MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) A divide on the Mitchell City Council came to light Monday night, as Councilman Mike Bathke publicly accused Council President Kevin McCardle and Councilman Jeff Smith of unethical behavior and damaging the council’s credibility. Bathke reportedly raised concerns over how board appointments were handled, citing behind-the-scenes influence and a lack of transparency. He also pointed to what he described as unauthorized meetings with city staff. According to the Mitchell Republic, McCardle and Smith denied the allegations, with Smith saying Bathke should have reached out privately instead of airing grievances in a public meeting. Mayor Jordan Hanson and other council members have called for more collaboration and a renewed focus on serving the people of Mitchell. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.
Tensions Boil Over at Mitchell City Council Meeting Amid Ethics Accusations
A rift on the Mitchell City Council surfaced Monday as Councilman Mike Bathke accused fellow members Kevin McCardle and Jeff Smith of unethical conduct and undermining transparency. The dispute centers on board appointments and alleged unauthorized meetings with city staff.
