Source: https://www.meadecounty.org/news-releases/
Timestamp: 2019-04-26 01:54:53+00:00

Document:
Sturgis, SD - The Meade County Highway Department is suspending snow removal operations in the following areas: Opal, Red Owl, Marcus, Union Center, Enning, Elm Springs, and Hereford at noon today (03/04/2019), due to wind conditions and sub-zero temperatures. They will re-evaluate conditions tomorrow morning to determine when and how to resume operations.
Sturgis, S.D. — Chairman Galen Niederwerder has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at county offices in honor of fallen firefighter Dave Fischer. Assistant Chief Fischer was killed on 7 SEP 2018 while responding to a house fire in Tilford, SD as a member of the Sturgis Volunteer Fire Department.
“The following statement does not necessarily reflect the opinions of current Meade County Commissioners Doreen Creed and Ted Seaman, who were not elected to their respective positions until 2016, after all the brouhaha of the Buffalo Chip incorporation saga, except for when yesterday's Supreme Court decision, took place.
Sturgis, S.D. - The Meade County Commission learned yesterday that the South Dakota Supreme Court overturned Judge Jerome Eckrich’s decision that attempted to nullify the Commission’s decision to allow the election for the Buffalo Chip Campground to incorporate as a city. It was a relief to finally come to the final destination on a long and winding - and very bumpy - road. The Commission merely drove the vehicle driven to this destination, with two noisy back-seat drivers (Buffalo Chip attorneys and the City of Sturgis) constantly yammering along the way; one, that you have to turn this way; the other, no you have to turn that way. Here are the facts.
State statute dictates that incorporation of a municipality has to go through the county commission. Buffalo Chip owner Rod Woodruff presented petitions signed by people who had signed voter registration cards, swearing under penalty of perjury, that they resided at the Buffalo Chip, and wished to hold an election of incorporation. The statute ordered that if the Commission is satisfied that there are “100 residents or 30 voters” the Commission shall set an election. It was determined, after conferring with the Secretary of State’s office, that the people were duly registered voters. (It is incredibly easy to become a legally registered voter in South Dakota; all you need is a post office box number. Just ask the 800-plus people who “reside” at Mailbox USA in Box Elder, many of whom never set foot in the state, but are allowed to vote in every election.) The Commission voted to allow the election to be held on a 3-2 vote, with Alan Aker, Linda Rausch, and Robert Heidgerken voting to hold the election, and Bob Bertolotto and Galen Niederwerder voting against. The City of Sturgis subsequently sued Meade County and Buffalo Chip LLC to nullify the election results, which were in favor of incorporation.
The Supreme Court reversed Eckrich’s decision, ruling that the City, along with some private individuals who joined the lawsuit, had no standing to bring suit. They ruled that only the State can bring suit to overturn an election. Some contend that the Supreme Court ruling was based on a technicality, when in fact the Court actually ruled that Eckrich should have made the same finding at the Circuit Court level, and should not have ruled to overturn the election. They also contend that the City was actually correct on merit, since the Court did not rule on the 103 Findings of Fact (FOF) that Eckrich signed off on. (Eckrich did not actually write the FOF; attorneys for the City and others actually wrote the document - Eckrich merely signed it, not even correcting spelling and grammatical errors.) The Commission contends that once the Court ruled on the issue of the City’s standing, they were not obligated to look for more Eckrich errors.
The County is gratified that as far as it is concerned, this matter is over. Individually, the Commissioners at the time cared not whether the Chip became an incorporated municipality. Their objective, individually and collectively, was to diligently follow the statutes. The split vote noted above highlights the poorly-written, out-dated statute that allowed a shrewd attorney/businessman to even bring the petitions before them. The Commission believes it is not widely known that they led a successful effort in the next legislative session after the whole mess took place to change the law; it now reads that there must be 100 residents and 45 registered voters, and they must physically reside there for at least 90 days per year.
Sturgis, SD - Meade County offices will close at 4PM today due to winter weather.
Sturgis, SD - The Meade County Commission met in special session today and immediately rescinded a county-wide burn ban that was enacted on June 28, 2017. Recent weather conditions have reduced the risk from wildfires; though the public is still urged to use caution with Open Fires and Burn Barrels.
Meade County Ordinance #27 specifically restricts Open Fires and Burn Barrels when the National Weather Service has declared the Grassland Fire Index to be in the Very High or Extreme category in Meade County.
What is the Grassland Fire Danger Index?
The Grassland Fire Danger Index is a forecast of the potential for non-agricultural grasslands to carry fire. It provides an indication of fire potential for grasslands, including its ability to spread. The index contains five categories: Low, Moderate, High, Very High, and Extreme. Should a fire ignite, it is more likely that it would grow or spread during higher rating days.
When is the Grassland Fire Danger Index issued?
Each NWS office in South Dakota (Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Aberdeen) issues the Grassland Fire Danger Index daily during the fire weather season, which typically runs from April 1st to October 31st (see Figure 1 for an example). During the non-fire weather season, it is only issued if the High, Very High, or Extreme categories are expected.
How is the Grassland Fire Danger Index calculated?
The Grassland Fire Danger Index is based on a mathematical formula that uses temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and curing data. Curing is related to the “greenness” of the plant material. Cured grasses contain less moisture and typically will burn much more efficiently than green grasses. Wind speed often has the greatest effect on the overall fire danger for grasslands. Therefore, even on hot and dry days when grasses are cured, it is difficult for the fire to carry at very high rates of speed if the winds are not particularly strong.
Why can the Grassland Fire Danger Index vary from day to day?
Temperature, relative humidity, and wind can vary greatly from day to day. Since the formula used to compute the Grassland Fire Danger Index includes temperature, relative humidity, and wind, it is a bit easier to understand how the Index can change fairly easily from one day to the next. Here is an example: Let’s say it’s late in the summer and grasses are fully cured. It will be hot, dry and windy this afternoon with temperatures in the mid 90s and a minimum relative humidity around 15 percent. This scenario would likely lead to a Very High or Extreme Grassland Fire Danger Index. Cloudy and much cooler conditions are expected tomorrow behind a cold front, with highs in the 60s and a minimum relative humidity around 45 percent. Winds will be light and variable in the afternoon. Even though grasses are still fully cured, the Grassland Fire Danger Index will be much lower on the second day due to the big change in weather conditions.
Low: Favorable weather conditions and a high moisture content of grasses, and other dry organic material on the ground, indicate that the probability of a fast moving fire is low. Outdoor burning under these conditions can usually be performed with reasonable safety precautions.
Moderate: Marginal weather conditions and lowering moisture content of grasses, and other dry organic material on the ground, indicate that there is some potential for a fire to spread. Any outdoor burning should be closely monitored.
High: Unfavorable weather conditions and low moisture content of grasses, and other dry organic material on the ground, indicate that there is high potential for a fire to spread. Outdoor burning should be restricted to early morning or evening hours when wind speeds are usually lower and the relative humidity is higher.
Very High: Very poor weather conditions and very low moisture content of grasses, and other dry organic material on the ground, indicate that dangerous burning conditions exist. Fires will spread rapidly and show erratic behavior. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
Extreme: Extreme weather conditions and very low moisture content of grasses, and other dry organic material on the ground, indicate that critical burning conditions exist. All fires have the potential to become large and spread quickly becoming erratic with extreme behavioral characteristics.
(Sturgis)—Meade County has been honored for 30 years of membership with the SDML Workers’ Compensation Fund. The Fund is celebrating its 30 Year Anniversary by recognizing long-term loyal members.
The Fund was created in 1987 as a method of providing workers’ compensation coverage for employees of local government entities in South Dakota. During its longevity, it has provided competitive rates, outstanding customer service and a strong safety and loss control program to the now 452 members.
The Pool is governed by a nine member board of trustees chaired by Karl Alberts, Finance Officer for the City of Aberdeen. “Our focus has been to provide stable rates to our members. The affordability aspect of the Pool over the last 30 years has enabled our members to use the money saved to fund other areas of their budget,’’ said Alberts.
The Fund is a non-assessable risk sharing pool available to Municipalities, Counties, Townships, Conservation Districts and other Special Districts throughout South Dakota and is endorsed by the South Dakota Municipal League and the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners.
County Commission Chairman Galen Niederwerder is pictured above accepting a plaque from SDML Workers’ Compensation Fund Administrator, Brad Wilson.
That the United States Drought Monitor currently shows all of Meade County in Moderate to Severe drought conditions with no signs of immediate improvement.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Meade County Commissioners respectfully petition the Governor of the State of South Dakota and the President of the United States to provide with all dispatch any remedies and state and/or federal assistance available for this type of emergency.
Dated this 28th Day of June, 2017 at Sturgis, South Dakota.
Sturgis, SD - Due to the extreme fire dangers that exist, the Meade County Commission has initiated an immediate county-wide burn ban. The Burn Ban Resolution will remain in effect until it is deemed by the Commission that conditions have improved.
WHEREAS, the Commissioners of Meade County, pursuant to SDCL § 7-18A-8, hereby deem it necessary for the immediate preservation of the public health and safety to adopt the restrictions set forth in this Resolution and it is the intent of the Meade County Board of Commissioners that the provisions of this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon passage by the Board.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Open Fire Ban will be in place until fire conditions improve and the Meade County Commission takes action to remove the ban.
Part of Meade County falls within the Black Hills Fire Protection District and state law prohibits the discharge of fireworks within its boundaries.
34-37-16.1. Period during which discharge of fireworks permitted--Violation as misdemeanor. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for a person to discharge fireworks in this state except during the period beginning June twenty-seventh and extending through the end of the first Sunday after July fourth and during the period beginning December twenty-eighth and extending through January first. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Source: SL 1983, ch 259, § 7; SL 2011, ch 162, § 3; SL 2013, ch 162, § 1.
34-37-19. County regulation of fireworks--Use of South Dakota grassland fire danger index. Any county may, by resolution, regulate or prohibit the use of fireworks outside the boundaries of any municipality in those areas where the fire danger, as determined by use of the South Dakota grassland fire danger index published by the National Weather Service, has reached the extreme category in that county during the period from June twentieth to July second, inclusive, and during the period from December twenty-eighth to January first, inclusive. During any such period, the county's action is suspended if the grassland fire danger index falls below the very high category and again becomes effective if the grassland fire danger index reaches the extreme category.
Source: SL 1989, ch 302; SL 2002, ch 252 (Ex. Ord. 02-1), § 17; SL 2003, ch 187, § 1; SL 2004, ch 239, § 1; SL 2011, ch 162, § 4.
Black Hawk: Fireworks are allowed outside of the Black Hills Fire Protection District.
Public display at Sturgis Fairgrounds July 2nd.
Summerset: Fireworks are not permitted.
Sturgis, SD - TransCanada will fly (scout) the Meade County route of the Keystone XL Pipeline on April 27 or April 28, 2017. The exact time/date of the helicopter survey will be based on weather conditions. The flight will incorporate the services of an environmental engineer, who will gather data for their environmental permit related to Sage Grouse habitation.
Meade County, S.D – South Dakota veterans who served in Taiwan between 1955-1979 may be eligible for the Republic of China Mutual Defense Commemorative Badge.
From 1955 to 1979, a Mutual Defense Treaty was established between the United States of America and the Republic of China (ROC), which protected Taiwan from invasion in the aftermath of the Chinese Civil war.
The Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China has produced the “U.S.-R.O.C. Mutual Defense Commemorative Badge” to express appreciation for the contribution to maintain the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, made by all American soldiers who served in Taiwan during that period.
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, in partnership with Meade County VSO, Angella Sutton, is taking the lead in informing veterans of this medal.
“Recognizing these heroes provides us an opportunity to thank and honor the sacrifices they made,” said Larry Zimmerman, secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. “Every veteran has a story to tell and along with that military service comes a variety of medals and awards”.
In addition, the Ministry also produced “Honor Medal for 823 Bombardment” for those who helped Taiwan defend itself during the 1958 Taiwan Strait Crisis.
Veterans that served during this time frame are encourage to contact their local County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer for an application. Veterans will need a copy of their DD214 form as well.
The Meade County Board of Commissioners is accepting applications from individuals who are interested in serving on the Meade County Planning Board.
The Meade County Planning Board is a seven-member advisory Board whose members are appointed by the Meade County Board of Commissioners.
This Board makes recommendations to the Meade County Commission regarding planning functions and procedures. The Board is tasked with ensuring county planning ordinances are implemented consistently and offers oversight to the growth, planning, and development activities within the County.
Individuals who want to be considered for an appointment are asked to fill out a Citizen Interest Application form and submit same to the Meade County Board of Commissioners, 1300 Sherman Street, STE 212, Sturgis, SD 57785. Citizen Interest Application available at: www.meadecounty.org via Human Resources Office.
All applications must be received by 5:00 p.m., Friday, December 23, 2016.
Please contact the HR office @ 605.720.1625 with any questions.
Sturgis, SD - Meade County will host a dedication ceremony of the American Flag flown at half-staff over the State Capital in honor of Governor Walter Dale Miller. The memorial flag has found its final resting place back in Meade County at the Erskine Office Building.
The family of Walter Dale Miller will be present for the event and the public is invited. Refreshments will be served.
Meade County will be offering a training class on Reducing Flood Risk and changes and updates to FEMA Floodplain Insurance.
We will also be answering your questions on a range of FEMA floodplain topics.
This class is free of charge and open to the public. Please email or call Jennifer Williams or Bill Rich to sign up for this class, at jwilliams@meadecounty.org or 605-347-3818.
Meade County Equalization & Planning Dept.
Dated this 28th day of June, 2016.
Sturgis, SD - The Board of Meade County Commissioners announces funding opportunities to organizations who support the conservation and enhancements of natural resources. The County received court ordered restitution (Clean Water Act Violations) in the amount of $83,000 to be paid out over a three year period. These restricted funds are to be used solely for the conservation and enhancement of natural resources.
Black Hills Trails is the first recipient of the County Conservation Fund ($10,000 cash and $5,000 in-kind) which will support their endeavors with the 7th Cavalry Trail System and the Deadman Mountain Trail Project.
The Commission is seeking proposals from other organizations who may qualify for some of these conservation dollars.
Please contact the County Commission office for further information @ 605.720.1625.
STURGIS(12/16/2015) – Bailly Enright, a recent graduate of the Sturgis-based Desiree and Company School of Beauty, opened Sage Brush Salon in Faith in December. The new business is located in the Keffeler Kreations building at 115 North Avenue West. In addition to cuts, colors and retail products for the entire family, she specializes in nail enhancements and operates full time. To make an appointment, call 605-515-3915. Walk-ins are always welcome.
Meade County Commissioners established the Meade County Economic Development Loan Fund in 2012. Today, the total loan fund value is over $140,000. These revolved loan funds are available to private businesses – both large and small – to stimulate economic development growth in Meade County. There is no set minimum or maximum loan amount. Terms are flexible. Loans are funded in partnership with lending agencies, and are based on job and/or service creation. While the Meade County Economic Development Loan Fund is administered by the Sturgis Economic Development Corp (SEDC), all loans require final approval from the Meade County Commission. For more information on the loan fund or the application process, contact Pat Kurtenbach, SEDC, at 605-347-4906 or pat@sturgisdevelopment.com.
About SEDC: SEDC is a private non-profit economic development agency formed in 1973 to assist new and expanding business and industry in Sturgis and the greater Meade County area.
Sturgis, SD - The Board of Meade County Commissioners announces that following a thorough candidate search and competitive process, they have selected Mr. Lincoln Shuck as the Meade County Highway Superintendent.
Mr. Shuck’s professional career delivers over 28 years of experience in heavy industrial environments from maintenance to production and management. Mr. Shuck holds multiple technical certifications which are complemented by notable achievements in personnel and project management.
Mr. Shuck will oversee a vast and diverse highway system which is supported by a dedicated team of 22 highway department employees and a 2016 budget of 7.1 million dollars.
Central Meade County is home to Mr. Shuck as he resides on his family’s ranch that was homesteaded in the early 1900s.
Sturgis, SD - Two school buses loaned from Sturgis based Harlow's Transportation have been given a new job during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Depending on the injuries, the super-sized Ambulance Bus (AmbuBus) has the patient transport capacity of six ambulances. Sturgis firefighters/paramedics can now transport a maximum of twelve patients with a single vehicle which has been retrofitted with twelve stretchers.
Angella Sutton, Meade County Emergency and Dave Smith, City of Sturgis Code Enforcement Officer worked together with Harlow's Transportation to find buses compatible with AmbuBus conversion kits.
Shawn Fischer Sturgis Ambulance Director stated, "The buses are amazing; last Tuesday evening the crew set up a disaster drill in which they triaged patients, packaged, and loaded them into the buses. Everyone thought they worked great and will be priceless in the event of a major emergency."
The AmbuBuses will be activated through mid-August to assist with potential rally related incidents and emergencies.

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