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.
South Dakota’s Property Tax Task Force is back in session, aiming to address rising property taxes across the state. Lawmakers gathered in Sioux Falls this week to review how property taxes fund local governments and to explore potential reforms.
The Davison-Hanson County Ambulance District is finalizing plans to fund rural EMS services following voter approval of a $700,000 measure. This week, the board approved a contract with the city of Mitchell for emergency medical services and discussed a possible $100,000 funding increase.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that 24 inmates have been indicted following a violent disturbance at the Sioux Falls state penitentiary on May 27. The incident left 14 inmates injured, including four hospitalized, and resulted in charges such as aggravated assault, simple assault, and rioting.
Sioux Falls Police are investigating four separate weekend shootings across the city, including incidents near downtown and an apartment complex east of I-229 and 21st Street. While no life-threatening injuries were reported, the shootings have sparked concern among residents.
U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) is accepting applications for fall 2025 internships in his Washington, D.C., Pierre, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls offices. College students selected will receive a stipend and may earn academic credit. Internships typically run September through December, with flexible scheduling available.
At the “Stand with Farmers” event in Sioux Falls, South Dakota producers and advocates called for urgent federal action on agriculture. Speakers voiced concern over delays to the farm bill, USDA funding freezes, and harmful tariffs.
Two new South Dakota government accountability laws take effect July 1. Senate Bills 62 and 63, introduced by Attorney General Marty Jackley, establish mandatory reporting of improper conduct and provide whistleblower protections for state employees.