Development News for Mitchell, South Dakota

City Approves Perpetual Easement for Omen Utility and Street Improvements

The city council approved an agreement for a perpetual easement for Omen utility and street improvements with Lomar Development Company LLP. This permanent easement is for the Omen project and will be located on the southwest corner of the intersection of Main Street and 23rd Street. During negotiations, Lomar Development chose an easement over purchasing the property. The city will need to move Lomar's existing sign and remove a couple of trees. Staff recommended council approval and authorization for the mayor to sign the agreement. The motion to approve was made by Mr. Murdle and seconded by Mr. Goldhammer. The motion carried [cite: 807-838].

Public Commenter Advocates for Term Limits, Citing Council-Mayor Relations and Accountability

During the public comment period, Stuart Hansen addressed the council regarding term limits. He expressed a belief that many on the council do not work well with the mayor, citing typical voting patterns as evidence. Hansen referenced comments made by county commissioner Randy Ryder regarding employee retention and the mayor's role as CEO of Mitchell. He questioned the fairness of representation, suggesting that a majority of all voters should have a say if they are unhappy with a council member's performance. Hansen also discussed potential motivations for opposing term limits, referencing a paid political ad against term limits by Jeff Mciny and concerns about accountability for property use and potential financial impacts on the golf course and water fund. He also touched on a flyer opposing term limits and questioned why certain council members might be afraid of new council members holding them accountable. Hansen concluded by stating that voters should decide on term limits [cite: 190-270].

City Approves Agreement with AE2s for Wastewater Infrastructure Grant Services

The city council approved an agreement for a wastewater infrastructure risk reduction and emergency power project grant with AE2s. This agreement is for services related to grant applications, with a maximum not to exceed amount of $18,000 based on hourly rates. Staff recommended approval and authorized the mayor to sign. The motion to approve was made by Mr. Goldhammer and seconded by Mrs. Sharks. The motion carried [cite: 1109-1128].

605 Companies Awarded Bid for Randall Community Water District Pump Station Improvements

The city council considered awarding a bid for the Randall Community Water District pump station Improvements Project 2026-31. Bids were opened on May 21st, and four bids were received. The low bid was from 605 Companies, Inc. for $472,785. Matt Ericson, a professional engineer with AE2s, reviewed the bid and recommended awarding the project to 605 Companies. City staff also recommended awarding the project to 605 Companies for the stated price. The company is from Sioux Falls and has previously worked for the city on the Cadwell pump station project. The motion to approve was made by Mr. Goldhammer and seconded by Mrs. Church. The motion carried [cite: 780-807].