Public Meetings - Spearfish, South Dakota

The Spearfish City Council met in study session on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 4:15 p.m. to 5:12 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Mayor Senden presided; council members Jacobs, Klarenbeek, Hourigan, Myers, and Rath were present, and Hafner was absent. The council approved its agenda, reviewed the August 3, 2026 Board of Adjustments and City Council agendas, heard public comment, and received the 2027 budget request for Police, Animal Control, and E911 Funds. Agenda Approval - Klarenbeek moved, Jacobs seconded, and the council voted unanimously to approve the agenda. Review of August 3, 2026 Agendas - Board of Adjustments: One variance request for a front-yard setback on a corner lot at Eighth Street/Federal Way to install a carport over a gravel area. Staff noted city code treats both corner sides as front yard setbacks even though no street exists on one side; the Planning Commission recommended approval. - City Council consent agenda: Approval of minutes from the last round of meetings. - Zoning map amendment: The owner of the former city-sold Camp Canine property is requesting a change from industrial to service commercial to allow the doggy daycare, a human day spa, and three to five residential cabins for employees; the purchase agreement requires completion by January 2028. - Final plat in the extra-territorial jurisdiction: Approval to create one additional lot west of Mountain Plains from a larger tract; the preliminary plat was approved in 2024, a conservation easement covers most of the property, and the smaller portion would be developed with a single-family home. The Planning Commission recommended approval. - Finance: Crow Peak Brewing requests temporary beverage service at Dakota 5.0, the Black Hills Fly-in on September 19, and a Pit 14 BBQ rally location; first reading of Ordinance 1429, a 2026 budget supplement, is expected to be added to the packet, with a goal of zero net budget impact except for bond payoff from cash on hand. - Parks and Recreation: Proposed amendments A, B, and C would extend Black Hills State University soccer field use agreements for five years (practice at Ronnie Tice Field and games at the Energy Complex), clean up outdated language, and were unanimously recommended by the Park Board. Item D would authorize continued work with the Spearfish Baseball Association on the indoor baseball facility. - Police: A three-year MOU with Black Hills State University would place an armed campus officer, similar to an SRO, on campus in response to state campus-carry legislation; more information on PSAP consolidation with the county is expected Monday, with Sheriff Dean presenting to the county commission. - Public Works: A temporary construction easement for a sidewalk on Colorado Loop with Elkhorn Ridge and an agreement with Butte Electric for electrical lines and street lights in the Sawmill development (Bansall Avenue) are planned. - Administrative items: First-of-month bill list, salaries, bank fees, credit card fees, and publication of wages will be in the Friday packet. The August 3 council meeting will include more 2027 budget presentations (community development, parks and recreation, and fire) and a short executive session with no action expected. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Smith, 287 Evans Lane, raised two questions: whether Board of Adjustments alternates have been established, and how the city sells public land to private entities through SEDC. He asked for more information about that process in the near future, noting it has lingered in part because the city attorney was not present. No other public comments were received; public comment was open from about 4:35 p.m. until closed. Discussion Items: 2027 Police, Animal Control, and E911 Budget Request - Police Chief Smith presented the request. He described the E911 budget as a moving target until PSAP consolidation negotiations with the county are complete; the figures presented assume no consolidation. - The police department will absorb the cost of one of three school resource officer positions because the school district could not fund all three; Smith said he did not want to lose an established SRO. - Smith requested an additional $15,000 in the machine and equipment budget for a drone program. Law enforcement drones are restricted by the American Security Drone Act to American-made drones on the "blue list." The proposed Parrot drone package totals about $25,000, but staff identified items to reduce that cost. Uses would include missing persons, search and rescue, crime scene mapping, collision reconstruction, officer safety, and disaster response. The drone would have a FLIR thermal camera and could assist the fire department with hot spots; Fourth Amendment case law was discussed. Council member Myers called it "a great addition." - A new customer service assistant position was proposed to replace walk-in lobby services currently provided by dispatchers, because those services would be lost if dispatch consolidates with the county. - The department identified about $15,000 in reductions. Professional services and fees total about $78,500, including $52,000 for citywide mental-health services, $14,000 for towing/shipping, $5,000 for Guardian background software, and $7,500 for online investigative tools. - Software maintenance is a major cost: the 10-year Axon contract for body cameras, tasers, and vehicle cameras is estimated to save the city $255,000 over the contract term and will cost about $80,000 in 2027; Central Square services are estimated at $69,606 for October 2026 to October 2027 if the PSAP does not consolidate, with the amount expected to drop after consolidation. - Myers asked about personnel growth from about $2 million in 2023 to about $4 million in 2027. Finance Officer DeNeui explained that 2023 and 2024 actuals did not include the former public safety administration department, and three new police officer positions approved in 2026 are budgeted for 2027. Comparing 2026 to 2027, four additional staff positions are included: three officers and the customer service assistant. - Hiring update: three temporary officers will join for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally though the department sought seven; interviews for new officers are scheduled next week, with two applicants in background and one polygraph on Friday. - Klarenbeek asked about revenue opportunities from citations; Smith replied that state law directs fine revenue to schools and victim programs, and law enforcement should not be a revenue source. Departmental Updates - Public Works Director McMahon reported chip seal reapplication on Colorado Boulevard is complete; fog seal and striping are scheduled for next week. - Community Development Director Wysocki said the August 4 Planning Commission meeting would likely be canceled for lack of items; building services has been busy finalizing multiple projects and starting affordable housing projects. - Parks and Recreation Director McDonald said landscape renovation has started at the Exit 12 waterfall, with the goal of restoring the waterfall; the creekside stabilization project is near completion, with final stabilization and seeding pending. - Smith added that BHSU Public Safety Director Cory Compton will attend the August 3 meeting when the MOU is presented. (The transcript spells the name "Corey.") Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the study session agenda. - No formal action was taken on the 2027 police budget; it was a discussion and presentation item. - Upcoming decisions include the August 3, 2026 Board of Adjustments and City Council meetings, the first reading of Ordinance 1429, the PSAP consolidation agreement, the BHSU MOU, and continued baseball facility discussions. - The airport lease/fixed base operator agreement will not be ready for August 3 and is expected at the following council meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 5:12 p.m. on a motion by Rath, seconded by Jacobs.

The Spearfish Planning Commission met on July 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. Five members were present (Tysdal, Moths, Wilde, Byrum, Duncan), with two absent (Bordewyk, Davison). The meeting was adjourned at 4:28 PM after considering two action items, a departmental update, and appointing commissioners to a code rewrite steering committee. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda as presented (5-0). - Approved the minutes from the July 7, 2026 meeting as presented (5-0). - No conflicts of interest were declared. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning request (Maitland Road & Aspen Drive): Applicant Rick Clayton (Camp K9) spoke in support of the rezoning. He described his plans for a 26,000-square-foot state-of-the-art doggy daycare facility (Camp K9) and a medical spa operated by his wife, a nurse practitioner. He emphasized the businesses are veteran-owned, disabled veteran-owned, and family-rooted in Spearfish. He stated that the rezoning was a condition of the TIF property purchase and that both businesses address needs lacking in the community. Discussion Items - Code rewrite (Title XV) steering committee: Community Development Director Peter Wysocki reported that the City Council approved a professional services agreement with Clarion Associates for a comprehensive rewrite of Title XV (zoning and subdivision regulations), an estimated 18-month process. He requested one or two planning commissioners to serve on the stakeholder steering committee, which will meet during regular business hours about four to six times. Commissioners Duncan and Moths volunteered to participate. Wysocki also noted that the commission’s bylaws would be ready for signing at the next regular meeting. Key Outcomes - Rezoning recommendation (Item F.1): The Commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval of rezoning the parcel at the intersection of Maitland Road and Aspen Drive from Heavy Industrial (HI) to Highway-Service Commercial (C2) to the City Council. The item will be placed on the City Council agenda for August 3, 2026, for first reading of the revised ordinance. - Variance recommendation (Item F.2): The Commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 25 feet to 5 feet at 345 N 8th Street, and to set a public hearing for the Board of Adjustment on August 3, 2026. The motion was amended to include both the recommendation and the hearing setting. - City Council action: The City Council approved a professional services agreement with Clarion Associates for the Title XV code rewrite (reported by staff). - Next meeting: The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for August 4, 2026 (implied by the two-week cycle and the July 21 meeting).

The Spearfish City Council held a regular session on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street. Mayor John Senden presided. Council members present: Hafner, Hourigan, Jacobs, Klarenbeek, Myers, and Rath. Also present were city staff and department heads. The meeting included public comments, approval of the consent agenda, wage adjustments, a professional services agreement for updating the city's land usage code, liquor license matters, infrastructure project approvals, bill approvals, and a presentation of the preliminary 2027 budget. The meeting adjourned at 7:13 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 1, 2026, study session and the July 6, 2026, regular session. - Added Justice Swanson to the 2026 Spearfish Volunteer Firefighter list, Eric Anderson to the Parks volunteer list, and Kathryn Cluff to the Recreation Center volunteer list. - Approved the Treasurer's Report dated June 30, 2026. (Motion passed unanimously.) Public Comments & Testimony - John Dale (239 West Jackson Boulevard) provided an update on health issues related to iron levels in his home. He reported that approximately $120 in supplements from a local health food store made a marked improvement but are too expensive to sustain. He expressed concern about iron accumulation in other organs and is working to eliminate proximate causes such as wireless signals. He requested council's assistance or collaboration. - Dave Donat (621 Bridgewater Court), on behalf of the Spearfish Youth Baseball Association, proposed constructing a 96 ft x 76 ft indoor baseball training facility on existing baseball diamond land, with a projected cost of around $400,000. He emphasized the project would be fully funded through donations and in-kind labor, and the association is not asking for city funds. He requested city permission and a lease for the site, noting that similar facilities exist on city land in Brandon and Rapid City. He addressed zoning concerns and offered turnkey donation and operating agreements. - Ryan Wordeman (285 Evans Lane) voiced support for the facility, stating that donors are willing to write serious checks and that momentum must be maintained. He urged the council to move the project forward as quickly as possible. (No public comments were received during the public hearing for the liquor license transfer.) Added and Adjusted Wages Interim Fire Chief Scott provided an explanation of "red card" firefighters – those who pass fitness and training requirements for wildland deployment. The council approved the following wage additions and adjustments as budgeted for 2026, including wildland rates for seasonal employees and red carded firefighters: - Regular Positions: Fire Dept Admin Coordinator (lateral move, no cost), Police/Background Investigator ($33.66/hr). - Wildland Rates for Seasonal Employees: Jones, Sawyer (FFT2, $22.84/hr); Serrano, Antonio (FFT2, $22.84/hr); VanOsdaol, Alexander (FFT2, $22.84/hr). - Red Carded Firefighters (AD Pay Plan): Anderson, Michael (FFT2, EMPF, AD-C $22.84, AD-J $44.76); Adler, Zach (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Bussiere, Ahria (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Dragoo, Sky (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Felsman, Jason (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Fiorelli, Shane (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Gray, Taylor (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); McClure, David (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Graeff, Tucker (FFT2, AD-C $22.84); Wenzel, Bill (ENGB, AD-F $30.08); Ziegler, Adam (ENGB, AD-F $30.08). (Motion passed 6-0 on roll call vote.) Community Development – Professional Services Agreement Community Development Director Peter Wysocki presented a proposal to hire Clarion Associates, LLC to update Title XV (Land Usage) of City Code at a cost of $152,675. He explained that the current code is approximately 30 years old, has inconsistent processes, and needs a comprehensive rewrite to align with the city's comprehensive plan. The project would include a stakeholder steering committee, regular check-ins with council, and an estimated timeline of 18 months. Council members expressed support for using an outside consultant to avoid overburdening staff. The motion passed 5-1, with Councilor Klarenbeek voting nay. Finance - Special Event Malt Beverage License: Approved an application from Ali Eddy with Sawyer Brewing Company for the Black Hills Fly-In on September 19, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Black Hills Airport (400 Aviation Place). (Unanimous.) - Liquor License Transfer: A public hearing was held (no comments) and council approved the transfer of retail (on-off sale) malt beverage & SD farm wine license and retail (on-off sale) wine and cider license to Tim Moore with First Venture LLC for 127 W. Grant Street, including an encroachment agreement. (Unanimous.) - Early Payoff of 2015 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds: Finance Officer Michelle DeNeui reported that the bonds have a 4% interest rate with five scheduled payments remaining ($1,245,000 principal and $62,900 interest). The city's current investment return is 3.55%, so early payoff would save an estimated $5,000–$7,000 in net interest and free up budget authority (over $600,000 in 2027 and under $350,000 in 2028). Payoff would occur with the December 1, 2026 payment using general fund cash. (Motion passed 5-1, with Councilor Hourigan voting nay.) - Liquor License Auction: Approved offering one on-sale liquor license (minimum $300,000) and two package (off-sale) liquor licenses (minimum $100,000 each) via sealed bids. Revenue will go to the general fund. (Unanimous.) Public Works - Rainbow Road Box Culvert: Approved the Certificate of Final Completion and Acceptance, setting June 17, 2026, as the start of the two-year warranty. (Unanimous.) - Airport Water Main Extension: Awarded the lowest responsive and responsible bid to Wilson Contracting at a total amount of $464,706.97. The engineer's estimate was $765,000; the city's budget for this project combined with the terminal access road and parking lot is $1.6 million. This work constitutes the city's match for the airport terminal grant. (Motion passed 6-0 on roll call vote.) Approve Bills Approved the bill list dated July 20, 2026, totaling $594,250.31. (Motion passed 6-0 on roll call vote.) Departmental Discussion Public Works Director McMahon reminded council that reapplication of chip seal from Grant Street to Highway 14A started that week. He also updated that 90% plans for the Main Street mill and overlay project would be received this week, with bidding anticipated in August. A special meeting may be needed for award to allow early completion. Community Development Director Wysocki noted a planning commission meeting the following evening. Presentation of 2027 Budget Information Finance Officer DeNeui, along with department heads, presented preliminary 2027 budgets: - Human Resources (Jody Mathis): Operating budget increase of $5,500 to $83,500. Health insurance premiums are budgeted at a 15% increase due to claims experience. A proposed new paid parental leave policy would provide 160 hours for birth or adoption, plus an additional 80 hours for the birthing mother (total 240 hours). A new applicant tracking system (Workable) is proposed at a cost of $10,590 (additional $5,591 over current contract). - Library (Amber Wilde): Minimal net increase of $208 from 2026. Most of the budget is for personnel, including the second half of longevity adjustments from the Condrey study. A county funding increase is pending. - Finance/Revenues (Michelle DeNeui): General fund revenue projected at nearly $27 million. Property tax increase of 6.3% (up to the maximum allowed) due to the closure of TIF 1 and TIF 4. Sales tax budgeted with a 3% increase over 2025 actuals. Conservative estimates for building permits and franchise fees. Administration fees for enterprise funds increasing to $3.4 million. - Mayor/Council: Includes $50,000 for a new strategic plan and $6,500 for the 2027 election. - Contingency: Reduced to $250,000 regular and $250,000 weather-related (down from $500,000 each in 2026). - Vacant Positions: Budget authority set at midpoint for City Administrator (Grade 28, Step 9, $220,000 salary plus family health insurance) and City Attorney (Grade 26, Step 11, $189,633 salary plus family health insurance). - Information Technology: No personnel; increases in managed network services and software licenses. A 2026 capital outlay for financial software upgrade is ongoing. - Special Revenue Funds and TIFs: Minimal changes; TIF 1 and TIF 4 closed; TIF 7 and 8 active; Sky Ridge debt service continued. Next budget steps: Study sessions on July 29 (Parks/Rec, Police), August 3 (Community Development, Fire), August 12 (Public Works), August 17 (overall recap), September 2 (final discussion), September 8 (first reading), September 20 (second reading). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Added and adjusted wages approved 6-0. - Professional Services Agreement with Clarion Associates approved 5-1 (Klarenbeek nay). - Special event malt beverage license approved unanimously. - Liquor license transfer approved unanimously. - Early payoff of 2015 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds approved 5-1 (Hourigan nay). - Liquor license auction approved unanimously. - Certificate of Final Completion for Rainbow Road Box Culvert approved unanimously. - Airport Water Main Extension awarded to Wilson Contracting approved 6-0. - Bill list approved 6-0. - Meeting adjourned at 7:13 PM.

The Spearfish City Council held a study session on July 15, 2026, at 4:15 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting focused on reviewing the upcoming regular council agenda for July 20, discussing the early payoff of the 2015 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, and offering three liquor licenses for sale via sealed bids. No public comments were received. The session adjourned at 4:44 PM. Review of July 20, 2026 City Council Agenda - Staff reviewed each item on the draft agenda for the July 20 regular meeting, including consent agenda items (minutes, volunteer appointments, treasurer's report), wage adjustments for new staff, wildland firefighter pay rates (federal AD rate), a zoning and subdivision code update (Phase II, cost $152,000, budgeted, completion expected Q1 2028), a development agreement for the Stone Ridge Commons project, a special event malt beverage license for the Black Hills Fly-In (September 19, noon-9 PM), a liquor license transfer for a wine bar to include an encroachment area, a certificate of final completion for the Rainbow Road box culvert, a change order for the Mountain View Elementary Alley project, and the award of a bid for the airport water main project (bids came in below engineer's estimate). Also noted: first round of 2027 budget presentations will occur at the end of the meeting, with departments highlighting major changes, staffing, and capital projects. Discussion Items 2015 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds Early Payoff Finance Officer DeNeui led a discussion on paying off the bonds early. Key details: - Bonds are callable with no penalty; scheduled maturity June 2028. - Current interest rate on bonds: 4%; current investment return rate: 3.55%. - Early payoff would save an estimated $5,000 to $7,000 in net interest after accounting for lost investment earnings. - Remaining principal: approximately $1.245 million; total interest savings over remaining term: about $31,600 in interest payments avoided. - City would need a budget supplement of about $1.2 million to pay off the bonds in 2026. - Councilmember Scott expressed concern about spending $1.2 million given public comments about a $5.5 million deficit, but noted the city has cash reserves. - Council agreed to place the item on the July 20 regular agenda for action. Liquor Licenses for Sale DeNeui discussed offering one on-sale (bar) liquor license (minimum bid $300,000) and two package (off-sale) liquor licenses (minimum bid $100,000 each) via sealed bids. Since the last sale six months ago, interest has increased, particularly for package licenses. Some interested parties for the on-sale license can qualify for a restaurant liquor license (fee $130,000, unlimited quantity) and are exploring that option. DeNeui recommended keeping minimum bids unchanged. Council agreed to add the item to the July 20 regular agenda. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to place the early bond payoff item on the July 20 regular council agenda for a vote. - Council directed staff to place the liquor license sealed bid sale item on the July 20 regular council agenda for action. - The study session served as a review and discussion only; no formal votes were taken. Departmental Discussion - Parks and Recreation Director McDonald reminded all that Festival in the Park is July 17-19; a new passenger drop-off/pickup area will be near the security tent. - The open house for the Spearfish Creek Preservation Plan was well attended; public input via the Social Pinpoint map is open through July 26. - Mayor Senden acknowledged police efforts on motorized vehicle issues on the rec path. - Public Works Director McMahon updated on the chip seal project: sand has been applied to mitigate asphalt bleeding; reapplication of chip seal postponed until after the weekend events, resuming next week.

The Spearfish Planning Commission met in regular session on July 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall and via Zoom. All seven members (Tysdal, Bordewyk, Wilde, Duncan, Davison, Byrum, Moths) were present. Community Development Director Peter Wysocki, Assistant Planning Director Jaymia Ecker, and Planning Technician Vasiliki Pistoftzian were also present. The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 PM. Consent Calendar - Approve Agenda: Approved 6-0. - Approve Minutes (6/16/2026): Approved 6-0. - Conflicts of Interest: None declared. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Smith made a public comment regarding the amended Planning Commission Bylaws. He questioned the order of public comment in the proceedings and how it applied to non-public-hearing agenda items, noting a discrepancy between the drafted procedures and past meeting flows. The Commission discussed that the chairperson has discretion to take public comment outside of public hearings. Discussion Items - Minor Plat (F.1): Staff recommended approval of a minor plat in the ETJ at 500 Thoen Stone Road (Applicant: Bradley Limbo). Commissioner Wilde expressed opposition, arguing the plat did not conform to zoning yard setback requirements and that a variance for the setbacks had not been secured. He stated he could not support a non-compliant plat. Commissioner Moths shared this concern. The motion to recommend approval to City Council passed 4-2, with Wilde and Moths voting nay. A public hearing is scheduled for City Council on August 3, 2026. - Rezone HI to C2 (F.2): Staff presented a request from Richard Clayton (Camp K9) to rezone property at Maitland Road and Aspen Drive from Heavy Industrial (HI) to Highway Service Commercial (C2). The proposed project includes a dog daycare/boarding facility, a medical spa (personal service establishment), and staff housing. Discussion included concerns about spot zoning and permitted uses. The Commission voted 6-0 to set a public hearing for the rezone for July 21, 2026. - Adoption of Amended Bylaws (F.3): Community Development Director Peter Wysocki presented proposed amendments to the Planning Commission Bylaws. The Commission discussed giving the presiding member (Chair or Vice-Chair) a vote, the order of proceedings, and adoption of a 5-minute time limit for public comment on non-agenda items. The attendance policy was discussed but intentionally left out of the bylaws. A motion to adopt the bylaws with the revisions discussed passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Minor Plat (F.1): Recommended for approval to City Council (4-2 vote). City Council public hearing set for August 3, 2026. - Rezone (F.2): Public hearing set for July 21, 2026 Planning Commission meeting (6-0 vote). - Planning Commission Bylaws (F.3): Amended bylaws adopted (6-0 vote). Departmental Discussion & Updates - Engineering Design Standards: The City Council adopted the new Engineering Design Standards and seven related ordinances on July 6, 2026, by a unanimous vote. The standards will become effective 28 days after adoption. - Art in Public Places Committee: Commissioner Amy Davison was officially appointed to the committee. The first meeting will be scheduled later in July or early August to adopt bylaws. - Title XV Code Rewrite: The scope of work with Clarion is near finalization. Two Planning Commission members will be sought to participate in an advisory committee.

Meeting date: July 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers, 625 5th Street, Spearfish. The session covered consent calendar approvals, wage adjustments, development ordinances, infrastructure project awards, and police dispatch consolidation discussions. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as presented (minutes from June 10, June 15, and June 22, 2026 meetings; addition of Grant Koening to the 2026 Rec Center volunteer list; and a Temporary Construction Easement Agreement for the Mountain View Elementary Alley Water Line Project 2604). Items From Visitors - BHSU Foundation requested waiver of all building permit fees, tap fees, meter costs, and fire suppression fees for a new 10-plex unit, not to exceed $30,000. No council action was taken during public comment; the item was heard for council consideration. Added or Adjusted Wages - Council approved budgeted wage additions for 7 temporary rally officers at $32.84 (no total amount specified), and step-incentive bonuses of $1,344 and $1,374 for two superintendents for additional duties during the Parks & Recreation Director's 3.5-month absence (3/1-6/13/26). Community Development - Held public hearings and approved second readings of Ordinances 1419–1425 amending engineering design standards for utilities, water, sewer, parks, flood prevention, public ways, and subdivisions. - Approved Resolution 2026-09 adopting the Engineering Design Standards. - Approved an encroachment agreement at 127 W. Grant Street. - Approved a special exception for completing public infrastructure before recording of a final plat per City Code Section 154.023. Finance, Police, and Public Works Items - Adopted Resolution 2026-17 levying an annual special maintenance fee for street surfaces. - Authorized staff to continue discussions with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office to begin consolidation of dispatch centers. - Police Department followed up on motorized bike enforcement approach in Spearfish. - Awarded bids for the Airport Apron project ($4,505,800.77 to North Star Construction), the Campground Water Line Project ($450,020.30 to AusCar X, LLC), and the Yellowstone Place & Wyoming Ct Drainage Project ($372,568.10 to American Contracting and Consulting, LLC). - Approved a Temporary Construction Agreement with Hills View Homes for Sky Ridge Subdivision; approved Final Under/Over Change Order 3 for the Rainbow Road Box Culvert project with a net increase of $9,698.82. - Approved the Bill List and salary expenses/credit card fees for June 2026. - Authorized staff to continue dispatch consolidation discussions with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office and follow up on motorized bike enforcement.

The Spearfish City Council held a study session on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, beginning at 4:15 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mayor Senden presided. Council members Hafner, Jacobs, Klarenbeek, Myers, and Rath were present; Hourigan was absent. City staff present included Finance Officer DeNeui, Public Works Director McMahon, Community Development Director Wysocki, Police Chief Smith, Parks and Recreation Director McDonald, and Assistant Planning Director Ecker. The primary agenda items were a staff review of the July 6, 2026 City Council agenda, a presentation by the Spearfish Baseball Association (SBA) on a proposed indoor baseball facility, public comments, and a departmental discussion on motorized bike enforcement. The council reviewed the draft agenda for the July 6, 2026, regular session, and staff responded to questions from council and residents. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda unanimously (motion by Myers, second by Klarenbeek) for the July 1 study session. Consent items on the July 6 agenda include: approval of minutes from three prior meetings, one volunteer for the rec center, a temporary construction easement agreement for the Mountain View Elementary Alley Waterline Project, and added/adjusted wages. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment was opened at 4:56 p.m. and closed at 5:04 p.m. Comments were received from: - Ryan Wordeman: Spoke on the proposed indoor baseball facility, the upcoming motorized bikes discussion for the July 6 meeting, and the Engineering Design Standards. - Joe Jorgensen: Commented on detention pond requirements for developers in the Engineering Design Standards. Presentations & Reports - SBA Proposed Indoor Baseball Facility – Dave Donat, an SBA coach, presented the proposal for an indoor baseball training facility at the Black Hills Energy Sports Complex. The Spearfish Baseball Association (SBA) previously presented to the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Advisory Board, which unanimously recommended approval at council. McDonald introduced Donat; no additional board discussion is recorded in the minutes. Departmental Discussion - Motorized Bikes – Police Chief Smith reviewed the SPD enforcement approach for motorized bikes in Spearfish, along with applicable South Dakota Codified Law. Smith noted technology is advancing faster than the law can keep up; officers have held internal training on enforcement and education of drivers and parents is ongoing. Public Comment - Ryan Wordeman and Joe Jorgensen provided comments during the public comment period. Wordeman commented on the proposed indoor baseball facility, the upcoming discussion on motorized bikes at the July 6th meeting, and the Engineering Design Standards. Jorgensen commented on detention pond requirements for developers in the Engineering Design Standards. No further comments were received. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the proposals, as this was a study session. - The council reviewed the July 6 agenda and heard the SBA presentation. - Public comment was opened and closed. The next meeting is July 6, 2026.

The Spearfish City Council held a special session on June 22, 2026, at 5:30 PM to reconsider and ultimately approve Change Order 2 for the Colorado Boulevard Sewer Upsize Phase 3 Project. The change order includes an increase of $15,040.28 and a revised final completion date of July 13, 2026. The meeting was called to order by Mayor John Senden with Councilmembers Hourigan, Jacobs, Klarenbeek, Myers, and Rath present; Councilmember Hafner was absent. The agenda was modified to include the approval item. After discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the change order. No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Reconsideration of Change Order 2: The council first voted to reconsider Change Order 2 for the Colorado Boulevard Sewer Upsize Phase 3 Project, which had been previously voted down. The motion to reconsider passed unanimously. - Agenda Amendment: The council voted to amend the agenda to add item 4B, "Approve Change Order 2 for the Colorado Boulevard Sewer Upsize Phase 3 Project with an increase of $15,040.28 and revised final completion date of July 13, 2026." The amended agenda was then approved. - Discussion on Change Order 2: Public Works Director Adam McMahon provided background on the change order. He explained that during construction, rock gabions (wire mesh boxes filled with rocks) were encountered that were not shown in the original bridge plans from 1978. These gabions are essential for bridge scour protection. Because they were buried and not visible, they were not included in the original bid. The contractor’s price for the work was compared to estimates from consultant HDR and SD DOT bid pricing, falling between the two, and was deemed reasonable. City staff and HDR recommended approval. Key Outcomes - Approval of Change Order 2: The council voted unanimously (5-0) to approve Change Order 2 for the Colorado Boulevard Sewer Upsize Phase 3 Project, with an increase of $15,040.28 and a revised completion date of July 13, 2026. The motion was made by Councilmember Hourigan, seconded by Councilmember Rath, and all present voted aye. Public Comments & Testimony - A public comment period was opened at 5:36 PM, but no members of the public spoke. The meeting adjourned at 5:36 PM.

The Spearfish Planning Commission met on June 16, 2026 at 4:02 PM in City Hall and via Zoom, adjourning at 5:40 PM. All commissioners were present except Davison. The meeting covered approval of routine items, an appointment to the Art in Public Places Advisory Board, a detailed discussion on possible revisions to the Planning Commission bylaws, and an update on the Highway 85 North annexation area from a recent City Council study session. Consent Calendar - Approve Agenda – Motion by Bordewyk, second by Wilde; passed 5-0. - Approve Minutes (May 19, 2026) – Motion by Bordewyk, second by Wilde; passed 5-0. - Declaration of Conflicts – None identified. Items for Action - Appointment of Planning Commission Member to Art in Public Places Advisory Board – Commissioner Wilde moved to appoint Davison (absent) as the representative; second by Duncan. Motion passed 5-0. The board is newly formed under an amended city ordinance and will advise on public art matters. Discussion Items - Possible Updates to Planning Commission Bylaws – Community Development Director Peter Wysocki presented proposed changes, including: - Renaming "chairman" to "chairperson" and updating position titles. - Adding an order of proceedings for meetings, with public comments moved earlier in the agenda. - Standardizing order for land development action items (staff presentation, applicant, public comments for/against, deliberation, motion). - Whether the chairperson should vote; several commissioners expressed a desire to vote. - Disclosing conflicts of interest per item rather than at meeting start. - Requiring or encouraging dissenting commissioners to state reasons for the record. - Handling ex parte communications; some commissioners questioned the need for formal disclosure in a small community. - Adding an attendance requirement and creating a subcommittee provision (staff recommended removing it as antiquated). Commissioners debated the level of detail and flexibility, with many preferring general guidelines rather than rigid procedures. Staff will refine language for a future meeting. - Update on City Council Study Session – Highway 85 North Annexation Area – Wysocki summarized a non‑action discussion with City Council. The area, annexed in two phases (2008 and 2013), has annexation agreements limiting city service obligations. Landowners prefer to remain in the city. Options discussed: maintain status quo, allow lower‑density development on wells/septic, create a financing mechanism for infrastructure, or pursue de‑annexation (which landowners oppose). City Council took no action, but the dialogue opened policy considerations. A working group may be formed to craft related ordinances. Items from Commissioners - Commissioners discussed the need for better attendance communication. Suggestions included using Outlook calendar accept/decline for each meeting, notifying staff of absences in advance, and possibly adding alternate members to ensure quorum. Staff noted that bylaws could include a three‑day notice requirement and a policy for unexcused absences. Departmental Discussion - Wysocki reported that City Council approved seven ordinances on first reading (engineering design standards, floodplain, subdivision changes) and will consider second reading on July 6, 2026. - An open house on Exit 10 reconfiguration will be held by DOT on Thursday at Hudson Hall. - Staff attended Lawrence County Commission to improve coordination; work on ETJ regulations will resume. - The rewrite of Title 15 (zoning code) is moving forward with a consultant, Clarion. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Jorgensen, 1905 Stage Barn Circle – Opposed the proposed bylaw language that would prevent an applicant from introducing new evidence during rebuttal, arguing it unfairly restricts responses to public comments. He also provided historical context on the Highway 85 North annexation, noting that many parcels were voluntarily annexed without restrictive agreements, and reminded the commission that a previous large proposal did not materialize. He raised concerns about a no‑septic zone from a past lawsuit and questioned the city of Belle Fourche’s recent comments about septic regulations affecting their water supply. He emphasized the importance of ensuring a quorum for applicants who invest heavily in proposals. Key Outcomes - Appointment – Davison appointed to the Art in Public Places Advisory Board (5-0). - Bylaws Revisions – No final decision; staff will incorporate commissioner feedback and present revised language at a future meeting (likely in two weeks). - Highway 85 North Annexation – No action taken; City Council dialogue continues; staff will consider forming a working group. - Attendance – Commissioners agreed to notify staff of absences in advance; potential alternate member structure to be explored. - Next Meeting – Scheduled for July 7, 2026 (unless cancelled due to lack of agenda items).