VOLUME 2 / ISSUE 1
JANUARY 2024
Stories and photos in this issue from:
BRANDON CANTON CENTERVILLE COLTON GARRETSON HARRISBURG HARTFORD SALEM TEA WORTHING
Special Feature
SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
Stone quarried in Dell Rapids is transported on the D&I Railroad, owned by L.G. Everist, Inc., owner-operator of the city’s two quarries. Photo courtesy of L.G. Everist, Inc.
Growing Places | January 2024
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Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
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// FROM THE CEO
A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR I’ve been keeping busy and having fun in my first 100 days leading the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance (SMGA). I need to extend my gratitude to the current and former SMGA staff, all our board members, and so many of our partners across the Sioux Metro for the warm welcome given to me as I’ve transitioned into this new chapter. In addition to all the coffee meetings and getting my bearings running the day-to-day operations, I spent the end of 2023 conducting my own “outreach tour” visiting SMGA member communities. This has included meeting with local officials, doing driving tours of our communities, and attending many city council, economic development board and county commission meetings. It’s been an awesome way to get to know the folks who run our communities on a personal level and to see the exciting stages of growth. I’ve been doing a lot of listening and learning too. Although the Sioux Metro packs a power punch when looking at what it can offer when working together, each one of our individual communities has their own legacy, identity, and strengths. These elements require us to deploy an “all-of-the-above” strategy when we talk about growth. SMGA has a role to play in meeting communities where they are, being another tool in their toolbox, and being a strategic conduit to assist in their individual growth plans. I’m excited to fill you in on the experienced team of industry professionals who will be helping communities like yours in the months and years ahead. Ryan Solberg has been with SMGA since April 2021 and serves as the lead economic development manager for the Ryan Solberg communities of Lennox, Worthing, and Salem. Solberg provides technical expertise on economic development needs for SMGA’s enhanced membership communities and for the organization’s regional membership overall.
Bryce Healy
Chris Fields
Karen Ruhland
Bryce Healy is joining SMGA as our economic development and member relations specialist. He brings more than a decade of leadership as the executive director of the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota. There he gained invaluable economic development experience as he worked with AGC-SD’s membership, developers, and industry experts. Chris Fields of Tea is joining the organization as an economic development and member relations specialist later this month. Fields brings over 20+ years of customer service, sales, and leadership experience alongside his MPA degree from Bellevue University. Finally, Karen Ruhland, who is the director of research, membership and communications with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, will be assisting SMGA on a parttime basis with regional research and administrative support. Karen will continue in her current role at SFDF. Her SMGA position highlights the strength of our continued collaboration with SFDF.
We’ll keep building on our 32-year history and keep to our nonprofit mission of working for our members and partners. Cheers to a prosperous 2024 for the Sioux Metro! // Tyler Tordsen President and CEO Sioux Metro Growth Alliance
Tyler Tordsen
Growing Places | January 2024
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Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
ABOUT US The Sioux Metro Growth Alliance (SMGA) is a nonprofit economic development organization that works to improve the economy and advocates for business development and quality of life in the communities around Sioux Falls. SMGA advocates on behalf of Baltic, Brandon, Canton, Centerville, Colton, Crooks, Dell Rapids, Garretson, Harrisburg, Hartford, Humboldt, Lennox, Salem, Tea, Valley Springs, and Worthing. All of these communities provide rewarding places to live and to work. CONTACT US Sioux Metro Growth Alliance 196 E. 6th St., Suite 200 Sioux Falls, SD 57104 605.679.7149 info@siouxmetro.com SOCIAL MEDIA
Subscribe to our podcasts on Google Podcast, Apple Podcast or Spotify.
TABLE OF CONTENTS From the CEO . . . . . . . . 3
ADVERTISERS Fiegen Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 J&R Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Workforce Profile . . . . . . . 6
Krohmer Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Housing Grants . . . . . . . . . . 8
Levo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
A1 Development . . . . . . . . 10
EXECUTIVE BOARD Jay Buchholz, Chair, Sioux Valley Energy Robert Baker, First National Bank David Doxtad, ISG Joan Franken, Costello Companies Sharese Ihnen, Vice Chair, Lennox Area Development Corp. Mike Jaspers, East River Electric Heather Kranz, TrioTel Communications Dennis Olson, retired Chad Ronshaugen, City of Dell Rapids Mike Wendland, Grant Park Capital STAFF Tyler Tordsen, President & CEO Ryan Solberg, Economic Development Manager Bryce Healy, Economic Development & Member Relations Specialist Chris Fields, Economic Development and Member Relations Specialist Karen Ruhland, Administrative Support MEMBERSHIP ADVISORY BOARD City of Dell Rapids . . . . . . . . . . . Chad Ronshaugen, Chair City of Baltic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deborah McIsaac City of Brandon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patrick Andrews City of Canton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Tanner City of Centerville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jared Hybertson City of Colton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Monte Koopman City of Crooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Harstad City of Garretson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Fueston City of Harrisburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Derick Wenck City of Hartford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amy M. Farr City of Humboldt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kelly O’Gorman City of Lennox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Britney Mower City of Salem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mitch Rayman City of Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaron Otten City of Valley Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carl Moss City of Worthing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott DeWitt Lincoln County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joel Arends McCook County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chuck Mehlbrech Minnehaha County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dean Karsky Turner County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mick Miller Alliance Comm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul VanDeBerg Bluepeak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lucas Peterson East River Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eric Fosheim Golden West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Oleson Lloyd Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drew O’Brien Midco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andrew Curley MidAmerican Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sam Wagner NorthWestern Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Mantz SD Development Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brad Jankord Sioux Valley Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brandon Lane Southeastern Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Todd Nelson US Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eric Krouse Xcel Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Anderson “Growing Places” magazine is published quarterly by AGE Media & Promotion in partnership with the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.
Panther Graphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
PUBLISHERS Garrett and Mindy Gross, 605.690.4071
Peska Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
EDITOR Bob Fitch, 712.551.4123, bob@agemedia.pub
Development Digest . 12
Reliabank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Spotlight on Dell Rapids . . . . . . . . . . . 14-22
Roto Rooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Showplace Cabinetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sioux Valley Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Xcel Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
AD SALES Garrett Gross, 515.231.9367, garrett@agemedia.pub © AGE Media & Promotion All rights reserved. Content in this magazine should not be copied in any way without the written permission of the publisher. Content in articles, editorial and advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by AGE Media & Promotion. www.agemedia.pub
Growing Places | January 2024
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// WORKFORCE PROFILE
A CAREER THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME Jason Langford is a metering supervisor for Sioux Valley Energy. He graduated from the Electric Utility Technician program at Minnesota West Community & Technical College in Jackson, Minnesota. After a year in Alabama working for a utility testing firm, he returned to South Dakota and worked for 23 years for East River Electric Coop. He has been with Sioux Valley Energy for almost seven years.
HOW HAS YOUR FIELD CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? Sioux Valley Energy always encourages us to grow our knowledge base. Many of the training sessions are product specific. Our industry does have an inherent level of danger involved, so understanding the products or equipment we work with everyday requires a high level of knowledge to maintain a safe working environment. From the metering world, there have been many technological advancements in the last 15-20 years. At a basic level, we measure the same metrics we always have, and the technology on that front hasn’t had to change. What we do with the information, and how we gather it is where the industry has advanced the most. In recent years, we have been able to collect meter values on a more frequent schedule which gives us the ability to help our members understand their daily usage and where they can find ways to lower their costs. Today’s meters notify our system when power goes out, giving us the ability to be responsive to outages in real time. Sometimes we may be able to respond to a power outage before a member is even aware.
WHAT DOES YOUR AVERAGE DAY LOOK LIKE? I have some of the best co-workers a person could ask for; we spend most of our time making sure the nearly 36,000 meters we have actively in service at Sioux Valley Energy are communicating with our meter reading system. The majority of our services are homes. Our line crews install those services, including the meter itself. We also have electricians in our wiring service department that install metering to register use for our electric heat rate. Most of our commercial accounts require wiring in specific equipment to register those larger loads, and that is part of our department’s responsibilities. A large part of some days is spent at a computer analyzing the data we receive to make sure our electric system is functioning at peak efficiency.
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Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
WHAT’S THE MOST INTERESTING THING YOU DO? Working through how the information that our department collects and how it is used in so many facets of the organization seems endless some days. Sioux Jason Langford, Sioux Valley Energy, Valley Energy’s Metering Supervisor supervisory control and data acquisition system (operated by dispatchers in Colman) is a remote control system for the substation equipment that controls our power lines from the source. I’ve been able to leverage some of my past work experience to help out in the advancement of this system as well. As we move forward in bringing more control and information to our dispatch center, it will give our members shorter outage times, as well as a safer and more efficient operating electrical system.
WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB? The most rewarding career is when you look forward to seeing your co-workers on the job or after hours; and doing the work at hand happily. Every day I’ve been at Sioux Valley Energy I can honestly say I’ve appreciated both the people and the work. What more could a person ask for?
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL STUDENTS ABOUT YOUR INDUSTRY? When you consider a career path, you have to put this question on your list: What career will stand the test of time, and always be there in any economy? There are very few. Growing up with a father that was a lineman, he enlightened me on the fact that the electric industry will always be in demand. Working for electric coops all my life, I can easily boast about how great it is and the family environment they create. Finding my place in between the hard labor that our lineman do on a daily basis, and the mental labor involved in being at a desk all day, I feel I’ve found the perfect balance for me. Find that balance that makes you happy no matter what end of the spectrum it lies. //
Growing Places | January 2024
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// HOUSING
CANTON, CENTERVILLE, SALEM, WORTHING RECEIVE FUNDS FROM SD HOUSING
Layout for the new Harvest Pointe Residential Development in Centerville.
Projects in the Sioux Metro communities of Canton, Centerville, Salem and Worthing recently received major grants to bolster their local housing efforts. The South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s Board of Commissioners awarded $19.2 million in Housing Infrastructure Financing Program (HIFP) funds to assist with 19 housing infrastructure projects in the state. HIFP was created for the purpose of making loans and grants for housing infrastructure projects. Following is information on the funded recipients in Sioux Metro communities. CANTON o Development name: Project Monarch – Monarch Village Subdivision o Development location: 440 N. Hiawatha Drive, Canton o Developer: Canton Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) o HIFP ARPA Grant Funds approved: $3,353,730 o HIFP General Grant Funds approved: $368,669 o Development summary: The project consists of infrastructure development for 82 single family lots and multifamily lots for approximately 200 condominium/high density homeownership units. CENTERVILLE o Development name: Harvest Pointe Development Project o Development location: 1171 Broadway Street, Centerville o Developer: Centerville Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) o HIFP General Grant Funds approved: $483,968
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Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
The layout for the new SEDC Residential Development in Salem.
o Development summary: Grant funds support infrastructure costs for the 14-acre project which features 22 lots with the potential for 26 new housing units. SALEM o Development name: SEDC Residential Development o Development location: 500 N. Colonial Drive, Salem o Developer: Salem Economic Development Corporation o HIFP ARPA Grant Funds approved: $663,000 o HIFP General Grant Funds approved: $92,000 o Development summary: The project consists of infrastructure development for 27 single family lots and two lots for two 4-unit multifamily buildings resulting in eight multifamily units. WORTHING o Development name: WEDC Housing Lots Project o Development location: West 4th Street, Worthing o Developer: Worthing Economic Development Corporation o HIFP General Grant Funds approved: $70,927 o Development summary: The project consists of infrastructure development for three single family lots. South Dakota Housing was created by the South Dakota Legislature in 1973 with a mission to provide opportunities for quality, affordable housing for South Dakotans. South Dakota Housing is a selfsupporting, nonprofit entity known for its commitment for providing innovative financing solutions to create and preserve affordable housing. South Dakota Housing utilizes housing bonds, tax credits, and other federal and state resources to fund housing programs which provide mortgage and downpayment assistance, housing construction and rehabilitation, homelessness prevention, rental assistance, and educational opportunities. //
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Growing Places | January 2024
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// ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
TRANSPARENCY PAYS OFF IN DEVELOPMENT DISCUSSIONS By Bob Fitch
A1 Development Solutions is a Sioux Falls-based company that works as an advocate on large economic development projects. A1’s site development and project management expertise has played a role in securing $2.5 billion of development in South Dakota since 2017. Typically, A1 tackles projects such as livestock facilities, agriindustrial, industrial and commercial. The company’s primary focus is to create win-win relationships in a principledriven approach. As its clients move forward on projects, strategies used by A1 Development Solutions include:
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Build rapport. Be personable, genuine and authentic.
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Pursue win/win scenarios.
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People don’t want to feel rushed, the first interaction should include “no ask.”
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Be honest and transparent.
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Dig to find the root of concerns, priorities and beliefs.
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Don’t judge a book by its cover. The situation may be totally different than you think.
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Stay calm and collected. Sometimes people just need to vent, so give grace.
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Keep asking questions, be curious and find the compromise.
Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
ARE YOU SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE? Obtaining the necessary permits for a processing facility or a livestock feeding facility in South Dakota can be a complicated process, often frustrating for everyone involved. One of the first steps in transparent communications is to ensure the permit applicant is speaking the same language as the county commission and its planning and zoning officers. “Right at the beginning, we sit down and say ‘This is the way we interpret your ordinances; is this the way you interpret them?’ We want to identify any discrepancies before we get very far down the road,” said Ty Eschenbaum, a partner at A1 Development Solutions and a speaker at Sioux Metro’s recent Growth Summit. He leads the company along with Paul Kostboth, Mark Mickelson and Kyle Peters. The team’s skills include economic development, government affairs, banking and agriculture. A1 helps growing companies secure sites, permitting, utility integration, re-zoning and other logistics, plus assists in creation of a communications strategy. Before official hearings are held, A1 and its client will often host a public informational meeting, especially on a large project. For projects big and small, sitting down at the kitchen table with people within a
INFLUENCING THE 40% IN THE MIDDLE The most important part of their communication plan is to convince the remaining 40 percent of the people on the merits of the project. “They maybe haven’t made up their minds yet. They have good questions and want to better understand the project and its local impact.” When A1 Development Solutions was working on the new soybean processing plant south of Mitchell, a number of people asked questions about the plant’s impact on the volume of truck traffic on Highway 37. A1 was able to successfully provide assurances that the amount of new traffic generated was going to be reasonable. But what the public discussions did was bring to light an underlying issue that
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“Some people might start off in the meetings being upset and voicing their anger. Sometimes people just need to vent for a little bit and feel like somebody hears them and is listening to them. Don’t underestimate the value of that; and never assume you know what people are upset about. People will calm down and usually we can have a good, open dialogue. They might seem mad and seem like they hate the project, but often they have only one concern and, otherwise, they’re happy to see the development or the progress or the impact on the county, school or community,” Eschenbaum said.
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He said some initial project opponents may never change their mind. “We’ve had projects where individual people completely disagree with us, but they’ve come up afterwards and said, ‘I don’t like this project. I don’t think it should be here. But we appreciate you talked to us and shared your information. We still don’t agree, but we felt like you heard us.’” Addressing the concerns of local citizens in an open manner can help take the emotion out of the official public hearing. “It helps when the voting body knows that you got the information out, you tried to answer everybody’s questions, you tried to show your solutions; and you offered up tours of similar facilities. The decision makers can identify who has made the effort to engage versus those who are mad, who think it’s a terrible project, but wouldn’t talk to us directly.” //
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Many times, 50 percent of the people are going to be in favor of new business that brings new jobs and economic activity to the community. “However, you’re going to have 10 percent of the people who are going to be absolutely against anything, at any location, at any time. That’s just the way it is. We still want to get information to those people and be cordial with them, but we know the chances of changing their minds are not high.”
was already festering in the area – namely the total amount of traffic on Highway 37.
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certain radius of the project helps surface potentially upsetting issues. When people hear about a project, it’s important to be on the leading edge of information. “Whether it’s a livestock or ag project or an industrial project, genuine concerns arise and the rumor mill will make things up to fill the informational vacuum.”
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Growing Places | January 2024
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// DEVELOPMENT DIGEST
ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC BREAKS GROUND The Orthopedic Institute recently broke ground for a new clinic in Tea. It will be a two-story, 70,000-square-foot clinic and office in the Bakker Landing development. The building’s first floor will include clinical space, advanced image and procedure capabilities, outpatient physical and occupational therapy, and rehabilitation. Administrative space will be on the second floor. The groundbreaking was hosted by Sioux Falls Development Foundation and Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.
HARTFORD DEVELOPMENT BREAKS GROUND
MARMEN OPENS EXPANSION
Homestead Hills broke ground on a new development in Hartford. The plan is to bring two mixed-use properties including residential lofts, retail space and additional green space to downtown Hartford.
Marmen Energy recently cut the ribbon on a 15,000-squarefoot addition to its wind tower manufacturing plant in Brandon. It’s anticipated the expansion will add 50 new jobs to the current total of about 200 employees.
COLTON, GARRETSON RECEIVE INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded $4.4 million in economic development grants for infrastructure improvements to counties and smaller communities. Funds cover 80 percent of construction costs and are designated to improve roads leading to schools, main business areas, hospitals, grain elevators, and other economic areas in a community. Two Sioux Metro communities were among the beneficiaries: City of Colton – Grant awarded in the amount of $600,000 for 4th and 6th Street which serve the downtown business area. City of Garretson – Grant awarded in the amount of $600,000 for 4th Street which serves a business area.
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Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
MAKERS EXCHANGE UNDERWAY IN TEA Locals “makers” of art, decorative items, toys, crafts, furniture and more will soon have a new outlet for their wares. Makers Exchange is under construction in Tea, west of the I-29 interchange at Tea and north of Casey’s. Five partners are collaborating to build the 10,000 square foot barn. More than 50 independent businesses are expected to exhibit their wares.
BARN AGAIN! A favorite event destination has been “barn again.” Tim and Kalli Blackstone recently announced The Canton Barn would be closing after almost seven years of operation. Blackstones founded the historic venue to be used for weddings and other events in a restored, modernized, yet still rustic former dairy barn. The planned Dec. 31st closing
didn’t happen because Tyler and Courtney Tjeerdsma purchased The Canton Barn, effective on Jan. 1. The couple was married there in September 2021.
HEDC, HCC OPEN JOINT OFFICE The Harrisburg Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) and the Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce have opened a new collaborative location at 225 N. Cliff Ave, Suite 4 in Harrisburg. Small business development, community advancement, economic growth, and workforce efforts are now under one roof, helping provide a robust foundation for ongoing initiatives to advance the Harrisburg community.
SKATING CLOSER TO A NEW HOCKEY FACILITY The city of Brandon recently signed an agreement to lease land in Aspen Park to the Brandon Valley Hockey Association. The association intends to build a practice and play facility on the land, which is on the city’s south side. BVHA has raised $1.7 million towards anticipated construction costs of $4.4 million. The lease agreement is for 30 years, with subsequent five-year renewals potentially taking it up to 60 years. At the present time, youth hockey players use outdoor rinks at McHardy Park. The new facility will also be accessible for open skating, plus could play host to other events in the off season.
LEADERSHIP CHANGES IN HARTFORD The City of Hartford announced Amy M. Farr, director of both the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation, will transition to become full-time as the director of economic development. Likewise, Wynne Hindt has been hired as the new director of the Hartford Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the changes is to provide more comprehensive assistance and resources for businesses in Hartford.
HUMBOLDT AND VALLEY SPRINGS RECEIVE ENVIRONMENTAL FUNDING The Board of Water and Natural Resources within the state’s Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources recently approved $98 million in grants and loans. Two Sioux Metro communities received funding. The City of Humboldt received a $390,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant and an additional $330,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan for sanitary sewer upgrades. Humboldt also received a $145,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant and an additional $270,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to replace aging water mains.
YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH. OUR ENERGY SOLUTIONS. Xcel Energy is here to energize your business growth. We’re ready to help new and expanding companies reach their energy and sustainability goals with real estate options available to match your needs. There’s no doubt: South Dakota’s future is bright. Xcel Energy is proud to power it. Learn more at economicdevelopment.xcelenergy.com.
The City of Valley Springs received a $232,000 Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program grant and an additional $270,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to construct new well houses.
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Growing Places | January 2024 3.56x10_Sd-GrowingPains_Nov2022_P01.indd 2
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// SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
WELCOME TO DELL RAPIDS SOUTH DAKOTA
FOUNDED 1871 DELL RAPIDS POPULATION
4,032 (2022 Estimate)
3,996
4,032
3,633 2,980
2,389
1,255
1,677
1,657
1920
1930
1,706
1,863
2,484
1,991
1,650
1,367
993
260
1880
14
1890
1900
1910
1940
1950
1960
1970
1980
Sioux Metro Growth Alliance | www.siouxmetro.com
1990
2000
2010
2020 2022
MAYOR
TOM EARLEY
BUILDING PERMITS (2022)
139
PERMITS ISSUED
9.7M
$
TOTAL BUILDING PERMIT VALUATION
AMENITIES Historic Downtown City Park includes pool, ballfields, tennis, basketball Rocky Run Golf Course Big Sioux Redrock Trail Always Your Design Quilt Shop Dells Theatre PINZ Bowling Alley
RESIDENTIAL
4.3M
$
COMMERCIAL
5.4M
$
Campground Quarry Days Christmas at the Dells Brown Memorial Park Palisades State Park
SALES TAX RECEIPTS (2022)
1,719,361
$
Local kayakers and canoers value the Dells of the Big Sioux. Natural and architectural beauty, combined with recreational activities, are a drawing card for Dell Rapids. Photos courtesy of the City of Dell Rapids. Growing Places | January 2024
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// SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
AGGREGATES UNDERLAY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT By Bob Fitch
Photo courtesy L.G. Everist, Inc.
L.G. Everist, Inc. is a long-time cornerstone for economic development in the Sioux Metro region and beyond. The company provides aggregate resources such as sand, gravel and crushed stone for the construction of roads, highways and buildings. Transport of farm and manufactured goods, commuters and tourists all rely on a system built with quality aggregates. The quarries at Dell Rapids have been a shining gem in the crown of the company’s success for 95 years. Founded in Havana, Illinois, in 1876, L.G. Everist’s corporate headquarters today is in Sioux Falls. At its two Dell Rapids quarries and the one at Rowena, it produces quartzite concrete aggregates, asphalt aggregates, seal coat, erosion stone, riprap, decorative stone and base aggregates. Also in the Sioux Metro, L.G. Everist subsidiary Ace Ready Mix operates from Harrisburg and Sioux Falls. Another subsidiary, Myrl & Roy’s Paving, is based in Sioux Falls. Other South Dakota sites are at Brookings and Summit. In Iowa, the company has sites in Larchwood, Hawarden, Akron, Sioux City, Correctionville, Washta and Larrabee. Minnesota sites are in Jasper and Ortonville. The company also has a strong presence in Colorado, where it operates at seven locations. 16
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THE DESTINY OF DELL RAPIDS Dell Rapids had its destiny carved in stone 500 million years ago when braided river deposits formed the beds of Sioux quartzite found at the intersection of South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa. The settlement of Dell Rapids coincided with the “Great Dakota Boom” which began about 1870. More than 300,000 people moved to Dakota Territory between 1870-1890. The Homestead Act, better farming methods and the railroads helped drive the boom. But rich stone resources allowed Dell Rapids to became more than just a farm-focused town. Surface mining quartzite became a major industry in Dell Rapids beginning in the 1880s. Four quarries cumulatively employed about 300 people in the late 1880s. Employment peaked around 500 in the early 1900s. The advent of the automobile helped the aggregate industry grow as crushed rock gained use in the expansion of the country’s road and highway system. Red quartzite is one of the hardest stones in the world and the beds at Dell Rapids run 2,600 feet deep. L.G. Everist, Inc. entered the Dell Rapids market in 1929, purchasing a quarry from the Simpson family. The
company employs approximately 70 people in Dell Rapids today. “Our workforce in Dell Rapids is very dedicated. Many of our employees have more than 20 years of service,” said Rob Everist, a fourth-generation leader of the company. “The Dell Rapids community was built around the quarries. We have a good working relationship with the community and support local activities including the 2023 state champion Dell Rapids Quarriers,” he said. The company gives back to area residents by supporting both the public and private schools, the Dells Area Hospital, park and recreation facilities and other activities, including Quarry Days. “I believe we have a strong future in Dell Rapids. We are currently operating both the east and west quarries and have many years of reserves at both locations,” Everist said.
STAYING AHEAD OF THE HURDLES Core construction aggregates mined by L.G. Everist are used in concrete, asphalt, chip seal, erosion control, base products and specialty sands. According to Everist, the company puts a high priority on quality control because specifications for highway projects emphasize life-cycle costs and quality. Clean, durable stone and sand are essential. Certified quality control staff are on-site at all quarries. L.G. Everist also has made a commitment to be environmentally responsible. When mining is finished at a site, the company reclaims the land by grading, draining and seeding. Highway construction and other sectors of the construction trades are regularly challenged by weather and other unforeseen circumstances. The corporation’s team strives to have foresight and be responsive to ensure customer needs are met, Everist said. “We see our job as staying ahead of the hurdles our customers face. Our tagline today is ‘Delivering Solutions.’ We take great pride and responsibility in living up to that reputation.” In addition to mining aggregate resources, the corporation delivers material by truck and rail. D & I Railroad is a wholly-owned subsidiary of L. G. Everist, Inc. It is one of the largest privately-owned fleets of railroad equipment of any aggregate producer in North America. Besides stone components, D & I can handle a variety of commodities for a diverse group of businesses. D & I Railroad operates from Dell Rapids to Sioux City on company-controlled track and via trackage rights with BNSF Railway. Between Dell Rapids and Sioux City, the line also regularly services Hawarden and the POET ethanol plant at Hudson. //
A ROCK-SOLID FOUNDATION Rising above an ancient bed of one of most durable rocks known on the planet, community development in Dell Rapids is built on a balanced approach that combines: (1) A historic tourist destination and unique downtown retailers; (2) An up-and-coming commercial and industrial sector; (3) Two strong school systems; and (4) A steadily growing population. Located less than 20 minutes north of Sioux Falls, the city has easy access to interstate highways 29 and 90. “Dell Rapids offers a unique setting in the Sioux Metro that is tough to beat,” said Sheldon Jensen, the city’s new community and economic development director. The city’s most recent development successes include a new north side housing development led by the Dell Rapids Sheldon Jensen Lumber Company, a new St. Mary’s Elementary School, new City Hall, and multiple new businesses in the Fiegen Industrial Park. Thirty-six acres are still available in the 80-acre development park. Currently, it is home to Midwest Fresh Logistics, Carstensen Contracting, Chamberlain Oil and more. Two major housing developments are Spruce Glen (adjacent to the golf course) and Jensen Subdivision (on the north side). For more information on moving to Dell Rapids, see www.dellrapidschamber.com. Dell Rapids is among the state’s most scenic places. In addition to its river-related amenities, it has an architecturally unique downtown. After a devastating fire in 1888, many structures were built of durable Sioux quartzite, pairing historic appeal with a forward-thinking retail sector. //
DELL RAPIDS LUMBER OPENS NEW STORE
Life is better for local contractors and do-it-yourself homeowners with the opening of a new, larger store by Dell Rapids Lumber Co. at 1208 N. Highway 77. The company has been an important part of the city’s business sector since 1901. Photo courtesy of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce.
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// SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
DELLS IS RIGHT SIZE FOR HOME AND BUSINESS By Bob Fitch
The “Growing Places” podcast features conversations with community and business leaders in the region. This article was adapted from a podcast hosted on October 25, 2023. Text has been edited for clarity. Links to past podcasts can be found at siouxmetro.com.
What do you look for when you’re deciding where to live and do business? “Dell Rapids is just the right size, in my opinion. I have a motto when it comes to where we live. I believe that ‘one stop light is one too many,’” joked Jason Uphoff, owner of Journey Painting, a residential and commercial painting contractor based in Dell Rapids. More to the point, Jason and his wife, Amber, chose Dell Rapids for its natural and architectural beauty. “Dell Rapids is one of the few places on this side of the river that has a little bit of terrain,” he said. They like the city and its prospects so much they purchased a vintage Victorian home in the community, plus purchased one of downtown’s historic Sioux quartzite buildings. They’ve named the mixed commercial site “The Aria,” since it is located next door to the Grand Opera House. (An aria is a long, accompanied song for a solo voice, typically performed in an opera.) Both structures were built in 1888.
RENOVATIONS BUILD ON ‘STRONG BONES’ The couple chose to purchase the building in 2021 because of its “strong bones,” meaning its basic structural integrity is sound, not something every 135-year-old building can claim. “I have an affinity for these old style buildings,” he said. The Aria is zoned mixed use commercial. There are two residential apartments on the second floor. One is renovated and occupied and the other is in the midst of renovation. As the building progresses, Amber’s employer – Anderson Insurance of Brookings – will eventually open an office in one of the building’s street-facing spots. Also facing Main Street, there will be two additional 200-squarefoot offices. Jason is confident the office space will rent quickly when it is complete. The second upstairs apartment already has a long waiting list.
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Jase, Halle, Jason, Harper, Amber and Michael.
A public-private partnership initiated by the Dell Rapids Economic Development Corporation helped the Uphoffs advance their project. A business façade improvement program from the Dell Rapids EDC helped The Aria building replace its expensive commercial windows. The amount of the grant didn’t
cover the full cost, “but it was the right amount of money to work as a catalyst,” Jason said. According to Sheldon Jensen, community and economic development director for Dell Rapids, the investment of $25,000 in the façade program has sparked $75,000 in private investment. “Downtown Dell Rapids is improving, becoming more beautiful and more structurally sound. That’s important because our downtown buildings are a big part of what makes the community unique,” he said. Jason is a native of Sioux Falls and Amber is a native of Lennox. Jason was just 12 when he started painting with his mom. Then he began his own painting business when he was 14 and it helped pay his way through college. After graduating from the University of South Dakota, he joined the U.S. Army. The couple lived in different parts of the United States and overseas before returning to South Dakota in 2014. They lived
in Arlington where Jason worked for the Arlington Community Development Corporation. He brought the painting business back to life in 2018 “because I like being my own boss.”
‘GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE’ Jason and Amber’s volunteer activity in the Dell Rapids community “flows organically from our kids’ involvement.” They have four children, ranging in age from nine to 17. “You’re drafted into whatever it is your kids like to do, which is fine. I firmly believe in the idea of ‘give where you live,’” he said. Amber helps organize – and the entire family plays a role – in the Zander Heathcote Memorial Bowling Tournament held in memory of a close family friend who died at the age of 14 in a bicycle accident. Jason is a member of the local American Legion post and provides his painting services to a community organization each year. Just as the family “gives where they live,” the Uphoffs also strive to do their business locally, whether that’s buying a cup of coffee at LaDelle & Fourth Coffee Shop, catching a movie at Dells Theatre or enjoying the Sunday buffet at Pinz. “There are some pretty amazing businesses on Main Street here in Dell Rapids. We work pretty hard to do what we do at home.” //
YOUR BUILDING. OUR REPUTATION. FiegenConstruction.com
Growing Places | January 2024
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Page designed by Dell Rapids High School Student Drew Buresh. 20
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// SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INTEGRATED INTO STEM LEARNING Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are all incorporated into learning at Dell Rapids High School with the addition of two electronic vehicle kits. Through an innovative career and technical education grant offered by the South Dakota Department of Education, the Dell Rapids School District was awarded funding to purchase two Switch electronic vehicle kits. The grant also afforded Dell Rapids High School career and technical View of an electric car used for education teacher STEM education at Dell Rapids High School. Photo courtesy of Dell Craig Jorgenson the Rapids Public Schools. opportunity to attend a week-long training in California to receive hands-on practice with the construction of the electronic vehicles. Jorgenson is teaching a new high school class course where students are introduced to electricity through relay switch boards and the ability to ultimately construct a road-worthy electronic vehicle. The “re-usable” kit includes the chassis, AC, DC or Permanent Magnet drive system, battery, all required wiring, lights, seat, seat-belt and windscreen. Students also learn the software program that goes with the kit that allows the vehicle to operate and move. With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, coupled with the need for automotive technicians in the region, this new course equips students with the skills needed to enter a workforce area that will continue to be in high demand, according to Dr. Donavon DeBoer, superintendent at Dell Rapids Public Schools. // Growing Places | January 2024
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// SPOTLIGHT ON DELL RAPIDS
ST. MARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL, DELL RAPIDS ESTABLISHED 1910 PREK-12 ENROLLMENT 236 STUDENTS
Founded as Saint Mary Academy in 1910, Saint Mary Catholic Schools strive for a united community of academic excellence and stewardship by embracing the Gospel and carrying the light of Christ. Students from pre-school through 12th grade are served. The school day includes prayer and religion classes. Mass is conducted on Wednesday mornings. Students regularly take part in community service. The school is nearing completion on a comprehensive campus renewal, including new facilities and remodeling of existing space. In addition to a new front entry and central office, the project includes many new classrooms and laboratory spaces. St. Mary’s has a full range of extracurriculars including band, choir, drama, football, volleyball, cross country, competitive cheer, St. Mary Catholic Schools serves pre-school through 12th grade.
basketball, track and field, and golf. There is also a co-op program with the public school for wrestling and softball.
ST. MARY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 812 N State Ave. Dell Rapids, SD 57022 605-428-5591 drstmary.k12.sd.us An artist’s rendering of the school’s front entrance when the campus renewal is complete.
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