County TIF on Catron Blvd: The committee voted to deny authorizing a proposed County Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for a large mixed-use development. The property owner refused to annex into the city, and council members expressed strong concerns about losing oversight over the project's development and the high density of apartment complexes proposed.

Backyard Hen Ordinance: After hearing significant public support emphasizing food security, food waste reduction, and local resilience, the committee voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance allowing backyard hens.

Airport Terminal Expansion Bonds: The committee approved authorizing up to $59.35 million in sales tax revenue bonds to partially fund the airport's terminal expansion.

Electric Cooperative Tax: A proposal to increase the gross receipts tax on electrical cooperatives from 1% to 2% was discussed. The committee voted to continue the item to the next meeting so the agreement could be rewritten to keep the tax rate at 1% for the next five years.

Sports Fieldhouse RFPs: The request for proposals (RFP) for a construction manager at risk was continued for two weeks. The RFP for architecture and engineering services was forwarded to the full council without recommendation after debate about the project's location and community involvement.

Summer Nights Location: Several citizens provided public comment expressing frustration over the proposed 6th and Kansas City Street location for Summer Nights, citing negative impacts on local businesses and a lack of transparency from the event organizers. No formal action was taken.

Rapid Gas LLC TIF (Mount Rushmore Road): A TIF request to demolish a 1950s gas station and build a 23-unit apartment hotel was denied. Commissioners and city staff did not support using TIF funds for demolition, landscaping, and architectural fees.

High Point North Lift Station TIF: The commission approved an amendment to reallocate funds within this overperforming TIF district. The reallocation will cover unexpected expenses incurred from hitting solid bedrock during the construction of a lift station.

Pinnacle Court Subdivision: A preliminary plan for 12 townhomes was approved with stipulations. The commission raised concerns about the area's single access point and the inability of garbage trucks to safely navigate the private access easement.

Campbell Street Outdoor Storage: A request to build an RV and vehicle storage facility in a flood plain was continued to April 9th. Staff recommended denying the use of gravel surfacing due to dust and runoff concerns, prompting the applicant to request time to revise their plans to use asphalt millings instead.

Plaza Blvd Variance: The commission approved a variance allowing a new welding and fabricating shop to use asphalt millings instead of hard pavement for its parking and circulation areas, stipulating that a dust palliative must be applied.

New Operations and Maintenance Facility: The committee approved seeking proposals for architectural and engineering services, as well as an owner's representative, for a new "lease-to-own" facility. By bypassing the traditional public bid process and having a private developer design and construct the building, the city estimates it can save taxpayers roughly $34 million.

Sheridan Lake Road Variances: Several variance requests were continued to the April 28th meeting. City staff noted they are waiting for the county to agree on a proposed solution regarding Sheridan Lake Road before the development can move forward

Up to 6 hens per household

No roosters allowed

Would expand beyond current rule (only allowed on 3+ acres or ag-zoned land)

Access to fresh eggs (often viewed as healthier)

More control over food sourcing

Chickens can eat ~80 lbs of kitchen waste per year

Reduces household waste

Already allowed in places like Sioux Falls, Spearfish, and Sturgis with few reported issues

No roosters = less noise

Hens are quieter than people talking (supporters’ claim)

“It’s my yard, I should be able to use it”

Poorly maintained coops = odor complaints

Fear of attracting flies or pests

Even without roosters, hens aren’t silent

Neighbors worry about daily disruption

Concerns about spread of illness (even if risk is considered low when managed properly)

Who checks coop cleanliness, number of hens, setbacks?

City already stretched thin on code enforcement

Some residents just don’t want “farm animals next door”

Perception issue more than proven data

Buying/Selling a Home: If you are planning a move, let’s chat! It’s never too early to at least talk about your goals.

Market Conditions: I can send a quick snapshot of what’s going on in your neighborhood or area.

Request an Update: See a build or lot under construction? Send me the address/area and I’ll research what’s being planned or built there.