South Dakota legislators advanced multiple property tax relief proposals this week, including a plan tied to Gov. Larry Rhoden that would let counties adopt up to a half-cent sales tax to reduce some property taxes. House lawmakers also moved bills to increase property tax refunds for low-income elderly and disabled residents and to create a homeowner relief fund.
The South Dakota Senate passed Senate Bill 175 on Thursday, approving a requirement that people provide proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote. The measure cleared the Senate 28-6 and now heads to the House.
South Dakota lawmakers won’t advance a proposal to raise the property tax exemption for permanently and totally disabled veterans and some surviving spouses. The state Senate voted 20-14 against Senate Bill 126 on Feb. 20.
The Mitchell Golf and Cemetery Board says money budgeted for a planned five-hole short course at Lakeview Golf Course would remain available in 2027 if construction is pushed back. The $1.05 million project is in the design phase, with bidding expected later this year.
The Mitchell High School marching band performed at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom on Valentine’s Day, marching down Main Street U.S.A. in front of thousands. The trip included nearly 100 students and is part of a band tradition held about every four years.
Platte-Geddes voters will head to the polls March 3 to decide on a $19 million bond issue aimed at replacing the district’s nearly 100-year-old middle and high school facility. District leaders say the current building has outdated systems and space limitations, including for special education.
Travel South Dakota earned seven HSMAI Adrian Awards — including two “Best of Category” honors — in one of the world’s top travel marketing competitions. The agency was recognized from more than 800 entries for campaigns promoting everything from winter adventure to Sturgis and statewide arts and culture.
South Dakota’s overall criminal offenses fell 6.03% in 2025 compared with 2024, according to the state’s annual “Crime in South Dakota” report. Serious “Group A” crimes dropped nearly 8%, including fewer homicides.
