Ross K. Den Herder

The board addressed several new business items, including the approval of a transient merchant license and the authorization to dispose of surplus property via auction. A public hearing was scheduled regarding the vacation of unimproved section line right-of-way. The commission approved a sidewalk café permit, change orders for infrastructure projects, and the award of a utility project bid for the Chan Gurney Municipal Airport. Additionally, the commission discussed the Eleventh Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement, a funding request for the National Field Archery Association tournament, and reviewed the draft 2027 outside agency and capital improvement plan budgets.

The commission addressed routine business including the payment of bills and updates on local projects such as the Huther Family Aquatic Center opening and Broadway traffic signal installations. Presentations included a proclamation for the upcoming Yankton Area Mental Wellness Conference and an annual report from the United Way and Volunteer Services of Greater Yankton, detailing community impact initiatives and fund allocation success for various nonprofit programs.

The City Commission addressed several key items, including public hearings for temporary street closures for local events and the adoption of ordinances regarding structural height limits and parking requirements for housing for residents aged 55 and older. The board also reviewed rental rate increases for city facilities, discussed the inclusion of 911 dispatchers in the state retirement system, accepted bids for alley reconstruction, and approved various lease agreements, liquor license applications, and a grant application for FEMA infrastructure improvements.

The board meeting included the approval of the schedule of bills, updates on community projects, and the approval of various license applications, including transient merchant and special malt beverage licenses. Several bid awards were finalized for projects involving pavement marking, street and utility construction, and reconstruction. The board also approved a parking lot closure for a special event and a fuel discount for an aviation program. The meeting concluded with an executive session regarding litigation and personnel matters.

The meeting featured a discussion on the city manager's report, including updates on the upcoming shift to an automated solid waste collection system and the schedule for filing nominating petitions for city commission seats. Recognition was provided to the Yankton High School building trades class for their construction of a mock training house for the police department, and the students were introduced. Additionally, a proclamation for National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day was read, and Officer Brett Craig was recognized as the Officer of the Year.