New South Dakota Department of Education enrollment data show “alternative instruction” — which includes homeschooling and some hybrid or microschool options — increased by nearly 950 students this school year, while public and private school enrollment declined slightly.
The South-Central Alcohol Task Force conducted six alcohol compliance checks in Miner County on Feb. 11, and all six Howard businesses checked were found in compliance.
South Dakota legislators are reviewing updated revenue expectations for the next budget year as Gov. Larry Rhoden considers tweaks to his proposed budget after stronger-than-expected January numbers. Legislative Research Council Fiscal Chief Jeff Mehlhaff told lawmakers tax refunds could put hundreds of millions into residents’ pockets and add about $10.3 million to the state’s general fund.
A South Dakota House committee advanced HB 1205 on a split vote, sending it to House Appropriations after lawmakers debated changing the school funding formula so annual increases would be the greater of inflation or 3%.
Mitchell city leaders approved transferring the former First Avenue mobile home park property to the Mitchell Area Development Corporation for $1 to advance a 24-home, owner-occupied development with price caps and a 10-year owner-occupancy requirement.
The South Dakota House voted 40-28 to defeat House Bill 1068, which would have limited liability for doctors and pharmacists who dispense ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to adults under written protocols for off-label COVID-19 treatment.
The South Dakota Senate voted 27-7 to advance SB 89, creating an EMS funding task force to study whether emergency medical services should be treated as an essential service and how to pay for it as many rural services rely on volunteers.
The Mitchell City Council voted 7–1 against a $50,000-per-year agreement with Retail Strategies aimed at recruiting new retail businesses. Several council members said they want to explore local partnerships before committing city funds.
A Mitchell criminal case involving Courtney Stork is moving ahead after multiple delays, with the defendant opting to represent himself. A judge has denied motions to suppress evidence tied to two 2025 searches, and a new motions hearing is set for Feb. 17.
Mitchell law enforcement leaders say violent crime remains low and most calls involve property crime or drug activity, even as overall incident counts can look high due to the city’s size and thorough reporting