Codington County Audit Reveals Strong Financial Standing as Election Deadlines Loom

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Codington County’s financial health remains on a solid trajectory as the busy spring season kicks into high gear. During the March 10, 2026, Commissioners meeting, Auditor Brenda Hanten delivered a detailed monthly report, unveiling a balance sheet and critical reminders for the upcoming 2026 election cycle.

Multi-Million Dollar Liquidity

According to the Auditor’s account with the Treasurer, the county closed the month of February 2026 with $24,653,410.20 in total cash assets on hand. This figure represents the combined total of the general fund, restricted cash, and various special revenue funds used to maintain county operations and infrastructure.

The report also detailed the daily flow of currency through the office, noting over $107,000 in physical cash items on hand at the close of business on February 28.

“The annual report is well underway, and the portion that needs to be published will be ready for next week’s publication,” Hanten told the board. “Otherwise, it is business as usual, and we are busy.”

Register of Deeds Revenue

In tandem with the Auditor’s report, the board reviewed the monthly activity of the Register of Deeds. The data showed that the office collected $33,858.80 in fees during February. These funds, generated through real estate transactions, certified copies of birth and death certificates, and other official filings, continue to be a consistent contributor to the county’s fiscal stability.

Primary Election: Final Call for Candidates

While the financial numbers were the centerpiece of the report, Hanten transitioned to a critical administrative warning regarding the June 2026 Primary Election.

Potential candidates for local and state offices are facing a rapidly closing window to submit their paperwork. The deadline for party-affiliated candidates to file petitions for the primary is March 31, 2026. Independent candidates have a slightly longer window, with a filing deadline of April 28, 2026.

Hanten emphasized that these deadlines are strict and essential for anyone wishing to appear on the general election ballot in November.

Looking Ahead: The Weed and Township Meeting

Beyond finances and elections, Hanten noted her upcoming attendance at the Annual Weed and Township Meeting scheduled for the following evening. This meeting serves as a vital bridge between county administration and rural township leaders, often acting as a forum for early discussions on land use and upcoming legislative changes.

With a surplus of over $24 million and a clear administrative roadmap for the election cycle, Codington County appears well-positioned to handle the upcoming projects—and the political season—on the horizon.