The grants aim to address immediate necessities such as food, temporary housing, essential supplies, clean up, and emergency repairs. In addition, MRHD has modified its Impact Match Grant program to support flood-related projects. Continue reading MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Crime, Government, JusticeLeave a comment

They’re in the jailhouse now

Gary Dickson

As of July 15, 2024, the Siouxland County Jails in SE South Dakota house various individuals. The Clay County Jail contains detailed inmate information due to cooperation from the Sheriff’s Offices. The Union County Jail holds several individuals, with bond information included. The Lincoln County Jail also has numerous individuals with varied charges and bonds. Continue reading They’re in the jailhouse now

Government, Health2 Comments

Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

Gary Dickson

State and city food inspectors in Iowa and South Dakota have found various food safety violations in local restaurants and stores in recent weeks. Violations include insufficient refrigeration, improper food cooling, handling food with bare hands, and dirty facilities. The public is reminded that these reports are only a snapshot in time and that violations are often corrected on the spot. For more details, visit the respective state departments’ websites. Continue reading Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County has new disaster notification system

Gary Dickson

The Union County in South Dakota has introduced a new disaster alert system called Hyper-Reach, allowing citizens to receive immediate notifications for various hazards and weather conditions. Through this system, alerts will be sent via landline, cell phone, email, and TTY, keeping the community informed 24/7 about potential emergencies and weather events. Continue reading Union County has new disaster notification system

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

Noem, who sent Guard troops to Texas, resists using them for her own state’s flooding

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faces criticism for deploying National Guard to the U.S.-Mexico border but not to assist with flooding in the state, citing costliness. Despite opposition, her spokesperson hints at possible Guard utilization. Noem’s decision comes after allocating funds to previous border deployments and faces backlash from state officials and residents. Continue reading Noem, who sent Guard troops to Texas, resists using them for her own state’s flooding

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