Senator John Thune told farmers at Dakotafest in Mitchell that passing a new farm bill will be a top priority when Congress returns to Washington next month. The legislation, now two years overdue, includes much of its framework in the recent budget bill.
Congressman Dusty Johnson announced at Dakotafest in Mitchell that he will run in next year’s Republican primary for South Dakota governor. Johnson says the decision won’t affect his work in Congress, insisting he will continue serving out his current term without becoming a lame duck.
The Mitchell Planning Commission will meet Monday, August 25, at noon in City Hall to review key development requests. On the agenda is a conditional use permit for a family residential daycare on Mentzer Street and site plan approval for Dakota Counseling.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is teaming up with the mayors of Sioux Falls and Rapid City to expand opioid addiction treatment programs using settlement funds from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers.
More than 40 residents filled a Turner County meeting in Parker to voice concerns over strong odors from Dakota Protein Solutions, a rendering plant near Freeman. County officials cited three violations of the facility’s conditional use permit, including lack of a road haul agreement, dust control problems, and improper carcass storage. Investor Scott Stern apologized, blaming equipment and airflow issues, and promised fixes such as a new water source and storage tank.
A new $500 million soybean processing plant south of Mitchell is nearly ready to open, with operations expected to begin in mid-October. Built on 296 acres, High Plains Processing will crush up to 35 million bushels annually—about 18% of South Dakota’s soybean crop—while employing 75 people. The facility is the first of its kind in the state able to process other oilseeds like canola and sunflower, positioning it to meet growing demand in food production and renewable fuels.
Sioux Falls police have arrested 40-year-old Darius Tehmeh on multiple charges including kidnapping, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The Sioux Falls City Council has approved an ordinance banning makeshift dwellings in public spaces, including city parks. Passed Tuesday night, the measure requires officials to give fair warning before removing shelters and to offer transition assistance.
The 2025 South Dakota State Fair is putting the finishing touches on preparations ahead of its kickoff next week in Huron. Fair assistant manager Candi Briley says families can take advantage of multiple discounts on gate admission and activities to make the event more affordable. Running August 27 through Labor Day, September 1, the State Fair promises six days of entertainment, food, livestock shows, and family fun.
Concerns are mounting over Mount Pleasant Cemetery after a watchdog group revealed it lost its nonprofit status for failing to file tax returns three years in a row. Families say poor upkeep, missing financial records, and unanswered questions about the cemetery’s obligations have deepened frustration.