Public Meetings - Spearfish, South Dakota

The Spearfish City Council met in regular session on Monday, November 2, 2026, beginning at 5:39 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street, Spearfish. The agenda was amended early in the meeting to remove Public Works Item 15E because a late correction arrived too late to be properly posted; the item was scheduled to return at the next meeting. The council heard public comment, approved a consent agenda, and acted unanimously on the remaining items. No conflicts of interest were declared. Official meeting minutes were not available in the source materials. Agenda Amendment and Proclamation - Council voted to amend the agenda to remove Item 15E. - Mayor John Senden proclaimed November 11, 2026 as Buddy Poppy Day in Spearfish, and a VFW representative accepted the proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - John Dale, 239 West Jackson Boulevard, asked the council to re-establish the city technology committee and said he should be appointed to it. He described his Master of Science in MIS background, expressed frustration that the committee had been disbanded, and stated that if the issue is not resolved he will move to what he called a totally legal, lawful, peaceful action. No other public comment was made in person or online. Consent Calendar - Council approved the consent agenda containing: minutes of the October 14, 2026 special session and study session; minutes of the October 19, 2026 regular session; the Treasurer's Report dated September 30, 2026; and the access agreement with Mandy and Chad Knight of 420 North Meier Ave. for removal of a dead tree on City property accessed through the Knights' property. Added and Adjusted Wages - Council approved the budgeted 2026 wage additions and adjustments, including Planning Manager reclassification to $47.56, Police Corporal promotion to $36.25, Utilities Operator I new hire at $26.95, state-reimbursed wildland rate of $22.84 for Red Carded Firefighter Sean Schipp, and two new Parks Maintenance & Forestry Technicians at $26.29 and $25.65. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Community Development - Final Plat within the ETJ combining two residential lots into one: staff reported the plat meets the subdivision ordinance, the Planning Commission recommended approval on October 20, and no new access is proposed. Council opened and closed the public hearing with no comment and approved the final plat. - Final Plat of Lots A, B, and C, Spring Creek Ranch Estates: staff explained the property was annexed in 2008, will create three large lots of 51, 33, and 33 acres, retains AG zoning, and does not require the city to extend utilities or improve roads. The county commission approved the associated Johnson Lane right-of-way condition. Council opened and closed the public hearing with no comment and approved the final plat. Finance - Approved the 2027 liquor and wine license renewals. The city currently holds 32 wine, 11 retail liquor, 10 packaged liquor, 5 restaurant liquor, and 1 convention center liquor licenses. - Approved the $1,228,285.28 transfer from the 101-General Fund to the 201-Second Penny Sales Tax Fund for the final payment on the 2015 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bond. Staff said prepaying saves about one and a half years of interest. - Approved the first reading of Ordinance 1433, supplementing the 2026 appropriations to purchase a front-end loader with V-plow that was available immediately; if deferred, delivery could take up to 18 months. - Accepted the A&B Business Solutions proposal for managed print services at $3,268.41 per month for a 4-year term. Staff said the current monthly cost is $4,015.16 for 16 machines, the new contract saves roughly $600 per month, and it includes replacement of 7 machines plus toner and maintenance. This motion carried by roll-call vote. Fire - Approved additional wildland firefighter pay rates effective August 1, 2026 for Red Carded and non-Red Carded firefighters, including rates of $22.84, $25.12, and $20.44. Staff stated the annual approval was missed in the spring and needed to be backdated so volunteer firefighters can be reimbursed from state and federal incidents. The motion carried by roll-call vote. - Approved the professional services agreement with Structural Dynamics, LLC for construction inspection of the Fire Training Tower for a total not to exceed $56,218.95. Staff described the tower as a specialized kit build used for fire and police training, with burn rooms, sensors, movable partitions, and heat resistance up to 2,200 degrees. The motion carried by roll-call vote. - Approved the OnScene Dynamics proposal for a Type 6 Fire Upfit on the 2027 Ford F-550 for $19,427.85. Staff said the vehicle upfit was budgeted and the total project remains well under budget. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Parks and Recreation - Approved the extension of the short-term lease with the Northern Hills Amateur Hockey Association (Chinook) for the outdoor ice rink at Hillsview under existing terms while a long-term lease is being drafted. Public Works - Approved the agreement with Butte Electric Cooperative, Inc. to provide electric service to Sawmill TID 8 along Bandsaw Avenue for $130,409.45. Staff said budget authority remains for the project. - Accepted the asphalt paving completed on Main Street between Jackson Boulevard and Grant Street for the sole purpose of paying the offered $10,000 incentive. Staff reported the Downtown Mill and Overlay project, which followed the failed 2025 chip seal, was opened to traffic by October 2, 2026 in time for the Spearfish High School homecoming parade. Acceptance was not final project acceptance; completion is expected by June 9, 2027. - Approved the final under/over Change Order No. 1 for the 2026 Mainline Pavement Markings Project with a net decrease of $3,818.10, along with the Certificate of Final Completion and Acceptance. - Awarded the 2027 Biosolids Hauling Services contract to Fortin Trucking & Excavating LLC for $60,060.00. Staff said the second bid was more than $9,000 higher, the bid is under the $65,000 budget, and solids are hauled to the Gillette landfill for composting. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Bills - Approved the bill list dated November 2, 2026, as corrected, totaling $1,126,765. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Publication of Wages - In accordance with SDCL 6-1-10, the council noted the published wage list, with no action required: Caleb Gallagher, Parks Maintenance & Forestry Supervisor, $32.84 effective 10-19-2026; Jonathan Beach, Utilities Operator III, $32.04 effective 9-27-2026; Jaymia Ecker, Planning Manager, $47.56 effective 10-25-2026; Saul Torres, Police Corporal, $36.25 effective 11-8-2026; and Rhyse Naylor, Utilities Operator I, $26.95 effective 11-17-2026. Mayor and Council Discussion - The Mayor reminded residents to vote the next day, announced the State of the Community luncheon on Thursday, and noted a public meet-and-greet for City Administrator Peter at Hudson Hall from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. - Council and staff offered commendations for the Downtown Mill and Overlay team and the fire training tower coordination. Planning staff highlighted the Shape Spearfish development code rewrite, the Arts and Public Places advisory board, the ETJ working group, and a planning commission vacancy. Key Outcomes - All items on the amended agenda were approved; no motions failed. Roll-call votes on wage adjustments, the managed print contract, fire items, selected public works contracts, and the bill list carried unanimously, 4-0. - Item 15E was removed from the agenda and will be brought back at the next meeting. - Both public hearings were closed after no public testimony. - The council accepted downtown asphalt paving only for payment of the $10,000 completion incentive; the full project remains open until final completion around June 9, 2027.

The Spearfish City Council held a study session on October 28, 2026, primarily to review the upcoming City Council and Board of Adjustment agendas for November 2, 2026. No formal votes were taken, as this was a preparatory meeting. Staff presented several items planned for final action at the next regular council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments, either in person or online. Discussion Items - Board of Adjustment Agenda (Nov. 2, 2026): Planning Technician Vaughn reviewed a variance request resulting from a right-of-way vacation. The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions related to a ditch company easement. Council members discussed homeowner responsibility for potential damage. - City Council Agenda (Nov. 2, 2026): - Consent Calendar: Included meeting minutes, the September Treasurer's Report, and an access agreement with the owner of 420 North Meyer to remove a hazardous cottonwood tree on city property using the owner's land. Rex explained the tree is dead and leaning. - Proclamation: VFW Buddy Poppy Day. - Added/Adjusted Wages: List of new wages for staff changes. - Community Development: Two final plats: 1) a combination of two lots in the ETJ (public hearing required, positive staff and planning commission recommendation); 2) Spring Creek Ranch LLC subdivision of 120 acres into three large lots off Highway 85 North. A development agreement will formalize no city road maintenance obligation and require future improvements for further subdivision or commercial development. - Finance: - Renewal of 41 liquor and wine licenses (annual). - Transfer of $1,228,285.28 from the general fund to the second penny sales tax fund to pay off the 2015 sales tax refunding bond, as budgeted. - First reading of an ordinance to supplement the 2026 budget by $293,205.48 for a front-end loader with VPO attachment (originally budgeted for 2027). - Approval of a four-year managed print services contract with AB Business Solutions at $3,268.41/month (down from $4,015.16/month). The new contract pools all prints for flexibility; excess print fees still apply. - Fire Department: - Correcting an oversight to allow all eligible department members to receive negotiated wildland fire pay rates. - Approval of a $56,218.95 contract with Structural Dynamics to independently evaluate the fire training tower under construction at the old sawmill property. Staff identified installation issues and missing materials; the engineer will inspect the structure, recommend fixes, and provide inspection during restart. - Upfitting (lights, sirens, radios) for a Type 6 vehicle; one more phase (pumper) remains, and the total project is expected to come in under budget. - Parks: A short-term lease extension for the Northern Hills Chinook Hockey Club to continue operating a temporary ice rink at Hillsview property. The extension maintains current terms while a long-term lease is being developed (expected in one to two months). The club needs the long-term lease for fundraising. - Public Works: - Agreement with But Electric for electrical service at the sawmill property ($130,000). - Acceptance of the downtown mill and overlay project to award an early completion bonus. - Final change order for the mainline pavement marking project: a decrease of $3,800. - Award of the 2027 biosolids hauling contract to Forton Trucking and Excavation for a little over $60,000 (two bidders, $8,000 difference). - Final change order for the Colorado Boulevard improvement project (dollar amount to be provided Monday). - Publication of Wages: No action required; for minutes compliance. - Departmental Discussion: City Administrator Scott announced the State of the Community on November 5th and a meet-and-greet for the new city administrator at Hudson Hall from 4:30–6:00 PM. First round interviews for the Community Development Director position will occur the next day. An ETJ working group meeting is scheduled for Friday, October 30, at 10:00 AM at Hudson Hall. Key Outcomes - The council took no formal action; all items will be considered for final approval at the November 2, 2026 City Council meeting. - Staff will finalize dollar amounts for certain public works change orders before the Monday agenda. - The council was reminded of upcoming events (State of the Community, ETJ working group).

The Spearfish Planning Commission met on October 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM at City Hall and via Zoom. The meeting included approval of the agenda and minutes, two action items on final plats, and departmental updates. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion carried unanimously with no changes. - Approval of Minutes (October 6, 2026): An amendment corrected the vote on Item F.1 from the prior meeting to 5-0 (not 5-1). Minutes approved as amended. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. Discussion Items - Final Plat of Lots A, B, and C, Spring Creek Ranch Estates: Staff presented the proposal to subdivide approximately 122 acres east of Highway 85 North into three lots (A, B, C) with agricultural zoning. The property was annexed in 2008 under an agreement stating the city has no obligation to extend utilities or improve roads. Access is via Johnson Lane (county-maintained) and Kellum Lane (unmaintained). Staff recommended approval with two conditions: 1) finalize a development agreement memorializing granted exceptions to city road standards and acknowledging no city obligation for improvements until further subdivision/development triggers a north-south local road per the master transportation plan; 2) dedicate section line right-of-way along Johnson Lane. The county will also review. The developer acknowledged fire apparatus access requirements. Motion to approve with conditions carried unanimously. - Final Plat Combining Two Residential Lots into One (ETJ): Applicant Loren Vrem, c/o Terry Liddick, requested combining two lots (zoned A-1, minimum 40 acres) at 2630 Lookout Mountain Road into a single 40-acre tract. The property has existing private septic, well, residence, garages, and sheds. No additional access points proposed. Staff recommended approval for compliance with ETJ Subdivision Ordinance and Lawrence County zoning. Motion to approve as recommended carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - The Commission recommended approval of both final plats to the City Council. The Spring Creek Ranch Estates plat will also go to the County Commission (October 27) and the City Council (likely November 2) with the development agreement. The ETJ lot combination will go to City Council with a public hearing and to the County Commission for highway authority signature. - No other action items were discussed. Departmental Updates - Planning Commission Vacancy: Interviews for the vacant seat (replacing Dylan) to be conducted by the mayor and staff in the coming days. - Community Development Director Recruitment: Position posted; first-round applicant reviews completed; multi-step interview process to begin, involving Planning Commission Chair. - ETJ Ordinance Update: Working group meeting scheduled for October 30, coordinated with county planning staff. - Shakespeare Fish (Shakespeare Fisheries?) Update: Open house held two weeks ago; engagement boards remain at the City Rec Center this week for public feedback. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified].

The Spearfish City Council met at 5:30 PM on October 19, 2026, in City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street, Spearfish. Mayor Senden presided, and all council members were present. The meeting opened with an invocation from North Point Christian Church and the Pledge of Allegiance. No potential conflicts of interest were declared. Proclamation - Mayor Senden proclaimed October 25 through October 31, 2026, as Respiratory Care Week in Spearfish. No respiratory care representatives attended, and the proclamation was to be delivered to the hospital. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 30, 2026, City Council special session and study session, and the October 5, 2026, City Council regular session. - Added Sydney Knutson, Drake Sutter, and Sean Shipp to the 2026 Spearfish Volunteer Firefighter list. - The consent agenda motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - Per council procedure, no action could be taken on these non-agenda comments. - John Dale, 239 West Jackson Boulevard, said he came to Spearfish from Arizona 15 years ago to build his software company, DB2DOM. He described receiving little financial or institutional support, alleged a pattern of being stalked, physically attacked, and defamed, and claimed an incident involving Steve Thomas following his daughters into a library bathroom. He announced a forthcoming constitutional initiative called Planes Tribune and encouraged people to join. - Carol Dahl, 210 Flintlock Circle, and Bonnie King, both from the Sandstone area, raised concerns about unsightly and potentially hazardous utility boxes in their neighborhood. Dahl said she counted about 150 boxes along Windmill from 27th to Sandstone Drive, including boxes with missing covers, exposed cables and wires, rust, leaning positions, blocked sightlines, and a cord across a sidewalk creating a trip hazard. They also described 15 to 20 utility flags left in yards for more than two months, making maintenance difficult, and asked the city to apply nuisance ordinance 92.16 and pursue beautification. Added and Adjusted Wages - Approved two budgeted wage actions: promotion of a parks maintenance and forestry supervisor to $32.84 per hour, and advancement of a utilities operator III to $32.04 per hour after successful completion of state Class III certification. - The motion carried by roll-call vote. Parks and Recreation: Campground Water Line Change Order - Parks staff presented Change Order 1 for the Campground Water Line project, with a net increase of $40,378.32, or 8.97% of the project total, and no change to the completion date. The new contract total is $490,398.35, compared with the 2026 project budget of $750,000. - Funding comes entirely from the campground enterprise fund, with no tax dollars, general fund, or capital improvement funds used. - The change would relocate the dump station from the north side of the road to the south side so campers can follow one-way traffic instead of entering against it or making multi-point turns. The work includes added asphalt for turning radius and relocation of water and sewer utilities. - Project completion is anticipated in November 2026 under an incentive clause, with the final contract completion date in spring 2027. A council member questioned whether the project would finish before winter, and another noted the campground typically makes money and supported the change. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Public Works: Mountain View Elementary Alley Water Line - Assistant Public Works Director Sarah Karen reported that the Mountain View Elementary Alley Water Line project finished on time and under budget. Final Change Order 2 reduces the contract by a net $17,980.30, reflecting about a $7,000 increase for extra gravel requested by the school and about a $25,000 decrease from utility efficiencies after existing utilities were uncovered. - The final price is 0.84% less than the original contract value. The council approved the change order and the Certificate of Final Completion and Acceptance as of September 8, 2026, which begins the two-year warranty period. - The project was a joint project with the school district. The school board approved it the previous week and agreed to pay 68.51% of construction and engineering costs. The motion carried by roll-call vote. Approve Bills - Approved the Bill List dated October 19, 2026, by roll-call vote. Council and Departmental Discussion - Peter followed up on the utility box comments from public testimony, noting that the city has franchise agreements with most utility companies and will evaluate whether the city can require utilities to maintain boxes that are not city-owned. City control is limited because the boxes are not city utilities, but franchise agreements may provide options. - Department heads offered no additional comments, and the meeting adjourned. Key Outcomes - Issued the Respiratory Care Week proclamation for October 25-31, 2026. - Approved the consent calendar, including three sets of minutes and three volunteer firefighter additions. - Approved wage additions and adjustments for parks maintenance and utilities operator positions. - Approved Campground Water Line Change Order 1 with a net increase of $40,378.32. - Approved Mountain View Elementary Alley Water Line Change Order 2 with a net decrease of $17,980.30 and the certificate of final completion and acceptance. - Approved the October 19, 2026, bill list.

The Spearfish City Council held a study session on October 14, 2026, primarily to review the draft agenda for the October 19, 2026, regular meeting and to discuss the process for selling available liquor licenses. Consent Calendar - Reviewed items for the upcoming regular meeting: approval of minutes, adding volunteer firefighters to the worker's compensation coverage list, and a proclamation for Respiratory Care Week (October 25–31, 2026). Added and adjusted wages for a Parks Maintenance and Forestry Supervisor and a Utilities Operator 3 were also noted. Public Works Agenda Items - Mountain View Elementary Alley Project: Final change order (over/under) was presented; the school board approved their cost responsibilities the previous night. - Campground Waterline Project: A change order amounting to just over $40,000 was discussed. The changes involve reconfiguring the dump station at the campground to make it more user-friendly and alleviate traffic jams, as well as replacing poor-condition pavement. Rex explained these changes were originally pulled for budget reasons, but the project bid came in under the engineer's estimate, freeing up funds. The council requested visual aids for the regular meeting presentation. - Equipment: A loader and v-plow purchased in August were recently delivered; a budget supplement will be brought forward later in the year. Liquor License Fee Discussion - Finance Officer Michelle presented the issue. The City has two off-sale liquor licenses ($100,000 minimum bid each) and one on-sale liquor license ($300,000 minimum bid) available. Despite three consecutive bid openings, including the most recent one, the City received zero bids. Interested parties contacted the city shortly after the deadlines. - Proposal: Michelle proposed setting a fixed fee via resolution, allowing interested parties to apply directly through the Finance Office. The applicant would still undergo background checks and a public hearing before the council for final determination. - Council Positions: Councilmember Scott strongly supported maintaining the minimum prices to avoid devaluing existing licenses, citing recent off-sale sales ($101k–$107k) and private on-sale transfers ($215k–$225k). He was open to the resolution process. The Mayor and Councilmember Larry supported trying the resolution process given the repeated failure of the sealed bid process. Staff was directed to contact the interested party and bring back a formal recommendation for a fixed-fee resolution at a future meeting. Public Comments - No members of the public provided comment during the session. Departmental Reports - Police Chief Colin: Addressed constituent concerns about traffic backing up at Exit 12. Jurisdiction lies with the DOT and Highway Patrol. The DOT may perform a traffic study. The department is monitoring the situation, noting the backups have not fully extended onto I-90. - Councilmember Peter: Reported speaking at the Rotary Club, which hosted a visiting delegation of approximately 20 individuals from Rotary clubs in three cities in Thailand. - Administrative: Michelle noted she would be on vacation for the October 19 regular meeting; Angelica would cover. The council confirmed a quorum was available for the regular meeting. Key Outcomes - The draft agenda for the October 19 regular meeting was reviewed and finalized. - Staff will contact the interested liquor license party and prepare a resolution to set fixed fees for the licenses for council consideration in the coming month. - Visual aids will be prepared for the regular council presentation on the campground waterline project change order.

The Spearfish Planning Commission met on October 6, 2026, at City Hall and via Zoom. Key actions included the denial of a conditional use permit for a used car lot in the downtown core, a recommendation for approval of a side-yard setback variance with conditions, and a discussion on a sketch plat in the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the September 15, 2026, regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Ian Umfrey (435 North 7th Street) spoke in support of a variance request for 430 Meier Avenue, expressing his respect for the Walton Schuler Irrigation Ditch and his desire to invest in and improve his hometown property. - Kevin Zirker (1445 Kerwin Lane) commented regarding the conditional use permit (CUP) for a used car lot, thanking the commission for its careful application of zoning regulations and expressing concerns about preserving the character and vibrancy of downtown Spearfish. Discussion Items 1. Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Used Car Lot (446 N Main Street) - Staff presented a request for a CUP to operate a used car lot in the C-1 (Commercial Core) downtown zone, located at the intersection of East Grant and North Main Street. Staff recommended denial, finding the proposal failed to meet several criteria in § 156.082, including compatibility with the pedestrian-oriented downtown goal (Comprehensive Plan Goal 6), non-compliance with parking lot hardening (Chapter 153/156) and landscaping standards, and public safety issues from non-conforming sidewalks and access points. - Applicant Scott Odenbach stated he purchased the lot to improve its appearance and sought temporary vehicle storage use to generate revenue while determining a permanent development plan. He indicated he was not interested in making extensive improvements such as paving and landscaping without a long-term redevelopment plan. - Commissioners agreed with the staff analysis, noting the car-centric use was contrary to the downtown vision and zoning intent. - Key Outcome: Motion to deny per staff recommendation. The motion carried unanimously. 2. Variance Request for Side-Yard Setback (430 Meier Avenue) - Staff recommended approval of a variance to reduce the required side-yard setback from 8 feet to 6 feet 9 inches for an addition to an existing home. The property, zoned R-2, is uniquely constrained due to its creation via street vacation, location within a floodplain (Zone AE), and the presence of the Walton Schuler Irrigation Ditch. Staff recommended approval contingent on a letter of support from the ditch company. - Glenn Umphrey (applicant) and Ian Umfrey requested the variance proceed without requiring a letter from the ditch company, arguing the addition does not encroach on the easement and that the City should solely determine the setback variance. - Commissioners discussed the legal rights of the ditch company and the importance of respecting active irrigation easements. They focused their decision strictly on the zoning setback variance. - Key Outcome: The commission voted to recommend approval of the variance to the Board of Adjustment, amended to condition the recommendation on the applicant providing evidence of no encroachment on the ditch company’s easement or securing a letter of approval from the ditch company. A public hearing was formally set for the Board of Adjustment on November 2, 2026. 3. Sketch Plat Discussion – ETJ Subdivision (St. Ange Road) - Staff presented a sketch plat proposed subdivision of approximately 90 acres into nine rural residential lots in the city’s ETJ. The plan featured a paved loop road with gravel extensions and dedicated public access easements to accommodate potential future development to the west and south. - Commissioners discussed whether to require the applicant to construct the gravel roads and temporary turnarounds to the full property boundaries now, rather than deferring the improvements, to ensure proper base construction and facilitate future connectivity. - The commission provided feedback but took no formal action. The input will guide the developer as the project advances to the preliminary plat stage. Departmental Discussion/Updates - Staff announced the kickoff of the 'Shape Spearfish' development code rewrite project with an open house attended by 30 participants. Further public engagement opportunities are planned. - It was noted that several staff members were away at the South Dakota Municipal League conference. - The resignation of Commissioner Dylan Wilde was reported. The city is accepting letters of interest to fill the unexpired term through the end of 2026, with eligibility for a full five-year term beginning in 2027.

On 2026-10-05 at 5:30 PM, the Spearfish City Council convened for a regular session in the City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street, Spearfish, to consider routine approvals, financial matters, and public works items. The meeting was called to order with roll call; all council members were present, with one member (Larry) attending while on vacation and noted to fly out the following day. The invocation and Pledge of Allegiance were held. The agenda was approved as presented, and no conflicts of interest were declared. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Minutes of the September 16, 2026 City Council study session and the September 21, 2026 regular session were approved. - Parks Volunteer: Ronnie Knodel was added to the 2026 Parks Volunteer list. - Wage Additions: Approved the following budgeted wage addition: Recreation Assistant position at $22.12 per hour. - Bills and Expenses: Approved the bill list dated October 5, 2026, and the salary expense, bank fees, and credit card fees for September 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Hills View Homes Development Agreement: Approved the Second Amendment to the Restated and Amended Development Agreement, amending security and performance requirements. - Fire Truck Surplus: Approved Resolution 2026-22 to surplus the 2002 Spartan Type 1 Fire Truck for transfer to another government agency. - Cannabis License Renewal: Held a public hearing for Megan Heggen of Genesis Farms, LLC to renew the cannabis establishment license at 320 26th Street, Suite 5. The council approved the application. - Airport Grant Agreements: Approved two State of South Dakota grant agreements for the Airport Apron Expansion project: $115,868 and $12,593, authorizing Mayor Senden and Finance Officer DeNeui to sign documents. - Special Event Wine License: Approved Sabrina Heredia with Antunez's application for a special event on-sale wine license for the Friends of Music Fundraiser on November 1, 2026. - Ordinance 1432: Passed second reading supplementing the 2026 Appropriations Ordinance No. 1408. - Airport Apron Expansion Contract: Approved Mead & Hunt proposal for construction staking, materials testing, and administration services not to exceed $610,661.73. - Spearfish Creek Stabilization Project: Approved the Certificate of Final Completion and Acceptance, setting September 17, 2026 as the start of the two-year warranty period. - Bills and wages: Approved the bill list, salary expenses, bank fees, and credit card fees for September 2026. Publication of wages per SDCL 6-1-10 were noted in the agenda and include promotions for Jim Eddie, Peter Wysocki, and new hires Afton Morran and Carsyn Anderson. -----END OF MEETING----- --- SUMMARY NOTICE --- This meeting was recorded and broadcast. Minutes are not final until approved by the Council at a subsequent meeting. In accordance with South Dakota law, this meeting was called with public notice posted at the City's official bulletin board and filed with the Spearfish City Finance Office 24 hours prior to the meeting. The City of Spearfish fully subscribes to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and need special accommodations should contact the City Finance Office 12 hours prior to the meeting so that appropriate auxiliary aids and services are available.

The Spearfish City Council met in study session on September 30, 2026, at 4:23 p.m. The meeting focused on a presentation from Clarion Associates regarding the Shape Spearfish Unified Development Code (UDC) rewrite, a review of the upcoming October 5, 2026 regular council agenda, and departmental updates on public works, planning, and police staffing. No public comments were received. The council approved the study session agenda and later adjourned at 5:07 p.m. Review of October 5, 2026 City Council Regular Session Agenda - Staff and council reviewed each item on the draft agenda for the regular meeting. Key items included: an amendment to the development agreement with Hillsview Homes to reduce the required financial assurance from $600,000 to $450,000; donation of a 2002 Spartan Type 1 fire truck to the NEMO Fire Department; a public hearing and renewal of the cannabis establishment license for Genesis Farms through 2027; two state grant agreements for the airport apron expansion project, with a state contribution of approximately $130,000; a special event on-sale wine license for the Friends of Music Fundraiser; the second reading of an ordinance to amend the budget for camera systems at the rec center, police department, and city hall, and library furniture; a proposed agreement with Beetle Electric for electrical service at the sawmill development; a proposal from Eden Hunt for construction staking, materials testing, and construction administration for the airport apron project for $610,000; and a certificate of final completion for the Spearfish Creek Bank Stabilization project. The meeting will also include an executive session on electronic and cybersecurity data. Shape Spearfish Unified Development Code Presentation - Assistant Planning Director Ecker introduced Elizabeth Garvin, AICP, ESQ, and Maggie Squyer, AICP, from Clarion Associates. Squyer, the project manager, presented the purpose, timeline, and community engagement plan for the 18-month UDC rewrite, which aims to implement the Adventure Ahead Comprehensive Plan by creating and updating land development regulations. The project will revise chapters on mobile and manufactured homes, subdivisions, trees and landscaping, and zoning. - The project has four key objectives: implement adopted plans, clarify development review processes, establish regulations supporting well-managed growth, and create a user-friendly code. It is divided into three phases: technical drafting (August 2026 – March 2027), public review (April – September 2027), and adoption (October 2027 – January 2028). - Community participation opportunities include public open houses, an online survey, staff-led office hours, a project advisory board (20 members from various stakeholder groups), and public hearings. The first advisory board meeting occurred earlier that day, covering topics such as agricultural conservation, housing affordability, infrastructure costs, downtown vibrancy, and process improvements. - Garvin and Squyer solicited council input on land use priorities. Council member Hafner emphasized the importance of maintaining neighborhood consistency and character, citing Eastide Acres as a model for mixed-use development that transitions from light commercial to multifamily to single-family. He expressed support for the Development Review Mixed (DRM) zoning district. - Future council presentations are planned approximately every six to eight weeks during the first phase, with two in the second phase and one in the third. Departmental Discussion - Public Works Director McMahon announced that the downtown mill and overlay project is on schedule and nearing completion with pavement marking. - Assistant Planning Director Ecker noted a recent vacancy on the Planning Commission and encouraged interested individuals to apply. - Police Chief Smith provided a detailed briefing on staffing challenges. The department is currently down eight officers, soon to be nine, due to high hiring standards and difficulty finding qualified applicants. He emphasized that the department will not lower its standards, as rigorous background checks have washed out three applicants in the last 72 hours. Officers are working significant overtime, and the department has handled 11 emergency mental health committals in the past four weeks, one requiring 329 consecutive officer hours. Smith asked for patience and highlighted that two applicants are currently in the background process (down from five earlier in the week). Council member Jacobs praised the department's performance and expressed no complaints. - City Administrator Wysocki reminded council of the upcoming Planning Commission meeting on October 6, 2026, to review a conditional use permit for a used car lot at Grant and Main. He also noted that a working group of city, county, and community members will meet on October 2, 2026, to begin updating the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) ordinance. Wysocki thanked Ecker, Mathis, and Spiering for their extra work on the UDC. Key Outcomes - The council approved the study session agenda and adjourned with no other formal votes. The UDC presentation was informational, with future presentations scheduled to provide guidance and policy interpretation. The next regular City Council meeting is set for October 5, 2026, where the reviewed agenda items will be considered for action.

The Spearfish City Council met for its regular session on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street, Spearfish. Mayor Senden presided. Councilmembers Hafner, Hourigan, Klarenbeek, Myers, and Rath were present; Councilmember Jacobs was absent. City Administrator Wysocki, Finance Officer DeNeui, Public Works Director McMahon, Police Chief Smith, Fire Chief Deaver, Parks and Recreation Director McDonald, Assistant Planning Director Ecker, Assistant Public Works Director Caron, and Streets and Solid Waste Superintendent Barrie were also present. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Steve Miller of Grace Fellowship and the Pledge of Allegiance. The Council amended the agenda to remove item 13B and to change item 13E from "Ratify" to "Approve" the FMG Engineering agreement. The amended agenda was approved. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 2, 2026, City Council study session; the September 8, 2026, regular session; the September 9, 2026, special sessions at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.; the September 10, 2026, special session at 4:00 p.m.; and the Treasurer's Report dated August 31, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Rosalie Aslesen thanked Sgt. Bush for an email response and objected to the invocation as currently conducted, saying it was not inclusive. She urged the Council to invite diverse faiths and non-religious speakers, noted the city has no written invocation policy, and expressed concern that asking people to stand could be seen as a religious test. - Jay DeSort requested that the Council stop opening meetings with an invocation, called the practice unconstitutional, asked the city attorney to research the issue, and said he would submit a Citizen Request Form. - Gary Smith raised concerns about the negative number in the proposed 2027 budget and about the city's variance reporting method, which he said compares a current month to year-end totals and could permit a large negative variance by December 31. - Doug Markworth thanked city staff, personally supported Piotr "Peter" Wysocki, but opposed the city administrator pay rate and contract provisions. He called the Condrey study "rigged," objected to the severance amount and the 180-day employment protection tied to a change of mayor, and urged the Council to vote no and refine the contract. Discussion Items - Added and adjusted wages: Approved the budgeted wage for Parks Maintenance & Forestry Superintendent at $42.03 per hour and part-time Recreation Assistant at $22.12 per hour. This was a roll-call vote, 5-0. - Finance – Ordinance 1431: Approved the second reading of Ordinance 1431, the 2027 Appropriations Ordinance. Finance Officer DeNeui reported total revenues just over $52 million, total expenses of $54 million, and a resulting use of cash of $1.8 million, which she said is permissible under state law for one-time purchases. She also noted the city's reserve requirement is 30% for the general fund and 20% for most other funds; the reserve requirement is about $9.6 million, while current cash and investments total $55.4 million, leaving $45.8 million above the reserve requirement. - Finance – Ordinance 1432: Approved the first reading of Ordinance 1432, supplementing the 2026 Appropriations Ordinance. The ordinance increases budget authority by $313,067 for police/city hall camera system and rec center projects, reduces the street budget by the same amount, and provides budget authority for library furniture purchases using the library gift fund. The library gift fund balance was reported as $414,190 as of the end of August 2026. - Human Resources – PSAP consolidation: Approved a series of items related to the consolidation of the city's communication center with Lawrence County: authorized reimbursing Lawrence County for communications officer Frances Weglin's employment costs from September 23 through December 26, 2026; authorized the sick-leave payout for communications officer Brian Vosburg despite his being 40 days short of the seven-year employment requirement, with an estimated payout of about $3,900; authorized health, dental, vision, and à la carte insurance coverage for Dawn Lolley, Brian Vosburg, and Izabel Johnson for January 2027 to avoid a coverage lapse; authorized the three transferring officers to retain city recreation memberships until they are no longer employed by Lawrence County; and authorized transferring employees to elect conversion of a portion of accrued vacation/PTO to a cash equivalent, including payroll taxes and other required costs, transferred to Lawrence County. - Human Resources – City Administrator contract: Approved the employment contract for Piotr "Peter" Wysocki as City Administrator. HR staff highlighted compensation at grade 28, step 6, or $197,946; a tiered severance provision; and a 180-day employment protection tied to a change of mayor. The vote was 5-0. - Parks and Recreation: Authorized city staff to advertise the bid package for the indoor baseball training facility once all necessary items are received from the Spearfish Baseball Association. Staff noted the association is funding the building and the facility will be returned to the city; insurance and utility responsibilities were discussed. The vote was 5-0. - Public Works – Snow removal: Awarded the lowest responsive and responsible bid for Zone A Snow Removal to AusCar X, LLC, based on bids opened September 2, 2026. Assistant Public Works Director Caron said the contract covers the Rec Center parking lot; AusCar X's bid rates include $160 per hour for a payloader, $125 per hour for a skid steer, and $135 per hour for a truck with operator. The vote was 5-0. - Public Works – Spearfish Creek Bank Stabilization Change Order: Approved Final Under/Over Change Order 1 for the Spearfish Creek Bank Stabilization Project with a net increase of $1,576.14. Adding clean rock increased costs by $1,821.84, while reduced riprap quantities decreased costs by $245.70. The original contract amount was $146,556, and the final project cost is $148,132.14. The vote was 5-0. - Public Works – Transportation Alternatives Grant: Adopted Resolution 2026-21 authorizing submission of an application to the State Transportation Alternatives Grant Program for paving the Rad Route to School. The resolution references the 2025 Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan and authorizes required matching funds if the grant is awarded. Staff said the project would make the route ADA-compliant and would evaluate two alignments: one from the North Canyon Street cul-de-sac and one on city property connecting into the park. - Public Works – FMG Engineering Agreement: Approved the FMG Engineering agreement for engineering services related to the Transportation Grant Alternatives application at a total cost of $2,200. The vote was 5-0. - Bills: Approved the bill list dated September 21, 2026, totaling $844,595.28. - Departmental Discussion – Safety Stand Down Day: The biennial Safety Stand Down Day will be held Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Rec Center will be open 5:30-8:00 a.m. and reopen 2:00-8:00 p.m., with 24-hour access maintained; the library will be closed from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and reopen 2:00-7:00 p.m.; city offices will be closed from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; trash collection will be unchanged; and the rubble site will remain open. - Departmental Discussion – Other updates: Wysocki was welcomed as City Administrator. A joint community open house on the Title 15 rewrite and Spearfish Creek preservation plan will be held September 30, 2026, at the City Park pavilion with consultants Clarion and ISG. Parks and Recreation staff have met with USDA and NRCS about an emergency watershed protection program related to the Lookout Mountain fire; the application window is 60 days, funding would be 75% federal with a 25% local match that could include in-kind labor, and the city is considering applying. Police Chief Smith reported that after the PSAP consolidation, there will be no dispatcher on site at the Spearfish Police Department Monday-Friday from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. or on weekends; non-emergency callers should contact the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office at 605-578-2230, and a lobby phone is being installed. Finance Officer DeNeui reminded the public that the general election is November 3, 2026; the voter registration deadline is October 19 at 5:00 p.m.; absentee voting began September 18; and county staff will be at Hudson Hall October 19 through November 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Public Works Director McMahon said the downtown mill and overlay project is scheduled to begin the next week and, weather permitting, be completed before the October 2 homecoming parade. Key Outcomes - All action items on the amended agenda were approved; roll-call items passed 5-0, with Councilmember Jacobs absent. - Ordinance 1431 passed its second reading. Ordinance 1432 passed its first reading and will return for a second reading. - Resolution 2026-21 was adopted, authorizing the city to apply for the State Transportation Alternatives Grant Program and to use FMG Engineering for the application. - The employment contract for City Administrator Piotr "Peter" Wysocki was approved, and he was welcomed by the Council and staff. - The final change order for the Spearfish Creek Bank Stabilization Project was approved, and the snow removal contract for Zone A was awarded to AusCar X, LLC. - Staff will proceed with advertising the indoor baseball training facility bid package once the Spearfish Baseball Association provides all necessary items, and will evaluate eligibility for the USDA/NRCS emergency watershed protection program. - The PSAP consolidation transition is scheduled to become official in December 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 6:36 p.m.