Public Meetings - Brookings, South Dakota

The Brookings City Council met on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation of the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Audit, multiple public hearings on zoning and budget amendments, and significant public comment regarding the future of local news in Brookings. All votes on consent and action items were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the July 22, 2025 City Council meeting. - Approved property tax abatement of $246.69 for Parcel 40090-01300-007-00 (1307 Breckenridge Lane). - Approved temporary alcohol/special event licenses from existing holders. - Approved Resolution 25-071 declaring surplus property. - Approved appointment of Mark Aberle to the Brookings Human Rights Commission. - Item 5F (Resolution 25-072 designating Official Newspaper) was removed from consent agenda via amendment (unanimous vote) and will be reconsidered after staff review of state law distinctions between "official" and "legal" newspapers. Public Comments & Testimony - Josh Lenahan (Brookings resident, former managing editor of the Brookings Register) announced his intention to start a new locally owned independent newspaper in Brookings, citing a "groundswell of support" and financial backing. He asked the council to remain flexible on legal notice requirements. - Sean Sarvis (publisher of the Huron Plainsman) stated he is working with a company to reopen the Brookings Register within the next week, aiming to honor existing subscriptions and save jobs. He and Lenahan confirmed their efforts are separate. - Doug Ostrom (Brookings resident) complimented the city's recent work on Six Mile Creek and South Medary Avenue water issues, noting more progress in the last two months than in 30 years. Presentations & Reports - Proclamation: Mayor Oepke G. Niemeyer proclaimed August 20, 2025, as "A Day to Celebrate the Cultures of Our Community" in recognition of the 850 international students from 81 countries at SDSU and the work of the Brookings Multicultural Center. - 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Audit Summary: Brian Stavinger (on behalf of Mike Bailey) presented the audit results. Key highlights: - Clean unmodified opinion with no findings for the financial statement audit, federal awards (ARPA), or internal controls. - Total cash (excluding BMU and BHS) for the city: approximately $70 million (including investments and restricted cash). - General fund unassigned fund balance: $15.16 million at year-end 2024, representing about 50% of annual expenditures (six months of operating reserves). - Liquidity ratio (cash to liabilities) ranged from 4 to 6 over the past five years, well above the 2.0 minimum. - Sales and use tax revenues continued steady growth. - City Manager Paul Briseno and Finance Director Ashley Rynch praised the council's prudent financial policies that enabled cash-funded capital projects. - City Council Ex-Officio Reports: - BMU Board (Wayne Avery): The BMU expects to transfer $2,705,000 to the city's general fund in 2026 (an increase of $50,000 from 2025). A 5% overall rate increase is planned for 2028–2032, primarily due to wholesale power costs. The electric capital improvement plan totals $63.7 million through 2033 for reserve generators, substations, underground conversions, renewable energy, and other projects. The $70 million water treatment plant is substantially complete by October 2025, with full completion spring 2026. The 6th Street water tower removal is expected spring 2026 after communication lines are relocated. BMU billing dates and software will change, resulting in different bill appearances. - Economic Development Merger (Deputy Mayor Nick Wendell): The newly formed 11-member board of the merged economic development organization (launching January 2026) met for the first time on August 11, 2025. They appointed a chair and vice chair, and established subcommittees for CEO search, brand development, and staff engagement. Discussion Items - Ordinance 25-029 (First Reading): Budget Amendment No. 6 to the 2025 budget. Part 1 increases grant revenue and expenditures by $120,000 for the library's Lowe's hometown grant to enhance youth and teen areas with new shelving (browsing shelves for children, new furniture for teens). Part 2 increases the city/county administration building budget by $54,900 for a preliminary development agreement with Johnson Controls for a chiller replacement project (city share 48%, county 52%). Second reading scheduled for August 26, 2025. - Ordinance 25-027 (Second Reading): Budget Amendment No. 5 — $1.3 million for purchase of 214 Front Street for downtown parking lot development, including land, environmental study, appraisal, and closing costs. Funded from the council's financial policy fund for one-time infrastructure purchases. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 25-024 (Second Reading): Establishing a Citizens' Request for Reconsideration Policy Appeal Process for obscene materials in the library, required by state law. Councilmember Wendell noted the council's unease with the role but acknowledged the mandate. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 25-023 (Public Hearing): Removing cannabis dispensaries as an allowable use in the B2A (transitional commercial) zoning district. No existing dispensaries are located in B2A, so no non-conforming uses are created. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 25-025 (Public Hearing): Rezoning approximately 68 city-owned properties (parks, drainage ways, bike trails, substations, lift stations, water tower sites) from various current zoning districts to the new Civic District. Public commenter Doug Ostrom opposed, arguing parks should be in a dedicated park zone and questioned why the city lobbied to change state law allowing park removal without a public vote. No council response. The ordinance received unanimous approval. - Ordinance 25-026 (Public Hearing): Rezoning the south 110 feet of Outlot A, 716 34th Avenue, from Agriculture A to Business B-3 Heavy District, consistent with the future land use map. Approved unanimously. - Preliminary Plat of Block 1, Legacy Addition (Action): A 3.3-acre parcel on the east side of 34th Avenue to be developed as one lot with multiple structures. The preliminary drainage and grading plans were reviewed. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended to remove Resolution 25-072 (Official Newspaper designation) from consent; item will return after staff review of legal definitions. - All consent agenda items (except removed 5F) approved unanimously. - All public hearings and second readings approved unanimously. - First reading of Ordinance 25-029 held; second reading set for August 26, 2025. - Executive Session entered under SDCL 1-25-2.3 (legal counsel consultation) and SDCL 1-25-2.5 (marketing/pricing strategies) with no further business after. - Next meeting: August 26, 2025, which will include the first SDSU student report of the year.

The joint Planning Commission meeting was held on August 5, 2025, with both the Brookings County and City of Brookings commissions present. The main agenda item was a rezoning application (2025 JJRZ003) by Austrian Investments LLC. The meeting also included routine approvals and a public hearing for the proposed rezoning. Consent Calendar - Approved the joint planning commission meeting. - Approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting. - Approved the agenda. - No conflicts of interest were disclosed, and no items were added to the agenda. Discussion Items - Rezoning Application 2025 JJRZ003 (Austrian Investments LLC): The applicant, Andrew Austream of Austrian Investments LLC, requested to rezone property located at 21625 471st Avenue, Brookings, from Joint Jurisdiction Business B3 Heavy District to Joint Jurisdiction Industrial I1 Light District. Staff (Ryan) reported that the property was rezoned from Agricultural to B3 in 2021 for a contractor shop and excavation business involving rock, concrete, and asphalt crushing. The concrete crushing operation is a conditional use in the I1 district, so the applicant seeks rezoning to I1 and then a conditional use permit to remain compliant with city ordinances. Staff supported the rezoning. During discussion, a commission member asked about an open wetlands designation on the future land use map; staff noted the property was rezoned before future land use map updates and had no opposition. The public hearing had no speakers for or against the request. Key Outcomes - County side vote: Motion to recommend approval passed unanimously (Vanderwall, Paulson, Clark, Klein John, Vanderwall, Starhog, Troyan, Jensen, Ford - all aye/yes). - City side vote: Motion to recommend approval passed unanimously (Limmer, Speer, Heinrich, Braun, Solemn, Eakin, Luddy - all yes). - The rezoning request will be forwarded to the Brookings County Commission and the Brookings City Council for final decisions.

The Brookings Planning Commission met on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Chambers Room at the Brookings City & County Government Center. The commission approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, held an open forum with no public participants, and conducted a public hearing and vote on a Final Development Plan Amendment for 2021 Tall Grass Parkway. The item was approved unanimously. Approval of Agenda and Minutes - The agenda was approved by unanimous voice vote. - The minutes of the July 1, 2025, meeting were approved as presented by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Open Forum: No members of the public were present to speak. - Public Hearing on Final Development Plan Amendment: The applicant, Brooke Burlage (Madison Avenue Dance Studio), confirmed the request to add an access drive to Goldenrod Trail and four additional parking spaces. She expressed willingness to answer questions and noted that the existing trees on the south side would be preserved if possible. Discussion Items - Final Development Plan Amendment – 2021 Tall Grass Parkway - Staff (Ryan Miller, City Planner) presented the request: an amendment to a previously approved final development plan for a dance studio located in a Planned Development District (B2 underlying). The amendment seeks to add an access drive onto Goldenrod Trail and four additional off-street parking spaces. Staff reviewed that the change triggers Planning Commission review because it involves a new access drive and more than 10% additional parking beyond the original approval. The proposed site plan and updated landscape plan meet all city ordinances. Staff recommended approval. - Commissioner Kyle Jamison asked if the updated landscape plan still included three trees on the south side and whether the new access drive would affect them. The applicant responded that they hope to preserve the trees and have no plan to remove them if possible. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Final Development Plan Amendment: Moved by Solum, seconded by Aiken. The commission voted unanimously in favor (8-0, with Schmeichel absent). The action is final and does not require City Council approval. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:45 PM. The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 5:30 PM.

The Brookings City Council met on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Six council members were present (Mayor Oepke Niemeyer, Deputy Mayor Nick Wendell, Councilmembers Wayne Avery, Bonny Specker, Brianna Doran, Lisa Hager); Councilmember Holly Tilton Byrne was absent. The council approved a consent agenda, issued two proclamations, conducted public hearings on a downtown parking lot purchase and zoning changes, and advanced multiple ordinances. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council meeting minutes from July 8, 2025. - Approved temporary alcohol/special event alcoholic beverage licenses from existing holders. - Approved Resolution 25-063 authorizing renovation of the Dwiggins-Medary Skatepark. Parks and Recreation staff provided an overview: the skatepark is over 25 years old and has never been renovated; the 2025 budget includes $315,000 for a full concrete renovation, competitively bid through Source Well Cooperative Agreement, on budget. A design charrette drew approximately 40 participants and two council members. The west side will accommodate advanced users, the east side a street course for beginners. Concrete work expected to start fall 2025, completion spring 2026. Councilmember Doran praised public engagement. Councilmember Wendell inquired about maintenance capacity; staff confirmed concrete will require less maintenance than metal ramps and they have the capability. - Approved Resolution 25-066 declaring surplus property. Proclamations - McCrory Gardens Day (August 1, 2025): Recognized the 60th anniversary. Lisa Morates, director, accepted and announced a history walk, ice cream social (free SDSU ice cream and jazz on August 1), and native plant initiative on August 2 with partners from the Native American Indian Center. - Americans with Disabilities Act 35th Anniversary Day (July 26, 2025): Mark Thiessen spoke, describing ADA as a floor, not a ceiling, and urging continued progress beyond minimum compliance. Discussion Items - Purchase of Real Estate for Parking Lot (Resolution 25-069): City Manager Paul Briseno presented the purchase of 214 Front Street for $1,250,000 plus closing costs and real estate commission, funded by the Council's financial policy project fund. The purchase supports the Downtown Brookings Master Plan approved in October 2024. Councilmember Doran noted parking is a frequent public concern and confirmed the intent is free parking. The resolution passed 7-0. - Budget Amendment No. 5 (Ord. 25-027, First Reading): A $1.3 million amendment to fund the parking lot purchase, including environmental study, appraisal, and closing costs. Second reading set for August 12, 2025. - Library Reconsideration Policy Appeal Process (Ord. 25-024, First Reading): Brings the library's policy into compliance with SDCL 22-25-56, adding city council and judicial review as additional appeal levels for library cardholders who believe materials are obscene. Library Director Asia Hines reported only 1.5 formal requests in 9.5 years. Councilmember Wendell expressed concern that the law places council members without expertise in a decision-making role and asked about training availability. Councilmember Specker asked about frequency. Second reading set for August 12, 2025. - Cannabis Dispensary Zoning Amendment (Ord. 25-023, First Reading): Proposes removing Business B-2A Office District as an eligible district for cannabis dispensaries, to serve as a buffer from residential areas. Four other commercial districts remain available. Planning Commission recommended unanimously. Second reading and public hearing set for August 12, 2025. - Rezone 716 34th Avenue (Ord. 25-026, First Reading): Rezone from Agriculture A to Business B-3 Heavy to match adjacent commercial uses. Planning Commission recommended unanimously. Second reading set for August 12, 2025. - Rezone City Properties to Civic District (Ord. 25-025, First Reading): Rezone approximately 60 city-owned properties (parks, drainage facilities, water towers, fire stations, etc.) to the recently adopted Civic zoning district to limit uses and increase public awareness. Excluded are heavy-use facilities (e.g., BMU headquarters, street shop). Planning Commission recommended unanimously. Second reading set for August 12, 2025. - Human Rights Commission Complaint Process (Ord. 25-022, Second Reading): Lawrence presented the revision shifting the Human Rights Commission from investigating and adjudicating discrimination complaints to a resource and referral role, directing complainants to state/federal agencies (e.g., HUD, EEOC). The change addresses concerns about volunteer training, time commitment, and legal liability. The ordinance passed 7-0. - Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Amendment (Resolution 25-065): Reclassifies a former salvage/junkyard site on Main Avenue South from Open Space Wetland to Urban Medium Intensity. Planning Commission recommended unanimously. Resolution passed 7-0. - Liquor License Transfer and Operating Agreements (Items 9C, 9D, 9E): Transferred an On-Off Sale Malt License and approved 10-year On-Off Sale Wine and On-Sale Convention Liquor Operating Agreements from Den Wil Hospitality Group (Wilbert's) to Matt Chapman, dba Domellie's LLC, at 929-931 25th Avenue. The licenses do not include video lottery. Matt Chapman spoke, stating it is his dream to open his own place; he takes over August 1 and hopes to open the restaurant by early September. All three items passed 7-0. Progress Report - Police Department: Participated in Special Olympics Torch Run, Safety Town, Bike Rodeo, Fourth of July Parade, Brookings Summer Arts Festival. - Library: Summer reading program has 1,062 children and teens registered; life-sized Trivial Pursuit planned for August. - Public Works: Airport parallel taxiway project opens this week; asphalt maintenance to complete by October; 12th Street South Shared Use Trail concrete poured, completion by August; Main Avenue South & 12th Street South traffic signals operational. - Mosquito Control: City fogging operations ongoing; state budget cuts eliminated West Nile testing for Brookings traps, though one trap in the county is being tested. - Dakota Bank Center: Uncle Sam Jam had over 2,100 attendees; renovations expected mid-August. - Parks: Over 40,000 visitors during July 12 weekend for tournaments and Summer Arts Festival. - Mayor's Awards: Nominations due August 1 (most categories) and July 23 (Disability Awareness); awards presented at December Mayor's Holiday Party. Executive Session - Council voted to enter executive session under SDCL 1-25-2.4 (contract negotiations), 1-25-2.3 (legal counsel), and 1-25-2.5 (marketing/pricing strategies). No action was taken afterward; the meeting adjourned following executive session. Key Outcomes - Approved downtown parking lot land purchase ($1.25M) and budget amendment ($1.3M). - Passed revision to Human Rights Commission complaint process. - Approved comprehensive plan map amendment and liquor license/operating agreements for Domellie's. - Introduced five ordinances for second reading on August 12, 2025. - All votes were 7-0 unless otherwise stated.

The Brookings City Council and County Commission met jointly on July 8, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a joint public hearing on a zoning rezone request, followed by the regular City Council meeting at 6:00 PM. Key actions included approval of a consent agenda, adoption of a budget amendment, introduction of an ordinance updating the Human Rights Commission’s authority, and two zoning ordinance amendments. The council also entered executive session for legal and marketing strategy discussions. Consent Agenda - Approved unanimously the consent agenda, which included: - Approval of June 24, 2025, City Council meeting minutes. - Temporary alcohol/special event licenses from existing holders. - Resolution 25-015 authorizing a 5-year renewal of the On-Off Sale Wine Operating Agreement with Kathy Elenkiwich for Backyard Grill. - Adoption of the 2026 City Council Meeting Calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Thomas Chandler (property owner at 410 20th Avenue): Stated he had provided information to the council and stood for any questions regarding the rezone request for 1809 West 20th Street South. Joint City Council / County Commission – Rezone Ordinance 25-013/25-004 - Staff Presentation (Mike Struck, Community Development Director): The request was to rezone one acre from Joint Jurisdiction Agriculture (AG) to Joint Jurisdiction Residence R-1A (single-family) at 1809 West 20th Street South. The parcel lies within a floodplain; the applicant would need to meet floodplain development standards (elevation, compensatory storage). The Future Land Use Map designates the area as open space. The Development Review Team recommended denial. The Joint Planning Commission voted 5-3 to recommend denial. - Discussion: - Councilmember Doran questioned the fire department’s ability to respond without hydrants. Staff stated tanker trucks would be used. - Councilmember Specker queried about the eligibility to rebuild after a previous home was removed. Bob Hill (Community Development Director) clarified that after subdivision (splitting two acres into one-acre lots), the building eligibility for the east lot was lost. The west lot still had eligibility because it was platted before 1975. - Councilmember Tilton Byrne and Councilmember Hager echoed concerns about floodplain, municipal service provision, and setting a precedent for piecemeal development. - Commissioner Miller noted that if the request were denied, the applicant could still build on the west acre under county agricultural rules without rezoning. - Vote: The ordinance failed. City Council roll call: Doran (No), Niemeyer (No), Hager (No), Specker (No), Tilton Byrne (No), Wendell (No), Avery (No). County Commission roll call: Post (Yes), Vanderwal (No), Hostler (No), Miller (Yes), Jensen (No). Presentations & Reports - Proclamation: Park and Recreation Month (July 2025): Mayor Niemeyer read the proclamation, recognizing parks’ benefits for health, economy, and ecology. Kristen Zimmerman and Park Board members accepted. - Ex-Officio Reports: Councilmember Hager reported on the June 20 Brookings Health System Board of Trustees meeting, covering pharmacy services, employee satisfaction, measles (no cases in Brookings), rising healthcare costs, and the upcoming “Aiming to Inspire Health” fundraiser (August 7, 3–8 PM, with a UTV grand prize). Contracts/Change Orders - Resolution 25-064 – Sidewalk Maintenance Project Award: Approved unanimously. The lowest bid was from Brock Contracting (Sioux Falls) for $52,738.75, which is 53% below the engineer’s estimate. Councilmember Doran noted the significant savings; City Engineer Charlie Richter attributed it to contractors being “more hungry for work.” Ordinance First Readings - Ordinance 25-022 – Human Rights Commission Authority Update: Introduced. Presenters (Casey Bell, Lawrence Nabotany, Carla Gatzki) explained that the revised ordinance removes the commission’s authority to investigate, arbitrate, and enforce discrimination complaints. Instead, the commission will focus on education, outreach, and connecting residents to appropriate external agencies (e.g., EEOC). The change is intended to address challenges related to volunteer time, funding, training, and confidentiality. The commission unanimously supports the change. Council discussion centered on maintaining a complaint intake process for data tracking. Second reading and action are scheduled for July 22, 2025. Public Hearings & Second Readings - Ordinance 25-021 – Budget Amendment No. 4: Approved unanimously. The amendment increases the general fund expenditure budget by $2.25 million to support infrastructure and detention fund improvements for the Marketplace development (TIF 13), as authorized in a November 12, 2024 development agreement. - Ordinance 25-015 – Concrete, Asphalt, and Rock Crushing Facilities: Approved unanimously. Introduces “concrete, asphalt, and rock crushing facility” as a new conditional use in AG, I1, and I2 districts. Standards include: - 300-foot buffer from non-AG/industrial zoned properties. - 100-foot setback from property lines/rights-of-way. - Operating hours: 7 AM–6 PM M–Sat (adjacent to AG/industrial); 8 AM–5 PM M–Fri (adjacent to other zones). - Required site plan, dust management plan, drainage plan, and traffic plan. - Staff noted these facilities are mobile and typically temporary. Councilmember Specker and Doran praised the balance of industrial flexibility and environmental protection. - Ordinance 25-014 – Conditional Use Permit Expiration: Approved unanimously. Changes the expiration period for conditional use permits from one year to two years. Staff explained that a one-year extension option (Option 2) would require the same ordinance amendment process, so the simpler two-year proposal was adopted. Council discussed that the change provides flexibility without slowing development. Other Business - Executive Session: The council entered executive session at approximately 7:00 PM pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2.3 (legal counsel consultation on litigation/contractual matters) and SDCL 1-25-2.5 (marketing/pricing strategies). No decisions were anticipated afterward. Key Outcomes - Rezone failed (7-0 City Council, 2-3 County Commission). - Consent Agenda approved unanimously. - Park and Recreation Month Proclamation accepted. - Sidewalk Maintenance Project awarded to Brock Contracting (unanimous). - Human Rights Commission Ordinance introduced; second reading set for July 22. - Budget Amendment No. 4 approved unanimously. - Concrete/Asphalt/Rock Crushing Ordinance approved unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit Expiration changed to two years (unanimous). - Next regular meeting: July 22, 2025, with a proclamation, skate park contract award, and five first readings.

The Brookings Planning Commission met on July 1, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Chambers Room of the Brookings City & County Government Center. The meeting included actions by the Board of Adjustment for three variance requests, followed by planning commission recommendations on multiple rezoning petitions, a preliminary plat, a future land use map amendment, and an ordinance amendment regarding cannabis dispensaries. Public testimony was heard on several items, particularly the civic district rezone. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously. - The minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Janet Merriman (Assistant Chair, Brookings Historic Preservation Commission) spoke in support of the variance at 217 Medary Avenue South, noting the house to be moved is a contributing structure in the University Historic District and that the move would preserve the structure within the city. - Doris Schumacher (628 Fifth Avenue) expressed concern about the fence height variance at 629 6th Avenue, citing the historic district, the number of rentals in the area, and potential noise and safety issues. - Ben Stout (applicant, 1003 Third Street) clarified his intent to rent the property to a family and noted the fence would provide privacy from alley traffic. - Al Austri (928 Yosemite Lane) questioned the civic district rezone, asking why parks are included, why a dedicated park zoning wasn't created, and what danger exists with current zoning. He also asked about the city's role in changing state law regarding parkland disposal. - Rebecca Schmiding (1133 Indian Hills Road) asked what the benefit of the rezoning is and how it would affect her neighborhood and homeowners association. - Jeff Jury (2004 Rio Grande) asked for parks to be removed from the rezone to protect green space for children. - Johnny Einsparr (1127 Copper Mountain Road) expressed concern that the city might stop maintaining a detention pond adjacent to his neighborhood if rezoned. - Doug Osbram (216 Mustang Pass) stated that Brookings is known for its parks and that zoning based on ownership rather than use seems backwards. He noted that state law now allows parkland to be changed by city ordinance instead of requiring a public vote. - Mike McClemens (613 Cypress Point Circle) asked for more information on the intent of the civic rezone, noting he donated land for a bike path and a park. - Justin Roosh (2701 Sweet Grass Drive) asked about property 28 (a conservation easement) and whether rezoning to civic would allow the city to sell it without a vote. Discussion Items - Variance – 217 Medary Avenue South (Item 4A): The South Dakota State University Foundation requested variances for lot area (58 feet wide vs. 75 feet minimum) and lot width to move a single-family dwelling onto the lot. Staff recommended approval. The applicant noted the house is a contributing structure in the University Historic District. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Variance – 1328 Westminster Drive (Item 4B): The property owner requested a variance to extend a garage beyond the previously approved footprint, reducing the front yard setback to 15.5 feet (minimum 30 feet). A variance had been granted in 1993 for an 18x32 ft garage, but only an 18x24 ft garage was built. The new request is for an 18x44 ft depth. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Variance – 629 6th Avenue (Item 4C): The homeowner requested a variance for a 6-foot high fence along 60 feet of the property line on 7th Street (maximum allowed is 4 feet in the front yard setback). Staff recommended approval. Public testimony voiced concern about rentals and privacy, but the applicant stated he plans to rent to a family and wants privacy from alley traffic. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Rezone Various City Properties to Civic District (Item 5A): The city initiated a rezone of approximately 60 city-owned properties (parks, trails, drainage lots, etc.) from a variety of districts to a new Civic District. Staff stated the civic district provides greater protection and awareness that these are public spaces, and eliminates uses like single-family dwellings that are currently permitted in the existing residential zoning. Public testimony raised concerns about parkland protection, the state law change removing the public vote requirement for parkland disposal, and the lack of a dedicated park zoning. The commission discussed a failed amendment to reduce the allowed height in the civic district from 60 to 40 feet. The rezone was approved on a vote of 8-0. - Rezone 716 34th Avenue to Business B3 (Item 5B): The property owner petitioned to rezone a 1.1-acre parcel from Agriculture A to Business B3 Heavy District. The future land use map designates the area as General Industrial, supporting B3 zoning. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Preliminary Plat – Block 1 of Legacy Addition (Item 5C): The developer proposed to combine three parcels (including 716 34th Avenue) into one block zoned Business B3. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Future Land Use Map Amendment – 3439 Main Avenue South (Item 5D): The property owner requested amendment from Open Wetland to Urban Medium Intensity for a 5-acre parcel. The property is outside the floodplain and has no wetlands on site. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously (8-0). - Amendment to Cannabis Dispensary Zoning Districts (Item 5F): The city proposed to remove the Business B2A (Office) District from the list of districts where cannabis dispensaries are allowed as a permitted special use. Staff noted that B2A is intended as a buffer between residential and higher-intensity commercial uses, and concerns were raised about proximity to residential areas. The commission voted 7-1 (Commissioner Jameson opposed) to approve the amendment. Key Outcomes - Variance at 217 Medary Avenue South: Approved (8-0). - Variance at 1328 Westminster Drive: Approved (8-0). - Variance at 629 6th Avenue: Approved (8-0). - Rezone various city properties to Civic District: Approved (8-0). Recommendation forwarded to City Council. - Rezone 716 34th Avenue to Business B3: Approved (8-0). Recommendation forwarded to City Council. - Preliminary Plat for Legacy Addition: Approved (8-0). Recommendation forwarded to City Council. - Future Land Use Map Amendment at 3439 Main Avenue South: Approved (8-0). Recommendation forwarded to City Council. - Amendment to remove B2A district from cannabis dispensary allowances: Approved (7-1). Recommendation forwarded to City Council. - The meeting adjourned after the final vote.

The Brookings City Council met on June 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered a variety of topics including public concerns over a dog attack, multiple ordinance first readings, two public hearings, and a progress report on city projects. Notable actions included approval of a consent agenda, adoption of a resolution to lease airport property, and direction to staff to explore alternative language for conditional use permit expiration. Consent Calendar - Approved the City Council meeting minutes from June 10, 2025. - Approved Resolution 25-059 declaring surplus property. - Approved Resolution 25-037 adopting the Brookings County Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan 2024-2030. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident (owner of property adjacent to 102 Ninth Street) expressed concern about three aggressive dogs that had been returned to the owners after a June 2 attack that killed a small dog and injured its owner. The speaker urged the council to change the code to allow removal of such dogs from the city limits. - Brooklyn Tomasheski, a community member, spoke as a friend of the victim, describing the emotional trauma and asking for stronger enforcement of animal control policies. - Thomas Chandler, representing a prospective buyer of the Rudebusch property, spoke in support of rezoning 1809 West 20th Street South from Joint Jurisdiction Agriculture to Residence R-1A. He addressed floodplain compliance, tax revenue increase, and noted that if the property remains agricultural, it could be filled with dirt and used for storage, eliminating the floodplain. Discussion Items - Dog Attack Incident (Open Forum): Police Chief Mike Drake provided a detailed explanation of the incident, the city's animal control code (Chapter 14), the process for declaring dogs vicious, and the legal requirements for returning the dogs to their owners. He noted that the dogs had no prior reports, and the owners met all six criteria for return. The case is now in the criminal justice system with seven charges filed. Councilmembers asked about the timeline for return and whether the code could be interpreted more flexibly for severe attacks. Chief Drake noted that the code is consistent with other municipalities and that changing the timeline could have legal implications. The council did not take action but thanked the chief for his response. - Rezoning (Ordinance 25-013): Mike Struck presented a first reading to rezone one acre of the Rudebusch Addition at 1809 West 20th Street South from Joint Jurisdiction Agriculture to Residence R-1A. The property is in a floodplain and designated as open space on the future land use map. The Development Review Team did not support the rezone due to concerns about setting a precedent, and the Planning Commission voted 5-3 against approval. Councilmember Hager asked about the previous residential structure. After public comment, the council noted the second reading will be July 8, 2025. No vote was taken on the first reading. - Conditional Use Permit Expiration (Ordinance 25-014): A first reading to amend the zoning ordinance to extend the expiration of a conditional use permit from one year to two years. Mike Struck presented the item, noting it was a compromise based on peer community practices. Councilmember Tilton Byrne suggested exploring an alternative that would allow a one-year term with the possibility of a one-year extension through a formal process. She made a motion to direct staff to bring back both versions for the next meeting. The motion was seconded and approved on a roll call vote (6-0). The agenda stated no vote was required on first readings, but the council proceeded with a vote to direct staff. The item will return for a second reading. - Concrete, Asphalt, and Rock Crushing Facility (Ordinance 25-015): First reading to add this use as a conditional use in AG, I-1, and I-2 zoning districts. Mike Struck presented standards including 300-foot setbacks, 100-foot property line setbacks, hours of operation, and dust management plans. The Planning Commission recommended unanimously. Councilmember Tilton Byrne asked about the setback distance and whether a current facility in the community would be eligible. Second reading scheduled for July 8, 2025. - Budget Amendment No. 4 (Ordinance 25-021): First reading to increase the general fund expenditure budget by $2,250,000 for infrastructure and detention pond improvements associated with the Marketplace development (TIF 13). Finance Director Ashley Rynch presented. City Manager Paul Briseno gave a brief update on the Marketplace construction timeline. Second reading on July 8, 2025. - Airport Lease (Resolution 25-047): Public hearing and action to approve a resolution of intent to lease airport property to Isaac Wilde for a hangar at a commercial rate of $0.18/sq ft ($726.76/year). The airport board recommended approval. The council voted unanimously to approve. - Future Land Use Map Amendment (Resolution 25-058): Public hearing and action to amend the 2040 Comprehensive Plan future land use map for a parcel along Main Avenue South from open wetland/urban low intensity to urban medium intensity. The Planning Commission recommended 8-0. The council voted unanimously to approve. - Capital Improvement Plan Sinking Funds (Resolution 25-057): Action to transfer funds for deferred maintenance on city apparatus. The council voted unanimously to approve. - Progress Report: Samantha Beckman presented the June 2025 progress report covering library events, police department hiring, public works projects (slurry seal, 12th Street trail, landfill equipment), and an update on the downtown fire recovery at 314-322 Main Avenue. Each building owner is making progress, with masonry work underway at some locations and demolition completed at others. The next building owner meeting is in late July. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously. - Ordinance 25-013 (Rezoning) first reading completed; second reading and public hearing set for July 8, 2025. - Ordinance 25-014 (Conditional Use Permit Expiration) first reading approved with a direction to staff to bring back both the proposed two-year option and an alternative one-year with extension option for the next meeting. Note: The agenda indicated no vote was required on first readings, but the council voted on this item. - Ordinance 25-015 (Concrete/Asphalt Crushing) first reading completed; second reading on July 8, 2025. - Ordinance 25-021 (Budget Amendment) first reading completed; second reading on July 8, 2025. - Resolution 25-047 (Airport Lease) approved unanimously. - Resolution 25-058 (Future Land Use Map Amendment) approved unanimously. - Resolution 25-057 (CIP Sinking Funds) approved unanimously. - The council entered executive session for legal and marketing strategy discussions. No action was taken after the session.

The Brookings City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Six council members were present; Councilmember Nick Wendell was absent. The meeting included proclamations, approval of two construction contracts, four public hearings on ordinances, and a resolution transferring contingency funds. All votes were recorded. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, including the May 27, 2025 meeting minutes and temporary alcohol / special event alcoholic beverage licenses from existing holders. Public Comments & Testimony - Slurry seal update: John Thompson, Public Works Director, provided a brief update on downtown slurry seal work, noting minor delays due to machine calibration but anticipating completion by next week pending weather. No public comment was offered on unlisted items. - Pride Month Proclamation: Aaron Lavender Stott, LGBTQ+ liaison for the Human Rights Commission, accepted the proclamation and invited the community to the June 21 Pride event at Pioneer Park. - Juneteenth Proclamation: Keely Eagles Shield, VP of the Brookings Human Rights Commission, accepted the proclamation and invited the public to the June 19 celebration. - Downtown at Sundown: A Chamber representative described the five-week event (July and August), including New Resident Night (August 7), Multicultural Night (August 14), and SDSU Night (August 21). - Gunsmithing Conditional Use: Tyler Brockle, owner of Havoc Engineering, spoke in favor of his application, emphasizing that the business is primarily product development and government contracting, with build classes being a small part. He noted compliance with federal and state law, and that home-based FFLs are common in South Dakota. - Hair Salon Conditional Use: Andrew Austral, owner of the proposed hair salon at 1214 Western Avenue, briefly spoke in support, noting the property is surrounded by businesses. Presentations/Reports - Proclamations: The Mayor read and presented proclamations declaring June 2025 as LGBTQ2S+ Pride Month and June 19, 2025 as Juneteenth. - Council Ex-Officio Reports: Councilmember Wayne Avery reported on the Brookings Municipal Utilities (BMU) meeting, including remodeling of the Western Avenue office, completion of the lead service line replacement project, discussions on new power generation (a diesel plant in Watertown, a natural gas turbine near Toronto, and a solar plant under development by Missouri River Energy), and a draft raw water supply agreement between the city and BMU for the golf course. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-061 – Arrowhead Park Trail and Drainage Improvements: The project replaces 6,000 square yards of shared-use trail and ballie gutter at Arrowhead Park. Three bids were received; the low bid from Timmins Construction was $201,234.34, approximately 19% below the engineer’s estimate. Councilmember Specker requested better maps in future presentations. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 25-062 – 20th Street South Shared Use Path: The project replaces the sidewalk from Main Avenue South to Medary Avenue with an eight-foot-wide shared-use trail, plus crossing and shoulder improvements. The low bid from Timmins Construction was $461,337.17, approximately 23% below estimate. Construction to start later in the season. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 25-016 – Budget Amendment No. 2: Allocates $250,000 for the economic development merger and $12,000 to the Chamber and Visit Brookings for additional rental costs. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 25-017 – Budget Amendment No. 3: Transfers $200,000 from General Fund Economic Development Reserves to the Marketplace Capital Project Fund for a sewer line extension on Capitol Street, and $260,000 from the second penny tax capital improvement reserve for street paving (to be reimbursed upon future sale of the Weast property). Approved unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 25-018 – Zoning Change (Agriculture A to Business B-3 Heavy): Rezones Lot 1 in Clark Addition and Lot 2 in Clark Second Addition (east side of 34th Avenue) for future commercial development, consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and supported unanimously by the Planning Commission. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 25-019 – Conditional Use Permit for Gunsmithing (Major Home Occupation): For 2505 Larkspur Ridge Drive in an R-2 Two-Family District. The Planning Commission recommended approval with three conditions: non-transferable to the applicant, no build classes on site, and proof of federal/state licensing every three years. Council discussed concerns about location near a school, surveillance, ammunition storage, and potential for manufacturing. The applicant clarified that all parts are separate, no ammunition sales on site, and home-based FFLs are common. Councilmember Tilton Byrne opposed due to location; Councilmember Avery also opposed. Approved 5-2 (Specker, Doran, Niemeyer, Hager, and likely one other aye; Tilton Byrne and Avery nay). - Ordinance 25-020 – Conditional Use Permit for Hair Salon (Major Home Occupation): For 1214 Western Avenue in an R-1A Single-Family District. The Planning Commission recommended approval with one condition (non-transferable). No objections. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 25-045 – Transfer of Contingency Funds: Transfers $20,000 to the City Clerk department for professional scanning and digital archiving of permanently bound city records dating back to 1883. Original records will remain in the city’s fire/water-safe master file room. Approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 25-061 awarding the Arrowhead Park Trail project to Timmins Construction ($201,234.34). - Approved Resolution 25-062 awarding the 20th Street South Shared Use Path project to Timmins Construction ($461,337.17). - Approved Ordinance 25-016 (Budget Amendment 2) and Ordinance 25-017 (Budget Amendment 3). - Approved Ordinance 25-018 (zoning change). - Approved Ordinance 25-019 (gunsmithing conditional use) on a 5-2 vote. - Approved Ordinance 25-020 (hair salon conditional use) unanimously. - Approved Resolution 25-045 (contingency fund transfer of $20,000 for records scanning). - Approved the Downtown at Sundown temporary alcohol license. - Councilmember Doran requested a future study session on the conditional use process for major home occupations; it will be added to a future agenda.

The joint Brookings County and City of Brookings Planning Commission convened at 8:00 PM on June 3, 2025, primarily to consider a single rezoning application (2025JJRZ002) for a property at 1809 West 20th Street South. After a staff presentation highlighting a conflict with the city's comprehensive plan, and a public hearing with no public testimony, the commission voted against recommending the rezoning. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 4, 2025, joint meeting and the meeting agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke in favor of or in opposition to the agenda items during the public hearing on the rezoning request. Discussion Items - Rezoning Application 2025JJRZ002 (Rudebusch Property): Richard L. and Donna Rudebusch petitioned to rezone the east one acre of the Rudebusch Addition (easterly two acres of Lot 1) from Joint Jurisdiction Agriculture District to Joint Jurisdiction Residence R-1A Single-Family District. The property is located west of the intersection of West 20th Street South and West 16th Avenue South. - Staff Report: Staff explained the property had lost a non-conforming use status upon removal of a mobile home, rendering it non-buildable under its current zoning. The property is located entirely within the designated floodplain. - City Planner Position on Comprehensive Plan: City Planner Ryan Miller reported that the 2040 Comprehensive Plan's Future Land Use Map designates the rezone area as 'Open Space / Floodland'. Mr. Miller stated that this category "would not support any sort of rezone out of the current ag district". He noted the property is entirely surrounded by agricultural zoning districts. - Applicant Position: Thomas Chandler appeared on behalf of the applicants. It was stated that a purchase agreement for the property is contingent upon approval of the rezoning request. Key Outcomes - Recommendation Vote (Failed): The Joint Planning Commission voted on a motion to forward a positive recommendation to the City Council and County Commission. - City Side Vote: The motion failed, with 3 votes in favor (Commissioners Jamison, Hinrichs, Braun) and 5 votes against (Commissioners Limmer, Spear, Solum, Aiken, Leddy). - County Side Vote: The motion failed unanimously, with 8 votes against (Commissioners Kelly Vanderwall, Paulson, Klein John, Kyle Vanderwall, Joinby, De Groot, Jensen, Ford). - Next Steps: Despite the negative recommendation from the Planning Commission, the rezoning request will be forwarded to the Brookings City Council and Brookings County Commission for their final decision. Their joint public hearing is tentatively scheduled for July 8, 2025, at 5:30 PM.