Sue Christiansen has been a foster caregiver for 37 years and taken in somewhere around 150 kids, changing lives for the better. However, in her view, the kids did way more for her than she ever did for them.
On April 3, Sue Christiansen was recognized for her 37 years of caring for foster children by the Henry G. Fix Post #23 and District #7 American Legion's Good Samaritan Award. Family and friends joined her for the recognition. Pictured: (Front row, L to R) United Church of Garretson pastor Julie Gregg, granddaughter Ava, daughter Cindi Christensen, foster children Jenna and Kelson. (Back row) Sandy, son Aaron Christensen, son Will Christensen, Sue Christensen, Post #23 Commander Jon Schmidt. //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
“I’ve always been a babysitter, even in high school,” she said. “I graduated from Garretson in 1967 and so this is my hometown. I married Jerry in 1970. Growing up, I was the second oldest in my family and Jerry was the youngest in his family. So we had nieces and nephews and family members all around us when we started dating. We never did anything without a bunch of kids around us, whenever we went camping or hiking or anything else, we’d always have groups of kids around us.”
“When I graduated high school, I went to Nettleton Commercial College because I knew I wanted to become a bookkeeper. Well, after working in bookkeeping for a few years, I knew I did not want to be a bookkeeper. About that time, it was 1971, Kelli [Christiansen Schleuter] was five months old and had lost her babysitter. Her mom Pat said to me, ‘Sue, I want you to watch her,’ and I thought it was the perfect opportunity for me start my own daycare, and so I did, in 1971 with Kelli as my first child.”
Sue said that she and Jerry started their home out in Renner, then Sioux Falls but decided to move back home to Garretson by 1976. By this time, they had adopted Cindi and Aaron, and wanted to move back to Garretson to raise them both here.
“Then lo and behold in 1982, I had a miracle and I got pregnant and we had Dena, so that moved it up to three children of our own, plus all the children I watched. So, we were happy and content.”
She didn’t know it then, but the pump had been primed for foster care. Sue said it came about first with LeRoy Austin, though he wasn’t part of the state’s foster program.
“Leroy was having major issues with his parents, and one of his sisters called one day and asked, “Aunt Sue and Uncle Jerry, can LeRoy come and live with you? He would have been a sophomore in high school at the time. So, he came and lived with us. Then we had [great-nephew] Willie, whom we later adopted. So, we got another call, ‘Can Willie come live with you?’ Legally, he didn’t have anybody, and he was six years old. Well, in order to keep Willie, we had to become foster parents. In a million years, I never dreamt I was going to become a foster parent. Alex, his sister, legally had a dad, but he was in jail. She was five months old, and once we adopted Willie, he let us adopt Alex.”
That was in 1988. In around '93 or '94, she got a call for her and Jerry to foster two little boys in need of a home, and she said she’s sorry to say that it was a failure.
“We simply weren’t prepared,” she said. “We had zero training, well, about three hours’ worth of training. Nothing that prepared us for the realities. Things were certainly different back then too. But we learned from our first failures, and adapted. We found out what works and what doesn’t. As we gathered more experience we got better. Thankfully the system got better too, though it’s not perfect. Never has been and never will be.”
Sue described the policies that shaped the state system, and they were harsh, to say the least. Foster parents were told not to get attached to children in any way, maintain a professional distance, and zero contact was allowed between children and living parents/relatives.
“Nowadays, we know that doesn’t work,” Sue said. “Children love their parents and their families, despite the circumstances, and we cultivate relationships and visitations from their actual families and parents if they are able. Doing that, we can hope that their parents or families can get themselves together well enough to get their kids back. But in those early days though, we had none of that. Often times, kids were dropped off with us with absolutely nothing in the world but the clothes on their backs, if that.”
Now, the focus is on safety, security, and relationship-building.
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Get ready for sword fights, magic and adventure at GHS Friday & Sunday
This week Friday and Sunday, audiences will have a chance to experience sword fights, pirates, adventure, and fun as the Garretson All-School Play debuts.
Jade Bertotti and Gracie Fiegen //Garrick A Moritz, Gazette
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BROOKINGS, S.D. – While the Garretson FFA as a whole is still riding high from the State FFA, they had more to celebrate as seven Garretson FFA members placed in the top three in their divisions at the SD FFA Agriscience Fair on April 16 at West Central, Hartford. Placing gives them the opportunity to compete nationally this fall.
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The Blue Dragon Golf team officially kicked off their season last week hosting the Garretson Early Bird. This competition, while not having official medals and champions, is meant to give athletes a chance to have a competitive round with other schools before tournaments start.
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The Garretson Blue Dragon Baseball team headed to Corsica on Monday to take on the MVPCS Padres, and had a hard time keeping up with their opponents as they fell to the Padres 2-10. MVPCS was favored to win over the Dragons, as they had a 6-4 record so far this season, while the Dragons had a 3-2. However, the Dragons' hitting and pitching game has been solid so far this season and an upset was possible.
Dan Hoskins at bat. //Carrie Moritz, Gazette
The Padres held the Dragons off as they scored two in the bottom of the second, putting them on the board 0-2.
Garretson worked to catch their opponents at the top of the third as a single from Tyler Erickson sent Cole Schleuter home, but the Padres stayed three steps ahead as they gathered two more runs at the bottom of the inning. One more run from Brecken Weir at the top of the fourth was all the further the Dragons were able to get on the scoreboard while their opponents took home six more runs.
Taking the mound for the Dragons was Treyton Decker, who pitched 4 innings, striking out five, walking four and allowing 5 hits. Pitching relief were Weir and Dan Hoskins. Weir struck out one, walked three, and allowed seven hits while Hoskins walked one. The Dragons had five hits. Schleuter led with two, while Hoskins, Weir, and Erickson each had one.
The Dragons will take to the field today at 5:30 p.m. as they host the Sioux Falls Christian Chargers, and will host Canton on Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
The Garretson Track and Field team headed to Chester last week Tuesday, April 15 for the Chester Invitational, where they competed against Baltic, Parker, Tri-Valley, and six other schools.
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SIOUX FALLS – When Minnehaha County Highway Superintendent Jacob Maras gave the annual report for his office at the Tuesday, April 22, meeting, he probably didn’t think it would lead to commissioners giving a tentative approval to increasing the county’s wheel tax.
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REDFIELD, S.D. – On five occasions this year, librarian Sarah Jones-Lutter has left the quiet, comfortable confines of the historic Redfield Carnegie Library and made her voice heard in the uncertain world of politics.
Jones-Lutter made four trips to the Capitol in Pierre and recently flew to Washington to lobby state and federal lawmakers against proposed funding cuts that could hurt libraries in her hometown and across the state.
Library patrons attend a monthly book club on April 10, 2025, called Sweet Reads that combines love of books and homemade treats at the Redfield, S.D., library. Participant Sharon Eldeen, in pink at top right, has used the local library for more than 50 years. (Photo: Bart Pfankuch / South Dakota News Watch)
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Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for April 15, 2025
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change 49CIV 24-4816
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF TRUSTADMINISTRATION AND APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEE
Notice to Bidders
CITY OF GARRETSON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF HEARING UPON APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL EVENT ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LICENSE
Minutes of the Garretson School Board Dist. #49-4 for April 14, 2025
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for April 15, 2025
THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 9:00 AM on April 15, 2025, pursuant to adjournment on April 1, 2025. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bleyenberg, Heisey, and Kippley. Commissioner Beninga was present via electronic means. Commissioner Karsky was absent. Also present were Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, and Eric Bogue, Chief Civil Deputy State's Attorney.
Vice-Chair Bleyenberg called the meeting to order.
MOTION by Heisey, seconded by Kippley, to Approve the Agenda. By roll call vote: 4 ayes
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey to Approve the Consent Agenda. By roll call vote: 4 ayes. The consent agenda includes the following items:
Commission Meeting Minutes for April 1, 2025
Bills to be Paid $4,947,423.41
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Office Supplies $4376.18, JD PROPERTY SOLUTION Welfare Rent $1500, JOANN STORES, INC. Donations $468.14, JOURNEY GROUP COMPAN Contracted Construction $77880, KATTERHAGEN, MARK Bd Exp Fees (Yankton) $84, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT LLC Motor/Machine/Equipment Repair $268.18, KNECHT, ANDREW J Attorney Fees $1092, KONE INC Contract Services $8820, KONE INC Maintenance Contracts $1197, KRINGEN, MAGGIE JANE Professional Services $1200, KWIK STAR #1725 Gas Oil & Diesel $17, KWIK TRIP, INC Extradition & Evidence $14.87, KWIK TRIP, INC Gas Oil & Diesel $43.61, LAFAYETTE INSTRUMENT Investigators Expenses $200, LANGUAGELINE SOLUTIO Interpreters $435.93, LANGUAGELINE SOLUTIO Telephone $505.77, LARSON, VALERIE Bd Exp Fees (Yankton) $84, LAUGHLIN LAW LLC Child Defense Attorney $2585.71, LEWIS DRUG #01 Clinics - Auxiliary Services $316.54, LEWIS DRUG #01 Postage $172.55, LEWIS DRUGS INC Clinics - Auxiliary Services $12, LEWNO LAW OFFICE Bd Exp Fees (Yankton) $296.48, LIGHT AND SIREN Homeland Security $937.52, LIGHT AND SIREN Vehicle Equipment $4119.17, LinkedIn.com Publishing Fees $23.6, LISA CARLSON REPORTI Court Reporters $137.2, LITTLE CAESARS 3469- Supplemental Food $216.69, LOCKWOOD & ZAHRBOCK Child Defense Attorney $4208, LOPEZ, REBECA Interpreters $1485, LOVE'S #0869 OUTSIDE Gas Oil & Diesel $35, LOVING, PHILIP Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $8864.33, LOWE, CODY Uniform Allowance $300, LOWES HOME CENTERS, Building Repairs & Maintenance $24.82, MAC'S SIOUX FALLS, S Building Repairs & Maintenance $27.96, MAILCHIMP Advertising $60, MALIQI, KALTRIN Welfare Rent $1200, MALLOY ELECTRIC Truck Repairs & Maintenance $203.51, MARAS, JACOB Business Travel $86, MARSHALL & SWIFT Software $393.95, MCGRATH CONSULTING Professional Services $50525, MEIERHENRY SARGENT L Attorney Fees $5844, MENARD INC Automotive/Small Equipment $52.98, MENARD INC Bridge Repair & Maintenance $99.99, MENARD INC Building Repairs & Maintenance $1004.85, MENARD INC Electrical Repairs & Maint $9.42, MENARD INC Fairgrounds $67.53, MENARD INC Heat, Vent & AC Repairs $3.87, MENARD INC Plumbing & Welding $55.95, MENARD INC Small Tools & Shop Supplies $71.09, MENDOTA HTS FAIRFI Business Travel $123.26, MICHEAL'S PURPLE PET Building Repairs & Maintenance $168, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Contract Services $2922.75, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Lease-Rental Agreement $645, MICROFILM IMAGING SY Software $200, MIDAMERICAN ENERGY C Natural Gas $8351.24, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Subscriptions $648.19, MIDCONTINENT COMMUNI Telephone $195.39, MINNEHAHA COMMUNITY Tea-Ellis Range $60, MINNEHAHA COMMUNITY Water - Sewer $60, MINNESOTA STATE COLL Education & Training $220, MONROE SYSTEMS FOR B Office Supplies $62, MONTIS, LORI K Business Travel $282.07, MONTIS, LORI K Taxable Meal Allowances $6, MOTION AND CONTROL E Parts Inventory $466.67, MYERS, HEATHER Education & Training $50, MYERS, HEATHER Uniform Allowance $18.98, NACO Miscellaneous Expense $1650, NAPA AUTO PARTS Automotive/Small Equipment $240.63, NAPA AUTO PARTS Parts Inventory $93.84, NEW CENTURY PRESS Publishing Fees $2449.74, NIJO-JAILTRAINING.OR Education & Training $877.62, NORTH AMERICAN TRUCK Automotive/Small Equipment $159.96, NORTHEAST INVESTMENT Welfare Rent $2000, NORTHERN TRUCK EQUIP Truck Repairs & Maintenance $1854.02, NOVAK Miscellaneous Expense $64.5, NOVAK Office Supplies $221.45, NOVAK Professional Services $54.73, NOVAK Tea-Ellis Range $90, NOVAK Trash Removal $1265.5, OFFICE DEPOT INC Data Processing Supplies $701.85, OFFICE DEPOT INC Office Supplies $485.31, OFFICE DEPOT INC Publishing Fees $17.98, OLSON OIL CO. Automotive/Small Equipment $22.02, OLSON, DAWN Court Reporters $53.9, OREILLY AUTOMOTIVE S Automotive/Small Equipment $770.56, OREILLY AUTOMOTIVE S Small Tools & Shop Supplies $47.97, P & K PEST CONTROL Building Repairs & Maintenance $231, PANTHER GRAPHICS LLC Program Activities $375.21, PECHOUS, COREY Uniform Allowance $169.99, PENNINGTON COUNTY Extradition & Evidence $4515.89, PEOPLEFACTS Recruitment $93.69, PETRO GAS Gas Oil & Diesel $63.24, PETTY-RUSHING, BREND Professional Services $2105, PEX SUPPLY Jail Repairs & Maintenance $126.4, PFEIFER IMPLEMENT CO Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $88.72, PILOT_00599 Gas Oil & Diesel $44.36, PIONEER ENTERPRISES Burials $2000, POMPS TIRE SERVICE I Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $436.61, POMPS TIRE SERVICE I Truck Repairs & Maintenance $1556.34, PRECISE MRM LLC Software $360, PRECISION KIOSK TECH Testing Supplies $4500, PRICE, THOMAS L Psych Evals $27600, PRIME STOP NORFOLK Gas Oil & Diesel $20, QUALIFIED PRESORT SE Postage $8647.85, QUALSETH, RYAN Investigators Expenses $36.85, RAM CONSULTING Education & Training $712.5, RANGER JOES Uniform Allowance $22.95, RATERMAN, CODY D Attorney Fees $1224, REBECCA OR MATTHEW T Misc Revenue $150, REEVES, MEGAN Court Reporters $328.15, RENTOKIL NORTH AMERI Contract Services $391.26, RESIDENCE INN MARRIO Business Travel $175.66, RESOLUTE LAW FIRM IN Attorney Fees $3135.7, RICE STREET Welfare Rent $1500, RINGING SHIELD,NICHO Bd Evaluations (Minnehaha) $577.5, ROADWAY TRAVEL CENTE Gas Oil & Diesel $46.71, ROEMEN'S AUTOMOTIVE Gas Oil & Diesel $102.96, ROSETTA STONE Education & Training $298, ROYAL ARMS INTERNATI Other Supplies $458, SABRE COMMUNICATIONS Communication Equipment $58122, SAFARILAND LLC Education & Training $550, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Child Care Items $26.96, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Other Supplies $124.88, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Professional Services $99.32, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH School Lunch Program $124.82, SAMS CLUB - MEMBERSH Supplemental Food $6.22, SANFORD Lab Costs $237, SANFORD CLINIC Lab Costs $787, SANFORD CLINIC Miscellaneous Expense $60, SANFORD CLINIC Professional Services $140, SANFORD CLINIC Recruitment $2168, SANFORD HEALTH PLAN Insurance Admin Fee $3855, SANITATION PRODUCTS Truck Repairs & Maintenance $91.59, SD ASSOC OF COUNTY O Due To Other Governments $3630, SD ASSOC OF COUNTY O Education & Training $400, SD ASSOC OF CRIMINAL Business Travel $25, SD ASSOC OF CRIMINAL Education & Training $525, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Clinics - Auxiliary Services $6.6, SD HUMAN SERVICES CE Psych Evals $2400, SDN COMMUNICATIONS Data Communications $540, SDN COMMUNICATIONS Telephone $2773.12, SHELL OIL 2911361710 Gas Oil & Diesel $32.01, SHELL OIL 5742669670 Gas Oil & Diesel $32.78, SHELL OIL 5744616410 Gas Oil & Diesel $23.5, SIOUX COUNTY (IA) Return Of Service $40.5, SIOUX EMPIRE SOCIETY Professional Services $895, SIOUX FALLS AREA HUM Miscellaneous Expense $8110.1, SIOUX FALLS CITY Clinics - Auxiliary Services $60, SIOUX FALLS CITY Gas Oil & Diesel $14601.88, SIOUX FALLS CITY HIDTA Grant $265.21, SIOUX FALLS CITY Miscellaneous Expense $65326.92, SIOUX FALLS CITY Professional Services $474.32, SIOUX FALLS CITY Reconciliation $116409.42, SIOUX FALLS CITY Water - Sewer $59.06, SIOUX FALLS CITY Welfare Utilities $1327.1, SIOUX FALLS MINISTRY Welfare Rent $700, SIOUX FALLS RUBBER S Notary Exp $25.45, SIOUX VALLEY ENERGY Tea-Ellis Range $266.36, SOLARWINDS INC Maintenance Contracts $799, SOUTH DAKOTA CHAPTER Education & Training $500, SOUTHEASTERN BEHAVIO Drug Court $10000, SOUTHEASTERN BEHAVIO Professional Services $3143.75, SP BOLTZ EQUIPMENT Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $1843, SP ZERO9 SOLUTIONS L Uniform Allowance $64.98, SPRINGHILL SUITES DE Business Travel $92.85, SQ *JIM & RON'S SERV Professional Services $120, SQ *NATIONAL TACTICA Education & Training $311, SQ *RIGHT SIZE PLUS, Investigators Expenses $98.95, ST FRANCIS HOUSE Motels $1020, STALKER RADAR Vehicle Equipment $6736, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Daily Scram $8026, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Amts Held-Remote Breath $2131, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Archive/Preservation Supplies $1533.54, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Blood/Chemical Analysis $13350, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Data Communications $200, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Due To Other Governments $1356538.75, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Education & Training $35.88, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Extension Background Checks $20, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Fingerprint/Tax $239.65, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Lab Costs $220, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Misc Revenue $50.46, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Mug Shots $0.93, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Office Supplies $22.37, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Printing/Forms $318.27, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Professional Services $27270, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Property Search Fees $220.09, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Safety & Rescue Equipment $52, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Store Sales $129.43, STATE OF SOUTH DAKOT Telephone $728, STEPHEN, CHIOMA Welfare Rent $900, STEWART TITLE COMPAN Professional Services $2625, STREICHERS INC Uniform Allowance $2949.9, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Board Of Prisoners-Meals $67863.04, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE Child Care Food $1659.81, SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE School Lunch Program $3748.24, SURAJ CHHETRI Taxable Meal Allowances $18, SURF TAXI Transportation $32.4, TACO BELL #31426 Supplemental Food $5.44, TAFOLLA, MIRANDA RAE Court Reporters $1836.05, TARGETS ONLINE Other Supplies $235.4, TCN INC Telephone $54.09, TEGRA GROUP INC Architect, Engineers, and PMgt $13332.27, TERVEEN MANUFACTURED Welfare Rent $691, THE COUNSELING CAFE Psych Evals $1500, THE DAKOTA SCOUT LLC Publishing Fees $2444.85, THE DAKOTA SCOUT LLC Subscriptions $-58.57, THE HOME DEPOT 4301 Furniture & Office Equipment $363.62, THE HOME DEPOT 4301 Small Tools & Shop Supplies $66.89, THE LODGE AT DEADWOO Business Travel $500, THE UPS STORE 2125 Investigators Expenses $13.85, THE UPS STORE 2125 Jail Repairs & Maintenance $26.31, THE UPS STORE 2125 Postage $40.95, THE WEBSTAURANT STOR Inmate Supplies $67.76, THOMSON REUTERS - WE Legal Research $4246.38, THOMSON REUTERS - WE Subscriptions $314.04, THRIVE COUNSELING Recruitment $825, TIRES TIRES TIRES Automotive/Small Equipment $830.17, TOMACELLI'S TOO Jury Fees $113.2, TOPHER MACDONALD Uniform Allowance $89.93, TOWNSQUARE MEDIA INC Lease Interest $150.48, TOWNSQUARE MEDIA INC Lease Principal $349.52, TRANSUNION RISK & AL Investigators Expenses $192.7, TRANSWEST TRUCK OF Automotive/Small Equipment $182.07, TRI-STATE NURSING Professional Services $5280.5, TRITECH SOFTWARE Maintenance Contracts $8286.89, TRUCK BODIES & EQUIP Trucks/Tractors/Trailers $414765.5, TRUGREEN LIMITED PAR Maintenance Contracts $395.48, TRUGREEN LIMITED PAR Professional Services $69, TURNWELL MENTAL HEAL Professional Services $1934, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Communication Equipment $6350, TWO WAY SOLUTIONS IN Communication Equipment Repair $976.64, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS I Welfare Rent $1200, TZADIK SIOUX FALLS P Welfare Rent $1812, UNITED AIRLINES INC Business Travel $1050, UPSTATE WHOLESALE SU Data Processing Equipment $25996, US BANK-CORPORATE TR Trust-Administration Fees $2250, US FOODS INC Professional Services $69.44, US POSTAL SERVICE Postage $1057.69, VER BEEK, KELSEY Bd Exp Fees (Minnehaha) $1560, VER BEEK, KELSEY Child Defense Attorney $4554.42, VERIZON CONNECT FLEE Subscriptions $239.18, VERIZON WIRELESS Administrative Charges $23.46, VERIZON WIRELESS Data Processing Equipment $700.36, VERIZON WIRELESS HIDTA Grant $85.46, VERIZON WIRELESS Tea-Ellis Range $40.01, VERIZON WIRELESS Telephone $5788.35, VERN EIDE MOTORCARS HIDTA Grant $1200, VITAL RECORDS Archive/Preservation Supplies $709.95, WALGREENS Professional Services $126.62, WALL LAKE SANITARY D Water - Sewer $90, WALMART STORES INC Child Care Food $44.88, WALMART STORES INC Office Supplies $21.96, WALMART STORES INC Other Supplies $271.38, WALMART STORES INC Program Activities $185.04, WALMART STORES INC Safe Home Donations $90.05, WALMART STORES INC School Lunch Program $106.96, WALMART STORES INC Supplemental Food $11.06, WALTON, MARCUS Child Defense Attorney $4791.5, WASTE MANAGEMENT OF Trash Removal $4070.45, WHITTIER APARTMENTS Welfare Rent $851, WOHLWEND, AARON Business Travel $86, XCEL ENERGY Electricity $35562.41, XCEL ENERGY Road Maint & Material $33.12, XCEL ENERGY INC Welfare Utilities $2792.43, YANKTON COUNTY Attorney Fees $1258, YANKTON COUNTY Return Of Service $200, YMCA Welfare Rent $117, ZABEL STEEL Heavy Equip Repairs & Maint $50.4, ZOOM VIDEO COMMUNICA Maintenance Contracts $159.9, ZOOM VIDEO COMMUNICA Subscriptions $160.06.
The following reports were received and placed on file in Auditor's Office:
March 2024 Building Permit Report
Sioux Falls Area Humane Society Service Report for March 2025
Register of Deeds Statement of Revenue Report for March 2025
Highway Monthly Construction Updates for April 2025
Routine Personnel Actions New Hires
1. Thomasia Piel, Juvenile Correctional Officer I for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $26.13/hour (13/2) effective 04/14/2025.
2. Esmeralda Sanchez, Juvenile Correctional Officer I for the Juvenile Detention Center, at $24.85/hour (13/1) effective 04/12/2025.
3. Rebecca Beck, seasonal Park Worker for the Parks Department, at $18.50/hour effective 05/05/2025.
4. Troy Boeckholt and Dean Lorenzen, seasonal Park Workers for the Parks Department, at $18.25/hour effective 04/29/2025.
5. Allen Kaltved, seasonal Park Worker for the Parks Department, at $19.25/hour effective 04/21/2025.
6. Randy Nordman, seasonal Park Worker for the Parks Department, at $18.75/hour effective 04/21/2025.
7. Gregory Wise, seasonal Park Supervisor for the Parks Department, at $23.15/hour effective 04/21/2025.
8. Emelia Booth, variable hour Airport Deputy Sheriff for Airport Security, at $30.00/hour effective 04/09/2025.
Promotions
1. Kammi Bartscher, promotion from variable hour Intern to Deputy State's Attorney for the State's Attorney's Office, at $3,596.80/biweekly (22/2) effective 04/12/2025.
2. Taylor Bonestroo, promotion from Paralegal to Deputy State's Attorney for the State's Attorney's Office, at $3,596.80/biweekly (22/2) effective 04/12/2025.
Step Increases
1. Dallas Davis, Appraiser for Equalization, at $32.61/hour (15/6) effective 04/02/2025.
2. Ryan Gevens, Appraiser for Equalization, at $32.61/hour (15/6) effective 04/02/2025.
3. Kyle Sexe, Deputy Director of Equalization for Equalization, at $3,684.80/biweekly (21/6) effective 04/15/2025.
4. Kevin Headrick, Building Facilities Maintenance Technician for Facilities, at $31.04/hour (14/6) effective 04/02/2025.
5. Daniel Lundeen, Senior Building Facilities Maintenance Technician for Facilities, at $34.25/hour (16/6) effective 04/02/2025.
6. Tyler Grong, Assistant Director of Facilities, at $42.80/hour (18/11) effective 04/02/2025.
7. Allen Wolf, Building Facilities Maintenance Technician for Facilities, at $31.04/hour (14/6) effective 04/02/2025.
8. Justin Hofer, Caseworker for Human Services, at $37.80/hour (16/10) effective 03/31/2025.
9. Elma Sahuric, Caseworker for Human Services, at $31.81/hour (16/3) effective 03/20/2025.
10. Brian Bahr, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $29.54/hour (14/4) effective 04/02/2025.
11. Noah Bartscher, Corrections Systems Operator for the Jail, at $23.64/hour (10/3) effective 03/27/2025.
12. Jessica Bjorke, Corrections Systems Operator for the Jail, at $25.47/hour (10/6) effective 02/15/2025.
13. Ronald Figg, Corporal for the Jail, at $35.98/hour (17/6) effective 04/02/2025.
14. Erin Friedericks, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $30.26/hour (14/5) effective 04/02/2025.
15. Timothy Gustafson, Corporal for the Jail, at $39.73/hour (17/10) effective 02/18/2025.
16. Aaron Jorgensen, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $27.44/hour (14/2) effective 01/08/2025.
17. Karlee Kneifl, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $27.44/hour (14/2) effective 02/19/2025.
18. Gabriela Ordaz, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $29.54/hour (14/4) effective 04/02/2025.
19. Joshua Rapp, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $30.26/hour (14/5) effective 04/02/2025.
20. Andrey Skots, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $31.04/hour (14/6) effective 04/02/2025.
21. Hailee Steele, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $29.54/hour (14/4) effective 04/02/2025.
22. Joseph Veen, Correctional Officer for the Jail, at $29.54/hour (14/4) effective 04/02/2025.
23. Dawn Dubbelde, Zoning and Building Technician for Planning, at $30.26/hour (12/9) effective 03/29/2025.
24. Tessica Severson, Office Manager for the Public Defender's Office, at $34.25/hour (16/6) effective 04/02/2025.
25. Alexa Stover, Legal Office Assistant for the Public Defender's Office, at $24.85/hour (10/5) effective 04/02/2025.
26. Carrie Carey, Records Technician for the Register of Deeds, at $24.85/hour (10/5) effective 04/02/2025.
27. Jacob Chrans, Safe Home Assistant for Safe Home, at $26.76/hour (09/10) effective 03/30/2025.
28. Justin Cave, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $35.98/hour (17/6) effective 04/02/2025.
29. Wayne Feddersen, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $35.98/hour (17/6) effective 04/02/2025.
30. Matthew Johannsen, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $35.11/hour (17/5) effective 04/19/2025.
31. Joshua Patterson, Deputy Sheriff for the Sheriff's Office, at $35.98/hour (17/6) effective 04/02/2025.
32. Adam Zishka, Captain for the Sheriff's Office, at $4,380.00/biweekly (23/5) effective 04/03/2025.
33. Jennifer Hynek, Senior Deputy State's Attorney for the State's Attorney's Office, at $4,491.20/biweekly (22/10) effective 04/06/2025.
Other Salary Changes
1. To rescind the hire of Ring Kuol Arop as Correctional Officer for the Jail.
Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder, was present for the public hearing to consider a Special Event On-Sale Liquor License applications for the Red Rock Bar & Grill at Huset's Speedway, located at 2012 S Splitrock Blvd, SD. Huset's Speedway will be hosting various racing events between May 2025 and August 2025, and the special event license would allow Red Rock & Grill to sell liquor to be consumed on site during the events. The applications were provided to the Sheriff's Office, State's Attorney's Office, and Planning Department for review and there were no objections or concerns reported.
Vice-Chair Bleyenberg asked for proponents and opponents to speak on the topic; there were no proponents or opponents to speak on the topic. MOTION by Beninga, seconded by Kippley, to Approve Special Event On-Sale Liquor License Applications for Red Rock Bar & Grill, Inc. at Huset's Speedway Race Events for Events Held on May 11, 2025; May 18, 2025; May 25 to 26, 2025; June 1, 2025; June 8, 2025; June 15, 2025; June 18 to 21, 2025; July 13, 2025; July 16 to 19, 2025; July 27, 2025; August 17, 2025; August 24, 2025; and August 29 to 31, 2025. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
PRESENTATIONS
Dr. Kenneth Snell, Coroner/Medical Examiner, presented the annual presentation on the Minnehaha County Coroner's Office. Discussion followed about 2024 case data, causes of death, infant deaths, examined natural deaths and accidental deaths, drug deaths, examined suicide deaths, and future needs.
Scott Wick, President and CEO of the Empire Fair Association, presented the Sioux Empire Fair Association annual presentation. Discussion followed about the various day sponsors, special events, livestock and static displays, arts center, commercial and food vendors, fairgrounds improvements, community service, and the fair financials, which included total expenses of $1,384,727 and total revenues of $1,652,538 for a net profit of $267,811.
AGREEMENTS
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented a proposed management agreement between Minnehaha County and the Sioux Empire Fair Association. The proposed agreement would cover a term of two years commencing on April 16, 2025. MOTION by Heisey, seconded by Kippley, to Authorize the Chair to Sign a Management Agreement between Minnehaha County and the Sioux Empire Fair Association, Inc. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, presented a lease agreement between Minnehaha County and the Sioux Empire Fair Association. The lease agreement is for the property located at 100 N Lyon Boulevard and is for a term of two years commencing on April 16, 2025. Commission Administrative Officer Greco provided information regarding the lease agreement which would coincide with the Sioux Empire Fair Association Management Agreement. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Authorize the Chair to Sign a Lease Agreement between Minnehaha County and the Sioux Empire Fair Association, Inc. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
RESOLTION
Upon the request of Jason Gearman, Emergency Management Director, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Approve Resolution MC25-11, Declaring a Fire Emergency in Minnehaha County and Prohibiting Open Burning. By roll call vote: 4 ayes. RESOLUTION MC 25 -11 DECLARING A FIRE EMERGENCY IN MINNEHAHA COUNTY AND PROHIBITING OPEN BURNING WHEREAS, the Minnehaha County Board of County Commissioners is charged with protecting the health and safety of the citizens of Minnehaha County; and WHEREAS, conditions of fire danger now exist due to the dry spring conditions, unseasonably warm temperatures, and windy conditions that are currently prevalent in Minnehaha County, South Dakota; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, based on the recommendations of the Minnehaha County Rural Fire Chiefs and the Minnehaha County Emergency Management Director, and under the authority of SDCL 7-8-20 (18), that a Fire Danger Emergency is hereby declared and all open burning as defined in Ordinance MC34-04, is hereby prohibited within the boundaries of Minnehaha County, South Dakota, exclusive of any incorporated municipality within the county; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this prohibition on open burning may be rescinded by the Chair of the Minnehaha County Board of County Commissioners and the designated Minnehaha County Rural Fire Department/Emergency Management Commissioner Liaison upon consultation with the Minnehaha County Emergency Management Director and the Minnehaha County Rural Fire Chiefs that the declared Fire Danger Emergency no longer exists; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution is declared to be necessary for the immediate preservation of public safety in accordance with the provisions of SDCL 7-18A-8 and is effective immediately and shall continue until in force and effect until it is rescinded as set forth above or rescinded by further action of the Minnehaha County Board of County Commissioners.
Dated this 15th day of April, 2025.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS By: Jen Bleyenberg, Vice-Char ATTEST: Leah Anderson, Auditor Kym Christiansen, Deputy Auditor
AGREEMENTS
Upon the request of Lori Montis, Assistant Human Services Director, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Authorize the Chair to Sign an Agreement between Minnehaha County and Dakota Cemetery Management. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
Upon the request of Brett Johnson, Community Service Engagement Manager, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Authorize the Chair to Sign Modification Agreement #3 between Minnehaha County and The Urban Institute and to Utilize Remaining MacArthur Foundation Grant Funds for the Just Home Program. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
PROCLAMATION
Upon the request of Carey Deaver, Human Resources Director, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Issue a Proclamation Recognizing April 20-26, 2025, as Volunteer Week in Minnehaha County. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
EQUIPMENT PURCHASE
Upon the request of Jacob Maras, Highway Superintendent, MOTION by Heisey, seconded by Kippley, to Authorize the Highway Department to Purchase 4 new Horizon Signal SQ2 Portable Traffic Signals in the Amount of $49,902.90. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
BID RESULTS
Jacob Maras, Highway Superintendent, reported on the bid opening for the annual highway materials held on March 26, 2025. MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Approve Bid Results and Award Recommendation for Annual Materials Letting and Authorize Chair to Sign the Vendor Agreements With Mryl & Roy's Paving, Inc. for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Concrete Pavement; DMC Wear Parts for Snowplow Cutting Edges; Johnson Feed, Inc. for Rock Salt and Transportation, and Subsurface, Inc. for UV CIPP Culvert Lining. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
AGREEMENT
Upon the request of Tom Greco, Commission Administrative Officer, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Authorize the Chair to Sign an Agreement between Minnehaha County and South Dakota Urban Indian Health to Provide Outreach Services in 2025 and 2026 Using Funding from the MacArthur Foundation’s Safety and Justice Challenge in the Amount of $65,000. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
PRESENTATION
Monte Watembach, Information Technology Director, presented the Information Technology annual presentation. Discussion followed about the function of the department, completed projects, current projects, future opportunities, and the county application dashboard as well as the remaining AS/400 applications.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Upon the request of Monte Watembach, Information Technology Director, MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Authorize the Chair to Sign a Memorandum of Understanding between Minnehaha County and Dakota State University to Create a Cybersecurity Initiative as part of the SecureSD Program. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
COMMISSIONER LIAISON REPORTS
Commissioner Heisey reported on an upcoming meeting with the Treasurer's Office and the recent South Dakota Association of County Commissioners meeting.
Commissioner Bleyenberg reported on the recent South Dakota Association of County Commissioner meeting and a meeting regarding Teen Court specialty court.
Commissioner Kippley reported on a recent meeting with the State's Attorney as well as the meeting regarding the Teen Court specialty court.
NON-ACTION COMMISSION DISCUSSION
Commissioner Bleyenberg commented on the bills that were approved for payment.
MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Heisey, to Adjourn at 10:18 a.m. By roll call vote: 4 ayes.
The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22th, 2025.
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:
Dean Karsky
Chair
ATTEST:
Kym Christiansen
Commission Recorder
Published at the approximate cost of $443.47 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change 49CIV 24-4816
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS COUNTY OF MINNEHAHA)
IN CIRCUIT COURT SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT In the Matter of the Petition of Altisha Ranae Matthews, For a Change of Name to Kwan Ranae Matthews.
49CIV:24-4816
Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Altisha Ranae Matthews, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Altisha Ranae Matthews to Kwan Ranae Matthews.
On the 6th day of May, 2025, at the hour of 10:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Mowery, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as re- quested.
Dated this 28th Day of March, 2025 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Attested by, Cathy Arant Clerk of Court.
Published four times at the approximate cost of $49.48 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-3-25-4tc
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF TRUST ADMINISTRATION AND APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEE
In the Matter of the Estate of BETTY ZIMPRICH
Deceased
Notice is given that on March 31, 2025, the following person: Tamara Pease; 4701 W. 14th Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
was appointed as the Trustee in the trust administration for Betty Zimprich. As Trustee, Tamara Pease has full power and authority to settle all claims and administer the Trust Estate of Betty
Zimprich.
Creditors of the decedent must file their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication ofthis Notice or their claims may be barred.
Claims may be filed with the above-named Trustee by mailing a claim notice with supporting documentation to the address above. Alternatively, claims may be emailed or mailed to the Trustee's attorney.
Dated this 31» day of March, 2025.
Tamara Pease, Trustee, 4701 W. 14th Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Tamara Pease, Trustee
4701 W. 14th Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
LINDSAY M. HARRIS, JD
Attorney for Trustee, Tamara Pease HARRIS LAW, PROF. LLC
5019 S Bur Oak PI., Sioux Falls, SD 57108 605-777-1772
Published at the approximate cost of $41.54 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-17-25-1tc
Notice to Bidders
MC23-16 Hwy 146 Culvert Rehabilitation
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project consists of the removing 80 feet of 96” pipe culvert, creating a suitable base, reinstalling the 80 feet of 96” pipe culvert, installing new tie bars, installing new riprap aprons, and re-grading of ditches.
Online bids shall be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, not later than 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Bids shall be publicly opened and read at the Auditor’s Office at 10:30am.
For this project, bids will be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN vBid online bidding, or by sealed paper copy. Sealed paper copies to be received by Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office, 415 N Dakota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Bidding information can be downloaded at www.questcdn.com. Reference QuestCDN project number 9650707 for a non-refundable charge of $22.00. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or for assistance in membership registration, downloading digital project information and vBid online bid submittal. Project bid documents must be downloaded from QuestCDN which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to vBid online bidding for the submittal of your bid.
For sealed paper bids, specifications and proposal forms that must be used are also available at Minnehaha County Highway Department located at 2124 E 60th Street North, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Bids submitted on forms other than the proposal supplied by the Minnehaha County Highway Department will be irregular and will not be considered.
Minnehaha County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive technicalities, and make award(s) as deemed to be in the best interest of the County.
Published at the approximate cost of $23.79 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
CITY OF GARRETSON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the City of Garretson will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 5th, 2025, regarding a variance applied for by property owner of LOT 6 TRACT 3 OF NORDSTROMS ADDN TO CITY OF GARRETSON. Variance to request 5’ set back from the side property line to the north. The public is invited to attend and comment.
This public hearing will be held at the following time, date, and location:
6:30 P.M.
May 5th, 2025
American Legion
504 N. Main Ave.
Garretson, SD 57030
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this hearing, please contact the Garretson Finance Officer at (605) 594-6721. Anyone who is deaf, hard-of-hearing or speech-disabled may utilize Relay South Dakota at (800) 877-1113 (TTY/Voice). Notification 48 hours prior to the hearing will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this hearing.
Paetyn Dreckman
City of Garretson Finance Officer
Published twice at the approximate cost of $26.20 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
NOTICE OF HEARING UPON APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL EVENT ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LICENSE
Notice is hereby given that a hearing will be held in the Minnehaha County Commission Meeting Room, County Administration Building, 415 N. Dakota Ave., Sioux Falls, South Dakota on May 6, 2025, at or after 9:00 a.m., to consider the application for the following Special Event Alcohol Beverage License:
NAME
Siouxland Renaissance
Association/Siouxland
Renaissance Festival
LOCATION
W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
4000 W 12th Street, SF
Parcel # 53939
DATES OF EVENT
June 7 & 8, 2024
At which time and place anyone interested may appear to file objections to the granting of the same.
Dated at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, this 15th day of April, 2025.
Leah Anderson, County Auditor
Published at the approximate cost of $12.43 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
Minutes of the Garretson School Board Dist. #49-4 for April 14, 2025
SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES
Regular Meeting Garretson School District #49-4 6:00 p.m. April 14, 2025
Present: Board President Natasha Mendoza, Board Vice President Tana Clark, Board Member Wyatt Compton, Board Member Shannon Nordstrom, Board Member Justin VanDeBerg, Superintendent Guy Johnson & Business Manager Jacob Schweitzer. Others present: Elementary Principal Katie Hoekman, MS/HS Principal Chris McGregor, Nathan deWit, Jacki Liester, Garrick Moritz, Heather Schiltz & Sherri Schoenfish.
At 6:01 p.m., the Board convened in the Library for its regular meeting of the Garretson School Board. All votes are unanimous, unless specifically noted in the minutes.
President Mendoza led the Pledge of Allegiance and welcomed guests and visitors.
President Mendoza called for any additions or corrections to the Board agenda. Superintendent Johnson requested one addition. He asked that the resignation of Dakota Johnson be added to the consent agenda.
Action 25-090: Motion by Compton, second by Clark, to approve the agenda as presented with the proposed addition. Motion carried.
There were no comments made during the Open Forum portion of the meeting.
Action 25-091: Motion by Nordstrom, second by VanDeBerg, to approve the following consent agenda items as presented. Approval of March 10, 2025 regular board meeting minutes, approval of March 31, 2025 special board meeting minutes, approval of payments for March 2025 claims, approval of the financial statements for March 2025, approval of March 2025 payroll, approval of March 26, 2025 fuel quotes, 10% Ethanol from Palisades Oil - $2.57 and #2 Diesel from Palisades Oil - $2.706, approval of the following certified contracts (includes extra duties): Denyelle Ageson, $53,187; Stacey Anderson, $57,058; Denae Bass, $55,640; Angela Bly, $61,075; Jason Bohl, $81,573; Amber Bos, $60,808; Kelsey Buchholz, $66,096; Kayli Coburn, $28,473; Lisa Danforth, $57,598; Teddy Dauwen, $51,464; Travis Ehrisman, $59,500; Elizabeth Etrheim, $55,748; Julie Gnadt, $62,982; Lynsay Granberg, $57,437; Jacob Heumiller, $62,995; Alyxa Hoefert-Veldhuizen, $52,695; Tim Hughes, $58,769; Alysha Kientopf, $66,264; Jeena Lentz, $52,953; Jacki Liester, $68,034; Janie Lundberg, $67,164; Sherri Matthews, $55,414; Darcy McGee, $58,626; Reece Moehlenbrink, $54,946; Amanda Nelson, $51,440; Sherri Schoenfish, $61,956; Amber Schroeder, $54,235; Taylor Schweitzer, $54,592; Nate Scieszinski, $51,331; Nick Sittig, $64,040; Tracy Stallman, $62,448; Tori Steineke, $52,268; Andrew TerWee, $63,802; Amy Thompson, $57,148; Jill Whalen, $64,132; Mallory Zell, $50,043, and approval of the resignation of Dakota Johnson. Motion carried.
GARRETSON SCHOOL DISTRICT #49-4
CLAIMS PAID APRIL 14, 2025
GENERAL FUND
A-OX WELDING SUPPLY CO., INC., AG. CYLINDER RENTALS, $85.23; ALL AROUND WELDING, BUS MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS, $2,250.00; ALLIANCE COMMUNICATIONS, APRIL 2025 INTERNET & PHONE SERVICES, $806.00; BERTOTTI, JADE, SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WORKER- APRIL 8, 2025, $200.00; BEST WESTERN RAMKOTA, 2025 STATE WRESTLING TOURNAMENT HOTEL, $1,680.00; BRANDON ACE HARDWARE, ICE MELT/PADLOCKS, $536.89; CITY OF GARRETSON, GAS/SEWER/WATER. $4,503.56; CLIMATE SYSTEMS, INC., SERVICE CONTRACT, $4,764.00; DAKOTA AUTO PARTS, ANTIFREEZE/FOG LAMP RELAY/STARTER SWITCH, $83.61; DON’S AUTO & TIRE CO., BATTERY FOR GATOR, $74.67; ELK POINT-JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT #61-7, REGION 2B WRESTLING TOURNAMENTS- EXPENSES, $406.43; ELO CPA’S & ADVISORS, FISCAL YEAR 2024 AUDIT SERVICES, $7,663.48; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- PRIME MEBERSHIP, $137.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- TESTING HEADPHONES, $29.99; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AWARD EMBLEM- BAND & CHOIR PINS, $139.75; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, BURGER KING- MEAL- INSURANCE MEETING, $17.63; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, COFFEE CUP- FUEL- STATE WRESTLING TOURNAMENT, $153.33; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, FEDEX- MAIL, $60.36; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, J.W. PEPPER- BAND MUSIC, $135.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT- AIR & OIL FILTERS, $59.40; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, MCLEOD’S PRINTING & OFFICE SUPPLY- ELECTION STAMP, $30.79; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, PHILLIPS 66- FUEL- STATE WRESTLING TOURNAMENT, $88.11; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, TODOIST- ANNUAL FEE, $504.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, WORDPRESS- BLOG/SUBSCRIPTION, $318.60; GARRETSON GAZETTE, BOARD MEETING MINUTES/ELECTION PUBLICATIONS, $531.94; GARRETSON SCHOOL DISTRICT CUSTODIAL ACCOUNT, MARCH 2025 IMPREST ACCOUNT REIMBURSEMENT, $917.89; GERSTMAN, LOUIS, SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WORKER- APRIL 8, 2025, $200.00; HAUFF MID-AMERICA SPORTS, JESSE JAMES TRACK MEET PLAQUES, $56.85; HEALTHEQUITY, HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT CONTRIBUTIONS/FEES, $469.28; HILLYARD, CLEANING/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES, $4,864.26; HOEKMAN, KATIE, MEETING MEAL- REIMBURSEMENT, $14.02; HORACE MANN, FEBRUARY 2025 FSA FEES/MARCH 2025 PAYROLL ACH’S, $499.94; HOWE, BETSY, CONFERENCE FEE FOR MINNESOTA NURSING LICENSE, $50.00; INNOVATIVE OFFICE SOLUTIONS, LLC, BLACK SHARPIES/CONSTRUCTION PAPER, $84.75; INSTRUMENTALIST AWARDS, LLC, BAND/CHOIR PINS, $44.50; KARPEN, GERALD, SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WORKER- APRIL 8, 2025, $200.00; LASTING IMPRESSIONS UNLIMITED, INC., WINTER SPORTS AWARDS, $232.75; LYNN, JACKSON, SHULTZ & LEBRUN, P.C., LEGAL SERVICES, $3,129.00; MENARDS, SPRING PLAY MATERIALS/SUPPLIES, $664.45; MOEHLENBRINK, REECE, NATIONAL HISTORY DAY REGISTRATION- REIMBURSEMENT, $135.00; PALISADES OIL, CO., BULK FUEL/TIRE MAINTENANCE, $3,914.15; PALISADES PROPANE, CO., PROPANE, $1,172.32; PERFORMANCE PRESS, INC., 3-PART LEAVE SLIPS, $180.00; POPPLERS MUSIC, INC., CONCERT BAND MUSIC/FLUTE REPAIR, $181.50; REGION II MUSIC ASSOCIATION, GROUP CONTEST ENTRY FEES- BAND & CHOIR, $150.00; ROGICH, CORTNEY, SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WORKER- APRIL 8, 2025, $200.00; ROTO-ROOTER, CLEANING OF MAINLINE, $375.00; SARAR, RUTH, SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WORKER- APRIL 8, 2025, $200.00; SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS OF SOUTH DAKOTA, 2025-2026 MEMBERSHIPS, $1,721.00; SDSNA TREASURER, ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION, $320.00; STEVE’S ELECTRIC & PLUMBING, INC., MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS, $2,190.79; STURDEVANT’S AUTO VALUE, TRANSPORTATION SUPPLIES, $225.60; WAGEWORKS, MARCH 2025 ACH FEES, $4,503.66; WASTE MANAGEMENT, APRIL 2025 GARBAGE & RECYCLING SERVICES, $769.89; XCEL ENERGY, JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2025 ELECTRICITY, $7,758.41;
FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, BEST WESTERN- CONFERENCE HOTEL, $351.48; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, GRAHAM’S- FUEL- CONFERENCE, $45.54; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, LOVE’S- FUEL- CONFERENCE, $51.03; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, MCDONALD’S- MEAL- CONFERENCE, $19.68; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, MCDONALD’S- MEAL- CONFERENCE, $15.60; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, MINERVA’S- MEAL- CONFERENCE, $62.53; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, SILVER SPOON- MEAL- CONFERENCE, $47.86; ISI, LLC, MARCH-APRIL 2025 INTERPRETER SERVICES, $11,308.00; LIFESCAPE, FEBRUARY 2025 SERVICES/TUITION, $3,039.50; MITCHELL SCHOOL DISTRICT #17-2, ABBOTT HOUSE PLACEMENT, $1,702.59; PRAIRIE LAKES EDUCATIONAL COOPERATIVE, MARCH 2025 SERVICES, $2,808.02; SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS OF SOUTH DAKOTA, 2025-2026 MEMBERSHIP, $367.00; SIOUX FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT #49-5, FEBRUARY-MARCH 2025 TUITION, $3,181.16;
TOTAL SPECIAL EDUCATION FUND, $22,999.99
FOOD SERVICE FUND
LUNCHTIME SOLUTIONS, INC., MARCH 2025 FOOD SERVICES, $40,879.79; RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR, FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT, $9,688.63;
TOTAL FOOD SERVICE FUND, $50,568.42
CUSTODIAL FUND
FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, BOUNCE AROUND INFLATABLES- OBSTACLE COURSE, $300.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, NIMCOINC- TATU RALLY T-SHIRTS, $182.00;
TOTAL CUSTODIAL FUND, $482.00
TOTAL CLAIMS: $140,540.61
IMPREST CHECKS
MARCH 2025
GENERAL FUND IMPREST CHECKS
BROOKINGS SCHOOL DISTRICT #05-1, MIDDLE SCHOOL ORAL INTERP. INVITE- REGISTRATION FEES, $9.00; CASH, ALL-STATE BAND MEAL MONEY, $130.00; HARRISBURG SCHOOL DISTRICT #41-2, MIDDLE SCHOOL ORAL INTERP. INVITE- REGISTRATION FEES, $9.00; WASTE MANAGEMENT, MARCH 2025 GARBAGE & RECYCLING SERVICES, $769.89;
TOTAL GENERAL FUND IMPREST CHECKS, $917.89
TOTAL IMPREST CHECKS: $917.89
Financial Report
The Business Manager presented a financial report on cash balances, expenditures, and receipts for the month of March 2025 as listed below:
Cash Balances as of March 31, 2025: General Fund: $187,680.93; Capital Outlay Fund: $1,677,328.60; Special Education Fund: $143,467.22; Food Service Fund: $268,257.89; Driver’s Education Fund: $12,068.52; Preschool Fund: ($29,167.78); Custodial Fund: $43,667.27.
Expenditures: General Fund: Claims, $61,971.42; Payroll, $320,970.08; Capital Outlay Fund: Claims, $5,032.99; Special Education Fund: Claims, $45,248.06; Payroll, $59,135.48; Food Service Fund: Claims, $37,217.02; Preschool Fund: Payroll, $9,923.95; Custodial Fund: ACH Fees, $5,472.88; Claims, $60,218.51.
Receipts: General Fund: Local Sources, $59,821.62; Intermediate Sources, $1,228.29; State Sources, $191,462.00; Capital Outlay Fund: Local Sources, $36,451.98; Special Education Fund: Local Sources, $23,557.36; State Sources, $29,894.00; Food Service Fund: Local Sources, $26,794.73; Preschool Fund: Local Sources, $2,800.00; Custodial Fund: Local Sources, $58,224.33.
Old Business:
None
New Business:
There were no conflicts of interest.
Heather Schiltz gave the Board an update on the PTO’s funding progress for the school playground, noting that roughly 61,000 has been fundraised thus far. She also discussed the changes/improvements that would be coming to the playground this summer.
Action 25-092: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Compton, to accept the donation from the Jacobson family for a new Blue Dragon Statue and direct administration to work with the family to find the appropriate placement. Motion carried.
Action 25-093: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Clark, to approve the Food Service RFP (Request for Proposal) as presented. Motion carried.
Action 25-094: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Compton, to approve the buyback proposal as presented and authorize the administration to proceed with the purchased agreement with Apple. Motion carried.
Business Manager Schweitzer presented the April 8, 2025 School Board Election results and asked the board to canvass the results and approve the canvass. The unofficial election results show there were 145 votes for Chad Stoterau, 131 votes for Nathan deWit, and 70 votes for Laura Otis, totaling 346 votes. Those 346 votes came from 190 voters. On the date voter registration closed on March 24th, 2025, there were 2,158 registered voters. 8.8% of registered voters in the school district voted in the election.
Action 25-095: Motion by Mendoza, second by Nordstrom, that the election results having been duly canvassed be approved as presented. The exact motion is as follows- “We, Natasha Mendoza, Tana Clark, Wyatt Compton, Shannon Nordstrom and Justin VanDeBerg, appointed as the Board of Canvassers because of our positions on the governing board in the jurisdiction of Garretson School District for the School Board election held on the 8th day of April, 2025, hereby certify that the foregoing is a true abstract of the votes cast in the jurisdiction of Garretson School District at the election as shown by the returns certified to the person in charge of the election. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2024-2025-5: Motion by Nordstrom, second by VanDeBerg, to adopt the resolution to join the South Dakota High School Activities Association for the 2025-2026 school year. Motion carried.
Action 25-096: Motion by Compton, second by Clark, to approve the exemption to policy KG, allowing the district to proceed with summer conditioning programming and summer sports camps. Motion carried.
A discussion was held on the possible addition of a half-time Spanish Teacher.
The following information items were presented to the Board: Policy JFCA: Student Dress Code and Policy JFCJ: Dangerous Items in the School.
The First Readings of the following were presented to the Board as a part of the policy adoption process: iPad Handbook, Elementary Handbook, and Middle School/High School (Secondary) Handbook.
The Second Reading of Policy DJ: Purchasing (delete Policy DJD: Local Purchasing and Policy DJF: Purchasing Procedures) was presented to the Board.
Action 25-097: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Compton, to adopt policy DJ: Purchasing and delete Policy DJD: Local Purchasing and Policy DJF: Purchasing Procedures. Motion carried.
Administration provided the Board with four administrative reports:
a. Superintendent’s Report - Superintendent Johnson summarized the Department of Education’s trip to the school. He then touched on what would be taking place at the school during Jesse James Days, including the model train exhibit and car/antique tractor show. He added that the FFA would be hosting their annual fishing derby at Splitrock park. Superintendent Johnson then noted that the Garretson Economic Development board would be meeting on April 24, and he was looking forward to taking part in it. He informed the Board that Matt Schrank and himself were asked to be a part of the Apptegy client advisor board and that the board would be meeting on April 15. Lastly, he made the Board aware that the district got certification after a Title review.
b. Prairie Lakes Educational Cooperative Report - Board member Compton reported on the last Prairie Lakes Coop. meeting, which included a discussion on the scope of what Prairie Lakes pays for and a discussion on restraint training.
c. Elementary Principal/Curriculum Director’s Report - Principal Hoekman reported on Early Childhood Screenings and 3rd Grade Ecosystem projects that the students presented on April 9. She also updated the Board on Smarter Balanced testing and end of the year field trips.
d. Middle School/High School Principal’s Report - Principal McGregor made the Board aware of numerous student successes, including at the Regional National History Day Competition and State Science Fair. He added that a handful of students were selected to participate in the Big East Conference Honor Band and All-State Band. Principal McGregor noted that Jason Bohl was selected as the SDWCA Middle School Coach of the Year. He also touched on upcoming events, including spring play performances, prom, band/choir concert, and graduation.
Action 25-098: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Clark, to go into executive session, pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2, subsection 4: Staff Negotiations. Motion carried. The Board entered executive session at 7:44 p.m.
President Mendoza declared the Board out of executive session at 8:10 p.m.
Action 25-099: Motion by Nordstrom, second by Clark, to approve the 2025-2026 negotiated agreement between the Garretson Teachers Association and the Garretson Board of Education. Motion carried.
Action 25-100: Motion by Compton, second by Clark, to adjourn at 8:12 p.m. Motion carried.
Approved by the Garretson Board of Education this _____ day of _________, 2025.
Natasha Mendoza, Board President
Jacob Schweitzer, Business Manager
Published at the approximate cost of $178.60 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Garretson, South Dakota requests formal bids be submitted for water meters at City Hall at 705 N Main Avenue Garretson SD 57030 on the following:
Water Meters– bid opening will be held 5/5/2025 at 1:30 p.m.
Specifications are on file at the Garretson City Hall and are available upon request.
Bids must be sealed with the items being bid clearly indicated on the outside for each project.
The City of Garretson reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and/or waive any irregularities therein.
Dated this day 4/22/2025.
City of Garretson
By: Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer
Published twice at the approximate cost of $19.17 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-24-25-1tc
Local resident Sue Christensen has been caring for foster children for nearly 40 years, with approximately 150 children being cared for at one point or another; the Garretson All-School play, Tooth and Tail, will be held with two performances this week Friday and Sunday; and Garretson Golf got off to a good start last week with the Early Bird tournament. Plus, the FFA had a good showing at the Agriscience Fair and the Easter Egg Hunt, and much more!
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