County Commissioners Address Community Services, Increased Funeral Costs Expenses

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - 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 document assistance also ranking high in demand.

When asked about the high number of funeral requests, Foust stated that the department has seen a consistent number of requests over the past several years and continues to evaluate each case, requiring family members to contribute if they are able. Foust also brought up a discussion happening at the state level among the South Dakota Association of County Welfare Officials about potentially making cremation the default option for all county-funded funerals to reduce costs. Commissioners voiced concern over the potential conflict with religious beliefs.

Foust also addressed the need for transportation assistance, particularly for individuals leaving the jail or who are stranded in Watertown. The department has been working with the Fallout Shelter, which has voluntarily provided rides. Foust proposed reimbursing the Fallout Shelter for mileage costs, noting that it may be a more cost-effective solution than paying for lodging and bus tickets, especially since the bus service has limited hours of operation. The commissioners plan to consult with the state's attorney regarding liability concerns before making a decision.

In her report, Foust also updated the board on several ongoing community initiatives, including:

·        Housing: A new comprehensive community action plan is being finalized.

·        Childcare: The "My Little Village" initiative has successfully transitioned to meet the needs of local families, partly through a $50,000 grant from the Governor's Office of Economic Development.

·        Mental Health: The new HEART (Healing, Education, Awareness, Resilience, and Trauma) group has helped the community earn a "Resilient Community" designation and a $100,000 grant.

·        Centralized Services: Efforts are underway to make the "Codington Connects" program a nonprofit and to find a physical location for multiple service providers to work together.

Foust concluded her report by thanking the commissioners for their support and acknowledging their role in the success of these community projects.