By Watertown Current - July 23, 2026 in Official Proceedings
County of Codington
Codington County Court House
14 1st Ave SE
Watertown, SD 57201
July 07, 2026
The Codington County Commissioners met in regular session at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 07, 2026, at the Codington County Court House. Commission members present were: Lee Gabel, Tyler McElhany, Myron Johnson, Randall Schweer, and Troy VanDusen; Chair VanDusen, presiding. The pledge of allegiance was led by Commissioner Gabel.
CALLS FOR PUBLIC COMMENT AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST ITEMS
Chair VanDusen called for public comments to be taken up during the open portion of the meeting; none were offered. There were no conflict-of-interest items to note.
AGENDA APPROVED
Motion by McElhany, second by Gabel, to approve the agenda for July 07, 2026, as posted with adding to advertise and hire to agenda item 13; all voted aye; motion carried.
MINUTES APPROVED
Motion by Schweer, second by Gabel, to approve the minutes of June 23, 2026; all voted aye; motion carried.
TAX DEED PROPERTY AUCTION
The Board held a public auction, as previously advertised, for one parcel of land acquired by Quit Claim Deed. Commissioner VanDusen conducted the live bid auction, and the following bid was received:
Parcel #, Bidder, Bid Amount
1996 Amanda Schleich $18,000
Amanda Schleich, Watertown, SD, was determined to be the successful bidder for this parcel. Due to a misunderstanding in the bid amount the buyer withdrew her bid. The Board will take action to re-advertise this property at their July 14th, 2026, meeting.
APPROVAL TO SELL ALCOHOL AT EXTENSION FOR A WEDDING EVENT
Kirstin Urban met with the Board to request authorization for alcohol sales at the Urban/Mischke wedding scheduled for October 10, 2026, at the Codington County Extension Center Complex. The liquor license held by Second Street will be transferred for this event. Second Street will be regulating all alcohol sales, security, and minor control. Motion by McElhany, second by Schweer, to approve the request for alcohol sales on October 10, 2026, at the Extension Center Complex, as requested; all voted aye; motion carried.
PLAT RESOLUTIONS APPROVED
Zoning Office, Luke Muller, provided the Board with documentation for the four plats for their approval. Commissioner Johnson reviewed the plats with the Board. The Board took the following action:
RESOLUTION 2026-13
A Resolution to approve the plating of Dan and Rita Meseberg Addition in the County of Codington, South Dakota
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota, as follows:
That an examination has been made of the plat entitled:
Dan and Rita Meseberg Addition located in the Southeast Quarter of Section 25, Township 118 North, Range 53 West of the 5th P.M.; Codington County, South Dakota (Rauville Township), and that the County Planning Commission of the said County has recommended approval of the said plat, and it also appearing that the plat and survey accompanying the same has been executed according to law.
NOW, THEREFORE, said plat is hereby approved and the County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, is hereby authorized to endorse on the said plat a copy of the Resolution and to certify to the same thereon.
The above and foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Commissioner Johnson, and second by Commissioner McElhany; all voted aye; whereupon the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners declared the same to be duly passed and adopted.
Dated this 7th day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota
Troy VanDusen
Commission Chair, Codington County, South Dakota
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA
§
COUNTY OF CODINGTON
I, the undersigned, the duly appointed, elected, qualified, and acting County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution 2026-13, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota.
Dated this 7thth day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota.
Brenda Hanten
County Auditor, Codington County, South Dakota
RESOLUTION 2026-14
A Resolution to approve the plating of Lanke Addition in the County of Codington, South Dakota
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota, as follows:
That an examination has been made of the plat entitled:
Lanke Addition located in the Southeast Quarter (SE1/4) of Section 5, Township 119 North, Range 55 West of the 5th P.M.; Codington County, South Dakota (Eden Township), and that the County Planning Commission of the said County has recommended approval of the said plat, and it also appearing that the plat and survey accompanying the same has been executed according to law.
NOW, THEREFORE, said plat is hereby approved and the County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, is hereby authorized to endorse on the said plat a copy of the Resolution and to certify to the same thereon.
The above and foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Commissioner McElhany, and second by Commissioner Johnson; all voted aye; whereupon the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners declared the same to be duly passed and adopted.
Dated this 7th day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota
Troy VanDusen
Commission Chair, Codington County, South Dakota
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA
§
COUNTY OF CODINGTON
I, the undersigned, the duly appointed, elected, qualified, and acting County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution 2026-14, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota.
Dated this 7thth day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota.
Brenda Hanten
County Auditor, Codington County, South Dakota
RESOLUTION 2026-15
A Resolution to approve the plating of Fleming Addition in the County of Codington, South Dakota
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota, as follows:
That an examination has been made of the plat entitled:
Fleming Addition located in the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4) of Section 20, Township 118 North, Range 53 West of the 5th P.M.; Codington County, South Dakota (Fuller Township), and that the County Planning Commission of the said County has recommended approval of the said plat, and it also appearing that the plat and survey accompanying the same has been executed according to law.
NOW, THEREFORE, said plat is hereby approved and the County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, is hereby authorized to endorse on the said plat a copy of the Resolution and to certify to the same thereon.
The above and foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Commissioner Johnson, and second by Commissioner McElhany; all voted aye; whereupon the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners declared the same to be duly passed and adopted.
Dated this 7th day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota
Troy VanDusen
Commission Chair, Codington County, South Dakota
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA
§
COUNTY OF CODINGTON
I, the undersigned, the duly appointed, elected, qualified, and acting County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution 2026-15, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota.
Dated this 7thth day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota.
Brenda Hanten
County Auditor, Codington County, South Dakota
RESOLUTION 2026-16
A Resolution to approve the plating of Fleming Second Addition in the County of Codington, South Dakota
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota, as follows:
That an examination has been made of the plat entitled:
Fleming Second Addition located in the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4) of Section 20, Township 118 North, Range 53 West of the 5th P.M.; Codington County, South Dakota (Fuller Township), and that the County Planning Commission of the said County has recommended approval of the said plat, and it also appearing that the plat and survey accompanying the same has been executed according to law.
NOW, THEREFORE, said plat is hereby approved and the County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, is hereby authorized to endorse on the said plat a copy of the Resolution and to certify to the same thereon.
The above and foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Commissioner Johnson, and second by Commissioner McElhany; all voted aye; whereupon the Chair of the Board of County Commissioners declared the same to be duly passed and adopted.
Dated this 7th day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota
Troy VanDusen
Commission Chair, Codington County, South Dakota
STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA
§
COUNTY OF CODINGTON
I, the undersigned, the duly appointed, elected, qualified, and acting County Auditor of Codington County, South Dakota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution 2026-16, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of Codington County, South Dakota.
Dated this 7thth day of July 2026, at Watertown, Codington County, South Dakota.
Brenda Hanten
County Auditor, Codington County, South Dakota
FIRST READING OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE #83
County Commissioner, Lee Gabel, gave the first reading of proposed Ordinance #83:
ORDINANCE NO. 83
AN ORDINANCE IMPOSING A COUNTY GROSS RECEIPTS TAX AND A USE TAX FOR
CODINGTON COUNTY, SOUTH DAKOTA.
BE IT ORDAINED BY CODINGTON COUNTY, SOUTH DAKOTA.
Section 1. PURPOSE. The purpose of this ordinance is to provide needed revenue while reducing the burden of property tax for Codington County, South Dakota, by imposing a county gross receipts tax pursuant to the powers granted to the county by the State of South Dakota, by SDCL 10-52B entitled County Option Retail Sales and Service Tax for Property Tax Reduction, and acts amendatory thereto. The purpose of the county gross receipts tax is to provide property tax relief on the county property tax levy for all property classified as owner-occupied. All monies collected by the county from the gross receipts tax must be deposited into a property tax reduction fund, which is hereby created and shall be administered in accordance with SDCL 10-52B.
Section 2. EFFECTIVE DATE AND ENACTMENT OF TAX. From and after the first day of January 2027, there is hereby imposed as a county gross receipts tax upon the privilege of engaging in business a tax measured by one-half percent ( 0.5%) on the gross receipts of all persons engaged in business within the jurisdiction of Codington County, South Dakota, who are subject to the South Dakota Retail Occupational Sales and Service Tax, SDCL 10-45 and acts amendatory thereto.
Section 3. USE TAX. In addition, there is hereby imposed a gross receipts tax on the privilege of use, storage and consumption within the jurisdiction of the county of items purchased from and after the first of January 2027, at the same rate as the county gross receipt tax upon all transactions or use, storage and consumption which are subject to the South Dakota Use Tax, SDCL 10-46, and acts amendatory thereto.
Section 4. COLLECTION. Such tax is levied pursuant to authorization granted by SDCL 10-52B and acts amendatory thereto, and shall be collected by the South Dakota Department of Revenue in accordance with the same rules and regulations applicable to the State Sales Tax and under such additional rules and regulations as the Secretary of Revenue of the State of South Dakota shall lawfully prescribe.
Section 5. INTERPRETATION. It is declared to be the intention of this ordinance and the taxes levied hereunder that the same shall be interpreted and construed in the same manner as all sections of the South Dakota Retail Occupational Sales and Service Tax, SDCL 10-45 and acts amendatory thereto and the South Dakota Use Tax, SDCL 10-46 and acts amendatory hereto, and that this shall be considered a similar tax except for the rate thereof to that tax.
Section 6. PENALTY. Any person failing or refusing to make reports or payments prescribed by this ordinance and the rules and regulations relating to the ascertainment and collection of the tax herein levied shall be subject to all such collection remedies authorized by SDCL 10-45, and acts amendatory thereto, and SDCL 10-46, and acts amendatory thereto, are hereby authorized for the collection of these taxes by the Department of Revenue.
Section 7. SEPARABILITY. If any provision of this ordinance is declared unconstitutional or the application thereof to any person or circumstances held invalid the constitutionality of the remainder of the ordinance and applicability thereof to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
Dated this _________ day of, 20__.
County Commissioner
First Reading July 7th, 2026
Second Reading and Adoption July __, 2026
Published
ATTEST
MONTHLY REPORTS
4-H Youth Program Advisor, Jodi Loehrer, updated the Board: The 4-H Shake Wagon was a hit. Thank you to all who supported us and for all of the youth and parents and leaders who helped with it; The Codington County 4-H youth joined Clark, Day and Marshall last week for the horse show, the State 4-H Horse Show is next week in Huron, July 13-15; seven of our 4-H youth will be participating in the Daisy National Shoot in Rogers, Arkansas, July 10-13, we wish them all the best on their travels and competitions; the county Special Foods Contest is Thursday, July 9th, 2026, we have 12 youth participating starting at 10:00 a.m., at the Extension Complex; we have Radio PSA’s at KWAT on July 21st, 2026, and a Food Preservation Workshop on July 22nd, 2026; the Codington County Achievement Days are August 3-6, 2026. Veterans Service Officer, Jay Roberts, updated the Board: metrics for the month, 126 open claims (working claims) 49 pending action from VA, 155 completed (YTD), Hamlin 20 open (working claims) 6 pending from VA, 20 completed (YTD), currently working for 11 veterans and have completed 5 claims for veterans from outside our county; $16,273 for the month June 2026, increase in monthly compensation for veterans or their dependents YTD monthly increase $98,339; $82,674 for the month of June 2026, retro-payment to bring a claim current to monthly compensation YTD retro-payments $547,673; 1 veteran DAV transport in June, 2 currently scheduled for July, currently 3 drivers; continue to advertise for volunteer drivers to drive the DAV van, along with continuing to promote the Veterans Transportation Service being provided by the VA out of Watertown, will eventually transition to the Veterans Transportation Service with the VA office; CURRENT – the current budget for 2026 is on track with 40.6% expenditures as of July 1, 2026, the 2027 projected budget will see a decrease due to health care costs saved by both VSOs having Tricare as retired military members and the projected rent, utilities and internet cost decreases; FUTURE – meeting with Codington County Vets Council commanders on July 7th, 2026, at the VFW; radio shows KWAT – 8:30 and KXLG – 9:05 on July 9th, 2026; looking to plan a 3rd Quarter Outreach event either at Edgewood Assisted Living or Estelline Care Center to inform the veteran residents and family members of possible pension benefits; will be attending the annual Benefits School; Nominations for Veteran of the Year from the local veterans organizations to be presented at the Veteran’s Day Program in November 2026.
2027 BUDGET REVIEW
The Board reviewed 2027 from the Extension and Veterans Service offices.
FLOOD MITIGATION ASSISTANCE GRANT FOR PREDISASTER MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE
Motion by Johnson, second by McElhany, to authorize Emergency Manager, Andrew Delgado, to apply for the Flood Mitigation Assistance grant for Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan update; all voted aye; motion carried.
APPRAISER’S ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION IN DIRECTOR OF EQUALIZATION OFFICE
Motion by McElhany, second by Gabel, to approve a job description and advertise and hire for the position of Appraiser’s Assistant at pay grade AA/$18.68 hour, in the Director of Equalization office, Director of Equalization, Shawna Constant, explained to the Board that this position is a temporary and will be a seasonal part-time position, due to a resignation of an Appraiser; all voted aye; motion carried.
REVISED DEFENSE SUPPORT COORDINATOR JOB DESCRIPTION
Motion by Gabel, second by McElhany, to approve the updated job description for Defense Support Coordinator, Human Resource Representative, Natalie Remund, explained to the Board that the previous job description of Pre-Trial Case Manager for this position needed to be updated with the new title of Defense Support Coordinator along with some revisions of job duties including that this position is a non-exempt hourly position and not a monthly position that was incorrectly stated previously; all voted aye; motion carried.
REVISED WAGE SCALE
Motion by McElhany, second by Gabel, to approve a revised wage scale for the addition of Appraiser Assistant in pay grade AA and Defense Support Coordinator in pay grade 40, as presented by Human Resource Representative, Natalie Remund; all voted aye; motion carried.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Seasonal Weed Sprayer Weed Control $18.68 $18.99 $19.30 $19.61 $19.91
Seasonal Memorial Park – Custodian, County Park; Seasonal, Weed/Park; Appraiser Assistant, Equalization.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E
Seasonal Memorial Park – Technician, County Park $20.55 $20.86 $21.17 $21.47 $21.78
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E
Matron $22.60 $22.91 $23.22 $23.53 $23.83
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E
Seasonal Assistant Weed Supervisor, Weed Control $27.66 $28.35 $29.06 $29.78 $30.53
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
$18.84 $19.31 $19.79 $20.28 $20.79 $21.31 $21.84 $22.39 $22.95 $23.53 $24.11 $24.72,
$3,278.16 $3,359.94 $3,443.46 $3,528.72 $3,617.46 $3,707.94 $3,800.16 $3,895.86 $3,993.30 $4,094.22 $4,195.14 $4,301.28
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Custodian, Maintenance $20.34 $20.85 $21.37 $21.91 $22.45 $23.01 $23.59 $24.17 $24.78 $25.39 $26.03 $26.68,
$3,539.16 $3,627.90 $3,718.38 $3,812.34 $3,906.30 $4,003.74 $4,104.66 $4,205.58 $4,311.72 $4,417.86 $4,529.22 $4,642.32
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Administrative Support, States Attorney $21.96 $22.50 $23.06 $23.64 $24.23 $24.84 $25.47 $26.10 $26.76 $27.42 $28.11 $28.82
Administrative Support, Treasurer $3,821.04 $3,915.00 $4,012.44 $4,113.36 $4,216.02 $4,322.16 $4,431.78 $4,541.40 $4,656.24 $4,771.08 $4,891.14 $5,014.68
Administrative Support, Auditor; Facilities Technician I, Maintenance; Health Administrative Tech, Health.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Administrative Assistant, Equalization $23.71 $24.31 $24.91 $25.54 $26.17 $26.83 $27.50 $28.18 $28.89 $29.61 $30.35 $31.11
Community Care Coordinator, Community Services $4,125.54 $4,229.94 $4,334.34 $4,443.96 $4,553.58 $4,668.42 $4,785.00 $4,903.32 $5,026.86 $5,152.14 $5,280.90 $5,413.14
Financial Assistant, Auditor, Public Health Assistant, W.I.C., Public Safety Support Tech, Sheriff/Corrections.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Administrative Specialist – Community Services, Community Services $25.61 $26.25 $26.90 $27.58 $28.27 $28.97 $29.70 $30.44 $31.20 $31.98 $32.78 $33.60
Community Services Specialist – Community Services, Community Services $4,456.14 $4,567.50 $4,680.60 $4,798.92 $4,918.98 $5,040.78 $5,167.80 $5,296.56 $5,428.80 $5,564.52 $5,703.72 $5,846.40. Administrative Specialist – Emerg Mgmt, Emergency Mgmt, Administrative Specialist – Equalization, Equalization, Administrative Specialist – Extension, Extension, Administrative Specialist – ROD, Register of Deeds; Administrative Specialist – SA, States Attorney; Administrative Specialist – Veterans, Veterans; Appraiser I, Equalization; Facilities Technician II, Maintenance; Highway Maintenance Tech I, Highway; Second Deputy – Treasurer, Treasurer.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Accountant Administrator, Auditor $27.66 $28.35 $29.06 $29.78 $30.53 $31.29 $32.07 $32.87 $33.69 $34.54 $35.40 $36.28
Correctional Officer, Sheriff/Corrections $4,812.84 $4,932.90 $5,056.44 $5,181.72 $5,312.22 $5,444.46 $5,580.18 $5,719.38 $5,862.06 $6,009.96 $6,159.60 $6,312.72
Correctional Officer (PT), Sheriff/Corrections; Court Security, Sheriff; Deputy Transport, Sheriff; Facilities Technician – Lead, Maintenance; Highway Maintenance Tech II, Highway; Legal Records Specialist, States Attorney; Payroll Specialist, Auditor; Records Administrator, Sheriff; Sr Administrative Specialist, Extension; Sr Administrative Specialist, Highway; Sr Administrative Specialist, Register of Deeds.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Appraiser II Equalization $29.88 $30.63 $31.40 $32.18 $32.98 $33.80 $34.64 $35.50 $36.39 $37.31 $38.24 $39.19
Deputy Sheriff Sheriff $5,199.12 $5,329.62 $5,463.60 $5,599.32 $5,738.52 $5,881.20 $6,027.36 $6,177.00 $6,331.86 $6,491.94 $6,653.76 $6,819.06
Deputy Veteran Service Officer, Veterans; Emergency Mgmt Deputy Director, Emergency Mgmt; First Deputy Register of Deeds, Register of Deeds; First Deputy Treasurer, Treasurer; Highway Maintenance Tech III, Highway; Mechanic, Highway; Sr Maintenance Tech, Maintenance/Jail; Substance Use and Justice Programs Coordinator, Community Services Defense Support Coordinator, Community Services.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Equalization Data Base Coord Equalization $32.25 $33.06 $33.89 $34.74 $35.61 $36.51 $37.42 $38.35 $39.31 $40.29 $41.30 $42.33
Correctional Sergeant Sheriff/Corrections $5,611.50 $5,752.44 $5,896.86 $6,044.76 $6,196.14 $6,352.74 $6,511.08 $6,672.90 $6,839.94 $7,010.46 $7,186.20 $7,365.42
Victim Witness Services Coordinator, States Attorney; Shop Foreman Mechanic, Highway.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Assistant Highway Superintendent, Highway $34.85 $35.73 $36.62 $37.53 $38.46 $39.43 $40.41 $41.42 $42.46 $43.51 $44.60 $45.72
Sergeant – Sheriff, Sheriff $6,063.90 $6,217.02 $6,371.88 $6,530.22 $6,692.04 $6,860.82 $7,031.34 $7,207.08 $7,388.04 $7,570.74 $7,760.40 $7,955.28
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Veterans Services Director, Veterans $36.60 $37.51 $38.44 $39.41 $40.39 $41.40 $42.44 $43.49 $44.58 $45.70 $46.84 $48.01
Community Services Director, Community Services $6,368.40 $6,526.74 $6,688.56 $6,857.34 $7,027.86 $7,203.60 $7,384.56 $7,567.26 $7,756.92 $7,951.80 $8,150.16 $8,353.74
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Chief Deputy, Sheriff $38.43 $39.40 $40.38 $41.39 $42.43 $43.48 $44.57 $45.69 $46.83 $48.00 $49.20 $50.43
Chief of Corrections, Sheriff/Corrections $6,686.82 $6,855.60 $7,026.12 $7,201.86 $7,382.82 $7,565.52 $7,755.18 $7,950.06 $8,148.42 $8,352.00 $8,560.80 $8,774.82
Director of Facilities, Maintenance; Director of Emergency Management, Emergency Mgmt.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
County Auditor, Auditor $42.27 $43.33 $44.42 $45.52 $46.66 $47.83 $49.03 $50.25 $51.51 $52.80 $54.12 $55.48
County Treasurer, Treasurer $7,354.98 $7,539.42 $7,729.08 $7,920.48 $8,118.84 $8,322.42 $8,531.22 $8,743.50 $8,962.74 $9,187.20 $9,416.88 $9,653.52
Deputy States Attorney, States Attorney, Director of Equalization, Equalization; Register of Deeds, Register of Deeds.
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Highway Superintendent, Highway $44.37 $45.48 $46.62 $47.79 $48.98 $50.20 $51.45 $52.74 $54.06 $55.41 $56.80 $58.22
$7,720.38 $7,913.52 $8,111.88 $8,315.46 $8,522.52 $8,734.80 $8,952.30 $9,176.76 $9,406.44 $9,641.34 $9,883.20 $10,130.28
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
Sheriff, Sheriff $53.04 $54.37 $55.72 $57.12 $58.54 $60.01 $61.51 $63.05 $64.63 $66.24 $67.89 $69.58
$9,228.96 $9,460.38 $9,695.28 $9,938.88 $10,185.96 $10,441.74 $10,702.74 $10,970.70 $11,245.62 $11,525.76 $11,812.86 $12,106.92
Title, Dept/Div., Step A, Step B, Step C, Step D, Step E, Step F (m), Step G, Step H, Step I, Step J, Step K, Step L
States Attorney, States Attorney $59.40 $60.88 $62.40 $63.96 $65.56 $67.20 $68.89 $70.61 $72.37 $74.18 $76.04 $77.93
$10,335.60 $10,593.12 $10,857.60 $11,129.04 $11,407.44 $11,692.80 $11,986.86 $12,286.14 $12,592.38 $12,907.32 $13,230.96 $13,559.82
HUMAN RESOURCE CONTRACT RENEWAL
Motion by Gabel, second by Schweer, to renew a contract for Human Resource services with Multi Business Solutions, Inc., in the amount of $5,665.00 per month, beginning July 1st, 2026 and will terminate on June 30th, 2027, Human Resource Representative, Natalie Remund, informed the Board that there are a few changes with the updated contract regarding Human Resourced Services along with labor contract negotiations with the unions and on clarifying the scope of work including 3% increase from last year’s contract; all voted aye; motion carried.
RESOLUTION TO CANCEL COUNTY LIENS
Motion by Gabel, second by McElhany, to approve Resolution 2026-17 to cancel county liens against persons who are known to be deceased with no assets; all voted aye; motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2026-17
“TO DISCHARGE COUNTY AID LIENS”
WHEREAS, the Codington County Auditor’s office has furnished a list of liens filed in the Register of Deeds Office and has recommended the discharge of these liens as the individuals who incurred the liens are determined to be deceased, with no assets, and
WHEREAS, as of July 1, 1970 these existing liens total approximately $333,586.17 and
WHEREAS, there is no evidence collection will be made on any of the total of approximately $333,586.17,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: by the Codington County Board of Commissioners, that the Register of Deeds is hereby directed to discharge the liens of known deceased from July 1, 1970 to the present time, as listed on file in the Auditor’s Office.
Dated this 7th day of July, 2026
Troy VanDusen, Chair Codington County Commission
ATTEST:
Brenda Hanten, Codington County Auditor
CLAIMS
Motion by McElhany, second by Gabel, to approve for payment the following claim: all voted aye; motion carried. Carol Comes $275.00
Motion by Gabel, second by Schweer, to approve for payment the following jail claim; all voted aye; motion carried. Beckenhauer Construction Inc., 1,505,779.72
Motion by Johnson, second by McElhany, to approve a claim in the amount of $39,824.09 payable to the City of Watertown for May 2026, 91 surcharge collections, Gabel, McElhany, Johnson and Schweer voted aye; VanDusen was recused; motion carried.
PERSONNEL CHANGES
Motion by McElhany, second by Gabel, to approve the following Personnel change: all voted aye; motion carried. Jon Ingalls, Highway Tech II, Highway Dept., Grade 35/Step A, $27.66 per hour, effective July 15, 2026.
Motion by Johnson, second by Schweer, to approve the following annual step increase personnel changes; all voted aye; motion carried.
Employee Position Wage Effective
Shawna Constant Director of Equalization 46.66/8118.84 7/1/2026
Diane Merchant Administrative Spec. 31.98/5564.52 7/1/2026
Michelle Pederson Database Coordinator 38.35/6672.90 7/1/2026
Heidi Selchert Appraiser II 35.50/6177.00 7/1/2026
Barbara Martenson Administrative Asst. 30.35/5280.90 7/1/2026
Melissa Sears Appraiser II 35.50/6177.00 7/1/2026
Gayleen Rothenberger Administrative Asst. 26.17/4553.58 7/1/2026
Steve Molengraaf Director of Facilities 45.69/7950.06 7/1/2026
Bryan Bleeker Facilities Tech II 28.27/4918.98 7/1/2026
Justin Halajian Senior Maintenance Tech 35.50/6177.00 7/1/2026
Steve Stahlke Facilities Tech II 26.25/4567.50 7/1/2026
James Hedges Facilities Tech II 26.25/4567.50 7/1/2026
Ron Hartley Facilities Tech II 26.25/4567.50 7/1/2026
Scott Swanson Facilities Tech Lead 31.29/5444.46 7/1/2026
Charlie Dally Facilities Tech I 24.84/4322.16 7/1/2026
Sara Aman Health Admin. Tech. 27.42/4771.08 7/1/2026
Angie Anderson Public Health Asst. 24.91/4334.34 7/1/2026
Bradford Howell Sheriff 60.01/10441.74 7/1/2026
Brent Solum Chief Deputy Sheriff 45.69/7950.06 7/1/2026
Vanna Engst Sheriff Records Admin. 32.07/5580.18 7/1/2026
Erin Lenzner Sheriff Pub. Safety Tech. 31.11/5413.14 7/1/2026
Megan Swanson Sheriff Pub. Safety Tech. 26.17/4553.58 7/1/2026
Matt Blackwelder Chief Correctional Officer 45.69/7950.06 7/1/2026
Dave Curtis Court Security 31.29/5444.46 7/1/2026
Steven Lowry Sheriff Deputy 37.31/6491.94 7/1/2026
Travis Gutzmer Sheriff Deputy 37.31/6491.94 7/1/2026
Gavin Wright Sheriff Deputy 35.50/6177.00 7/1/2026
Jerrod Olson Sheriff Deputy 40.41/7031.34 7/1/2026
Adam Reeves Sheriff Deputy 39.19/6819.06 7/1/2026
Trever Schimmel Sheriff Deputy 39.43/6860.82 7/1/2026
Shane Yost Sheriff Deputy 33.80/5881.20 7/1/2026
Konner Anderson Sheriff Deputy 31.40/5463.60 7/1/2026
Morgan Wermedal Public Safety Supp. Tech. 26.17/4553.58 7/1/2026
Shawna Carter Correctional Officer 35.40/6159.60 7/1/2026
Julie Gallisath Correctional Officer 30.53/5312.22 7/1/2026
Austin Hanson Correctional Officer 30.53/5312.22 7/1/2026
Melissa Holtquist Correctional Officer 33.69/5862.06 7/1/2026
Wesley Jennings Correctional Officer 33.69/5862.06 7/1/2026
Jennifer Matejek Correctional Officer 35.40/6159.60 7/1/2026
Shawn Nills Corrections Sergeant 35.61/6196.14 7/1/2026
Kelly Oelrich Correctional Officer 33.69/5862.06 7/1/2026
Charles Rossow PT Pub. Safety Supp. Tech. 26.17/hr. 7/1/2026
Kayla Schomaker Correctional Officer 32.87/5719.38 7/1/2026
Lindsey Stricherz Correctional Officer 35.40/6159.60 7/1/2026
Raistlan Tschetter Correctional Officer 30.53/5312.22 7/1/2026
Ryan Webb Correctional Officer 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Corbin Schilling Correctional Officer 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Brady Sandquist Correctional Officer 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Dillon Solberg-Ellingson Correctional Officer 29.78/5181.72 7/1/2026
Employee Position Wage Effective
Tristan Coyle Correctional Officer 29.78/5181.72 7/1/2026
Kolten Eszlinger Correctional Officer 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Matt Feiock Correctional Officer 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Brenda Hanten Auditor 45.52/7920.48 7/1/2026
Zachery Dargatz Admin Support 22.50/3915.00 7/1/2026
Bonnie Molengraaf Accountant Admin. 28.35/4932.90 7/1/2026
Sara Foust Welfare Director 40.39/7027.86 7/1/2026
Mallory Towle Administrative Spec. 26.25/4567.50 7/1/2026
Paige Welling Community Care Coord. 27.58/4798.92 7/1/2026
Angie Collignon Substance Use and Justice 39.19/6819.06 7/1/2026
Programs Coordinator
Carol Maloney Treasurer 49.03/8531.22 7/1/2026
TRAVEL REQUEST
Motion by Gabel, second by Johnson, to approve the following travel request: Community Service Office staff to attend meeting; all voted aye; motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Gabel reported that Ordinance #83 is a first reading only, this is from the Governor’s SB96 to offset owner occupied property taxes.
OPEN
Public Comments – Auditor, Brenda Hanten explained that the information that Ken Bunde provided the Board was determined after the meeting that was held in Webster regarding the need to release water from Bitter and Enemy Swim lakes, the information that he provided the Board showed a comparison of the cubic feet per second of water to be discharged from Gavins Point Dam at 25 cubic feet second/187 gals per sec. and Bitter Lake discharge of 250 cubic feet second/1870 gals per sec.
Commission Comments – Commissioner VanDusen informed the Board that he attended the CORE meeting as well in Webster about the rising water levels in Day County and the need to drain Bitter and Enemy Swim which will affect the Big Sioux River.
ADJOURNMENT
Upon conclusion of all business to come before the Board, a motion was made by Johnson, second by McElhany, to adjourn at 10:00 a.m., all voted aye; motion carried.
ATTEST:Brenda Hanten
Codington County Auditor
Codington County does not discriminate on the basis of color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of service.
Published once on July 23, 2026, at the total approximate cost of $435.86 and may be viewed free of charge at www.sdpublicnotices.com and www.watertowncurrent.com.