NEWELL—The Town of Newell Commission convened in Regular Session at 5 p.m. at the Town Office Building. Mayor Tennis initiated the meeting at 5:00 pm, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll Call was taken; Commissioner Mackaben, Commissioner Clausen, Commissioner Kopetsky, and Mayor Tennis were present. Commissioner Taton was absent.
Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to adopt the agenda; Commissioner Kopetsky made a motion to approve November 10 regular meeting minutes with changes; and Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to approve the November 17 special meeting minutes. The motion carried.
Bills and payroll were approved. Commissioner Kopetsky made a motion to adopt Ordinance 2 2025 – 2026 Appropriation Ordinance, seconded by Commissioner Clausen. Roll call: Commissioner Mackaben; Aye, Commissioner Clausen; Aye, Commissioner Kopetsky; Aye, Commissioner Taton; absent. Motion carried.
Kristin Thompson and Zach Grapentine were at the meeting to give information on the services they provide. Several areas of concern were discussed, including drainage, sidewalks and the Splash Pad.
Several building permits were discussed. Commissioner Kopetsky made a motion to table the building permit for lots 1-2 Block 104 to later in the meeting. The motion carried. Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to approve the building permit for 119 Girard Avenue. Motion carried. Commissioner Clausen made a motion to approve the replat of Block 26 Lot 10-11. Motion carried. Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to approve the building permit for lots 1-2 Block 104 if the living space is at least 700 square feet. Motion also carried.
Commissioner Kopetsky made a motion to pay half the cost of a street sign for East 4th Street once the address of the business in question has been verified or corrected. Motion carried.
Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to allow Mayor Tennis to sign the title to the 2002 Ford ambulance so it can be sold as surplus. Motion carried.
There was some discussion on the cost to replace the combined shut offs for many of the residents in Newell. The discussion centered around who should be responsible for the cost to split the lines. The suggestion was to split the expense. Upon failing for lack of motion, Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to leave as existing. This motion carried.
There was some question who would pay for the upkeep of the city pond amenities. Commissioner Clausen made a motion to postpone a decision until the next meeting. Motion carried.
There was a discussion about having the checking account converted to an ICS account. Commissioner Mackaben made a motion to postpone a decision until the next meeting. Motion carried.
Commissioner Clausen made a motion to approve the Christmas party to be held on December 20, 2025. A quorum Agenda will be posted.
There was a discussion about the zoning ordinance and whether there is any flexibility. Dave Krcelic gave a progress update on the Library door and entrance. Quiet times and noise ordinances were discussed.
Committee and Department Head Reports were given. Economic Development Commissioner Kopetsky discussed the restructuring and renaming to Newell Area Economic Development. Meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of the month.
In the Mayor’s Report, Mayor Tennis mentioned that she would like to schedule a Christmas tree lighting ceremony; she is hoping to have more working lights soon. She also spoke about the Newell Area Economic Development meeting on January 7, 2026.
Commissioner Kopetsky made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel 1-25 2(1) at 6:37 pm. Mayor Tennis declared to return to regular session at 7:06 pm with no action taken.
The Commissioners discussed current job applications, as well as issues with irrigation.
The meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m. The next regular Commissioner Meeting will be on January 12, 2026 at 5 p.m.
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