Watertown Development Company Plans Major Industrial Expansion in Codington County

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Watertown Development Company Executive Director Chris Clifton briefed Codington County Commissioners Tuesday on ongoing industrial development projects, infrastructure expansion, and the organization’s long‑term strategy to diversify the county’s tax base.

Clifton opened by thanking commissioners for their annual support.

“Thank you for having me. I appreciate the opportunity,” he said. “You all know what I do. You know what the mission of the organization is.”

He emphasized that industrial development remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen the county’s tax structure.

“Diversifying the tax base and putting a big tax number on a small parcel of land is what we do for you,” Clifton said. “Since two‑thirds of your revenue goes to schools, industrial development doesn’t generate a lot of additional expense.”

Clifton said expanding and attracting industry helps reduce reliance on residential property taxes.

“By bringing in new and expanding industry, you’re moving away from your burden on the property tax side on the residential,” he said. “I think that’s why you invest in the organization.”

Major Industrial Growth Ahead: Calvin, Kingsley, and Pheasant Ridge

Clifton detailed several large‑scale projects underway or nearing acquisition:

Calvin Industrial Park

·         A 25‑acre site is under contract.

·         If finalized, WDC expects to invest $1.1 million to extend Calvin Drive and expand water and sewer service.

·         The project would leave only one remaining lot on the north side of Jones Parkway.

Kingsley Estate Expansion

WDC is preparing to acquire 40 acres of the Kingsley Estate south of Calvin.

“We’re getting ready to take down 40 acres on the Kingsley estate,” Clifton said. “We’ll be expanding Calvin by two industrial sites, 25 acres each.”

He estimated $1.9 million in infrastructure costs to extend road, water, and sewer service across the street to support the new 50‑acre industrial area.

Clifton noted that WDC is already pursuing a project that could place 25 acres under contract in 2027, accelerating development timelines.

Pheasant Ridge

Commissioner Randy Schweer praised the development work.

“I drove through Pheasant Ridge over the weekend,” Schweer said. “There’s room for development, and they’re beautiful lots. I’m looking forward to seeing those develop.”

Clifton encouraged commissioners to visit the sites.

“If you haven’t driven through those areas, I would encourage the commissioners to go out and do that,” he said.

Grant Funding and Infrastructure Improvements

Clifton said WDC is pursuing a GOED/DOT grant for approximately $400,000 to help extend Jones Parkway. He also noted upcoming improvements on 41st Street, a city‑county road adjacent to the Kingsley property.

“That grant will probably cover 90% of that,” Clifton said. “We’ll pick up the balance of the improvements that will be necessary.”

All new industrial property will be annexed into the city.

Lift Station Project Ahead of Schedule

Commissioner Tyler McElhany asked about the timeline for the new lift station serving Calvin and future Kingsley development.

Clifton credited the county’s support for helping secure federal and state funding.

“You did help,” Clifton said. “You wrote a letter and helped facilitate DOAD and EDA’s application, which was approved.”

He said the project is moving faster than expected.

“We thought it wouldn’t be finished until September of next year,” Clifton said. “But the city is telling us that lift station will be finished and operational by June.”

The lift station will support development east and west of Calvin, enabling growth that otherwise would not occur.

Clifton Stresses Importance of City–County Collaboration

Clifton repeatedly emphasized that Watertown’s growth depends on cooperation between the county and city.

“If I look at my peers across the state, many do not have the collaboration and cooperation that we have,” he said. “It sets us apart.”

He said joint planning is essential for long‑term tax stability and school investment.

“If we’re going to grow at 3%, if we’re going to reduce the property tax burden long term, schools and school development are critical,” Clifton said. “We need to do the best and keep the best and the brightest there.”

Commissioner Myron Johnson agreed.

“We had a very diligent meeting, three hours worth of planning,” Johnson said. “Very productive.”

WDC Leadership Recognized

Clifton acknowledged members of the Watertown Development Company’s executive committee in attendance:

·         Steve Lehner, Board Chair Emeritus

·         Doug Sharp, Executive Committee Member

“We couldn’t do what we do without having that ongoing month‑to‑month leadership,” Clifton said.

Commissioners thanked Clifton for his work and partnership.

“We appreciate the partnership,” VanDusen said.