Justin Rackley, the man accused in a triple homicide during a backyard gathering in June 2024, appeared in court Thursday for a status hearing. Rackley remains in custody at the Minnehaha County Jail and recently submitted a handwritten note asserting his right to a speedy trial. Prosecutors and defense attorneys met with the judge to review the case’s progress.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources has approved nearly $16 million in funding for vital drinking water and wastewater improvement projects statewide. The low-interest loans will support critical infrastructure upgrades in multiple communities, enhancing access to safe drinking water and improving wastewater treatment systems.
The Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce is launching CO.STARTERS Core, a ten-week entrepreneurial training program starting this September. Designed to help local business owners and startups turn ideas into actionable plans, the hands-on course offers peer support, mentorship, and guidance on refining business models.
The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office is reminding businesses about a fee increase taking effect July 1st. As part of new legislation passed earlier this year, filing fees for Annual Reports and Amended Annual Reports will rise by $5.
Nearly a year after opening, the Dakota Protein Solutions plant near Freeman continues to draw complaints from residents over an “unbearable” odor. Neighbors describe the smell as “dead flesh,” saying promised odor-control measures have yet to deliver results.
Starting July 1st, South Dakota notaries will no longer be required to post a $5,000 surety bond when applying for or renewing their commission.
Construction is set to begin soon on a major concourse expansion at Sioux Falls Regional Airport, following the Airport Authority Board’s approval of bids for the first phase. The project includes new concourses and apron work around the terminal. Airport CEO Dan Letellier said bid results came in better than expected, offering a promising start.
Plans for a potential downtown convention center in Sioux Falls are gaining momentum, with early cost estimates ranging from $225 to $250 million. The Riverline Steering Committee met this week to review a consultant’s report outlining the project’s scope, funding options, and economic benefits.
The South Dakota Department of Health has confirmed the state’s first case of West Nile Virus this season, detected in mosquito pools in Minnehaha County. Health officials urge residents to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.
A proposed $650 million state prison near Mitchell sparked heated debate at a packed community forum Tuesday night. More than 175 residents turned out to voice concerns about safety, reentry programs, and the project’s impact on the community. Opponents, like MiKayla Johnson, criticized the lack of public input, while supporters such as State Rep. Jeff Bathke pointed to potential economic benefits.