Commissioners Secure Flexible Lease for Health Nurse and WIC Offices

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a move designed to maintain long-term operational flexibility, the Codington County Commissioners unanimously authorized a new month-to-month lease agreement for the Community Health Nurse and WIC offices located at 104 1st Avenue NW.

The agreement with property owner Harrington M. Cole sets the monthly rent at $2,100.00, effective retroactively to January 1, 2026. Deputy State’s Attorney Allison Bakken informed the Board that the decision to shift away from a standard five-year commitment was a strategic one.

“We didn’t want to be locked into a five-year lease... we are kind of exploring different options,” Bakken noted, indicating that the county is currently evaluating its long-term space requirements.

The facility houses the WIC program, which provides nutrition education and food benefits to eligible mothers and children, alongside the Public Health Nursing office, which coordinates developmental screenings and immunizations.

Bakken confirmed that the terms were reached amicably, stating, “Mr. Cole... is in agreement with the terms of this”.