BELLE FOURCHE—The City Council held its second meeting of the month on Monday, August 18. Mayor Randy Schmidt reported that the City of Belle Fourche was selected by the Governor to receive the 2025 Outstanding Public Employer Award.
During community input, Raymond Allen reported concerns regarding the inability to hear the emergency sirens from his residence, the presence of a pothole on Dacar Street, and issues related to mosquitoes.
Parks & Recreation reported that a circus show will be held Saturday, August 23 at 5 p.m. at the Rec Center, with hopes of making this an annual event in Belle Fourche. Advance adult ticket purchases include free admission for two children.
Ryan Stedillie and Steve Nafus of the Public Works Committee will attend the South Dakota Water and Wastewater Association conference in Pierre from September 10-12. City Administrator Jason LaFayette, Police Chief Ryan Cherveny, HR Manager Gina Carpenter, Public Works Director Ryan Stedillie, Finance Officer Wayne Tonsager, and Assistant Finance Officer Lynda March will attend the SDML Annual Conference in Pierre from September 30 to October 3.
Finance Officer Tonsager gave the August Budget Update. He reported that expenditures in the CIP Fund are increasing as the 11th and 12th Avenue reconstruction projects progress. He further noted that the Water and Sewer Funds will continue to incur expenses, while the 211 and other funds are nearly completed for the year.
There will be a Special Council Meeting about the 2026 CIP Budget on Wednesday, August 20 at 5 p.m.
Councilperson Fowler inquired about the park signs and when they would be illuminated at night. City Administrator LaFayette reported that he had spoken with Mr. Tolly earlier in the day and that work on the lights is scheduled to begin next Monday.
City Administrator LaFayette reported that the pit less unit is awaiting installation by the drilling company. He further advised that the water study must first be completed to determine the tank location for future water storage and determine whether a pump is needed in the well house. In addition, the well house must be constructed prior to the well going live.
City Engineer Hardy noted that during the Highway 85 overlay project, the pavement sensor at the Summit traffic light was damaged. He reported that the State will be installing a new sensor to correct the issue, which is why the lights are currently covered and not operational.
The next City Council meeting will be September 1 at 6 p.m.
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