A major legal setback has hit Neighbors Opposing Prison Expansion (NOPE), as the South Dakota Supreme Court ruled against the group’s effort to block construction of a new men’s state prison in rural Lincoln County. The ruling ends a nearly two-year legal battle, but NOPE leaders say they respect the court’s decision and remain committed to their mission.
Sioux Falls-based POET is advancing efforts to reduce its carbon intensity score by launching a new clean energy project near its Big Stone City plant. In partnership with California energy firm Antora and Minnesota-based Otter Tail Power Company, the project aims to cut emissions and support long-term sustainability goals.
The Mitchell Board of Education will host its annual reorganization meeting today at the Mitchell Career and Technical Education Academy, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The public meeting will include the swearing-in of newly elected member Kimberly Lofgren and returning member Terry Aslesen, while longtime board member Deb Olson is expected to step down.
South Dakota is investing in its emerging tech sector with the launch of a new seed fund aimed at supporting startups and innovation-driven businesses. The Board of Economic Development has approved a $500,000 loan to Elevate Rapid City to help establish the fund.
South Dakota is advancing plans to build a new $650 million men’s state prison in northeast Sioux Falls, following a formal recommendation from the Project Prison Reset Task Force. The proposed 1,500-bed facility would replace the current 1881-era penitentiary, which Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko describes as outdated and unsafe. The modern, campus-style design includes improved visibility, safer infrastructure, and enhanced inmate privacy, along with dedicated areas for addiction treatment and mental health services.
David Steiner is poised to become the 76th Postmaster General, succeeding Louis DeJoy, and the transition is drawing close attention from postal workers in South Dakota. Steiner, a former FedEx board member, is expected to bring a focus on modernization and logistics expertise to the U.S. Postal Service.
South Dakota is set to receive $1.5 million as part of a new $720 million national opioid settlement involving eight major drug companies, according to Attorney General Marty Jackley. The funds will be used to support opioid treatment, prevention, and public health outreach efforts statewide.
Former Mitchell Baseball Association president Jason Christensen is voicing frustration over the uncertain future for American Legion-aged baseball players in Mitchell, South Dakota. During a recent Sports and Events Authority meeting, Christensen criticized current MBA leadership for failing to resolve eligibility issues with South Dakota Legion Baseball and for allegedly discouraging parent input.
The Community Blood Bank is making an urgent call for blood donations as supplies reach critically low levels following the Fourth of July holiday. Officials say summer donations typically drop by 20% as people travel, while the need for blood rises due to car accidents and medical emergencies.
The Brookings Regional Humane Society is urgently asking for community support after rescuing 32 cats from a hoarding situation. While the newly rescued cats will need several weeks of care before they’re ready for adoption, the shelter is already housing over 100 cats, with around 80 currently adoptable.