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County Commissioners Address Community Services, Increased Funeral Costs Expenses
The Codington County Commissioners met on Tuesday to discuss several community service initiatives and budget matters, including funding for burials, transportation assistance, and the strategic planning of various community programs.
Community Services Director Sarah Foust provided a report on August's activities, noting that her department assisted 48 individuals with a total of 88 services. Funeral assistance remains the most requested service, with transportation and doc

Steve Jurrens
Sep 182 min read


Codington County Sets Maximum Price for New Jail, Including Full Sheriff’s Office Completion
At Tuesday’s meeting, the Codington County Commissioners unanimously approved a final amendment to the construction manager-at-risk (CMAR) contract for the new county jail and sheriff’s office facility. The guaranteed maximum price for construction was set at $32,665,397, allowing the county to move forward with all planned alternates—including full completion of the sheriff’s office.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 181 min read


Codington County Reviews Five-Year Highway Plan, Eyes Bridge Projects and Road Repairs
At Tuesday morning’s meeting, the Codington County Commissioners held a public discussion on the county’s five-year highway and transportation plan, led by Highway Superintendent Randy Falvey.
While no significant changes were introduced, several projects were rescheduled due to inspection results, weather impacts, and grant funding timelines.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 181 min read


Rachel’s Hope Marks Record Month, Calls for Urgent Donations Ahead of Reopening
Rachel’s Hope, a Watertown-based nonprofit dedicated to providing hygiene and household essentials to families in need, reported its busiest month to date in August—serving 133 families and distributing nearly 3,900 items.
The organization, which launched just over a year ago, provided support to 518 individuals last month, including 269 adults and 249 children.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 182 min read


WHS Announces 2025 Homecoming Royalty Candidates
Watertown High School has announced its 2025 Homecoming royalty candidates, selected by their peers for their involvement and leadership across a wide range of school activities.
This year’s candidates are: Jonas Geier, Sarah Li, Silas Masar, Siri Bach, Tysen Canfield, Markus Pitkin, Patrick Bednarczyk, Malia Kranz, Cole Hansen, Whitney Martinsen, and Luka Lessin.
These students are known for their participation in various activities, including football, soccer, theater, ban

Steve Jurrens
Sep 181 min read


Temporary Closure of 14th Avenue N Scheduled for Rail Crossing Repairs
The City of Watertown Street Division will close 14th Avenue North to through traffic beginning at 6:00 AM on Monday, September 22, 2025, to perform roadway repairs at the rail crossing. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the day Tuesday, September 23, weather permitting.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 181 min read


Watertown Shamrocks Launch Dakota Buffalo Cup Rivalry Series
The Watertown Shamrocks will open their 2025–26 season this weekend with a new layer of competition: the Buffalo Wild Wings Dakota Buffalo Cup. The Cup is a three-year partnership between the Shamrocks, Aberdeen Wings, Bismarck Bobcats, Minot Minotauros, and Buffalo Wild Wings, designed to elevate regional rivalries across the Dakotas.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 182 min read


Senator Rounds Urges USPS to Address Mail Delays in South Dakota
U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) has called on Postmaster General David Steiner to take urgent steps to restore reliable mail service in South Dakota, citing persistent delays that have impacted residents across the state.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 182 min read


Watertown Gears Up for Homecoming Week: Safety and Spirit Take Center Stage
Homecoming Week kicks off Monday, September 22, and the Watertown Police Department is encouraging students, parents, and the broader community to celebrate safely while showing their Arrow pride.
The weeklong celebration includes performances, games, and community events, culminating in Friday’s parade, football game, and dance. In advance of the festivities, police issued a set of safety reminders aimed at promoting responsible behavior and positive engagement.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 181 min read


$543K Grant to Boost Native Grasslands in Western South Dakota
The Second Century Habitat Fund (SCHF) has received a $543,500 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Northern Great Plains Program to help landowners in western South Dakota restore native grasslands on marginal cropland. The initiative aims to improve habitat for wildlife while supporting sustainable ranching practices.

Steve Jurrens
Sep 182 min read
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