Kelly Tibbs

The meeting included a review of financial reports, noting the total account balance and a significant uncategorized amount available for use, with future discussions planned regarding inter-fund transfers. Payables, including an invoice for bookkeeping services and a fund transfer, were approved. Under new business, the board approved the execution of the ISG contract reflecting the revised scope of work related to a USDA award for an existing conditions analysis. Old business discussions focused on potential new board members, specifically Kevin Tiger and Carla Maier, with follow-up planned to gauge interest. The board also discussed the student board member position, confirming that the applicant, Eddie Duffy, is intended to be a voting member, and agreed to invite him to the next meeting. Committee reports highlighted an ongoing donor communication issue regarding signage for the All Seasons Fish Cleaning Station, coordination with the City to remove fencing near the basketball courts, and ongoing planning for brochure development and sculpture installation by the Sculpture Committee.

The meeting included a financial report indicating checking and money market account balances, and updates on the receipt of October occupancy tax figures, which showed a year-over-year decrease for Pierre and an increase for Fort Pierre. All 2025 financial commitments were reported as paid out. Payables approved totaled $3,073.82 for services from Realizing Rural. New business featured an overview of the emerging Buffalo Legacy Campaign, focused on investing in school facilities and leveraging private philanthropy, including preliminary pricing for facade work and a new billboard/mural treatment. It was also reported that the "Boots & Roots: 4th in Fort Pierre" brand has officially launched, and the 4th of July event grant program has opened. The board authorized registration for up to three attendees for the upcoming Tourism Conference. Old business included a positive reception to the 2026 budget presentation to the Fort Pierre City Council and an update on the USDA Rural Business Development Grant-funded feasibility study for a long-distance trail between Fort Pierre and Oacoma. Reports covered marketing metrics, the status of the City of Fort Pierre's bridge construction and utility projects, Fort Pierre Development Corporation activities including the approval of a Housing Opportunity Fund loan, and updates from the Fort Pierre Chamber regarding blood drives, the Angel Tree program, and rodeo planning.

The meeting included a review of the financial report as of December 31, 2025, noting a combined balance of $105,969.73, with a portion earmarked for a future phase of the fish cleaning station project. The occupancy report indicated a 5% decrease for the month. All outstanding payables were approved. In old business, an update was provided on the USDA Rural Business Development Grant feasibility study for a long-distance trail, noting the revised scope focusing on existing conditions analysis is acceptable to the USDA. The status of the open Boots & Roots: 4th of July Event Grant, capped at $2,500 per project, was discussed, noting one application received thus far. The Executive Director reported on administrative tasks and the successful delivery of the fourth-quarter lodging incentive. The Marketing Committee finalized its preferred photography proposal, and updated marketing metrics showed increased website visits and Facebook reach compared to the prior year. Committee reports covered efforts by Future Fort Pierre to recruit a student board member, the development of a sculpture brochure by the City of Fort Pierre committee, progress on new hotel construction, and the closing on the Sixth Avenue housing property by the Fort Pierre Development Corporation. The Fort Pierre Chamber is prioritizing support for the Fourth of July celebration and Trader Days, and the Expo Center ended 2025 with net revenue of approximately $29,000, planning for restroom upgrades. The Stanley County Fairgrounds reported planning underway for the 2026 rodeo season.

The board received a presentation on the Buffalo Legacy Campaign, a joint effort to raise funds for school improvements, including facility upgrades, branding, and new equipment. Discussions covered potential funding from Future Fort Pierre and Fort Pierre Tourism, coordination with outdoor recreation branding, and stylistic consistency in signage. The board also reviewed financials, including bank balances and subcommittee funds, and approved payables. Old business included the Fort Pierre Development Corporation Housing Project and recruitment of new board members, including a student member. Committee reports covered the All Seasons Fish Cleaning Station and basketball courts. The meeting concluded with a discussion of upcoming meetings.

The meeting included financial reports, approval of payables, and the introduction of a new board member. The board discussed the 2026 budget, including savings transfers, bookkeeping services, community event support, and sculpture donations. They also considered creating a Student Board Member position and discussed an affordable-housing effort by the Fort Pierre Development Corporation, exploring FFP's potential role as a pass-through for donations.