Brookings County, South Dakota

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will hold a public hearing and second reading for an ordinance regarding alcoholic beverage licenses. The body will also discuss the 2027 budget and consider several resolutions for infrastructure and board appointments.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2026-04 regarding alcoholic beverage license requirements and fees
• Resolution #26-26 to purchase and install two generators through Sourcewell
• Resolutions #26-27 and #26-28 for 2027 Bridge Improvement Grant applications
• Budget supplement of $38,150 for election poll pads and $1,500 for Veterans Services travel
• Appointment of Erin Lavender-Stott to the Brookings Human Rights Commission

Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board

The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board will conduct standard procedural business, including confirming a quorum, approving the meeting agenda, approving the May 18th, 2026 minutes, and approving the financial report. No substantive policy items are on the agenda. The meeting also includes a director’s report and a 4-H Youth Advisor’s report, and provides an opportunity for a citizen to request future agenda items. The next meeting is scheduled for September 21, 2026.

• Approval of agenda (voice vote)
• Approval of May 18th, 2026 minutes (voice vote)
• Approval of financial report (voice vote)
• Director’s report
• 4-H Youth Advisor’s report

Brookings County Housing & Redevelopment Commission

The Brookings County Housing and Redevelopment Commission will hold a routine meeting to approve minutes, financials, and staff reports. The only substantive item is an update on a client complaint under old business. No new business items are listed. The meeting is mostly procedural.

• Update on client complaint

The commission accepted the agenda and the April 16, 2026 minutes unanimously. It approved the financial reports for the Brookings County Section 8 Voucher Program and MOD Rehab. The meeting was adjourned at 12:22 pm and the next quarterly meeting was set for October 15, 2026.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted April 16, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Section 8 Voucher Program and MOD Rehab financials (unanimous)
• Scheduled next quarterly meeting for Oct 15 2026
• Adjourned meeting at 12:22 pm (unanimous)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will consider and vote on Agreement #26-45, a Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program grant with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Build America Bureau. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as call to order, pledge, and approval of the agenda. After the grant approval, the meeting will adjourn.

• Approve Agreement #26-45: Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program Grant with Build America Bureau, U.S. DOT
• Citizen comment period with five‑minute limit per speaker (no action taken)
• Public notices of upcoming community events and meetings

The Commission approved Agreement #26-45 with the U.S. Department of Transportation Build America Bureau. Chairperson Hostler is authorized to sign the grant agreement for the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program.

• Approved July 9, 2026 meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved Agreement #26-45: Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program Grant Agreement (5-0)

Brookings County 765kV Transmission Line Advisory Committee

The Brookings County 765kV Transmission Line Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes from June 10, 2026, and discuss subcommittee membership. Under new business, members will review the subcommittee's purpose statement and discuss the Brookings County Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. No action items are scheduled; these are discussion-only items.

• Approve minutes from June 10, 2026 meeting
• Review purpose statement of the subcommittee
• Discuss Brookings County Comprehensive Plan
• Discuss Brookings County Zoning Ordinance
• Citizen comment period (5-minute limit, no action taken)

Brookings County/City of Brookings Joint Board of Adjustment

The Joint Board of Adjustment will meet to review a variance application regarding aquifer protection performance standards. The board will also consider the approval of minutes from the September 2, 2025 meeting.

• Variance application 2026jjvar001 for 517 58th Ave, Brookings, SD 57006 regarding Aquifer Protection Zone A performance standards

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will consider approving construction contracts for two county bridges and selling surplus firearms to the sheriff and a former deputy. The board will also hold a first reading on an ordinance regarding alcoholic beverage licenses.

• Approve $2.16M in bridge construction contracts
• Approve sale of two surplus Glock handguns
• First reading of ordinance for alcoholic beverage licenses
• Approve closing 476th Avenue for Aurora Gala Days
• Approve Valley FiberCom right-of-way agreement

The Commission approved the meeting agenda, several consent agenda items including personnel actions and travel requests, and a series of county claims. Residents provided public comments regarding funding for the Brookings Public Library.

• Approved July 7, 2026, meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and personnel actions (5-0)
• Approved various county claims (5-0)
• Approved Human Services burial case #26-24
• Denied Human Services rent case #26-25

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission will convene as the Board of Adjustment to decide two applications. A variance request from Geff Goodfellow for property at 19989 462nd Ave in Bruce seeks relief from agricultural district area regulations. A conditional use permit from The Tower, LLC would allow a wireless telecommunication tower in Medary Township. Other items include approval of minutes and department reports.

• Variance application 2026var009 by Geff Goodfellow for property at 19989 462nd Ave, Bruce, regarding agricultural district area regulations.
• Conditional use permit 2026cu007 by The Tower, LLC for a wireless telecommunication tower in Medary Township.
• The Board of Adjustment requires a 2/3 vote for variance approval and a majority vote for conditional use permits.
• Invitation for citizens to speak on items not listed, limited to five minutes per person.
• Disclosure of conflicts of interest and ex parte communications required at the start of the meeting.

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will hold budget hearings for several departments, including 4-H/Extension, Register of Deeds, Weed & Pest, State's Attorney, Community Health, County Development, BCOAC, Finance, Commission, Highway, Sheriff, Non-Mandated/Non-Departmental, and Revenue. No specific dollar amounts or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Budget hearings for 13 county departments
• Citizen comment period with 5-minute limit
• Public notices: Firefighter's Dance, holiday closures, special commission meeting for gubernatorial runoff canvas, Conservation District Tour

The Brookings County Board of Commissioners held a special session on June 23, 2026 to conduct budget hearings for eleven county departments and discuss non-mandated funding requests. No substantive measures were approved or denied during the meeting. The board will resume regular business at its next scheduled session on July 7, 2026.

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will meet to discuss the Homeowner Tax Relief Plan and receive a presentation from the Interim Finance Officer. No official votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Presentation on Homeowner Tax Relief Plan
• Discussion on Next Steps
• Public Comments Period
• Approval of Agenda
• Adjournment at 9:00 PM

The Commission held a discussion regarding Senate Bill 96, which would allow counties to impose a local gross receipts tax to fund property tax credits for owner-occupied homes. No action was taken on the matter, as commissioners expressed a desire to observe how other counties implement the bill first.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will hold a public hearing and consider approving a retail on/off sale wine & cider license for Bella Casa Wedding & Event Venue. Other actions include rescinding the burn ban, changing a vote center location in Volga for the July 28 primary runoff election, and approving second quarter budget transfers totaling $960,959. The commission will also discuss possible funding for the Ballows over Brookings event and consider five property tax abatements for parcels owned by the City of Brookings.

• Public hearing and action to approve a retail on/off sale wine & cider license for Bella Casa Wedding & Event Venue
• Resolution #26-22 to rescind the burn ban enacted April 7, 2026
• Second quarter transfers: $928,298.75 from General Fund to Highway & Bridge Fund and $32,660.25 to Emergency Management Fund
• Discussion on possible funding for the Balloons over Brookings event July 17-19, 2026
• Five abatements (totaling $1,679.64) for City of Brookings parcels

The commission approved an On/Off Sale Wine & Cider License for Bella Casa Wedding & Event Venue following a public hearing. The board also approved the June 4th meeting minutes, the agenda, and various claims.

• Approved June 16 agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 4 meeting minutes via consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved Human Services rent assistance cases #26-22 and #26-23 via consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved various routine claims via roll call vote (5-0)
• Authorized wine and cider license for Bella Casa Wedding & Event Venue (5-0)

Brookings County 765kV Transmission Line Advisory Committee

The advisory committee is meeting to establish its leadership and operational structure. Members will elect a chairperson and determine a future meeting schedule.

• Election of a chairperson
• Review of subcommittee purpose and expectations
• Determination of meeting schedule and future guest list

The advisory committee held its first meeting to establish leadership and a monthly schedule. Members discussed potential conflicts of interest regarding land sales and heard public comments on transmission line setbacks and land values.

• Approved meeting agenda (All present voted aye)
• Elected Chad Ford as Chairperson (All present voted aye)
• Set monthly meetings for the second Thursday at 7:00 PM (All present voted aye)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission, sitting as the Drainage Board, will receive a presentation from Banner Associates on the Draft Environmental Assessment Study for the Big Sioux Diversion Channel Dike. Following questions and public comment, the board may discuss and take action on next steps.

• Presentation of Draft Environmental Assessment Study for the Big Sioux Diversion Channel Dike by Banner Associates
• Public comment period on the environmental assessment
• Discussion and possible action on next steps for the diversion channel dike project

The Drainage Board received a presentation regarding a draft Environmental Assessment for the Big Sioux Division Channel dike in Medary Township. The board discussed two alternatives: maintaining current flow patterns or reconstructing a diversion structure to restore water to the main channel. No formal action was taken on the project during this session.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will open the meeting, approve the May 5, 2026 minutes, and invite public comment on unscheduled items. It will then convene as the Brookings County Board of Adjustment to review variance application 2026var008 submitted by Andrew Chontos (represented by Tom Cotton) for land at 21499 458th Ave, Volga, SD. The board will need a two‑thirds vote of the full board to approve the variance.

• Approval of May 5, 2026 Planning & Zoning minutes
• Invitation for citizens to schedule unscheduled agenda items
• Disclosure of conflicts of interest
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Review of variance application 2026var008 for property at 21499 458th Ave, Volga, SD

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance request for Andrew Chontos to build a covered porch and sunroom addition. The project involves building closer to the centerlines of 458th Ave and 215th St than currently required by setbacks. No opponents were recorded during the public hearing.

• Approved May 5, 2026 Minutes
• Approved June 4, 2026 Agenda
• Approved variance for porch and sunroom at 21499 458th Ave (8-0)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will consider a contract for street improvements and the sale of surplus handguns. The body will also discuss scheduling a work session for SB 96 regarding a county sales tax to offset property taxes.

• Agreement #26-42 with SPN Helms Engineers & Surveyors for 217th Street and 486th Avenue improvements: $18,000
• Sale of two Glock 9 mm handguns declared as surplus property
• Discussion on SB 96 county sales tax to offset owner occupied property taxes
• Approval of Canvas Results from the June 2, 2026, Primary Election
• Approval of Outside Employment Requests #26-03 and #26-04

The board approved an $18,000 agreement for street improvements on 217th and 486th Streets. They also declared two Glock 9 mm handguns as surplus property and appointed appraisers to value them.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including travel, education, and personnel actions (5-0)
• Approved claims (5-0)
• Authorized $18,000 agreement with SPN Helms Engineers & Surveyors for 217th and 486th Street improvements (5-0)
• Declared two Glock 9 mm handguns as surplus property (5-0)
• Appointed The Exchange, Mike Cotton, and Dennis Miller to appraise surplus handguns (5-0)
• Scheduled work session for SB 96 on June 22 at 6:00 p.m. (consensus)
• Approved June 2, 2026, Primary Election results (motion pending/incomplete in text)

Commission

The Commission will decide on rescinding a burn ban enacted on April 7, 2026, and approve four different land plats. The body will also review the Elkton Utility Improvement Project and appoint two citizens to the 765kV Transmission Line Subcommittee.

• Resolution #26-17 to rescind the April 7, 2026 burn ban
• Approval of four land plats: Country Club Estates, Ponto Addition, Paradise Point Addition, and Haffner Knoll Addition
• Public hearing for a one-day special events license for Lemke's Bar & Grill on June 12, 2026
• $500 donation to the Elkton Special Days Committee for Fourth of July fireworks
• Tax abatement applications for $115.76 and $140.52

The commission approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items, including travel requests and personnel actions. They approved a list of county expense claims. By consensus the board selected option 1 for the 464th Avenue right‑of‑way layout, with construction slated for 2028. A resolution to rescind the April 7 fire‑danger burn ban was rejected, with all five commissioners voting no.

• Approved meeting agenda (all aye)
• Approved consent agenda items (all aye)
• Approved expense claims (all aye)
• Selected option 1 for 464th Avenue right‑of‑way layout (consensus)
• Rejected Resolution #26‑17 to rescind burn ban (all no)

Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board

The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes from March 23rd, the financial report, and hear director and 4-H reports. The main business is a review of the Brookings County Code of Conduct. The meeting is largely procedural with one substantive discussion item.

• Review of Brookings County Code of Conduct
• Approval of March 23rd meeting minutes
• Approval of financial report
• Director's report and 4-H Youth Advisor's report

Commission

The Brookings City Council and County Commission will hold a joint special meeting to act on an ordinance amending the Joint Zoning Ordinance. The regular meeting will include approvals for alcohol licenses, tax abatements, a 2026 asphalt maintenance project, and budget amendments.

• Joint action on amending the Joint Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 94)
• Approval of 2026-08STI Asphalt Maintenance Project
• Action on budget amendments for the 2026 Budget
• Public hearing for a new On-Off Sale Malt License at 1130 Main Avenue South
• Resolution to lease 26 acres of public land for agricultural use

The Joint City Council and Brookings County Commission approved Ordinance #26-013 and County Ordinance #26-02, amending the joint zoning ordinance. The city vote was unanimous (aye from Doran, Hager, Specker, Tilton Byrne, Wendell, Avery) and the county vote was unanimous (aye from Miller, Jensen, VanderWal, Hostler). The ordinance was read for the first time on April 21, 2026, second reading on May 12, 2026, and adopted on May 12, 2026, becoming effective June 12, 2026.

• Approved Ordinance #26-013 and County Ordinance #26-02 – city vote unanimous
• Approved Ordinance #26-013 and County Ordinance #26-02 – county vote unanimous
• Adopted Brookings County Ordinance No. 2026-02 and City Ordinance No. 26-013 (first reading April 21, 2026)
• Adopted Brookings County Ordinance No. 2026-02 and City Ordinance No. 26-013 (second reading May 12, 2026)
• Ordinance became effective June 12, 2026
• Approved agenda for the joint meeting – city vote unanimous
• Approved agenda for the joint meeting – county vote unanimous
• Adjourned the joint meeting – city motion passed, county motion passed

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will hold public hearings on Ordinance 2026-03, which would set a 45 mph speed limit on a portion of County Road 25 north of White, and on a malt beverage and farm wine license for Bella Casa Wedding and Event Venue. The commission will also consider several right-of-way occupancy agreements with Brookings Municipal Utilities, Joint Well Field Inc., and Sioux Valley Energy, and appoint an interim finance officer through January 5, 2027, with salary to be set. Other actions include approval of license renewals for seven businesses for 2026-2027, a $4,440 automatic supplement from a workers' compensation audit, and amended county bylaws.

• Public hearing and second reading of Ordinance 2026-03 establishing a 45 mph speed limit on County Road 25 north of White, SD
• Public hearing and action on an On/Off Sale Malt Beverage and SD Farm Wine License for Bella Casa Wedding and Event Venue
• Approval of right-of-way occupancy agreements: #26-38 (BMU in Medary Twp), #26-39 & #26-40 (Joint Well Field in Eureka Twp), #26-41 (Sioux Valley Energy in Oslo Twp)
• Appointment of an Interim Finance Officer until January 5, 2027, with salary determination
• Automatic supplement of $4,440 for unanticipated expenses from Work Comp Audit reimbursement

The commission approved a 45 mph speed limit on the portion of Brookings County Road 25 that begins 250 feet north of the City of White limits. The board also authorized an On/Off Salt Malt Beverage and South Dakota Farm Wine license for Bella Casa Wedding and Event Venue. Both measures passed unanimously. The consent agenda and a list of county claims were also approved unanimously.

• Approved Ordinance #26-03 establishing 45 mph speed limit on County Road 25 north of White (5‑0)
• Approved On/Off Salt Malt Beverage & SD Farm Wine license for Bella Casa Wedding and Event Venue (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5‑0)
• Approved county claims listed in the agenda (5‑0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission will consider four plats and then convene as the Board of Adjustment to vote on five conditional use permits and two variances. Items include a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) by Linde Dairy, a dog kennel, a shooting range, and an extended home occupation, plus variances for lakefront and agricultural properties.

• Conditional use permit 2026cu003: Linde Dairy seeks a CAFO (Class A, B, C) at 47978 207th St, White, SD
• Conditional use permit 2026cu005: Trenton Kor seeks a shooting range at 19935 474th Ave, White, SD
• Conditional use permit 2026cu002: Christopher Jurrens seeks a dog kennel at 47809 197th St, Astoria, SD
• Conditional use permit 2026cu006: Marcus Kopecky seeks agricultural seed/chemical sales at 21114 482nd Ave, Elkton, SD
• Variance 2026var006: Daniel Hildebrandt seeks a variance for property at 113 N Lake Hendricks Dr, Hendricks, MN (Lake-Park District)

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved four subdivision plats (2026PLAT004‑007). It also approved four conditional‑use permits: a dog‑kennel (2026CU002), a large dairy expansion (2026CU003), an extended home firearms business (2026CU004), and a private shooting range (2026CU005). All motions carried with a 9‑aye, 0‑nay vote.

• Approved 2026PLAT004 (Lot 14A) – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026PLAT005 (5‑acre Ponto Addition) – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026PLAT006 (Lot 15, 26,237 sq ft) – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026PLAT007 (Lots 1A & 2A) – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026CU002 dog‑kennel conditional use – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026CU003 dairy expansion conditional use – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026CU004 extended home firearms business – 9‑aye, 0‑nay
• Approved 2026CU005 private shooting range conditional use – 9‑aye, 0‑nay

Weed & Pest Board

The Brookings County Weed & Pest Board will discuss old business items including township contracts, the gopher bounty program with ITC and Sioux Valley Energy, DOT gophers, and mosquito spraying. Under new business, the board will consider a motion to recommend the 2027 budget to the County Commission and set the next meeting date.

• Township Contracts (old business)
• Gopher Bounty Program – ITC & Sioux Valley Energy (old business)
• DOT Gophers (old business)
• Mosquito Spraying (old business)
• 2027 Budget – action to recommend approval to County Commission (new business)

The Weed & Pest Board approved the meeting agenda and the March 24 minutes. It voted to recommend that the County Commission approve the proposed 2027 budget. The board then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (all aye)
• Approved March 24 minutes (all aye)
• Recommended County Commission approve 2027 budget (all aye)
• Adjourned meeting (all aye)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will hold a public hearing on a supplemental budget resolution, conduct first readings of two ordinances (an amendment to Ordinance 2022-05 and a 45 mph speed limit on County Road 25), approve plats for Berkland and Rhoades additions, and authorize a road surfacing contract with Duininck Inc. Commissioners will also discuss creating a subcommittee to review the proposed 765 kV transmission line project and consider multiple property tax abatements and personnel actions.

• Public hearing on Resolution #26-14 (Supplemental Budget)
• First reading of Ordinance #2026-02 amending Ordinance 2022-05
• First reading of Ordinance #26-03 establishing 45 mph speed limit on County Road 25 north of White
• Approval of plats for Berkland Addition (Blocks 7-10) and Rhoades Addition
• Discussion on directing creation of a subcommittee to review the proposed 765 kV transmission line project

The board approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items. It voted to approve a large list of county expense claims. Several personnel actions were approved, including resignations and new temporary election worker hires. No zoning or policy changes were decided.

• Approved meeting agenda (all aye)
• Approved consent agenda items, including minutes from prior meetings (all aye)
• Approved expense claims for various vendors and services (all aye)
• Accepted resignation of Josh Reeser (effective Apr 10)
• Hired temporary election workers Connie Seward, Doris Knutson, Joyce Dragseth, Peggy Whalen at $18.06/hr
• Changed position salary for BCOAC Assistant Director Jayden Almos to $28.04/hr
• Approved annual salary reviews for Kritika Guragai and Titus Pichura to $25.63/hr
• Accepted resignation of Kenneth Gabel (effective May 15) and hired Correctional Officer Zoe Smith at $25.63/hr

Extension Board

The Brookings County Extension Board will meet to review financial reports and the current budget. The board is scheduled to discuss the 2027 budget request and the county code of conduct.

• 2027 Budget Request
• Brookings County Code of Conduct
• Board By-laws
• Achievement Days Committee Report
• 4-H Advisor Report

The board approved the Secretary’s report and all members signed the Code of Conduct consent form. They accepted the financial information presented since the March 3, 2026 meeting. The board approved the 2027 budget request totaling $103,302.00. By‑law changes were tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved Secretary’s report (Brandt/Larson)
• All members signed Code of Conduct consent form
• Accepted financial information since March 3, 2026 meeting
• Approved 2027 budget request of $103,302.00 (motion carried)
• Tabled Extension Board by‑law changes until next meeting

Brookings County Housing & Redevelopment Commission

The Brookings County Housing & Redevelopment Commission will meet to elect officers and review a management contract. The body will also discuss a 2024 audit report and provide updates on client complaints and security deposits.

• Election of officers
• Review of Management Contract
• 2024 Audit report
• Update on security deposit amount granted
• Update on client complaint

The commission unanimously accepted the agenda and the prior meeting minutes. They approved the Section 8 voucher program financial report and extended the management contract for one year. The next quarterly meeting was set for July 16, 2026, and the session was adjourned at 12:30 pm.

• Accepted agenda as presented (unanimous yay)
• Accepted January 15, 2026 minutes as presented (unanimous yay)
• Approved Section 8 voucher program financials (unanimous yay)
• Extended management contract for one year (unanimous yay)
• Scheduled next quarterly meeting for July 16, 2026 at 12:00 pm (unanimous yay)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:30 pm (unanimous yay)

Commission

The Brookings County Board of Equalization will vote on corrections to several property parcels and approve a variety of 2026 tax‑exempt, owner‑occupied, riparian buffer, disabled veteran, tax‑moratorium, partially taxed, discretionary formula and elderly‑freeze exemption applications. The board will also present the 2026 real‑property assessment, building‑permit information, tentative numbers for towns, townships and school districts, and renewable‑resource energy tax credits. No other substantive actions are scheduled beyond these approvals.

• Approve correction to parcel #12995-00018-006-00 (Chastity Morgan)
• Approve correction to parcel #14980-11151-334-00 (Brandon Boulais Et Al)
• Approve new applications for tax‑exempt status
• Approve disabled veteran exemptions
• Approve elderly tax‑freeze exemptions

The Brookings County Board of Equalization approved its meeting agenda and several parcel record corrections. It also approved new tax‑exempt status applications for the City of Volga and South Dakota State University Foundation, as well as a series of exemption requests including owner‑occupied, disabled veteran, tax moratorium, and elderly tax‑freeze exemptions. All motions passed with unanimous "aye" votes.

• Approved agenda for April 14, 2026 meeting (all members voted aye)
• Approved correction to Chastity Morgan, parcel #12995-00018-006-00 (aye)
• Approved tax‑exempt status for City of Volga and South Dakota State University Foundation (aye)
• Approved owner‑occupied status applications (aye)
• Approved disabled veteran exemptions (aye)
• Approved tax moratorium exemptions (aye)
• Approved elderly tax‑freeze exemptions (aye)
• Adjourned the meeting (aye)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider several land plats and variance requests. The body will also discuss potential regulations for overhead electrical transmission lines exceeding 345 kV.

• Conditional use permit for Luze & Sons Cattle Feeders LLC for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations at 48306 210th St, Elkton
• Discussion on regulations for overhead electrical transmission lines with voltage greater than 345 kV
• Plat reviews for Berkland Addition and Rhoades Addition
• Variance request for Barret Marshall at 45491 204th St, Arlington
• Variance requests for Mike Syrstad at 9090-9130 Hagensick Rd and Alan & Traci Dixon at 288 S Lake Dr

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission approved two subdivision plats, a conditional use permit for Luze & Sons Cattle Feeders, LLC, and three variances for residential properties. The CAFO permit and all variances were adopted with affirmative votes, while the transmission‑line regulation discussion received no final action. No decision was recorded on the citizen request to match Deuel County transmission‑line setbacks.

• Approved plat 2026PLAT002 (9‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved plat 2026PLAT003 (9‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved Luze & Sons conditional use permit (9‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved variance 2026VAR003 for Barret Marshall (7‑aye, 2‑nay)
• Approved variance 2026VAR004 for Mike Syrstad (9‑aye, 0‑nay)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County and City Planning Commission will hold a joint public hearing on proposed amendments to Brookings County Ordinance #22-05 and City Ordinance #22-037, the Joint Jurisdiction Area Zoning Ordinance. The hearing will consider changes to Article I (General Provisions), Article IV (Administration and Enforcement), and Article V (Supplemental Requirements for Agricultural Districts). The meeting will also approve the prior joint planning commission minutes, adopt the agenda, and address citizen‑requested agenda items and conflict‑of‑interest disclosures.

• Approve Joint Planning Commission minutes (Feb 3, 2026)
• Invite citizens to schedule unscheduled agenda items
• Disclosure of conflicts of interest
• Approve meeting agenda
• Joint public hearing on proposed amendments to Ordinance #22-05 and #22-037 (Articles I, IV, V)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will decide on declaring a fire danger emergency and prohibiting open burning. The body will also review highway right-of-way agreements, tax abatements, and a funding request for Elkton Community Ambulance.

• Resolution #26-11: Declaring a Fire Danger Emergency and prohibiting open burning
• Resolution #26-13: Purchase of corrugated metal pipe, bridge materials, and grader blades
• Abatements for Melanie Strenge ($1,343.94) and Hammink Dairy, LLC ($5,549.01)
• Automatic supplement of $88,720.18 for unanticipated highway expenses
• Funding request from the Elkton Community Ambulance

The Brookings County Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included the March 17, 2026 minutes. The board also approved a comprehensive list of expense claims covering supplies, services and contracts, with all members voting aye. Personnel actions were approved, including a position change for Carter Allen, salary reviews for three employees, and the termination of Derrick Johnson. Several travel and education requests for staff were also approved.

• Approved agenda (all aye)
• Approved consent agenda items, including March minutes (all aye)
• Approved expense claims for county services (all aye)
• Approved position change to full‑time Correctional Officer for Carter Allen, effective 3/21/2026
• Approved annual salary reviews for Chloe Bender, Manuel Langstraat and Devlin Rue, effective 4/1/2026
• Approved termination with grace period for Derrick Johnson, effective 4/17/2026
• Approved travel and education requests for multiple staff members (e.g., Coffee with Vets, SDDVA Spring Mini Conference)
• Approved Human Services cases: rent denied (case #26‑12), rent approved (case #26‑13), utilities denied (case #26‑14), burial approved (case #26‑15), medical approved (case #26‑5)

Weed & Pest Board

The board will meet to discuss new business including the 2027 budget and township contracts. The agenda also includes discussions on gopher programs and seasonal staffing needs.

• 2027 Budget
• Township Contracts
• Gopher Bounty Program – ITC & Sioux Valley Energy
• DOT Gophers
• Weed & Pest Supervisor Position

Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board

The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board will vote to approve the meeting agenda, the minutes from the January 26 meeting, and the financial report. The board will also hear a Director’s Report and a 4-H Youth Advisor’s Report. A citizen may request to add an item to a future agenda, and the board will schedule any new items for later meetings.

• Approval of agenda – voice vote
• Approval of January 26, 2026 minutes – voice vote
• Approval of financial report – voice vote
• Director’s Report
• 4-H Youth Advisor’s Report

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will vote on a series of resolutions, agreements, and contracts, including a $914,579.81 award to Duininck, Inc. for the 2026 Surfacing Project and a $179,173.75 award to The Road Guy Construction Co. for a chip seal project. The meeting also includes budget transfers of $928,298.75 to the Highway Road & Bridge Fund and $32,660.25 to the Emergency Management Fund, and adopts a resolution setting weight‑limit enforcement on county highways.

• Approve $914,579.81 contract to Duininck, Inc. for the 2026 Brookings County Surfacing Project
• Approve $179,173.75 contract to The Road Guy Construction Co. for the 2026 Chip Seal Project
• Transfer $928,298.75 from General Fund to Highway Road & Bridge Fund
• Transfer $32,660.25 from General Fund to Emergency Management Fund
• Adopt Resolution #26-10 to set weight‑limit enforcement on Brookings County highways

The board approved Resolution #26-10 to set weight‑limit enforcement on county highways and amended Resolution #26-05. It also approved Resolution #26-09 to record a plat for the Slocum Addition tract. The commission authorized FY2026 fund transfers to the Highway Road & Bridge Fund and the Emergency Management Fund, and approved the listed claims and agenda items.

• Approved Resolution #26-10 weight‑limit enforcement (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #26-09 plat recording for Slocum Addition (5-0)
• Approved FY2026 fund transfers to Highway and Emergency Management funds (5-0)
• Approved claims list totaling multiple items (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Brookings County Regional Railroad Authority will approve its agenda and the minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting. Commissioners will appoint a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. New members will be introduced and the Authority will discuss its responsibilities. The meeting will then be adjourned.

• Approval of agenda
• Appointment of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Approval of March 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Introduction of new members
• Discussion of Authority's responsibilities

The board approved the meeting agenda, confirmed the chair and vice‑chair appointments, approved the prior meeting’s minutes, and adjourned the session. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (all aye)
• Maintained appointments of Chair Josh Jones and Vice‑Chair Chris Alberts (all aye)
• Approved minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting (all aye)
• Adjourned meeting (all aye)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission will approve the February 3 minutes and adopt the meeting agenda. It will consider plat 2026plat001, the Plat of Tract 1 of the Slocum Addition in Section 28, T110N, R49W. The commission will continue discussion of Lake Park District setbacks and may hold an executive session before adjourning.

• Approval of February 3, 2026 meeting minutes
• Approval of the March 5 agenda
• Consideration of plat 2026plat001 – Slocum Addition Tract 1
• Continued discussion of Lake Park District setbacks
• Possible executive session

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved the February 3, 2026 meeting minutes and the March 5 agenda. It then approved plat 2026PLAT001, a 17.97‑acre building site owned by Ida Slocum, by a 9‑aye vote. The meeting was adjourned after the motion passed unanimously.

• Approved February 3, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 5, 2026 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 17.97‑acre plat for Ida Slocum (9‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Extension Board

The Brookings County Extension Board will meet to elect officers, review the budget, and discuss future venue use for a 2027 budget request. The meeting is scheduled for March 3, 2026, at the Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Board Room.

• Election of Chair, Vice-chair, and Secretary
• Review of Budget and Financial Review
• Extension Board by-law review
• Discussion of future venue use for 2027 budget request
• Reports from 4-H Advisor and Commissioner

Commission

At the March 3, 2026 meeting, the Brookings County Commission will vote on a resolution declaring a fire danger emergency and prohibiting open burning. The commission will also consider a resolution establishing fees for licensed abstractors for uncertified copies of recorded documents, an agreement for the State of South Dakota Department of Public Safety 2025 Local Emergency Management Performance Grant, and several property‑tax abatements. Additional actions include approving the 2026 weed‑chemical contracts, filling a part‑time correctional‑officer vacancy, and discussing truck‑traffic limits on County Road 16A.

• Resolution #26-07: Declare fire danger emergency and prohibit open burning
• Resolution #26-08: Set fees for licensed abstractors for uncertified copies of recorded documents
• Agreement #26-21: State emergency management performance grant for 2025
• Abatement #26-02: Brookings Municipal Utilities parcel $2,409.53
• Approve all annual weed chemical bids for 2026

Weed & Pest Board

The Brookings County Weed & Pest Board meeting on February 26, 2026 will approve the agenda and the minutes from February 27, 2025. The board will receive a Weed & Pest program update and presentations from the County Sheriff, the County Commission Department Director, the Emergency Management Director, and a representative from South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment motion.

• Approve agenda – voice vote
• Approve minutes (Feb 27, 2025) – voice vote
• Weed & Pest program update
• Presentation by Brookings County Sheriff (Marty Stanwick)
• Presentation by Brookings County Emergency Management Director (Bob Hill)

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda after a motion by Tim Bauer and second by Randy Meyer. They also unanimously approved the minutes from the February 27, 2025 meeting following a motion by Danny Nelson and second by Steve Knutson. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned after a motion by Scott Moberg and second by Gary Buthe.

• Approved agenda (unanimous aye)
• Approved February 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous aye)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous aye)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will vote on several regular‑business items, including two intergovernmental agreements, two change orders for the Samara Avenue Improvements project, a payment to Timmon's Construction, and multiple staffing vacancies. Department heads will present reports, and public notices for upcoming events will be read. No action will be taken on citizen‑requested items during the opening agenda.

• Approve Agreement #26-19: intergovernmental contract reaffirming SDPAA risk‑pool membership
• Approve Agreement #26-20: 3‑year service agreement with Trane U.S., Inc. for the Outdoor Adventure Center
• Approve Change Order #2 for Samara Avenue Improvements – increase of $51,745.45
• Approve Change Order #1 for structure and approach grading (SN 06‑227‑230, PCN 08F4) – $75,733.11
• Approve payment to Timmon's Construction for the change order amount

The board unanimously approved an intergovernmental risk‑pool contract and a three‑year service agreement for the Outdoor Adventure Center. It also authorized two change orders for the Samara Avenue Improvements project, totaling $127,478.56. In addition, the commission filled several correctional and pest‑control positions. All motions passed with every commissioner voting aye.

• Approved intergovernmental contract #26-19 for South Dakota Public Assurance Alliance (risk pool) – all aye
• Approved 3‑year service agreement #26-20 with Trane U.S., Inc. for Outdoor Adventure Center – all aye
• Approved Change Order #2 for Samara Avenue Improvements, increase $51,745.45 – all aye
• Approved Change Order #1 for structure and approach grading, amount $75,733.11 – all aye
• Approved payment to Timmon’s Construction for the change order – all aye
• Approved vacancy fill for a full‑time female Correctional Officer – all aye
• Approved vacancy fill for a Corrections Corporal (two separate motions) – all aye
• Approved vacancy fill for a part‑time Weed & Pest Supervisor – all aye

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will approve the January 6, 2026 minutes and address standard agenda items such as citizen comment scheduling and conflict‑of‑interest disclosures. It will then consider two variance requests: one from Thielen Farms Inc for the property at 21717 SD Hwy 13 in Elkton, and another from Doug R. Osthus for the property at 278 S Lake Dr in Arlington. The Board of Adjustment will vote on each variance according to its required approval thresholds.

• Approve Jan 6, 2026 Planning & Zoning minutes
• Consider variance 2026var001 for Thielen Farms Inc (21717 SD Hwy 13, Elkton)
• Consider variance 2026var002 for Doug R. Osthus (278 S Lake Dr, Arlington)
• Invite citizens to schedule unscheduled agenda items
• Disclose any conflicts of interest or ex‑parte communications

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved the January 6, 2026 minutes and the meeting agenda. It then unanimously approved a front‑yard variance for Thielen Farms Inc. at 21717 SD Hwy 13 and a lakefront garage variance for Doug R. Osthus at 278 S Lake Dr. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM.

• Approved Jan 6, 2026 minutes (all present aye)
• Approved February 3, 2026 agenda (all present aye)
• Approved variance 2026VAR001 for Thielen Farms – front‑yard grain leg and cement pad (8‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved variance 2026VAR002 for Doug R. Osthus – attached garage near lake (8‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Adjourned meeting (all present aye)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will convene as a joint body to review and discuss potential updates to the Joint Jurisdiction Zoning Ordinance. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes from a previous joint meeting.

• Approval of August 5, 2025 Joint Planning Commission minutes
• Discussion of updates to Joint Jurisdiction Zoning Ordinance
• Public comment sign-in required prior to meeting start

The Brookings County and City of Brookings Planning Commissions approved the August 5, 2025 and August 5, 2026 joint planning minutes and approved the meeting agenda. They reviewed possible updates to the joint jurisdiction zoning ordinance but took no action, planning to hold a public input meeting on April 7, 2026. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Aug. 5, 2025 joint minutes (all present aye)
• Approved Aug. 5, 2026 joint minutes (all present aye)
• Approved meeting agenda (all present aye)
• Reviewed zoning ordinance updates; no decision taken
• Adjourned meeting (all present aye)

Commission

The Brookings County Commission will vote on several resolutions and agreements, including a bridge inspection program (Resolution #26-06) and a combined election agreement with the Brookings School District (Agreement #26-09). It will also approve an abatement for parcel #36025-01400-001-00 ($207.75), a freeze assessment for an elderly/disabled parcel ($22.66), change orders reducing grading project costs by $41,368 and $7,691.86, and the Trane Tracer SC+ upgrade for the Outdoor Adventure Center ($7,950). Finally, the board will approve and award the 2026 highway bids to multiple contractors for gravel, quartzite, asphalt, oil emulsion, PVC/UV CIPP, aggregate stabilizer, and equipment rentals.

• Resolution #26-06: Bridge Inspection Program for SDDOT retainer contracts
• Agreement #26-09: Combined Election Agreement with Brookings School District
• Change Order #1 – Structure and Approach Grading SN 06-280-172, decrease $41,368
• Tracer SC+ Upgrade from Trane for Outdoor Adventure Center, $7,950
• Approval of 2026 highway bids awarding contracts to Bowes Construction, Sterzinger Crushing, L.G. Everist, Duininck, Jebro Inc., Subsurface Inc., Team Laboratory, and equipment rental firms

The Brookings County Commission approved Resolution #26-06 to join the state bridge inspection program, voting 5-0. It also authorized several agreements and change orders, including a combined election agreement, an abatement, an assessment freeze, and two grading change orders. Finally, the board awarded multiple highway construction bids for gravel, quartzite, and asphalt materials.

• Approved Resolution #26-06 Bridge Inspection Program (5-0)
• Approved Agreement #26-09 Combined Election Agreement with Brookings School District (5-0)
• Approved Abatement #26-01 for Kenneth Fideler, $207.75 (5-0)
• Approved assessment freeze for elderly/disabled parcel #06980-11050-062-00, $22.66 (5-0)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Structure and Approach Grading SN 06-280-172, decrease $41,368 (5-0)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Structure and Approach Grading SN 06-320-118, decrease $7,691.86 (5-0)
• Approved Tracer SC+ Upgrade for Outdoor Adventure Center, $7,950.00 (5-0)
• Awarded 2026 highway bids for crushed gravel to Bowes Construction and Sterzinger Crushing (5-0)

Weed & Pest Board

The Brookings County Weed & Pest Board will hold its regular meeting on February 2, 2026. After standard procedural items (call to order, quorum, agenda and minutes approval), the board will consider new business items including a supervisor position, board member elections, the annual towns & township meeting, chemical service bids, and employee matters. No specific actions or dollar amounts are detailed in the agenda.

• Supervisor position
• Board member elections
• Annual towns & township meeting (February 2026)
• Chemical bids
• Employee matters

The Weed & Pest Board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from February 2, 2026. The board voted to keep the existing board appointments (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary) unchanged. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion by Tim Bauer, seconded by Randy Meyer)
• Approved minutes of February 2, 2026 (as read)
• Approved keeping board appointments as is (motion by Randy Meyer, seconded by Paul Johnson)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (motion by Randy Meyer, seconded by Paul Johnson)

Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board

The Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center Advisory Board will consider routine items, including approval of the meeting agenda, approval of the December 1, 2026 minutes, and approval of the financial report. The board will also receive a director’s report and a 4‑H Youth Advisor’s report, and will discuss any citizen‑requested items for future meetings. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of December 1, 2026 minutes
• Approval of financial report
• Director’s report
• 4‑H Youth Advisor’s report

Commission

The commission will conduct a second‑reading public hearing on Ordinance #2026‑01 to adopt the 2021 International Building Code. It will consider and vote on several contracts and resolutions, including a $160,057.95 reimbursement supplement for the Samara Avenue project, a professional‑services agreement for street reconstruction on 217th Street, and a resolution setting weight‑limit enforcement on county highways. Additional items include an enterprise‑software cost‑share agreement with the City of Brookings and Brookings Municipal Utilities, and approval of a Johnson Controls proposal to replace the Government Center’s chiller and boiler system.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2026‑01 to adopt the 2021 International Building Code
• Agreement #26‑07 for professional services to reconstruct 217th Street (North Drive)
• Resolution #26‑05 setting weight‑limit enforcement on Brookings County highways
• Agreement #26‑08 enterprise software cost‑share between Brookings County, City of Brookings, and Brookings Municipal Utilities
• $160,057.95 automatic supplement for unanticipated expenses on the Samara Avenue Project

The board approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda items, which included travel and education requests, personnel actions, and human‑services case approvals. They also approved a correction to the January 6 minutes. Finally, the commissioners voted to approve a large list of expense claims covering supplies, services, and non‑mandated funds.

• Agenda approved – all four members voted “aye.”
• Consent agenda items (travel/education requests, personnel actions, human‑services approvals) approved – VanderWal “aye,” Post “aye,” Jensen “aye,” Hostler “aye.”
• Correction of Jan 6 minutes approved – Post “aye,” Jensen “aye,” VanderWal “aye,” Hostler “aye.”
• Expense claims approved – Jensen “aye,” VanderWal “aye,” Post “aye,” Hostler “aye.”

Brookings County Housing & Redevelopment Commission

The Brookings County Housing & Redevelopment Commission will vote to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting. It will also consider any special requests, staff reports, and financial matters. The commission will review old business, introduce new business, set the date for the next meeting, and then adjourn.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes
• Special requests
• Staff reports
• Financials

The commission accepted the meeting agenda with an added election of officers item. It approved the October 16, 2025 minutes and the financial reports for the Section 8 voucher program and MOD rehabilitation. The board also voted to retain the current officers, entered and exited an executive session, authorized a letter to the attorney to dismiss a legal case, and adjourned the meeting. All motions passed with unanimous yea votes.

• Accepted agenda with Election of Officers addition (unanimous yea)
• Accepted October 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous yea)
• Approved Section 8 voucher program and MOD rehab financials (unanimous yea)
• Continued current officers (unanimous yea)
• Entered executive session at 12:55 PM (unanimous yea)
• Exited executive session at 1:00 PM (unanimous yea)
• Authorized draft letter to attorney to file motion to dismiss case (unanimous yea)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:05 PM (unanimous yea)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Brookings County Planning & Zoning Commission will convene to approve the December 2, 2025 minutes, discuss an ordinance, and elect officers for 2026. The meeting will include a work session and a public invitation for citizens to address the commission.

• Approval of December 2, 2025 PZ Minutes
• Election of Officers for 2026
• Work Session: Discussion and review of Ordinance
• Public invitation for citizens to address the commission
• Appointment of board members - Joint BOA

The commission approved the December 2, 2025 minutes and the meeting agenda. Officers were elected, naming Chad Ford as Chairperson and Darrel Kleinjan as Vice Chairperson for 2026. Several members were appointed to the Joint Board of Adjustment and other liaison roles. The board also approved its member pay.

• Approved December 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the Jan 6, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Elected Chad Ford as Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Elected Darrel Kleinjan as Vice Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Kyle VanderWal to the 2026 Joint Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
• Appointed Tim Paulson as Alternate to the 2026 Joint Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved board pay (as reported by Development Director)
• Appointed Commissioner Kelly VanderWal to the Planning & Zoning Board and designated liaison roles (Zoning/Drainage Liaison to VanderWal; Emergency Management Liaison to Hostler)

Commission

The Commission will conduct a first reading of an ordinance to adopt the 2021 International Building and Residential Codes. The body is also deciding on 2026 appointments, official depositories, and various administrative resolutions for the new year.

• First reading of Ordinance #26-01 to adopt 2021 International Building and Residential Codes
• Abatement #25-16 for parcel #40999-00005-030-00 in the amount of $218.54 plus a $1,781.24 city assessment
• Three design and bidding service agreements with Banner Associates, Inc. for projects SN 06-153-200, SN 06-248-040, and SN 06-320-235
• Resolution #26-01 setting pay for 2026 election officials
• Rural Access Infrastructure Funding Applications for 10 townships including Aurora, Eureka, and Volga

The commission reorganized its leadership, appointing Shawn Hostler as Chairperson and Kelly VanderWal as Vice‑Chairperson for 2026. It approved a large consent agenda that included personnel hires, travel requests, and numerous county expense claims. The board also adopted three resolutions setting pay for election officials, establishing vote‑center locations, and defining meeting pay for volunteer boards.

• Appointed Shawn Hostler as Chairperson for 2026 – all five commissioners voted aye
• Appointed Kelly VanderWal as Vice‑Chairperson for 2026 – all five commissioners voted aye
• Approved the consent agenda (personnel hires, travel requests, etc.) – all five commissioners voted aye
• Approved the listed county expense claims – all five commissioners voted aye
• Approved Resolution #26‑01 setting pay for election officials – all five commissioners voted aye
• Approved Resolution #26‑02 establishing vote‑center locations for countywide elections – all five commissioners voted aye
• Approved Resolution #26‑03 setting meeting pay and per‑diem rates for volunteer county boards – all five commissioners voted aye